Choreography: Performance Environments

Performance Environments - Choreography Revision Notes:

Understanding the space: Comprehending the specific dimensions and layout of the performance area is crucial. This includes height, width and depth of the performance space.
Utilising the space: Choreographers must hone their ability to use the space effectively and innovatively. This might involve creating layers, travelling moves or stationary ones, depending on the narrative, choreographic intention, or music.
Adapting to different performance environments: Not all choreography takes place on a typical stage. Choreographers may be tasked with creating work in non-traditional spaces such as outdoor venues, community centres, art galleries, etc. Their work must adapt to these unique conditions.
Interaction with set and props: Set and prop usage can be an impactful aspect of a choreographer’s creation. They should consider how to incorporate the set pieces or props within the dance in a way that enhances, not detracts from, the overall performance.
Audience placement: Some performances might be in the round, others on a proscenium stage. Understanding where the viewers are positioned can impact choreographic decisions about where dancers face, move, and how they project their energy.
Lighting and sound: These technical aspects of a performance environment greatly affect ambiance, mood, and perception of the performance. Choreographers often collaborate with lighting and sound designers to craft the desired atmosphere.
Site-specific choreography: When choreographing in response to a specific site, the unique characteristics, history, or significance of that location can inspire the movements, dynamics or even the costuming of the work.
Safety considerations: Health and safety are of paramount importance. Whether it’s ensuring dancers have enough space, the flooring is suitable, or props and set pieces are secured, these considerations must be addressed in the choreography.
Relationship with the environment: The interaction between dancer and environment is a central part of the choreographic process. The environment can act as a partner, opponent or backdrop to the dancer.
Dress rehearsal: Key for perfecting the interaction between the choreography and the performance environment. All elements come together, giving the opportunity to make final adjustments before the actual performance. Always embrace possibilities for last minute revisions to improve the staging.

Remember that the performance environment extends beyond the physical space - it’s the total sensory landscape in which your choreography lives. Use these notes to sharpen your creative vision and enrich your choreographic practice.