Artificial Things: Choreographic devices

Lighting

Intensity of lighting: In Artificial Things, lighting plays a crucial role in setting the stage’s mood. The lighting tends to be low-key and atmospheric, causing a sense of melancholy.
Lighting and colour: Predominately cool, neutral colours like blue and white are used to incite reactions.
Role of shadow and contrast: Activities are often executed in dimly illuminated spaces, creating shadows and high contrast that adds dramatic tension.

Use of chair: A wheelchair is a major property used in Artificial Things. This is not only a practical object but also a symbol of support, movement restriction, and the dancer’s reality.
Use of balloon: A large white balloon is used, which contrasts with the somber color palette, drawing attention, and introducing an element of fantasy.

Practicality: Dancers have costumes that are practical and allow free movement.
Symbolism: Costumes, especially the wheelchair, add an extra layer of meaning. They symbolise the blend of reality and surrealism.

Role of performers: Performers contribute to the narrative by lending their expressiveness and technical prowess. The dancers, including a wheelchair user, highlight inclusivity.
Performance quality: Dancers perform with strong intensity and commitment, punctuating the sense of longing and melancholy depicted in Artificial Things.

Use of sound: Sound is used to complement the performance, with instrumental songs typically setting the somber mood.
Role of silence: Silence is used strategically to emphasize certain actions or moments, creating great dramatic effect.

Influence of Camera Angles: The way a performance is filmed can vastly influence the piece’s interpretation. Certain moves can be highlighted, and illusions can be created.
Close-ups and long shots: Use of different shots can manipulate the viewers’ focus.

Proscenium Arch: Performance is traditionally presented on a stage with audience seated frontally, providing a clear view of the dancers.
In-the-round: Alternatively, the performance could be in-the-round where the audience is seated on all sides. This setup makes the performance more intimate.

Interpretation of Theme: Choreographer’s understanding and interpretation of theme influence the dance’s structure and direction.
Use of Objects: Everyday objects are used symbolically, adding depth to performances.

Actions: Movements range from fluid to harsh symbolizing different feelings and storylines.
Space and Relationships: Choreographer plays with space and the relationships between dancers to symbolize interactions.

Use of repetition: Certain movements are repeated to bring emphasis and continuation in the dance.
Canon and Unison: Techniques like canon and unison are used to bring about synchronization and variation.

Narrative Structure: The narrative structure is mostly linear with a clear beginning, middle and end.
Episodic: The narrative can also be episodic, presented through a series of detached scenes or episodes.

Use of motif: Repeated movements (motif) serve the purpose of presenting an idea or a theme to the audience.
Development and Variation: Choreography often includes development and variation of movements to maintain audience engagement and to articulate the dance’s progression.