In the Swan Lake dance, there is a significant number of dance elements of energy, space, and time. The dimension of the dancers’ movements is simultaneously deep, wide, and high. Their tempo changes from quick to slow, and the energy of the dance is rather delicate and strong. It is possible to identify Swan Lake as an example of classical ballet because it requires a grandeur of movement, perfect poses, and mastery of techniques. The choreography of this dance is well presented and is a good example of classical ballet. A breath pause in the middle of the video is the most valuable moment of the dance (Royal Opera House, 2015). Both the negative and positive space is used in the dance makes to make sure that the story is revealed through locomotive dance movements.
Dance elements of time, space, and energy are included in Night Journey. The energy of the dance is rather intense, and the level of movement changes from medium to high and back (TamandaChanell, n.d.). Both accelerating and decelerating moves are presented in Night Journey. This dance may be identified as modern since it demonstrates some common features. Night Journey’s choreography is well presented and tells about the struggle and strength of a female character through the sudden energy of the dance (TamandaChanell, n.d.). It also requires abrupt movements and extension in specific moments with the use of high and strong energy from most body parts to propel oneself. There are percussive, sustained, repetitive, and unnatural movements that sometimes change to stillness or even a breath pause.
The modern dances’ defining characteristic is the singular use of space, which is different in classical ballet. It is hard to disagree that in ballet, a dancer faces the audience most of the time. However, modern dancers use all orientations, and the audience can see their faces rather rarely. Modern dancers have freedom of movement and body positions; their moves are usually more abrupt, repetitive, and sudden and may entirely disregard the music. At the same time, the movements of a classical ballet dancer are more delicate and swinging, and they always have to correspond to the music. The common characteristic is the necessity for dancers to be strong and muscular. Swan Lake and Night Journey are both interdisciplinary since they represent a special communication tool for society and capture some historical aspects to share them with the audience.
References
Royal Opera House. (2015). Swan Lake – Entrée and Adage from the Black Swan pas de deux (The Royal Ballet) [Video]. YouTube. Web.
TamandaChanell. (n.d.). Martha Graham Night Journey clip for DGC [Video]. YouTube.