Shadows: differences to other dances

Shadows: differences to other dances

“Shadows: Audience Understanding”

• Shadows is a dance piece that elicits a strong emotional response from the audience through its varied use of choreographic devices and staging techniques.
• The dance communicates a family’s struggle, allowing the audience to draw parallels with their own life experiences.
• The dancers’ performative skills make it easier for the audience to comprehend the depicted emotions.

“Shadows: Purpose”

• Christopher Bruce choreographed Shadows to narrate a narrative about a family enduring a political regime’s consequences.
• This piece serves as a reminder of the struggles and hardships that people face under oppressive regimes.
• The sinister undertone in the piece helps bring the audience’s awareness to political client.

“Shadows: Environment”

• Shadows was set in a nondescript Eastern European country. The world, as portrayed by a family unit, is conflicted & distressed.
• The dance was created in a socio-political environment, making it pertinent and relatable for audiences worldwide.

“Shadows: Choreographic Devices”

• ‘Narrative’ and ‘motif development’ are prominent choreographic devices used in this piece.
• Shadows utilises repeats and contrasts, accumulation, and stillness as part of the choreographic approach.
• The use of different spatial patterns like ‘lines’, ‘curves’, and ‘circles’ are also effective in translating the narrative.

“Shadows: Style and Structure”

• The style of Shadows is contemporary dance theatre, which combines elements of classical ballet and modern dance.
• The choreography exemplifies Bruce’s typically fluid style, with movements akin to everyday life such as walking, running, and holding.
• The structure of Shadows is linear and narrative-based, with the dancers portraying a clear progression of emotion throughout the piece.