Dance Critique

Words: 465
Pages: 2

I will be reflecting on a dance production that I saw three years ago. I picked this particular show because I distinctively remember how the lighting affected the show. The dancing in the show was generally bad, the lights in many ways helped the show, and in others hurt it. One thing to note is that I was seated in the balcony so I saw everything.
What made the show so disappointing was not just the dancing but the lack of respect for the space. The theater that the show took place at was relatively large for a studio recital. From past experience, the theater had so much more to offer than what the choreographers used. Everything was generic, simple features such as the spot light were neglected. There was even a lack of variation and creativity
…show more content…
I found that certain blues and green really created the mode of rest or relaxation. Looking around, I noticed when these colors were on stage people in the audience would become very drowsy and in some cases even fall asleep.
I specifically remember the African dance, what made this piece the best of the show was that the music, costuming, light, and dancing complimented one another. The stage was filled with colored that represented the culture of Africa. Because the back drop was not the same color as the costumes, not only the audience see the dancers as individuals, but they were about to spend more time watching how the dancing connected with the dancing connect to the music. In this case the choreographer was able to use the element of production to instantly transport the audience to a completely different culture.
In term of design and production the light design choices really stood out. Watching the show from so high up I was able to see how color affected how the dance, scenery, and costume was perceived. The biggest take away from my experience is that it is important to make sure every choreographer has some type of understanding of color and perception of lighting. As a choreographer you must question what does this theater have to offer that can add to my piece? What will make my dancers look the best? Understanding the importance of lighting and color, will help create a successful