Choreographic Devices

Question 1

Motif

Answer 1

A series of about 5-8 movements that is created in response to a stimulus or dance idea

Question 2

Chance

Answer 2

Random procedures such as rolling dice, picking numbers pr cards etc are used to make choreographic decisions. The choreographer does not decide themself

Question 3

Variation

Answer 3

A dance or motif that contains a range of different actions/spatial, dynamic or other elements to provide interest

Question 4

Repetition

Answer 4

The same dance motif/ phrase is danced more than once

Question 5

Complement

Answer 5

Movement with similar shapes, dynamics and use of space is added to or danced at the same time as an existing dance motif

Question 6

Contrast

Answer 6

When movement with opposite shapes, very different dynamics or use of space is added to or danced at the same time as an existing dance motif

Question 7

Highlights/ climax

Answer 7

Important moments that stand out during a dance, including the single most important “stand out” moment during a dance

Question 8

Retrograde

Answer 8

When moments within a motif are performed in reverse order

Question 9

Transition

Answer 9

An action that links other actions or motifs together

Question 10

Motif development

Answer 10

Manipulating an existing motif by changing a particular feature or characteristic

Question 11

Addition

Answer 11

When more movement is added on to an existing motif or dance