Question 1: Describe how facial expressions can be used to convey emotion during a dance performance. Provide two specific examples of emotions and corresponding facial expressions.

Answer: Facial expressions help communicate emotions to the audience. For example, a smile can show happiness, while widened eyes and a furrowed brow can express surprise or concern.

Question 2: Explain the importance of using eye contact in a dance performance and how it can enhance the expressive quality of a piece.

Answer: Eye contact connects dancers with the audience or other performers, creating intimacy and emphasizing emotions, thereby making the performance more engaging and expressive.

Question 3: Identify and describe two different ways a dancer can use their body language to express a feeling or story within a performance.

Answer: A dancer can use open, expansive arm movements to express freedom or joy, or adopt a hunched posture to convey sadness or fear. These body language cues help tell a story without words.

Question 4: Explain the concept of 'dynamics' in dance and how varying dynamics can affect the expressiveness of a performance.

Answer: Dynamics refer to the variations in strength, speed, and energy in movements. Changing dynamics, such as moving from slow and gentle to fast and forceful, can intensify emotional expression.

Question 5: Describe a situation in a dance performance where exaggerated movements might be used for expressive effect. Why are these movements effective?

Answer: Exaggerated movements are often used in storytelling or mime to clearly communicate emotions or actions. They are effective because they make feelings more visible and understandable to the audience.

Question 6: Draw a simple seated pose that a dancer might use to express sadness. Ensure your sketch shows the posture and facial expression clearly.

Answer: A correct sketch would depict a dancer sitting with shoulders slumped, head bowed slightly, arms resting loosely, and facial features showing a somber or downcast expression.

Question 7: Sketch a dance movement sequence that demonstrates a transition from joy to sadness through expressive gestures. Label the key gestures in your sketch.

Answer: A proper sketch would show a dancer beginning with open, upward arm movements and a bright expression, transitioning to closed, inward arm gestures with a lowered head and a more subdued facial expression.

Question 8: In your own words, explain how music can influence a dancer's use of expressive skills during a performance.

Answer: Music provides emotional cues and rhythm, guiding dancers to match their facial expressions, body language, and movements to enhance the overall expressive impact.

Question 9: Identify two challenges dancers might face when trying to perform expressively in front of an audience and suggest strategies to overcome them.

Answer: Challenges include feeling nervous or self-conscious, which can be overcome by practicing performance scenarios and focusing on emotional connection with the movement. Another challenge is maintaining genuine expressions; this can be addressed through emotional recall exercises.