Dance-Shadows Flashcards
Who choreographed Shadows?
Christopher Bruce
What was the company?
Phoenix dance theatre
When was the first performance?
26th November 2014
What is the dance style?
A combination of classical and contemporary
What was the choreographic approach?
He waits until he is with the dancers and does choreography which is influenced by them.
What was the stimulus?
The European music: Arvo Part’s Fratres for violin and piano was the starting point for the piece.
What is the Choreographic intention?
To show how a small family are coming to terms with poverty and the reality if what lies outside their intimate family home. It could be set in Eastern Europe and show the conflict happening, but this is up to individual interpretation.
How many dancers are there and what are the costumes?
There are 4 dancers-2 female and 2 male and they are all wearing simple shirts, skirts, trousers and dresses. The colours are muted and the jackets that they wear later on are too big, reflecting the poverty.
What is the aural setting?
Bruce used Arvo Part’s Fratres and it is in a minor key, showing the solemn atmosphere of the piece.
How is the lighting used?
The lighting was designed by John B Read to create an intimate space and show that they are in a room. The side lighting casts shadows, giving the impression that there are people outside.
What is the staging and set like?
The stage is an end stage and has minimal set. The set includes a table, a bench, two stalls, a coat stand and suitcases.
