In class, we discussed scenarios that were created as part of the choreographic and production process. These scenarios were often created for a choreographer, director, or artistic creator as a ground plan for the production. Thus, in scenarios like Petipa's "Sleeping Beauty," the scenario provides a scaffolding for other elements of performance to reflect on. I wonder how the scenario would be affected if it was created after the dance was choreographed. Would the format of a given scenario change? Would it include more movement description, rather then plot detail? Should a scenario created prior to choreography be separated from a scenario that is created after, and is there use/need for both?
As we make final preparations for our movement studies on scenarios, did anyone choose this pathway in creating their project? I am interested to see how this can affect the creative process of dance from scenarios, and if it could provide a different insight to the connections between choreographer, scenario, and movement.
I think the plot detail of formulating a dance scenario gives more description to movement. After creating a dance scenario of my own I felt that it was easier to write a story of what I thought was simple to understand then create the movements. I first tried to do the reverse because I already had music in play but I was still thinking of a story rather than starting the choreography. I think your idea of choreographing before writing is a real interesting point. I think it would have been difficult to create the choreography before the scenario because I don't think anyone would have followed my story. During this assignment I was looking more at the literal side rather than the abstract. I had to put more of a focus on what steps to take in formulating a journey that would be easy to grasp. In doing so I thought more about the setting, the emotions of my character, any obstacles to overcome, and my ultimate goal. When I was thinking about these components I wanted to make this choreography different than the last assignment.
ReplyDeleteThis is an interesting question that never crossed my mind. It is possible to choreograph the dance then write a scenario on it but I feel that having the scenario first gives some guidance to what you want to accomplish and helps you focus on what you want to see come to fruition. That is how I approached the assignment.
ReplyDeleteI chose to take the route of dancing before writing for the final presentation/performance. Coming back to this assignment with a greater focus on the movement rather than the writing has allowed me to create a more detailed scenario and a more developed story. After taking inspiration from the choreography and premises of the initial scenario assignment, the movement now travels farther throughout the space and story has become unique and intricate. I also made the choice to use three dancers in the piece. Having more than one dancer adds new dimension to the choreography. It allows can create layers of movement and channel multiple sets of emotions through that choreography. It is truly a remarkable experience. I am very excited about this new route I have taken for this particular creative endeavor.
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