SOUTH AFRICAN/INTERNATIONAL CHOREOGRAPHER (CHOICE QUESTION) Choose ONE of the SOUTH AFRICAN or INTERNATIONAL choreographer and one of their dance works from the prescribed list above - NSC Dance Studies - Question 7 - 2017 - Paper 1

Alfred Hinkel grew up in a conservative environment and began dancing against his father's wishes. He trained at the University of Cape Town and later collaborated with notable artists and institutions, forming the Namakualand Dance Company and the Jazztart Dance Theatre. Hinkel's experiences, including his work with politically charged themes and various resources within the community, have significantly shaped his choreographic style.

Bolero is politically influenced, showcasing themes of struggle and resilience. The piece has undergone various adaptations, emphasizing the socio-political context of South Africa. The use of varied costumes, specifically the all-female version, highlights issues of gender and identity, aligning with the broader social consciousness of the time.

The costumes in Bolero are minimalist, often featuring black attire that unifies the dancers while representing the seriousness of the themes tackled. Lighting is primarily composed of red, blue, and white lights, creating a contrasting atmosphere that enhances the emotional depth of the piece. The set design varies but often includes elements that ground the performance in a context relevant to the themes of the dance.

The music for Bolero, composed by Maurice Ravel, is pivotal to the dance's structure, featuring a single motif repeated with various orchestration throughout the performance. The use of live instruments strengthens the connection between the choreography and the music, with rhythmic elements reinforcing the physicality of the dance.

Alfred Hinkel has made significant contributions to South African dance through his advocacy for social issues in choreography and his role in establishing institutions that support dance education. His works have raised awareness about the socio-political dynamics in South Africa, inspiring future generations of dancers.