Self-critical appreciation: choregraphic devices

Understanding Choreographic Devices

Motif Development: This is a core strategy in dance composition. Repeating, varying, or developing a distinct movement can create a visual motif, helping to tell a story or convey a theme.
Canon: This involves identical movements performed by different dancers with a time delay, much like an echo. It adds visual interest and complexity to the performance.

Manipulation of Choreographic Devices

Retrograde: Essentially, this means performing a sequence of movements in reverse order. It can create unexpected and unique visuals.
Mirroring: This is a technique where one or more dancers mirror the movements of another dancer, as though reflecting their actions.

Use of Space, Dynamics, and Relationships

Use of Space: This is about the way dancers move within the performance space, and how they interact with it. It can include concepts like levels, direction, pathways, and proximity.
Dynamics: This refers to the energy or quality of the movement - whether it’s smooth, choppy, forceful, gentle, fast, slow, and so on.
Relationships: This area includes interactions between dancers - in pairs, in groups, the lead-follow dynamic, and so on. This can greatly impact the theme and narrative of the dance.

Communication of Intention

Theme Exploration: Each dance piece should ideally explore or express a theme. This will affect the choice of every element from movement to costumes and music.
All Components Working Together: Choreographic devices should be chosen and used in a way that they work together to express the theme or intention of the dance effectively.

Remember, a successful choreography isn’t just about stringing together a series of movements. It involves careful consideration of various elements and how they can be tailored and manipulated to fulfil a specific intention.