Rooster notes

What physical setting does Bruce commonly use in his choreography?

A black box theater.

How does Bruce use lighting in his choreography?

To create different atmospheres and guide audience attention.

What type of music is included in Bruce's aural setting?

An eclectic collection including pop, folk, classical, and commissioned works.

What is a key characteristic of dancers in Bruce's works?

A strong sense of musicality and personal interpretation of roles.

Name two choreographic devices used by Bruce.

Motif repetition and accumulation.

Which dance techniques are part of Bruce's movement content?

Classical ballet, Graham technique, tap, ballroom, flamenco, folk, and popular dance.

What themes does Bruce explore in his choreography?

Emotions, autobiographical elements, political issues, social matters, and ecological concerns.

What are the stimuli that inspire Bruce's themes?

Dance, music, paintings, and literature.

Describe the structure of Bruce's choreography.

Typically episodic, with occasional use of cyclic structure.

What is the significance of the 1960s in the dance 'Rooster'?

It represents a period of social and cultural change, especially regarding youth culture and feminism.

What does the term 'courting rituals' refer to in the context of 'Rooster'?

The competitive nature of dating in the 1960s.

When was 'Rooster' created and by which company?

Created in 1991 for Ballet du Grand Theatre de Geneve.

How many dancers perform in 'Rooster' and in what configuration?

10 dancers, consisting of 5 male and 5 female.

Who designed the costumes for 'Rooster'?

Marian Bruce.

What is one feature of Bruce's choreography style in 'Rooster'?

Incorporates popular music from his youth.

Give an example of a song used in 'Rooster'.

Little Red Rooster.

How did the Rolling Stones influence the 60s youth culture?

With rebellious lyrics and a punk outlook, setting trends in fashion and music.

What does the costume design for men in 'Rooster' indicate?

A mix of individuality through psychedelic colors and links to male chauvinism.

What is the symbolic significance of the women's dress in 'Rooster'?

Reflects traditional views of modesty and 60s emotions such as love and anger.

Define the 'rooster strut' motif.

A stylized walk that mimics how cockerels move, featuring sliding toes and an extended neck.

What does the term 'grooming gestures' refer to in 'Rooster'?

Movements like slicking down hair and adjusting clothing, suggestive of male character traits.

What is an example of an everyday gesture in 'Rooster'?

The handshake in 'Sympathy for the Devil'.

How does Bruce use lighting in the performance?

To create a pool of light symbolizing a sunrise and focusing audience attention.

What does the word 'extravagant' refer to in courtly gestures in 'Rooster'?

Stylized movements reminiscent of formal dances with bows and flourishes.

What type of costumes do the women wear in 'Paint It Black'?

A black miniskirt dress with a red scarf and black tights.

How did fashion in the 1960s respond to societal changes?

Fashion became vibrant, symbolizing youth, freedom, and femininity.

What is meant by the use of 'pedestrian movement' in Bruce’s choreography?

Incorporation of everyday gestures and stances into dance.

What is the essence of styles Bruce aims to capture in his dance rather than replicating them?

An essence or interpretation that reflects the spirit of various dance styles.

What does the presence of simple designs in Bruce's costumes aim to achieve?

To avoid distracting from the dancers' movements.

How does Bruce's use of popular music in dance differ from typical styles?

It reflects his personal upbringing and is often more common in American dance.

What aspect of the rooster's role is represented by the dancers in 'Rooster'?

They embody the rooster's watchful nature and responsibilities within their movements.

Who played a crucial role in the creation of 'Rooster' alongside Bruce?

Tina MacHugh for lighting design.

Why is the use of 'dance stimuli' important in Bruce's choreography?

It provides a thematic foundation that can enhance the narrative within the dance.

How does Bruce's choreography blend different techniques?

By combining ballet, Graham technique, and a broad spectrum of social dances.