CelloPointe Concert March 30, 2012

The CelloPointe concert went well; I am truly pleased with Dona and Morgan’s performance. As for the choreography, there are moments that intrigue me and others that I don’t like. Of course, this is typical. The creative process is, if anything, a process of revision. A piece is only finished when one stops working on it. And, sharing that aspect of dance-making here in this blog is part of my commitment to be open about the process.

From my perspective, the successful aspects of the dance were (1) a handful of images I found intriguingly beautiful and (2) the flow of the phrasing. I am not going to point out the specific images I found intriguing here because I would like to get feedback (which I am going to ask for below) and I don’t want to influence authentic responses.

What I will share right now, are some issues that I am struggling with in the dance. Below is an excerpt of the dance that includes the pas de deux (Bach Sarabande). Prior to the duet, there is a short solo (Gavotte) for Morgan. Now, Morgan performed wonderfully. My issue is not with his performance but with my composition. To me, the Gavotte section seems manufactured and not an integral part of the work.

As you watch the video, you will see a moment at 3:41 to 4:08 where the couple splits and works in synchronization. This material seems out of place from the rest of the dance (to me) and I am not sure if the contrast works or makes it seem fragmented. That section of material is from the Gavotte that Morgan performed earlier. When the Gavotte precedes the Sarabande, the material does draw a connection and references the beginning of the piece. However, both in the beginning and in the midst of the pas de deux, it seems disjointed.

So, this is where I open it up to you, my friends, family and colleagues. Why am I doing this? Because if I decide to revise and continue to develop the piece, thoughtful critical evaluation is a vital part of the creative process. So, here it goes. First, what specific sections and images (please use the time when referencing) do you find personally resonant, intriguing, and beautiful? Second, what is your experience of the section between 3:41 to 4:08?

The floor is yours.

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