I think on one hand, this idea is sort of related to that of putting flow in movement. On the other hand, I don't think flow of movement is the kicker in dance. I think the performative aspect might come from that flow, in addition to the total commitment to the movement, as well as breath, a connection to the music, and some sort of outward emotional quality (not melodramatic acting, just some sort of indication that there is a soul in that body). I believe all these qualities are part of ballet; they're part of "dance."
So why is it so difficult to "dance" in ballet class, when I feel like I can do it much more easily in modern class? Why do I just try to hit each position, shaking and trembling, hold it for as long as need be, and then move to the next one thinking, "I'm dying, I'm dying"? Why do I just stop breathing?
The reason I think this might be a key issue to figure out is because I wonder if maybe trying to "dance" in ballet class might actually help the positions come. Maybe I'll embody the movement more, and get the flow down. Maybe those other concepts, like alignment and extension might come more naturally. I feel like this is an issue for many of us in ballet class (though I definitely can't speak for anyone else). I think sometimes there's an unconscious distinction between "ballet" and "dance" that some of us tend to make, failing to realize that ballet is dance, and can possibly be treated so: not as some kind of inaccessible entity above us, but another form of technique we are trying to put in our bodies and master the best we can in order to take what we need and want from it for our dancing selves.
I would like to end with a very short and simple quote from "Friends," just because this thinking brought it screaming into my mind: "You dance a dance class." That is all.
David,
ReplyDeleteI know and understand your pain. I feel like that in other dance classes. Before coming to OSU, I was simply a ballerina with no other form of dance training, besides short workshops of jazz. What helps me to dance through all the combinations, without getting stuck on just hitting the positions, is putting the music into my body. Before each combination, I take the time to really listen to the introduction to the piece that is being played to get a feel if it. Once the melody begins, I try my best to match the timing and quality of the song. It's one thing to be aware of the music, and another to actually listen and use it. If you think of the music as your partner, or an energy source, it might help. Instead of fighting to match the music, embrace it and enjoy it. Take your time, and breathe. :)
I talked about a similar idea in an earlier blog post. I agree that "ballet is dance" and that they cannot be treated as separate. For me, the biggest challenge is finding a balance between performance and technique. I often find that when focusing on one, I tend to let the other go. I am currently trying to work in class on finding this balance, but I am finding it somewhat difficult to do so. I have recently been trying to think about what performing in a stage setting feels like, because when I am in a performance, this balance is something that feels natural in my body and I do not overthink it, as I feel I sometimes do in class. I believe that trying to recreate this feeling in class will help me find the most productive balance.
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