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Performance quality applied to the Dance
Control and manipulation of the elements of dance
Tutorial 2
Control of the dynamic
The control of the dynamic is crucial
to communicate intent to the audience. There is a need to demonstrate the skill
of moving from one dynamic to another with ease, in order to make contact with
the audience. It is not merely an exhibition of the skill of being able to move
both quickly and slowly, but rather using the changes in the dynamic quality
within the dance. The dynamic can often be inextricably linked with music or
accompaniment.
Activity
Consider the dynamics that are
contained within the music in your dance. Make a list of them:
- smooth
- flowing
- jerky or staccato
- abrupt
- moments of intense strength.
Perform the movements in a section of
the dance without reference to the quality of the movement. Merely present the
movement as an exercise of technique.
Video this execution of
movement.
Consider the overall intent of the piece and the individual interpretation of that section.
Decide what quality is appropriate for the intent.
Perform the movement sequence with a
chosen dynamic(s). Consider:
- where the accents are to be placed
- moments of stillness
- continuous flowing movement
- an abrupt movement
- the execution of the movement by the whole body irrespective of which part of the body is primarily involved, e.g. a hand movement does not preclude consideration of the rest of the body. Similarly, a leg movement must also consider the arm, head and torso
- where is the focus, e.g. is it outward, introspective?
- the quality of line.
- the projection of energy
Video this execution of the movement.
Discuss how different dynamics vary the interpretation.
Repeat this process for all sections of
the dance.
Consider:
- the degree of control of the dynamic.
- the number of dynamic variations. (This doesn’t mean that the dance must have a slow section, a quick section and a strong section. The dancer needs to show a variation of the dynamic, relevant to the performance).
- the strength of the technique to execute the movement safely, efficiently and effectively. (Technique is important in being able to execute control and manipulation of the dynamic).
With the control of the dynamic, comes an understanding of the phrasing of the accompaniment and the dance as a whole. If the student has developed this understanding they are more able to make the connection with dynamic.
During the performance, the audience or examiner is assessing if the dancer can control the dynamic, and that the student understands their interpretation of the dance.
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