We have been practicing impromptu creation
of dance (即興) regarding
the theme of “flower” for a while. “It’s
about time to compose all of the pieces of work together” announced by Teacher
May a few weeks ago.
Before starting the work, she asked us “what
comes to your mind when think of flowers?”
“Beautiful”
“Colorful”
“Anything else” she questioned.
She checked but no answer. Although I did have similar thoughts as she
shared later, I didn’t speak it out when she checked. She then shared her thoughts with us.
Through the sprouting, blooming, and withering of flowers, I see the
cycle of life. Hence, in this dance, I
would like to divide it into 3 parts to show not just the beauty of flowers but
also the different stages they have gone through.
We were then separated into 3 groups. Two were placed in the front right hand side
of the stage, four formed a line from the front left hand side to the back
right hand side of the stage, and the other four would come out from the back
left hand side of the stage. As so
called “impromptu creation”, we have to think our own steps based on the hints
given.
When they are in bud, they move quietly almost motionlessly. Hence, no complex movements required. However, your steps should still present the
growing, slowly but insistently. Remember,
even from outside they seem inactive; inside they are full of vitality. Also, you may move alone when others stay
still or you may be required to move with others. If you are given to dance alone, you have to
think how to attract the audience to look at you. When you are required to move together with
others, I would like to see you display different timings and / or different
layers in the space.
After having our own steps, we should then
check with the others around us to see of our movements can match with each
other. If no, we have to adjust or even
create new ones. Teacher May would give
her opinions to our steps if they look not very smooth and she may show us how
to make it facile but she seldom gave any correction or direct adjustment on
our movements. She said “this dance
should mainly choreographed by you. I
would join together to give some directions, instructions and ideas but don’t
expect me to give steps.”