Question 1: Describe the key characteristics of a contemporary dance performance that differentiate it from ballet. Include at least three points in your answer.

Answer: Contemporary dance often features improvisation and explores floor work, with movements that are more fluid and less rigid than ballet. It uses a wider range of body movements and often emphasizes emotional expression over strict technical precision.

Question 2: Identify and explain two dance techniques or styles that might be used in a jazz dance routine.

Answer: Jazz dance may incorporate sharp, energetic movements and isolations of body parts. It often includes syncopated rhythms and improvisation, emphasizing rhythm and personal expression.

Question 3: Imagine you are watching a modern dance solo that involves rapid turns and sudden pauses. Describe how these movements contribute to the overall mood of the performance.

Answer: Rapid turns create a sense of energy and excitement, while sudden pauses build tension and highlight key moments. Together, these movements can evoke feelings of unpredictability or intensity in the performance.

Question 4: Draw a simple sequence of three dance movements that demonstrate an increase in energy. Use arrows or notes to indicate movement direction and intensity.

Answer: The sketch should show three boxes or figures: the first with slow, controlled movements; the second with quicker, sharper movements; and the third with vigorous, expansive actions. Arrows indicate movement direction, and annotations note increasing energy levels.

Question 5: Choose a dance performance you have seen or studied. Describe how the use of space is managed by the dancers and how it affects the audience's perception.

Answer: Dancers may use space by spreading out to cover the stage or staying close together to create intimacy. Effective use of space can make movements appear more dynamic or emphasize relationships between dancers, influencing the audience's emotional response.

Question 6: Explain the importance of facial expressions in conveying the mood of a dance performance. Provide an example of a mood and how facial expressions can enhance it.

Answer: Facial expressions communicate emotions to the audience and help tell the story. For example, a joyful mood can be enhanced by a bright smile and wide eyes, making the performance more engaging and authentic.

Question 7: Identify three technical aspects a dancer must consider when performing a fast-paced routine and explain why they are important.

Answer: Timing is crucial to stay in sync with music; control ensures movements are precise; and breath control helps maintain stamina and smooth execution. These aspects ensure a polished and effective performance.

Question 8: Describe how the use of levels (high, medium, low) can add variety and interest to a dance choreography.

Answer: Varying levels creates visual interest and highlights different parts of the stage. It also allows dancers to express different emotions and dynamics, making the choreography more engaging.

Question 9: Select a dance performance you have observed. Discuss how the costume choices contributed to the overall theme or mood of the dance.

Answer: Costumes can reflect the dance's theme by using specific colours, styles, or accessories. For example, flowing fabrics might evoke a sense of freedom, while dark colours can create a somber mood, enhancing the storytelling.

Question 10: Define 'musicality' in dance and explain its importance with an example.

Answer: Musicality is the dancer’s ability to interpret and move in harmony with the music's rhythm, tempo, and mood. It is important because it makes the dance feel more connected and expressive; for example, accenting beats or matching movement to musical phrases.