Rag Dances (1971) By Glen Tetley

Question 1

When was Rag Dances created and first performed by Rambert?

Answer 1

1967

Question 2

What is the subject matter of the work?

Answer 2

A plotless work, but explores the idea of angels in heaven and how they look for their mortals on earth. Each mortal then shares their story through the dance

Question 3

What is the physical setting?

Answer 3

• Set: A bare stage with no wings, lighting stage bars begin on low level around base of stage and get lifted up, with several grey rags attached to it, revealing the mortals underneath, a ladder lowers at end of piece,
• Costume: Ragged leotards with bits of denim, angels have wings which they dance with

Question 4

Who was the designer and lighting director?

Answer 4

• set= Nadine Bayliss
• lighting= John B. Read

Question 5

1. what is a movement example from this work

Include the interpretation and how this shows Tetley’s choreographic style

Answer 5

Movement: A male dancer looking dishevelled, dressed in jeans and a vest, stands underneath an overhead spotlight, clinging onto a ladder which is being hoisted up into the flies. His other arm is bent in touching his chest. He is blindfolded and has an anguished expression.

Interpretation: He is a mortal and is being taken to meet his angel up above

Choreographer’s style: set integral to dance idea