It is the general assumption that a dance is ‘about’, ‘related to’ or ‘is concerned’ with something yet there are many dances that have been created purely for the sake of dance. However, in order to analyse dance the subject matter must be considered. In a limited sense the subject matter of a dance can be discussed and described independently. An example of this can be noted when looking at the storyline of a ballet. We can describe the plot as having a beginning, middle and an end along with the characters involved. There is however, an important sense in which the subject matter of the dance cannot be considered apart from the dance itself. The precise message and the particular meaning can only be identified when considering both the subject mater and as it is selected for the dance and the way it is treated within the dance.
Subject Matter
It is the way the components of a dance are selected and treated that creates points of particular interest within the dance. For example, stresses, enhances, exaggerates, highlights, blurs or restates specific aspects within the dance and in so doing, brings attention to unique statements. Considerations of the subject matter and the treatment of a dance are closely related to the concepts of genre and style. Selections of the material and ways of structuring, manipulating and presenting them are bound to the conventions and traditions of the dance genre, style, and choreographic and performance styles. Such conventions can therefore place constraints upon the nature and range of the dance. However, such conventions are always tested due to artists that seek to break traditions in order to challenge ‘the norm’ established by society.
Character
Not every dance has an obvious character. A dance is able to have subject matter without a specific character and it is a common misconception when we look at dances that a dance always has a ‘storyline’ and therefore has a ‘character’. A character of a dance can be also interpretive as how the overall concept is projected and used within the dance. In other words, it can relate to the overall location in time and space. It may also be discussed with reference to the subject matter selected and the treatment employed during the creative process. Character is discussed in relation to a specific genre, within a specific style or to have a certain subject matter, which is treated in a particular way.
When analysing dance the subject matter is a very important factor that can explain many other choreographic tools used in relation to the dance. Genre and style force conventions and traditions on the subject matter chosen and the way it is displayed in the dance and it in turn is read in relation to culture and social class within society. Such factors must be taken into consideration when analysing dance. Especially when attempting to understand dance from other cultures and genres.
Source
- Blom, Lynne, Anne (1982) The Intimate Act of Choreography, University of Pittsburgh Press: USA
- Adshead-Lansdale, Jane(1994) Dance Analysis, Theory and Practice, Dance Books: London
- Peston-Dunlop, Valerie (1998) Looking at Dances: Choreological Perspective on Choreography, Verve Publishing, Penzance
Amy Watson - Amy-Louise is Artistic Director of the dance theatre company 90 Degree Rotations and has a PGCE in Dance Teaching.
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