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Choose ONE dance work that you have studied from the prescribed list below - NSC Dance Studies - Question 7 - 2024 - Paper 1
Question 7
Choose ONE dance work that you have studied from the prescribed list below. INTERNATIONAL CHOREOGRAPHERS DANCE WORKS George Balanchine ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Choose ONE dance work that you have studied from the prescribed list below - NSC Dance Studies - Question 7 - 2024 - Paper 1
Step 1
Step 2
Give a synopsis of the dance work.
Answer
Revelations is a powerful exploration of the African American experience, integrating themes of faith, struggle, and hope. The piece is structured into several sections, including 'Pilgrim of Sorrow,' 'Take Me to the Water,' and 'Move, Members, Move.' Each section reflects different aspects of life, from the pain of suffering to the joy of spiritual salvation, encapsulating a broad emotional range through expressive movement.
Step 3
Discuss the role of colour in the costumes used throughout the dance work.
Answer
In Revelations, the costumes play a significant role in conveying the thematic elements of the work. The dancers wear vibrant hues like deep reds and bright yellows, which symbolize both the struggle and resilience of African American culture. For instance, the reds may denote the warmth and intensity of emotions, while the yellows could symbolize hope and joy. This use of colour not only enhances the visual impact but also supports the narrative woven through the dance.
Step 4
Discuss whether or not the music and/or accompaniment impacted the dance work. Substantiate your answer.
Answer
The music in Revelations is integral to the overall experience, blending spirituals, blues, and jazz to enhance the emotive power of the choreography. The tempo and dynamics of the music align with the dancers' movements, creating an immersive atmosphere. For instance, when the music shifts to a slower, mournful tone, the choreography reflects this with more grounded, heavy movements, embodying the gravity of sorrow. Conversely, during lively sections, the movements are sharp and energetic, embodying joy and celebration.
Step 5
Explain how the choreographer communicated the theme through lighting, set design, and/or props.
Answer
The lighting in Revelations effectively underscores the themes of the piece. For instance, warm golden lighting during the 'Take Me to the Water' section creates a serene and sacred atmosphere, complementing the ritualistic feel of the dance. There are minimal props, allowing the focus to remain on the dancers and their movements. This choice emphasizes the story of the dance being an internal journey rather than an external spectacle, drawing attention to the expressions and emotions of the performers.
Step 6
In your opinion, how has this dance work impacted you as a Dance Studies learner? Motivate your answer with examples.
Answer
Revelations has profoundly impacted my understanding of dance as a medium for cultural expression. It has taught me the significance of storytelling in dance and the importance of integrating cultural history into performance. Witnessing the raw emotion displayed in Ailey's work has encouraged me to embrace vulnerability in my own dancing, allowing personal expression of emotions through movement. This dance work has inspired me to explore how dance can serve as a voice for social issues and cultural narratives.