10.1 Give the name of the international choreographer that you have chosen - NSC Dance Studies - Question 10 - 2019 - Paper 1

1. Childhood and Upbringing: Forsythe's early exposure to dance and theater, influenced by his family background.
2. Mentors: Influential figures such as his dance teachers who guided his development and shaped his style.
3. Artistic Influences: Interaction with contemporary artists and various dance styles that inspired his choreography.
4. Training: His formal training in various dance techniques and his experiences in different dance companies.
5. Cultural Context: The socio-political environment during his formative years that influenced his choreography and themes.

William Forsythe has significantly impacted the dance scene by:

• Innovating Dance Language: Through his use of contemporary techniques, he redefined classical ballet, making it more accessible and relevant to modern audiences.
• Creating Dance Companies: He founded various companies, providing platforms for emerging dancers and choreographers.
• Adapting and Evolving Styles: Forsythe's fusion of different genres has contributed to the creation of new dance styles, influencing many contemporary choreographers.
• Incorporating Technology: His use of mixed media in performances allowed for a new dimension in dance presentation, enhancing audience engagement.
• Raising Social Issues: By incorporating social-political themes in his works, he has created awareness regarding issues such as identity and societal norms.

In the Middle, Somewhat Elevated.

In 'In the Middle, Somewhat Elevated', Forsythe masterfully utilizes symbolism to convey complex emotions and themes.

Symbolism in Movement:

The choreography is characterized by movements that reflect societal struggles and personal conflict. For instance, the use of abrupt stops and starts can symbolize the interruptions in life and the struggle for direction.

Production Elements:

• Lighting: The stark contrasts in lighting highlight the emotional intensity of the performance, with shadows representing underlying feelings.
• Costumes: The dancers wear minimalistic outfits that focus the audience's attention on their movements, symbolizing the rawness of human emotion.
• Music: The choice of accompaniment adds layers of meaning, with certain musical phrases echoing the movements, illustrating the connection between sound and action.

Through these elements, Forsythe communicates what words alone cannot express, allowing audiences to explore their interpretations of the work's deeper meanings.