Manipulation of the Movement Components through the Use of a Variety of Choreographic Devices

Fundamental components of movement include spatial elements (where you move), dynamic elements (how you move), and timing elements (when you move). It is important to understand how these elements can be manipulated using various choreographic devices.
Choreographic devices enable you to add variety, interest, complexity, and depth to choreography. Some common devices include repetition, retrograde, inversion, canon, unison, contrast, and motif.
Repetition involves repeating a specific movement or sequence of movements. It can be used to emphasise a theme, build rhythm, and create cohesion in the choreography.
Retrograde involves performing a sequence of movements in reverse order. This can create a sense of surprise or unpredictability and can offer fresh perspectives on familiar movements.
Inversion involves flipping a movement or sequence of movements along a horizontal or vertical axis. This can create a sense of variety and contrast, and can challenge traditional norms of spatial orientation.
Canon involves different dancers performing the same movements but starting at different times. This can create visual interest and complexity, and can highlight the individuality and synchronicity of the dancers.
Unison involves all dancers performing the same movements at the same time. This can create a sense of harmony, unity, and group identity, and can emphasise the power and impact of the choreography.
Contrast involves using movements that are noticeably different from each other. This can create dramatic tension and surprise, and can highlight different aspects of the choreography’s theme.
Motifs are recurring movements or sequences of movements that symbolise a central idea or theme. They can be developed and varied over time, contributing to the choreography’s unity, structure, and meaning.
These choreographic devices can be combined in various ways. For example, a motif could be repeated in retrograde and then performed in canon. It’s important to experiment with different devices and combinations to discover what works best for expressing your choreographic intentions.
It’s also crucial to understand that choreographic choices should always serve the overall intent of the piece. Everything from the selection and treatment of movements, to the use and arrangement of space, to the choice of music and costume should contribute to a coherent, meaningful, and engaging audience experience.