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Piecing it together
Teacher secondary dance resource developed by
The Arts Unit
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Phrase
Phrase
A phrase is a brief sequence of related movements that make up the smallest and simplest unit of dance form. It is important for it to have a beginning, middle and an end and the movements should share some common element of intent.
But how is a phrase created? Where should you begin?
Process
Process
Stimulus
Intent
Improvisation
Motif
Motif into phrase
Phrase
Questions to ask
Questions to ask
What is the purpose/aim of the phrase?
Where will it fall in the overall structure of the 'work'?
How can the accompaniment (if using) assist the choreographic process?
By answering these questions it will help with decisions as to how to use the elements of dance as tools to create and manipulate movement.
For example:
Where in the space should the 'work' begin?
What shape should the dancer(s) be in?
Does the phrase need to travel and if so where and how?
What is the dynamic quality required?
What should the tempo of the movement be?
Practical task
Practical task
Consider the intent of frustration/anger to develop a motif
Begin to devise a phrase (at least 32 counts) using the elements of dance to manipulate the motif and drive the phrase.
Devise a second phrase, again using the elements of dance to manipulate the motif and drive the phrase. However, this time the intent is retreating/shaking off the frustration.
While viewing the phrase examples take note of what was effective and why.
The elements of dance
The elements of dance
Space
Space
level
geometry of space (direction, dimension, plane)
shape
floor patter design
personal
active
performance.
Time
Time
duration
momentum
regular/irregular
accent
metre
natural rhythms
stillness.
Dynamics
Dynamics
release of energy
weight/force.
Using choreographic devices
Using choreographic devices
Sequencing: The organisation of single movement to short and long phrases, to sequences and sections, to a completed dance.
Transition: A natural evolvement from one thing to the next, between individual movements, between phrases, between major sections of a dance/work.
Repetition: A tool to reinforce an idea.
Variation and contrast: A means of exploring theme/intent in various ways while still staying true to the original idea.
Organising the dance: The overall form/structure of the 'work'.
Practical task
Practical task
Learn a phrase of movement.
Manipulate this phrase of movement so that it occurs on a high level.
In groups workshop ways in which these phrases could occur simultaneously on a group of dancers to portray intent successfully.
Third-party content attributions
Third-party content attributions
State Dance Festival and Callback images 1-7, photographer: Anna Warr.
Dance 7-10 Syllabus, © NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) for and on behalf of the Crown in right of the State of New South Wales, 2003, copied under s113P, accessed 27 September 2021.
Dance Stage 6 Syllabus, © NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) for and on behalf of the Crown in right of the State of New South Wales, 2009, copied under s113P, accessed 27 September 2021.
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