After watching the guest lecture by Quaran Karriem, I began thinking about the reasons a dance performance can be executed, besides pleasure. I especially related this to my first independent project because I expressed an activist topic through dance. Most believe dance performances should be performed in front of an audience in a large auditorium as a show. However, this is actually just one way people can express their love for dance.
In my first independent project, I embodied the words that were going through my head and turned them into a dance. I spelt out, rather abstractly, words about gun control such as violence, fear and change. I could have made a video of myself just speaking these words, but putting them into movement makes them feel a whole deeper emotional level.
Also idea this guest lecture brought to my attention is the role of the audience at a performance or event. At a dance show, it is important the audience knows the proper times to applaud and remain silent. For example, during a slow lyrical or contemporary dance, the last thing that you should be hearing on stage is “Yeah Dani!” These dances require a level of emotion and hearing that can distract a dancer. However, when the dance is a fast jazz or hip hop dance, screaming or clapping gives the dancers an energy boost.
Consequently, audience members and dancers have to be aware of their purpose for what they are watching or performing. They need to remain in that character for the entire time to successfully formulate a piece.