Responding: Analysis, Interpretation, and Evaluation of Dance
Core Concepts
Responding requires you to analyse, interpret, and evaluate dance works. Analysis means breaking down how the work is constructed: identifying the choreographic devices, the use of dance elements, and the production elements. Interpretation involves explaining the meaning or intent of the work, considering the cultural, historical, and social context, and how the movement communicates ideas. Evaluation means making judgements about the effectiveness of the work, supported by evidence from the dance. You must be able to use appropriate terminology and provide specific examples from the work to justify your points. Understanding the difference between description (what you see), analysis (how it is put together), interpretation (what it means), and evaluation (how well it works) is crucial.
Traps in Questions
A frequent trap is giving a plot summary instead of an analysis of movement. For example, describing 'the dancer ran across the stage' without explaining how the use of space or dynamics created tension. Another trap is confusing interpretation with personal opinion: 'I liked it' is not an interpretation. You need to infer meaning from the choreographic choices. Also, beware of unsupported judgements: saying 'the lighting was effective' without saying why. Questions often ask you to 'justify your response', so you must provide evidence. Additionally, when discussing context, avoid assuming the choreographer's background without evidence; instead, refer to program notes or known facts.
Worked Example
Question: Analyse how the choreographer used one element of dance to communicate a theme in a work you have studied. Rule of thumb: Choose an element, give a specific example, and explain the effect. For instance: 'The choreographer used dynamics to convey conflict. In the duet, movements shifted abruptly from sharp, staccato gestures to slow, sustained reaches. This contrast created a sense of tension and instability, reflecting the theme of a fractured relationship.' This shows analysis (identifying the dynamic shift) and interpretation (linking to theme).