Brune Park Dance

What do I need to know? Dance GCSE

Your written paper What will it look like? 1.

Questions about dance work 1

2.

Questions about dance work 2

3.

Questions about both works

4.

Questions on your performance and choreography – real or imagined

What the words mean 

Describe

- say what you see - from your description, should be able to recreate what it is you are describing - use labelled diagrams 

Explain, contribute, inform, communicate, help us to understand, used

effectively - What has x added to the dance - Why has the choreographer chosen to use x - How does x affect or impact on the choreography or meaning of the dance 

Dance idea

- What is the dance about 

Feature

Production features

– costume, set, lighting, accompaniment

Choreographical features

– movement content (action, space, dynamics) number of dancers, relationships, form, structure

Tips for answering the written paper 

Read the whole paper before you decide which questions you want to

answer for each professional work 

Write bullet points



For the longer questions

- Make a point - Give an example

{

– you do not have to write in full sentences

equals one mark

What you need to know for the written exam 

Title and choreographer of your two set works



For each set work:



facts

–

see revision sheet



costume

-

be able to describe them

-

say what they contribute to the dance

-

be able to describe it

-

Say what they contribute to the dance

-

be able to describe it

-

say what it contributes to the dance

-

be able to describe it

-

say what it contributes to the dance

  



set lighting accompaniment

Be able to compare and contrast the following in both works: -

costume

-

set

-

lighting

-

accompaniment



Be able to describe the key motifs using action, space and dynamics



Be able to describe choreographic devises used



For your own performance and choreography (real or imagined)



Be able to describe motifs using action, space and dynamics



What are performance skills



How can you improve performance skills



Choreographic devices, and how they impact on the meaning of the dance

Facts Swansong

‘Still life’ at the penguin cafe’

Choreographed by

Christopher Bruce

David Bintley

Danced by

Rambert Dance Company

Royal Ballet

Date first performed

November 1987

March 1988

Costume designed by

Christopher Bruce

Hayden Griffin

Set designed by

Christopher Bruce

Hayden Griffen

Accompaniment

Philip Chambon

Simon Jeffes

Lighting designed by

David Mohr

John B Read

Style of

Electro-acoustic with digitally

Orchestral

accompaniment

sampled sounds

Staging

Proscenium

Proscenium

Number of Dancers

3

9 soloists plus corps de ballet

Dance Style

Contemporary, with contract work,

Modern ballet with a mix of social

includes examples from social and

and cultural styles e.g. Morris

theatre dance – ballroom, ballet,

dancing, African, Hoe down

Where first performed

Composed by

tap, jazz Choreographic style

Episodic, dramatic, thematic

Episodic

Structure/Sections

Introduction followed by 7 sections.

Introduction followed by 8 scenes

The victim remains on stage throughout. Solo sections, 3,5,7 Theme

Starting



Human rights

Endangered species



Being interrogated because

Mans abuse of the environment is

of political beliefs

causing animals to become extinct



point/inspiration

The work of Amnesty



International 

The novel – ‘A Man’ by Oriana Fallaci



Experiences of Chilean poet Victor Jara

The music and album cover by Penguin Cafe orchestra



The Doomsday book of animals by David Day.

Facts Swansong

‘Still life’ at the penguin cafe’

Choreographed by

Christopher Bruce

David Bintley

Danced by

Rambert Dance Company

Royal Ballet

Date first performed

November 1987

March 1988

Costume designed by

Christopher Bruce

Hayden Griffin

Set designed by

Christopher Bruce

Hayden Griffen

Accompaniment

Philip Chambon

Simon Jeffes

Lighting designed by

David Mohr

John B Read

Style of

Electro-acoustic with digitally

Orchestral

accompaniment

sampled sounds

Staging

Proscenium

Proscenium

Number of Dancers

3

9 soloists plus corps de ballet

Dance Style

Contemporary, with contract work,

Modern ballet with a mix of social

includes examples from social and

and cultural styles e.g. Morris

theatre dance – ballroom, ballet,

dancing, African, Hoe down

Where first performed

Composed by

tap, jazz Choreographic style

Episodic, dramatic, thematic

Episodic

Structure/Sections

Introduction followed by 7 sections.

Introduction followed by 8 scenes

The victim remains on stage throughout. Solo sections, 3,5,7 Theme

Starting



Human rights

Endangered species



Being interrogated because

Mans abuse of the environment is

of political beliefs

causing animals to become extinct



point/inspiration

The work of Amnesty



International 

The novel – ‘A Man’ by Oriana Fallaci



Experiences of Chilean poet Victor Jara

The music and album cover by Penguin Cafe orchestra



The Doomsday book of animals by David Day.

What contribution does the costume make to

Who designed the Costume for

Describe the Costume for

Swansong?

Swansong?

Swansong

This means why ‘has Christopher Bruce chosen to use



Christopher Bruce

The Guards

these costumes?’



Short neat hair

What do these add to the dance?



Short sleeved khaki military



Shows character

These costumes show the audience who is who. 

Shows status

Costume for Swansong

The guards wear uniforms; this shows their power/authority over the prisoner.



Shows location

The guards wear uniforms; this shows the audience that they are located in a ‘prison cell’. 

type shirt with no badges 

Khaki coloured trousers looks like a uniform



Black Jazz shoes

The Victim 

Long untidy hair



Faded red T- shirt



Blue jeans



Black Jazz shoes

Costumes are timeless

The costumes are not set in any particular historical time; they are ‘current’, shows that abuse of human rights is still happening now. 

Shows relationship

The victim is the only one to wear his costume. The guards are dressed identically, shows the victimisation of one victim by the two guards. 

Shows mood/atmosphere

The guards wear ‘formal’ uniform, the victim is in informal clothes, shows the seriousness of the theme, helps to create a tense atmosphere, and creates tension between them. 

Red T-Shirt represents blood

The victim faded red T-shirt represents blood and death.

What contribution does the set make to Swansong? This means why ‘has Christopher Bruce Chosen to use this set?’

What does it add to the dance? 

It shows location/era/time

Who designed the set for Swansong? 

Christopher Bruce

Swansong could be set anytime, anyplace, anywhere, it is a bare stage with a black backdrop, so it allows the audience to make up their own

Describe the set for Swansong

mind. 

It helps to show the theme

The bare empty stage could represent a prison cell.



Set for Swansong



It is a minimalistic set



It is a bare stage with a black backdrop and a chair

It shows the victims emotions

The empty space could represent the victim’s feels of isolation. At the start he is sat alone on the chair on a bare stage. 

Atmosphere and mood

The dark colour (black) enhances the feelings of despair and isolation. 

Enhances movement

The bare stage enables the audience to focus on the movements and characters without distractions. It gives the dancers space to perform the acrobatic contract work. 

Cost

An inexpensive set allows the dance to be performed in a variety of venues, thus bringing it to a wider audience.

What contribution does the Lighting make to

Describe the lighting for Swansong

Swansong? This means why ‘has Christopher Bruce Chosen to use this

There are two different lighting states

lighting?’

Who designed the lighting for

What does it add to the dance?

Swansong?



Shows Theme



David Mohr

victims solo looks like the light coming from a prison window.



During the Victims solo

It is an intense white light coming from

Creates mood and atmosphere

threatening nature of being in a prison cell.

During the trio sections

The overhead lighting is dim and lights 

area like a prison cell. The diagonal white light during the

The dim light during the trio section reinforces the



up the area like a prison cell

During the trio sections the overhead lighting lights up the



used.

upstage left creating a diagonal beam of

Lighting for Swansong

light to downstage right.

Used in a symbolic way

During the victims solo, the diagonal white light from upstage left symbolises the pathway to freedom. 

Creates a pathway to dance in

During the victim’s solo, he travels along the pathway of light coming from upstage left. At the end of the light is his chair. The light creates his pathway to freedom. 

Lighting states are specific to the characters

There are two lighting states used in swansong. During the trio sections, there is a dim overhead light that creates the effect of being in a prison cell. During the victim’s solo, it is an intense white light coming from upstage left, creating the idea of a prison window or the pathway to freedom.

What contribution does the accompaniment make to Swansong? This means ‘why has Christopher Bruce chosen to use

Who composed the accompaniment for Swansong? 

Philip Chambon

this accompaniment’.

What is the accompaniment for

What does it add to the dance?

Swansong?



It gives the dance a structure

Each section of the dance has its own recognisable accompaniment. This helps to give the dance recognisable sections. 

Acoustic sounds sampled and manipulated (what does this mean?)



Describe the accompaniment for Swansong

The accompaniment was made especially for Swansong.



Question and Answer section sounds like a victim being questioned, metallic clashes sound like a prison door being slammed shut, manipulated voices sound like cries from other prisoners. Helps to create the mood/atmosphere

Each section of the dance has its own accompaniment.



Acoustic sounds, sampled and manipulated e.g. manipulated

Helps to show the theme

The theme is victim being interrogated in prison.





Accompaniment for Swansong

voice sounds, rhythmic voice sounds ch-p-cha. 

Wind and flute sounds (pan pipes)



Silence so you can hear natural sounds, e.g. taps of shoes.

In Q and A the tapping gets quicker and harder, creates a threatening atmosphere. Use of silence creates a tension and draws attention to natural sounds, eg. Taps, breathing, chairs banging.



What is accompaniment?

The sound you dance to – usually music could be natural sounds, speaking, percussive sounds etc.

 

Re-enforces the feelings/emotions of the victim

The victims solo’s has the same accompaniment – this echoes despair, with it being repeated, it intensifies the despair and helplessness.

How does the costume contribute to Swansong? Contribution Shows Status

How The Guards wear uniform

Identifies Character Shows Location

Tell the audience who’s who The Guards wear uniform

Shows Gender Costumes are timeless Shows Theme / Relationship Shows Individuality

Helps to show mood / atmosphere Red T-shirt represents blood

Why This shows their power / authority over the prisoner.

This shows the audience where they are located – ‘Prison Cell’ – shows a formal institution. All dancers wear masculine looking This helps to reinforce the theme costumes (trousers and shirts) and show their masculinity. The choice of costume is not set This is to keep the theme in any period of time. ‘current’. The prisoner is the only one to This helps to show victimisation wear his costume. and Guards v Prisoners. The prisoner is the only one to This draws attention to him and wear his costume. helps to show the loneliness he feels. The Guards wear ‘formal’ uniform. This portrays the ‘serious’ image and helps to show the tense atmosphere between characters. The prisoner wears a red faded t- This portrays the idea of ‘death’. shirt.

How does the setting contribute to Swansong? Contribution Location Era Time Characters emotions Atmosphere and mood Enhances movement

Cost

How, why Could be set anytime, anyplace, anywhere because it’s a bare stage with a plain backdrop and therefore doesn’t limit the audience’s perception of where it is. For example it could be a prison cell. It allows them to make up their own mind. The empty space could relate to the prisoner’s feeling of isolation because in the opening he is sat alone on the chair on a bare stage. The dark colour of the backdrop (black) enhances the feeling of despair and isolation. The bare stage enables the audience to focus on the movements and characters without distraction. It gives the dancers space to perform the acrobatic contact work. An inexpensive set allows the piece to be performed in a variety of venues, thus bringing it to a wider audience.

How does the lighting contribute to Swansong? Contribution Shows Theme

Creates mood and atmosphere Used in a symbolic way Creates a pathway to dance in

Lighting states are specific to the characters

How, why During the trio sections the overhead lighting lights the area up like a prison cell. The diagonal white light during the victim’s solo looks like light coming from a prison window. The dim light during the trip section reinforces the threatening nature of being in a prison cell. Curing the victim’s solo, the diagonal white light from upstage left symbolises the pathway to freedom. During the victim’s solo, he travels along the pathway of light coming from upstage left. At the end of the light is his chair. The light creates his pathway. There are two lighting states used in Swansong. During the trio sections, there is a dim overhead light that creates the effect of being in a prison cell. During the victims solo, it is a white light coming from upstage left creating the idea of a prison window or the pathway to freedom.

How does the accompaniment contribute to Swansong? Contribution Gives dance structure Helps to show the theme

Helps to create the mood / atmosphere

Re-enforces the feelings / emotions of the victim

How, why Each section of the dance has its own, dependant recognisable accompaniment so it is not a continuous piece of accompaniment. This helps to give the dance recognisable sections. Theme – victim being interrogated in prison  Use of tapping in Questions and answers section – sounds like victim being questioned  Metallic clashes sound like prison door being slammed shut  Manipulated voices sound like cries from other prisoners  In questions and answer, the tapping gets quicker and harder, creates a threatening atmosphere, the sound of the chairs being banged down, add to this.  The use of silence helps to create tension and draws attention to the natural sounds e.g. of the taps, breathing, chairs banging.  The whispering sounds of the ch-p-cha in Tea for Two sounds very menacing and threatening.  Manipulated voice sounds, the cries sound very frightening.  Metallic sounds represent the harsh reality of victim’s situation.  In victims solos same accompaniment – echoes despair, with it being repeated this intensifies this despair and helplessness.

Describe the costumes for

What contribution does the costume make to ‘Still life’ at the Penguin Cafe’? This means ‘why has David Bintley chosen to use these costumes?’

Who designed the costume for ‘Still life’ at the Penguin Cafe’?

‘Still life’ at the Penguin Cafe’ The Great Auk 

Realistic penguin mask



White shirt



Bow tie

The costumes show the audience who is who. The realistic masks



Black tailcoat

look like the animals they are portraying. e.g. The Great Auk.



Black waistcoat



Black trousers



Black stretchy tube

What do they add to the dance? 



Show character

Shows size of the character

The Texan Kangaroo Rat wears baggy dungarees, these help to show that the rat is a small creature.





Hayden Griffin

Costume for ‘Still life’ at the Penguin Cafe’

Restricts the movement of the dancers

The Great Auk wears a stretchy tube around his thighs; this restricts the dancer’s movement and makes him ‘waddle’ like a penguin. 

Adds visual interest

This dance uses lots of interesting, brightly coloured costumes that gives the audience lots to look at. 

which covers the top of the legs 

Black gloves



Yellow spats



Black shoes

Texan Kangaroo Rat 

Realistic rat mask



Faded grey short sleeved t-shirt



dungarees, legs are

Enhances the bodyline

The Southern Cape Zebra wears a tight fitting, lycra bodysuit that covers his whole body. The closeness of the fit highlights the supple shapes that the dance makes. The costume gives a clear outline of each position.

Dark blue baggy rolled up to mid calf



Flesh coloured soft shoes

What contribution does the set make to ‘Still life’ at the Penguin Cafe’?

Who designed the set for

This means why ‘has David Bintley chosen to use this set?’

‘Still life’ at the Penguin

Describe the set for ‘Still life’

Cafe’?

at the Penguin Cafe’

What does it add to the dance? 

It shows location



Hayden Griffin



Rat shows the animal’s habitat. It shows the size of the animal

The backdrops for the Texan Kangaroo Rat and the Humboldt’s Hog-nose Skunk Flea are a close up of the animal’s habitat, showing us the creature is tiny.

A bare stage which has a series of changing backcloths.

The backdrop for the Great Auk and the Texan Kangaroo 



Set for ‘Still life’ at the Penguin Cafe’

In front of the stage there are tables and chairs where the dancers sit when watching the rest of the dances.

The Great Auk Centrally placed backdrop showing realistic scene of ice bergs, blue sea, and snow covered mountains.



Provides exits and entrances

In the Great Auk the penguins appear from behind the backdrop. 

Sections the dance

Each scene has a different backdrop, so it creates the feeling of the dance being a series of acts. 

Provides visual interest

The backdrops are very colourful and provide lots for the audience to look at 

Provides an area for the dancers to become part of the audience

The tables and chairs to the side create the idea of a café and the dancers sit there to watch the other acts

The Texan Kangaroo Rat The panel covers the width of the stage but not its full height. It has a close up view of a bright green cactus. The background is a yellow and darker sand colour, an arid landscape – the Texan desert

What contribution does the Lighting make to ‘Still life’ at the Penguin Cafe’ This means why has David Bintley chosen to use this lighting?’

What does it add to the dance? 

Shows location

Describe the lighting for ‘Still life’ at the Penguin Cafe’ Who designed the lighting for ‘Still life’ at the Penguin Cafe’? 

John B. Read

The Great Auk 

The lighting is bright



Three circular white follow spots shine on

The lighting for the Great Auk is blue/white, which is a cold

each of the penguins.

colour and gives the set an icy feel and looks like the Antarctic. 

Highlight main characters

Each of the main characters are lit by a spotlight, this draws attention to them. 

Echoes the animal

The Southern Cape Zebra

Lighting for ‘Still life’ at the Penguin Cafe’

The lighting for the Southern Cape Zebra creates black and



narrow strip of red light, which gradually turns to a sunny yellow 

white 

Becomes a feature of the dance

In the Humboldt’s Hog-nose Skunk Flea the spotlight that follows the flea becomes a playful feature when the flea notices her shadow cast on the backcloth. 

Shows when scenes are starting and ending

The lights come up at the start of scenes and go down at the end of scenes. 

Create mood and atmosphere

A range of bright colours, yellows, reds, greens, pinks create a light-hearted mood for the first half of the ballet. The lighting becomes more atmospheric and thought provoking with the sunrise that opens the zebra scene.

Downstage are four stripes of black and

white stripes on the floor; this echoes the stripes on a zebra.



Upstage there is a

A white follow spot follows the zebra throughout the dance.

What contribution does the accompaniment make

Who composed the accompaniment for

Describe the accompaniment for

to ‘Still life’ at the Penguin Cafe’?

‘Still life’ at the Penguin Cafe’?

‘Still life’ at the Penguin Cafe’

This means ‘why has David Bintley chosen to use this accompaniment’.

What does it add to the dance? 

Shows location

The music for the Southern Cape Zebra has an African

Simon Jeffes



What is the accompaniment for ‘Still life’ at the Penguin Cafe’? Orchestral music played by the





There are two contrasting themes in this section. 

has a ‘cantering’ rhythm to it – like a zebra moving.

The Texan Kangaroo Rat section uses American 

Hoe-down music, which is associated with Texas. 

Creates mood/atmosphere

The contrast between the two tunes used in the Southern Cape Zebra creates a tension. The funeral type notes signalling that he is about to die. The gun shot breaks the tension in a horrific way. Harsh sounds are used when the zebra is dying; the instruments die out one by one echoing his death. 

Accompaniment for ‘Still life’ at the Penguin Cafe’

It gives the dance a structure

ballet being a series of separate acts.

play long notes in a minor key – this has a funeral feel to it 

The contrast between the two tunes creates a tension. The tension builds and a gunshot is heard. Then harsh sounds. The tune becomes quieter and fades away. The instruments phrase played on the glockenspiel is incomplete,



What is accompaniment?

The sound you dance to – usually music could be natural sounds, speaking, percussive sounds etc. 

Brass and wind instruments

fade one by one. The last

Each section of the dance has its own recognisable accompaniment. This helps to create the idea of the

Percussive instruments play which has an African feel. It

Penguin Cafe orchestra

feel to it, reflecting the habitat of the zebra.

The Southern Cape Zebra

making the piece finish on a questioning note.

How are costumes used effectively in both dance work? Swansong by Christopher Bruce

‘Still life at the penguin café’ by David Bintley

1. Shows character Costumes show the audience who is the victim and who are the guards.

1. Shows character The costumes show the audience who is who. The realistic masks look like the animals they are portraying e.g. The Great Auk.

2. Shows status The guards wear uniforms, this shows their power over the victim who is wearing jeans.

2. Shows size of character The Texan Kangaroo Rat wears baggy dungarees, these help to show that the rat is a small creature.

3. Shows theme The uniforms suggest the idea of a victim being interrogated in a prison.

3. Restricts the movement of the dance The great Auk wears a stretchy tube around his thighs, this restricts the dancer’s movement and makes him ‘waddle’ like a penguin.

4. Shows location The guards wear uniforms, suggesting the dance is set in a prison.

4. Adds visual interest The dance uses lots of interesting, brightly coloured costumes that gives the audience lots to look at.

5. Costumes are timeless The costumes are not set in any particular historical time. They are ‘current’ shows abuse of human rights happened previously, is still happening and will continue happening.

5.Enhances the bodyline The southern cape Zebra wears a tight fitting, lycra bodysuit that covers his whole body. The closeness of the fit highlights the supple shapes that the dancer makes. The costume gives a clear outline of each position.

6. Shows relationship The victim is the only one in his costume. The two guards are dressed the same – showing victimisation of one victim by two guards.

How are costumes used effectively in both dance work? Swansong by Christopher Bruce

‘Still life at the penguin café’ by David Bintley

6. Shows character How?

2. Shows character How?

7. Shows status How?

2. Shows size of character How?

8. Shows theme What is the theme? How do the costumes help to show this?

3. Restricts the movement of the dance How? Why?

9. Shows location What is the location? How do the costumes help to show this?

4. Adds visual interest How? Give an example

10. Costumes are timeless Are the costumes set in any particular historical time? Why is this important?

5.Enhances the bodyline How? Give an example

6. Shows relationship What is the relationship?

How are costumes used effectively in both dance work? Swansong by

‘Still life at the penguin café’ by

11.

3.

12.

2.

13.

3.

14.

4.

15.

5.

6.

How is the set used effectively in both dance work? Swansong by Christopher Bruce

‘Still life at the penguin café’ by David Bintley

16. It helps to show the theme The bare empty stage could represent a prison cell.

4. It shows location Backdrops show the habitat where the animal lives e.g. The Auk, the backdrop shows snow covered mountains and blue sea.

17. It shows location/era/time The bare stage with black back drop allows the audience to make up their own mind about the theme of the dance. It could be set anytime, anyplace, anywhere.

2. It shows the size of the animal? The backdrops for the Texan Kangaroo Rat and Humbolt’s Hog-nose skunk flea are a close up of the animal’s habitat, showing us the creature is tiny.

18. Creates mood/atmosphere The dark colour enhances the feelings of despair and isolation.

3. Provides exits and entrances In the Great Auk scene the penguins appear from behind the backdrop

19. Enhances the movement The bare stage allows the audience to focus on the movements and characters without distractions. It gives the dancers space to perform acrobatic contact work. 20. It shows the victims emotions The empty space could represent the victim’s feelings of isolation.

4. Provides visual interest Each scene has a different backdrop, which are very colourful and provide lots for the audience to look at. 5.Sections the dance Each scene has a different backdrop, so creates the feeling of the dance being a series of acts. The audience knows when each section starts and ends. 6. Provides an area for the dancers to become part of an audience Tables and chairs to the side of the stage create the idea of a café and the dancers sit there to watch the other acts.

How is the set used effectively in both dance work? Swansong by

‘Still life’ at the penguin café by

21. It helps to show the theme How?

5. It shows location What locations does it show?

22. It shows location/era/time How?

2. It shows the size of the animal? How? Give an example

23. Creates mood/atmosphere How?

3. Provides exits and enhances Give an example

24. Enhances the movement How?

4. Provides visual interest How? Give an example

25. It shows the victims emotions How?

5.Sections the dance How?

6. Provides an area for the dancers to become part of an audience How? Why?

How is the set used effectively in both dance work? Swansong by

‘Still life’ at the penguin café by

26.

6.

27.

2.

28.

3.

29.

4.

30.

5.

6.

How is lighting used effectively in both dance work? Swansong by Christopher Bruce

‘Still life’ at the penguin café by David Bintley

31. Shows theme During the trio sections the overhead lighting lights up the area like a prison cell. The lighting during the victims solo looks like the light coming from a prison window.

7. Show location The lighting for the Great Auk is blue/white, which are cold colours, gives the set an icy feel looks like the habitat of the penguins.

32. Creates mood and atmosphere The dim light during the trio section reinforces the threatening nature of being in a prison cell.

2. Highlights main character Each of the main characters are lit by a spotlight, draws audience’s attention to them.

33. Used in a symbolic way? During the victims solo, the diagonal white light from upstage left symbolises the pathway to freedom.

3.Shows when scenes are starting and ending The lights come up at the start of scenes and go down at the end of scenes.

34. Creates a pathway to dance in During the victim’s solo, he travels along the pathway of light coming from upstage left. At the end of the light is his chair.

4.Creates mood and atmosphere A range of bright colours, yellow, red, greens, pinks create a lighthearted mood for the first half of the ballet. The lighting becomes more atmospheric and thought provoking with the sunrise that opens the zebra scene. 5.Becomes a feature of the dance In the Humbolt’s Hog-nose skunk flea the spotlight that follows the flea becomes a playful feature when the flea notices her shadow cast on the backcloth.

35. Lighting state for specific characters During all the solo sections, there is a diagonal light from upstage left.

6.Echoes the animal The Lighting for the Southern Cape Zebra creates black and white stripes on the floor – echoes the stripes on a Zebra.

How is lighting used effectively in both dance work? Swansong by

‘Still life’ at the penguin café by

36. Shows theme How? Why?

8. Show location How? Give an example

37. Creates mood and atmosphere How?

2. Highlights main character How?

38. Used in a symbolic way? How?

3.Shows when scenes are starting and ending How?

39. Creates a pathway to dance in How?

4.Creates mood and atmosphere How? Does it change?

40. Lighting state for specific characters How? When?

5.Becomes a feature of the dance How?

6.Echoes the animal How?

How is lighting used effectively in both dance work? Swansong by

‘Still life’ at the penguin café by

1.

1.

2.

2.

3.

3.

4.

4.

5.

5.

6.

How is accompaniment used effectively in both dance work? Swansong by Christopher Bruce

‘Still life at the penguin café’ by David Bintley

41. It gives the dance structure Each section has its own recognisable accompaniment. This gives the dance recognisable sections.

9. Shows location The music for the southern cape Zebra has an African feel to it, reflecting the habitat of the Zebra. The Texan Kangaroo Rat section uses American Hoe-down music, which is associated with Texas.

42. Helps to show the theme The theme is a victim being interrogated by guards in prison. Question and answer section has the guards tapping questions to the victim, who taps an answer. The tapping becomes more frantic and intense. Metallic clashes sound like a prison door being slammed shut. Manipulated voices sound like cries from other prisoners. 43. Helps to create the mood/atmosphere In question and answer the tapping gets quicker and harder, creating a threatening atmosphere. Use of silence creates tension and draws attention to natural sounds e.g. taps, breathing, chairs banging. 44. Re-inforces the feelings/emotions of the victim The victim’s solo has similar accompaniment- this echoes his despair, with it being repeated it intensifies the despair and helplessness that he feels.

2. Creates mood/atmosphere The contrast between the two tunes used in the southern cape Zebra creates a tension. The funeral type note signaling that he is about to die. The gun shot breaks the tension in a horrific way. Harsh sounds are used when the Zebra is dying; the instruments die out one by one echoing his death. 3. It gives the dance a structure Each section of the dance has its own recognisable accompaniment. This helps to create the idea of the ballet being a series of separate acts.

How is accompaniment used effectively in both dance work? Swansong by Christopher Bruce

‘Still life at the penguin café’ by David Bintley

45. It gives the dance structure How?

10. Shows location How? Give an example

46. Helps to show the theme How?

2. Creates mood/atmosphere How? Give an example

47. Helps to create the mood/atmosphere How?

3. Gives the dance a structure How?

48. Re-inforces the feelings/emotions of the victim How?

How is accompaniment used effectively in both dance work? Swansong by

‘Still life at the penguin café’ by

49.

11.

50.

2.

51.

3.

52.

What are the similarities and differences of how costume is used in both dance works? Similar

Differences

(compare)

(contrast)

 Costumes show characters

 The costumes in both works relate to everyday life. They are timeless.  Shoes are worn by the dancers in both professional works

 Costumes same throughout the dance – Swansong  Different costumes in each scene – Still life at the penguin café  Ease of dancing in costumes – Swansong  Restricts movement/difficult to dance in – Still life at the penguin café  In Swansong the costumes purely show characters but in Still life the costumes are used for other reasons – to show geographical location and size of animal  In still life at the penguin café the dancers wear masks  In Swansong they don’t

What are the similarities and differences of how costume is used in both dance works? Similar

Differences

(compare)

(contrast)

What are the similarities and differences of how the set is used in both dance works? Similar

Differences

(compare)

(contrast)

 Clear stage – set is backdrops

 Set stays the same throughout the dance – Swansong  Set changes for each scene – Still life at the penguin café

 Chair used as a prop in Swansong  Chair used for dancers to sit on in Still life at the penguin café  Both use set to emphasise the theme and setting

 Minimalistic set – Swansong  Very colourful backdrops – Still life at the penguin café

What are the similarities and differences of how the set is used in both dance works? Similar

Differences

(compare)

(contrast)

What are the similarities and differences of how lighting is used in both dance work? Similar

Differences

(compare)

(contrast)

 Lights fade out at the end of each section

 Lighting in both works is used to create atmosphere/mood

 Both use lighting to reinforce the setting

 Each scene has a different lighting state – Still life at the penguin café  There are just two lighting states used in the dance - Swansong  In Still at the penguin café main characters are highlighted by a spotlight  In Swansong the lighting stays constant  Lighting in Still life helps to show the geographical location of the animals  In Swansong the lighting is symbolic during the victim’s solo  In Still life there is no use of symbolic lighting

What are the similarities and differences of how lighting is used in both dance work? Similar

Differences

(compare)

(contrast)

What are the similarities and differences of how the accompaniment is used in both dance works? Similar

Differences

(compare)

(contrast)

 Each section of the dance has its own recognizable accompaniment  Both works use the music in direct correlation with the dance (movement reflects music)  Both works use accompaniment to show the location of the dance  Both works use accompaniment to show the characters. The audience associates particular music with a character

 Composed for the dance – Swansong  Found music (already existed) – Still life at the penguin café  In Swansong the music is acoustic sound that has been digitally manipulated, where as in still life the music is orchestral  In Swansong body percussion is used (voice and hands) where as in ‘Still life at the Penguin Cafe’ just the music is used  In Swansong moments of silence are used to show the mood of the interrogation  In ‘Still life at the Penguin Cafe’ narration is used at the beginning

What are the similarities and differences of how the accompaniment is used in both dance works? Similar

Differences

(compare)

(contrast)

Swansong 1987 Movement content at 3 specific moments: Interrogation section: Action

Weight through hands into chair, legs cartwheel in air, victim picks up chair and lunges towards guards using the chair to defend himself. Guards push the chair and the victim slides down onto his back on the floor, the guards pull him up using wrist to wrist and sit him on the chair.

Space

Centre stage, sideways pathway over chair. Pushed down onto a low level and then back to medium level when sitting on chair.

Dynamics

Fast speed and thrown movement until climax when victim is sat on chair – sudden stillness and clam (pause).

Violence Increases: Action

Guards hold victims hands and victims jumps feet over arms. Places hands onto chair and takes weight through arms whilst guards are holding victims legs. Legs wriggle in air and then become still.

Space

Centre stage. Close proximity of dancers. Movements are performed on medium level until victims legs are lifted up onto a high level in the air.

Dynamics

Fast speed and thrown movement. Rather staccato the action stops and starts. Sudden stillness when legs stop moving.

Prisoners solo: Action

Body contracted forwards on chair, arms reaching out. Backwards walks, crouch to floor, finger tips leading down to floor, arabesque, repetition of crouching movement and a hop with a backwards extended leg.

Space

Movement travels along a diagonal, linear pathway towards upstage left. Movement is performed on all levels – low when crouching and high when hopping.

Dynamics

Fluid and calm movement with occasional pauses (arabesque and reach).

Swansong 1987 Movement content at 3 specific moments: Interrogation section: Action

Space

Dynamics

Violence Increases: Action

Space

Dynamics

Prisoners solo: Action

Space

Dynamics

Brune Park ‘Still Life’ at the Penguin Cafe

Dance

Southern Cape Zebra Section

What movements can you see?

Is there a climax in this section? If so when? What happens?

Please list...

Describe the action There is a climax when you hear the gun shot and the music builds up to a crescendo. The



Attitude turn



Arabesque



Shoulder stand with leg gestures



Arm gestures waving (zebra)



Hopping – flicking the wrists

Can you describe it? What are the dynamics like?



Wrapping of the arms

The zebra is ‘shot’ – you hear the gun shot and then the dancer reacts. The zebra performs a



Side steps

double pirouette which is fast and then falls to the floor facing the back slowly. He then



Slow turns – hand on the hip

finally realises and drops to the floor in extreme slow motion.

zebra is USR and the models are DSL. The zebra performs a double pirouette and falls to the floor facing the back slowly. He then finally realises and drops to the floor.

Is there a relationship with the music?

Give an example of when you see the following relationships in the section Copying: Three models perform a floor work section with their right leg extended, right arm at 90º palm facing the face (mirror) they flex the leg with two pulses and extend. They perform similar hand gestures. Contrasting: The zebra performs ‘bouncy’ hops reflecting the African drumming music in contrast to the models who calmly walk and pose as if being on a catwalk. Complementary: The zebra side steps to stage right wrapping the arms and the models perform a similar side step using the ‘mirror’ hand gesture also travelling stage right. Contact: There are no moments of contact. Canon: The models at the end when they are DSR turn their heads in canon.

What other choreographic devices can you see? Give an example of question and answer and how this is used. (See action and reaction) Give an example of leading and following and how this is used? The zebra side steps travelling stage right and the models follow the zebra by joining in accumulative canon. What numeric variations can you see? There are eight models and one zebra. 3 -2 –3 -1 What example of action and reaction can you see? The zebra steps stage left and flexes the right foot, the three models (on the low level) react by flexing the leg.

Brune Park Dance

‘Still Life’ at the Penguin Cafe Southern Cape Zebra Section

Describe one motif from a professional work Name of professional work: ‘Still Life’ at the Penguin Cafe Section: The Southern Cape Zebra Actions

The models stand with the left foot in front of the right (feet in parallel) with a flat back, head to the audience. The feet draw together to turn, left foot stops across, right leg high kick, arms in a high ‘V’.

2 marks

Run Turn Right arm at 90º palm facing the face (as if holding a mirror) Right arm gestures pulling to the left with two pulses and returns upright.

Dynamics

The models stand with the left foot in front of the right (feet in parallel) with a flat back, head to the audience. With a pause. The feet draw together quickly to turn, left foot steps across, right leg high kicks sharply, arms in a high ‘V’.

2 marks

Run quickly. Turn slowly modelling the clothing. Right arm moves directly and quickly to 90º palm facing the face (as if holding a mirror) Right arm gestures pulling to the left with two short, sharp pulses and returns upright.

Space

The models stand with the left foot in front of the right (feet in parallel) with a flat back, head to the audience. The feet draw together to turn, left foot steps across, right leg high kick, arms in a high ‘V’. Run diagonally on a linear pathway to DSR. Turn Right arm at 90º palm facing the face (as if holding a mirror) Right arm gestures pulling to the left with two pulses and returns upright.

(When the question asks you to DESCRIBE, you should write as much detail as possible. The person reading your paper should be able to create this movement by reading your answer.)

2 marks

Why has David Bintley chosen the movement content for the Zebra? This movement shows his animalistic qualities to identify the characters to the audience. It is realistic – he uses leaps to show the zebra is ‘cantering’ through the desert. He uses hops to show the lively nature of the zebra. The movement for the zebra echo’s the African drumming music.

Why has David Bintley chosen the movement content for the women? David Bintley has chosen minimalistic movement for the women (models) to show that they are models. (They walk up and down a catwalk) It is realistic – The women turn in slow motion to show off their garments to the audience. The women pose by standing with their hand on their hip as if they have reached the end of a catwalk. They are expressionless to show their ignorance towards the zebra.

Brune Park ‘Still Life’ at the Penguin Cafe

Dance

Southern Cape Zebra Section

What movements can you see?

Is there a climax in this section? If so when? What happens?

Please list...

Describe the action

Is there a relationship with the music? Can you describe it? What are the dynamics like?

Give an example of when you see the following relationships in the section Copying: Contrasting: Complementary:

What other choreographic devices can you see? Give an example of question and answer and how this is used. (See action and reaction)

Give an example of leading and following and how this is used? The zebra side steps travelling stage right and the models follow the zebra by joining in accumulative canon.

Contact: Unison:

What numeric variations can you see? There are eight models and one zebra. 3 -2 –3 -1

Canon: What example of action and reaction can you see?

Brune Park Dance

‘Still Life’ at the Penguin Cafe Southern Cape Zebra Section

Describe one motif from a professional work Name of professional work: Section: Actions

2 marks

Dynamics

2 marks

Space

2 marks

(When the question asks you to DESCRIBE, you should write as much detail as possible. The person reading your paper should be able to create this movement by reading your answer.)

Why has David Bintley chosen the movement content for the Zebra?

Why has David Bintley chosen the movement content for the women?

Brune Park Dance

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