African Dance, Choreography and the Process of Evolving an Applicable Dance Notation Model
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Date
2015-06
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Publisher
Dance Journal of Nigeria
Abstract
Studies and experiences have shown that the art of choreography is not alien to
Africans though the notion that improvisation is the order when it comes to
African dance performance is yet to fizzle out. While choreography is evident in
African dance performance, evolving an African dance notation model has been a
herculean task due to the peculiarities and complexity of African dance patterns.
The questions that come to mind when considering the evolvement of notation for
African dance include; Is notation really applicable to African dance form? Can
African dance movements be notated? In what ways could African dances be
represented with signs and symbols that will not alter the originality of the dance
movement patterns? In answering these questions, this paper takes a critical look
at the concept and evidence of choreography in African dance performance and
the possibility of creating applicable notation for African dance movements. This
largely descriptive study utilized primary data that were obtained through
participant and non participant observation and secondary data from relevant
publications. The data were subjected to contextual analysis and scrutiny. The
paper examines the evidence of choreography in African dance performances
and the challenges involved in the process of evolving an applicable dance
notation model for the African dance form. The paper discovers that the
application of notation in dance advances the art of choreographs'. Thus, the task
of evolving an African dance notation model requires a thorough understanding
of the numerous categories of African dance cultures. Therefore, a successful
creation of applicable dance notation will enhance the evidence of choreography
in African dance performances.
Description
Keywords
African dance, Choreography, Notation, Signs and symbols