Application of a Chosen Structure

Chosen Structure

A chosen structure refers to the order in which the choreographer arranges movement phrases in a dance.
Examples include binary, ternary, rondo, narrative, theme and variation, and chance.
The chosen structure should enhance the portrayal of the chosen theme or stimulus in the dance.

First, identify the core elements or moments in your choreography that are most significant to your theme or stimulus.
Next, arrange these core elements within the chosen structure in a way that tells a coherent story or effectively communicates the theme.
Ensure that transitions between different parts of the dance are smooth and contribute to the overall structure and flow.

How you structure your choreography can greatly impact a variety of elements in your dance, such as pacing, tension, and emotion.
Binary and ternary structures are great for choreographies that want to showcase contrast or cyclical themes.
A narrative structure, where the choreography tells a story from beginning to end, is effective for emotive or dramatic themes.
Theme and variation, involving the repetition of a core motif with changes and developments, is excellent for exploring a single concept or idea in depth.
Chance is a unique structure where elements of the dance are determined at random, suitable for non-literal and abstract themes.

Dancers need to understand and internalise the structure chosen to convey the intended theme or stimulus effectively.
Dancers should be able to perform each section of the choreography in line with its place in the overall structure.
Understanding the bigger picture or final outcome of the dance helps dancers give meaning to their movements and execute the choreography with an added layer of storytelling or expression.

To ensure the chosen structure is serving its purpose, it’s essential to assess whether it enhances the dance element, theme, or stimulus.
Reviews and feedback can provide valuable insights on whether the structure is effective.
Revise and adjust the structure as required, ensuring each part contributes to the dance’s overall effectiveness.