Initial Ideas

 What makes the performances interesting? 

Heavy use of rhythms to progress the piece 

Use of choral speaking helps to engage the audience with important information and key words

Abstract rhythms in sync 

Use of different forms of communication including sign language 

How are they original?

Original Music (I think)

Original subject matter 

Use of sign language as well as vocal communication

Original comedic music and story 

What styles and techniques did they use? 

Freeze Frames 

Use of rhythms 

Abstract use of rhythm and physicality to show the passing of time 

Gestures and physicality help to tell the story 

Choral speaking 

Performers play their own instruments 

Removal of clothing portrays different characters 

Dance/physical theatre movement used to portray the character’s inner monologue 

Dynamic changes in vocals 

Use of sign language 

Use of breath as part of the rhythm 

Well timed jokes and comedic moments 

Use of shadows and physicality to tell the story

Use of unconventional instruments like xylophones and harmonicas 

Lighting reflects changes in tone and setting

What styles have we covered? 

Acting 

Greek Theatre 

Roman Theatre 

Medieval Theatre 

Commedia Dell’arte 

Shakespearean Theatre

Naturalism 

Epic Theatre 

Musical Theatre 

Music

Musical Theatre 

Hair Metal 

Power Ballads 

Rock anthems 

Dance

Jazz 

Contemporary 

Kathak 

Abstract 

Contemporary Jazz 

What are the different forms of performance? 

Acting 

Method Acting - This approach encourages actors to draw on their own emotions and experiences to portray a character realistically. Method acting involves immersing oneself deeply in the character's emotions and mindset.

Classical Acting - Rooted in classical theatre, this style focuses on mastering techniques such as verse-speaking and heightened language. It often involves performing works by playwrights like Shakespeare.

Contemporary/Realistic Acting - This form aims to portray characters and situations realistically, emphasising naturalistic performances. Actors focus on authentic emotions and behaviour to create believable characters.

Physical Theatre - Incorporating movement and physicality, physical theatre emphasises the body as a means of expression. It often includes elements of dance, mime, and acrobatics.

Improvisational Acting - Improv involves unscripted performances where actors create scenes and dialogue spontaneously. It enhances creativity, quick thinking, and adaptability.

Musical Theatre - Combining acting, singing, and dancing, musical theatre is a dynamic form that tells stories through a combination of dialogue and musical numbers.

Shakespearean Acting - Specifically focused on the works of William Shakespeare, this style involves mastering the language, verse-speaking, and understanding the historical context of the plays.

Music

Classical Music - Characterised by complex compositions, orchestration, and adherence to traditional structures, classical music spans periods such as Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Contemporary.

Jazz - Originating in the United States, jazz is known for its improvisational elements, syncopated rhythms, and diverse styles, including swing, bebop, and cool jazz.

Rock - A genre that emerged in the mid-20th century, rock music is characterised by a strong rhythm, amplified instruments, and often features electric guitars. Subgenres include classic rock, punk rock, and alternative rock.

Pop - Short for popular music, pop is characterised by catchy melodies, simple structures, and broad appeal. It often incorporates elements from various genres.

Hip-Hop/Rap - Rooted in African American and Latin, hip-hop features spoken rhymes (rap) over a rhythmic beat. It has become a global cultural phenomenon with diverse subgenres.

Country - Originating in the Southern United States, country music often tells stories through lyrics, featuring acoustic instruments like guitars, fiddles, and banjos.

Electronic/Dance Music (EDM) - Produced electronically, this genre includes various subgenres such as techno, house, dubstep, and trance. It emphasises synthesised sounds and often accompanies dance culture.

Folk - Traditional folk music varies globally and often reflects the cultural identity of a particular region. It is characterised by simple melodies and lyrics that tell stories.

Discuss the structures when composing a song 

Introduction (Intro)

The beginning of the song that sets the mood and introduces the listener to the musical elements.

Verse

The main part of the song where the story or message is conveyed. Verses often have the same melody but different lyrics. There are often multiple different verses in a song 

Chorus

The most memorable and repeated part of the song. It usually has a different melody and lyrics than the verse and is often more musically intense. This often repeated multiple times in a song. 

Bridge

A section that provides contrast to the verse and chorus. It often connects different parts of the song and introduces new musical elements.

Pre-Chorus

Sometimes used to build tension before the chorus. It typically occurs before the chorus and features a different melody and lyrics than both the verse and chorus.

Instrumental Break

A section where instruments take the lead without vocals. It adds variety to the song and allows for musical exploration.

Outro

The conclusion of the song. It could be a repeat of the chorus, a variation of the intro, or a unique section that provides a sense of closure.

Coda

An optional section at the very end of the song that provides a sense of resolution. It can be a repeat of an earlier section or something entirely new.

It's important to note that not all songs follow this structure, and some genres may have variations or completely different approaches. Songwriters often experiment with these elements to create unique and interesting compositions. Additionally, the structure may vary within a song to keep it engaging and dynamic.

Discuss the different structures of dance 

The structure of a dance piece can be influenced by the genre, cultural context, choreographer's vision, and other factors.

Narrative or Storytelling Structure

Some dances tell a story, and the structure follows a narrative arc. It may include elements like exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.

A-B Form

Similar to musical A-B form, this structure involves presenting one movement or theme (A), followed by a contrasting movement or theme (B). It can repeat and vary.

Rondo Form

A structure where a main theme (A) alternates with contrasting themes (B, C, D, etc.). The A theme returns regularly, creating a recognizable pattern.

Suite

A dance piece comprising multiple movements or sections, each with its own distinct character or theme. Suites are often unified by a common style or theme.

Theme and Variation

A primary theme is introduced and then followed by a series of variations that explore different aspects of the theme, such as movement quality, dynamics, or spatial patterns.

Collage or Montage

A structure that combines different dance elements or movements without a linear narrative. It creates a collage-like effect, showcasing various dance styles or ideas.

Cyclical Structure

The dance progresses through a series of repeating cycles or motifs. Movements or phrases may return periodically, creating a cyclical sense of structure.

Improvisational Structure

Some dances are created with a structure that allows for improvisation within certain parameters. Dancers may have freedom to interpret and respond to the music or other dancers.

Binary Form

A structure that consists of two distinct and often contrasting sections. It's common in some traditional and folk dance forms.

Discuss the techniques of specific practitioners we have studied

Konstantin Stanislavski 

Stanislavski's system is a comprehensive approach to actor training and character development developed by Russian actor and director Konstantin Stanislavski. Stanislavski's work revolutionised the field of acting and laid the foundation for modern acting techniques. His system is focused on creating realistic and emotionally authentic performances through a number of different exercises that were a driving force in creating Naturalism as a form of acting. 

Bertolt Brecht 

Epic Theatre is a style of theatre associated with the German playwright and director Bertolt Brecht. It emerged in the early to mid-20th century as a reaction against traditional, naturalistic forms of theatre. Brecht developed the concept of Epic Theatre as a means of engaging audiences intellectually and encouraging critical thinking about social and political issues; he did this through multiple different aspects of his avant garde performances including placards, break the 4th wall, gestus and non-realistic staging. 

Bob Fosse

Isolation and Precision

Fosse was known for his meticulous attention to detail and precision in movement. His choreography often involved isolating specific body parts, such as hands, hips, or shoulders, creating a stylized and controlled look.

Turned-In Posture

Fosse's dancers often adopted a turned-in posture, with knees and toes pointing slightly inward. This distinctive stance contributed to the unique visual quality of his choreography.

Bowler Hats, Gloves, and Costuming

Fosse frequently incorporated specific costume elements like bowler hats, gloves, and other accessories. These items became iconic symbols of his style and were often used to accentuate movement and add a sense of character.

Minimalist and Intimate Movements

Fosse's choreography often featured movements that were minimalist yet highly expressive. He could convey a range of emotions through subtle gestures and small, intimate movements.

Use of Props

Fosse was known for integrating props into his choreography, such as canes or chairs. These props became extensions of the dancers' bodies and added visual interest to the performances.