Variation and contrast devices are different but they do complement each other. Variation demands that the movement content, which has already been established in the dance, is used again in a different way. Contrast demands the introduction of new material that contrasts the movement that is already in the dance. The new material can be another motif.

Variation gives an interesting logical development to the whole, providing necessary means for repetitions of the theme, so that the audience can view it in different ways with growing understanding.

Contrasts provide the exciting changes which stand out as a point of reference in relation to the concept/intent. A contrast should not occur just because the Board of Studies says it needs to be in your composition. It must be relevant to the idea behind the dance. Contrast is not only achieved through sudden changes in content. It is possible to build gradually towards a contrast.

'Movement might accelerate from slow into quick, show little tension and increase in strength to show a great deal of tension or start low and gradually grow to a high level. Contrast is achieved through the predominate material content being interrupted or punctuated by fresh or opposing movements.'

Smith-Autard 2004