Lighting and Staging in Infra GCSE Dance
The lighting design for Infra GCSE Dance plays a crucial role in setting the atmosphere and defining the performance space. The stage is illuminated with a combination of washes and focused lights, creating depth and emphasizing the dancers' movements.
Highlight: The lighting design includes a white wash downstage, green wash in clips shape, six rectangles of white light on the floor, amber wash downstage, blue side lights, and a white spotlight.
The staging for Infra utilizes a black box set, which provides a neutral backdrop for the performance. A standout feature is the large LED screen with white figures walking across, adding a dynamic visual element to the performance.
Example: The LED screen with walking figures might represent the bustling life above the surface, contrasting with the dancers' movements below.
The performance environment is set in a proscenium arch, which frames the action and provides a traditional theatrical setting for the contemporary piece.
Dance Style and Performers
Infra is classified as contemporary ballet, blending elements of classical ballet with modern dance techniques. The piece features 12 dancers, including both male and female performers.
Aural Setting
The aural setting of Infra GCSE Dance is complex and varied, contributing significantly to the atmosphere and narrative of the piece.
Vocabulary: Soundscape - A combination of sounds that forms or arises from an immersive environment.
The music includes:
- A soundscape fused with violin and piano
- Morse code, radio static, and train whistle sounds
- Section 7 features piano and violin with brisk melodies and rapid notes
- Section 5 incorporates thundering, booming sounds
Stimulus and Choreographic Intent
The stimulus for Infra is rooted in the concept of life beneath the city, inspired by T.S. Eliot's poem "The Waste Land."
Quote: "Seeing things below the surface of human relationships"
This quote encapsulates the choreographic intent, suggesting that the piece aims to explore the hidden aspects of human interactions and emotions.
Costume Design
The costume design for Infra is minimalist and color-coordinated:
- 10 of the 12 dancers wear black lycra shorts with various tops in gray, white, black, and flesh colors
- One female dancer wears a black mini skirt and white crop top
- One male dancer performs with a bare chest and black trousers
- All dancers wear pointe shoes or ballet shoes
Definition: Lycra - A stretchy, synthetic fabric often used in dance costumes for its flexibility and form-fitting properties.
Choreographic Approach
The choreographers employ various methods to create and teach the movement vocabulary:
- Showing a phrase for dancers to copy or adapt
- Teaching movement to selected dancers while others observe and copy
- Task setting, which involves giving dancers specific instructions or challenges to generate movement
This multi-faceted approach allows for both structured choreography and improvised elements, contributing to the piece's dynamic and organic feel.