In Making A Performance, Govan et al describes the process of devising through “drawing upon personal experiences or re-framing pre-existing material within a collectively designed structure” (Govan et al, 2007, 55). This is relevant to Refract with the use of personal and famous images in our practical rehearsals; we start with an image and develop it into material by translating it into movement/dance with the addition of sound and spoken text.
We started with an image similar to ‘The Falling Man’ from the 2001 World Trade Centre Terrorist Attacks.
Also known as ‘Jumpers Holding Hands’, the black and white image (see above) shows two unidentifiable people holding hands whilst falling from one of the towers. The image inspired themes of loss as well as strength. Based on these themes, our choreographer Tom devised a dance/movement section which was taught to Refract performers. The fluidity encompassed in the routine reflected the picture as well as imagining the image itself as moving.
The element of sound was later introduced which evoked additional sentiment and emotion; developing atmosphere needed to encourage the movement further. We continued to develop this section through the addition of spoken text, made up of three different narratives revolving around airplanes, linking to the focus on the 2001 New York Attacks. Through a devised process, the text was not only spoken but performed through the creation of multiple paper airplanes on stage.
Carefully layering and weaving these theatrical components enhanced the work we were developing day by day. In particular, the element of sound and spoken word on top of physical movement allowed us as performers to attach emotion to the movement. From what was just an image the week before, turned into a five minute section of collaborative and original material that as Refract, we continue to work on.
Works Cited
Goven, Emma, Helen Nicholson and Katie Normington (2007) Making A Performance- Devising Histories and Contemporary Practices. (1st ed) London: Routledge.