Professional Repertoire – A Level Dance AQA Revision

Understanding Professional Repertoire

The term professional repertoire refers to the collection of works performed by a professional dance company or artist.
It encompasses dances created by a wide range of choreographers, each with a unique style, aesthetic, and intention.
The repertoire can include a variety of movement styles, providing audiences with a broad perspective on the possibilities of dance as an art form.

The repertoire serves as a library of works that can be performed at various performances or events.
It also provides a historical record of the development of a particular dance company or choreographer.
Being part of a professional repertoire is seen as artistically prestigious and provides opportunities to showcase the skills of the dancers and the choreographer’s creativity.
By engaging with the repertoire, dance professionals delve deeper into the nuances of a choreographer’s vision and style.

To understand a professional repertoire, consider the context in which the works were created. This includes the social, political, or personal situations that may have influenced the choreography.
Though different pieces in the repertoire may differ in style or mood, they often reflect the distinctive creative voice of the choreographer.
Dance critiques, interviews, documentaries, or programme notes can provide valuable insights into the repertoire.

Dance professionals enhance the repertoire through their interpretation and performance skills, bringing the choreographer’s vision to life.
Each rendition of a piece from the repertoire can vary, as it is influenced by the individual dancers’ skill, emotion, and creativity.
The live nature of performance means that each performance, even of the same piece, is unique.

Critically reflecting on a professional repertoire involves analytically viewing the works in terms of choreographic devices used, movements, themes, and performance elements.
This reflection can help to better understand the choreographer’s intent, the cultural context, and the overall artistic aesthetic of each piece.
Engaging with critical reflection aids in the development of a more informed appreciation, opinion, and understanding of the dance world.

The evolution of a professional repertoire is influenced by factors such as the development of a choreographer’s work, changes in the dance company, and wider societal changes.
Current and past events, technological advancements, and cultural shifts can all drive additions or adaptations to a company’s repertoire.
The evolution of a professional repertoire demonstrates the fluidity and dynamic nature of dance, embodying its capacity for expression, innovation, and adaptation.