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Imagine you are Gregory Maqoma and you are being interviewed - NSC Dance Studies - Question 9 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 9
Imagine you are Gregory Maqoma and you are being interviewed. Answer the following questions. Marks will be awarded for the correct format for an interview. 9.1 Des... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Imagine you are Gregory Maqoma and you are being interviewed - NSC Dance Studies - Question 9 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe how your interest in dance started.
Answer
My interest in dance began during the political unrest in the late 1980s in Soweto. Dancing served as an escape from the growing tensions and violence around me. I participated in community events and began to admire notable performers like Michael Jackson, which inspired me to pursue dance further. In 1990, I saw an advertisement in the Sowetan newspaper which led me to auditions at Moving into Dance Mophatong (MIDM), marking the official beginning of my dance journey.
Step 2
Describe your professional career as a dancer/choreographer.
Answer
I began my professional career by training under Sylvia Glasser at Moving into Dance Mophatong, where I honed my skills. I was fortunate to receive a scholarship for further training in Belgium at the Performing Arts Research and Training School (PARTS). Upon returning to South Africa, I co-founded the Vuyani Dance Theatre in 1999, which has become a prominent platform for dance in the country. I've also worked as a choreographer for various performances, including the FIFA World Cup kick-off event and served as the artistic director for the Afro-Vibes festival in the Netherlands.
Step 3
Outline your contribution to dance and society.
Answer
My contributions to dance extend beyond performance; I focus on using dance as a tool for social change. I work to mentor young dancers, using my position to establish platforms that address social issues and empower marginalized communities. My efforts include organizing workshops and programs aimed at talent development, showcasing the rich cultural context of African dance, and influencing societal change through art.
Step 4
Describe how you used production elements to show the different themes in 'Spring' and 'Autumn'.
Answer
In 'Spring', the production elements reflect vibrancy and renewal. The dancers' costumes, in pastel shades, symbolize the colors of spring, while the dynamic movement creates a sense of joy and new beginnings. In contrast, 'Autumn' utilizes warmer shades, and the choreography reflects the themes of loss and transition. The costumes depict leaves slipping from trees, and lighting enhances the mood by casting shadows, symbolizing the season's change. Together, these elements create a powerful contrast between the themes.
Step 5
Explain how the music enhanced Four Seasons.
Answer
The music in 'Four Seasons' serves as a crucial element that complements the choreography. It features a blend of classical and contemporary African sounds, enhancing the emotional depth of each season. For example, during 'Winter', the music's somber tones reflect the harshness of the season, while 'Spring's' upbeat rhythms evoke joy and vitality. The musicians' varied presence on stage also synchronizes with the dancers' movements, creating a harmonious experience that immerses the audience in the thematic essence of each season.
Step 6
Explain the movement vocabulary used in this dance work.
Answer
The movement vocabulary in 'Four Seasons' is rich and diverse, drawing from contemporary African styles and classical ballet techniques. Each season utilizes specific movements to express its unique qualities: sharp, angular movements reflect the anger and isolation of 'Winter', while 'Spring' features more fluid and joyous gestures that emphasize rebirth. The movements are carefully choreographed to convey the essence of each season, maintaining a dialogue between the dancers and the themes presented.
Step 7
In your opinion, what makes Four Seasons such a relevant dance work in today's society?
Answer
'Four Seasons' resonates with audiences today due to its exploration of universal themes like change, hope, and loss. In a world facing climate change and social upheaval, the work serves as a reminder of our connection to nature and each other. It highlights the importance of resilience and transformation, showcasing how art can provoke thought and inspire action. This relevance makes it a powerful piece that speaks to the current societal context.