shimmer

Question 1

choreographic intent of shimmer

Answer 1

• to interpret the music which was created / inspired by shaker culture / music
• to portray the philosophy of the shakers which was to build heaven on earth before casting out
• resisting all temporal temptations (why they died out)
• filled with sadness and longing

Question 2

what are contextual factors that shaped shimmer

Answer 2

the shakers: members of unity society of believers in Christs second appearing (lighting A1: vertical spotlights / beam me up rapture. movement A2: high v lifted to heaven)
shaker life: simple, celibacy, hard work, equality among sexes

Question 3

explain the choreographic structure of shimmer

Answer 3

• ternary form ABA
• A1: ideas of simplicity, gender equality, community, hard work
• B: celibacy, restraint, discipline
• A2: revisits notions of A1, manipulating elements of dance to explore and connect the spiritual realm

Question 4

explain dance element of body

Answer 4

• simple, efficient, hardworking, serving God
• shapes: enclosed, structured, angular, regimented
• hunched: simple work on land
• hoeing / chopping: portray connection to physical work, guided by spiritual journey towards God

Question 5

explain the dance element of dynamics

Answer 5

A1 / A2: rigid, contorted, sharp, reflect physical actions and hard work on land
B: suspended, fluid, sustained, loose, regimented work guided them to their spiritual enlightened state

Question 6

explain the dance element of space

Answer 6

A1: crucifix formation

• represents connection to God and search for spiritual enlightenment, biblical beliefs
• special patterns / lines: clean, sharp, simple, show simplicity and efficiency in their working practices

Question 7

explain design element of costume

Answer 7

• unisex, mid calf, grey trench coats, gold lining, flesh coloured leotards
• belief of equality
• length: conservative, hides sexuality
• gold: body is precious
• bare foot: simplicity and efficiency

Question 8

explain design element of music / sound

Answer 8

• written and inspired by shaker lifestyle
  A: light joyous sounds, violin, celebration
  B: disconcerting, strong keys of cello, reflective of restraint and temptation

Question 9

explain design element of props

Answer 9

Apple: Adam and Eve

• belief in celibacy, spiritual purity, sexual desires are impure
• symbol of desire and temptation
• they can override temptation
• tests their commitment to god
• presented in light, symbolises faith to God

Question 10

explain design element of lighting

Answer 10

• enhances space, symbolises spiritual connection with God, beam me up rapture
• darkness vs lightness
• individual spotlights (enlighten dancer)
• vertical panels of light (genders intertwine, strict policies, never touching)

Question 11

give examples of choreographic devices

Answer 11

• motif: skipping, hoeing, chopping, outstretched high release, elongated arms
• embellishment / repetition: A2 manipulates / repeats motifs from A1, extended arms, change direction, different vibrancy