Infra: Structuring Devices

Infra: Structuring Devices

Choreography Methods:

• Infra’s structuring devices include repetition, contrast, highlights, climax, and fragmentation
• Choreographer Wayne McGregor utilises unison sequences to create attention and contrast against solo or duet performances
• Narrative structure lacks a specific linear pattern, allowing for individual interpretation

Thematic Links:

• McGregor explores themes of human relationships, isolation, and the complexities of urban life
• Use of a LED screen displaying pedestrians indicates city life, adding to the thematic expression
• A thick red line across the stage, part of the set design, symbolises an infra-red beam, adding a thematic layer of human emotional undercurrents

Use of Space and Dynamics:

• McGregor widely uses duets and solos, exploring the dynamic changes and narrative implications they can create
• The stage is divided into sections at times, mirroring urban life compartmentalisation
• The performance employs a range of spatial formations from lines to clusters, highlighting isolation or interconnectedness

Negating Conventions:

• Unlike typical ballet, McGregor’s choreographic approach in Infra challenges dancers to explore unorthodox and more flexible movement inspired by contemporary style
• Infra emphasises on individual style over the uniformity typical of ballet, showing personal stories and feelings
• McGregor utilises improvisation as a tool, allowing dancers to interpret music and theme personally, adding depth to the narrative

Physical Setting:

• Proscenium arch staging is used to align with the audience’s direct viewpoint.
• The LED screen is significant as it displays moving images of walking figures, representing the anonymous crowds of urban life
• A dark stage backdrop accentuates dancers and the LED screen, focusing attention and allowing the movement narrative to take prominence