Shadows: Form

Narrative form is used in Shadows. The dance tells a story of a family enduring an undefined crisis.
Look out for Rounds. They use the same movement motif presented by one dancer, then being taken up by others in turn.
Look at the Climax. The most exciting part towards the end of the dance where tension is at its peak.

Shadows: Choreographic Approach

Expressionist ideas are present, where the emotional content is prioritized.
Choreography uses mundane movements, look out for movements borrowed from everyday actions to symbolize familiar situations.

Shadows is performed proscenium arch style.
Notable feature: flat background painted in dark, stormy colours set the grim atmosphere.

Repetition. Look out for repeated actions or motifs for dramatic effect and to reinforce the theme.
Contrast. The choreographer uses contrast in movement styles and tempos to create variety and maintain interest.

The movement content is rich in symbolism to depict the stresses and tensions within a family.
Actions used include pedestrian actions and mimicry of mundane activities.
Relationships are shown through the physical distance and interaction between dancers.
Look out for the use of Planar movement in the space.
Look at the distinctive Dynamics of the piece. The transitions from smooth to sudden movements reflect changing moods and tensions among dancers.

Lighting in Shadows is quite muted with careful use of Spotlight to highlight solo or duet performances.
Staging and set: a simple, homely setting to mirror the life of an average family.
There is a minimal use of Props to symbolize the barrier between family members.

Features multiple duets and solos depicting various family roles and their relationships.
Note how the movement varies between dancers to represent different family roles and character personalities.

The aural setting includes Arvo Pärt’s music which is simple and minimalist in style creating a melancholy atmosphere.
Notice how the music motifs get repeated similarly to the dance motifs, creating a harmony between movement and sound.

Shot as a stage performance, the limited camera movement allows viewers to take in the entire scene and analyze movement and group formations.
There are no distinct filmic techniques utilized in Shadows, it is presented as a conventional stage performance.