During the first week of the course, we were set our first assignment. On 27th September 2017, we were to perform a musical number as a solo in order to be initially assessed by our tutors and so we could set personal targets for the course based on this feedback. This could be within any of our chosen art forms or combine several. The performance had to be set repertoire from our chosen musical. I chose to perform the final audition scene from 'Flashdance'.
Flashdance is originally a film musical that I personally really enjoy. It follows 18 year-old welder by day and exotic dancer by night, Alex Owens. Although she dreams of being a professional dancer, she has no formal dance training, other than her experiences dancing at Mawby's. After attempting to apply for Pittsburgh Conservatory of Dance but being too scared to see it through due to being embarrassed of her lack of training, she eventually finds the courage to audition. During the audition, she falters but proceeds to start again.
I chose this particular solo as I know that my area of strength is dance, so I wanted to showcase these skills. I know that my preferred style of dance is upbeat and energetic so I believed that I could show this through the choreography during this scene.
I chose this particular solo as I know that my area of strength is dance, so I wanted to showcase these skills. I know that my preferred style of dance is upbeat and energetic so I believed that I could show this through the choreography during this scene.
The routine Alex performs in the audition is composed of many different dance styles, these include, disco, gymnastics, break-dancing and even contemporary. There are many moves signature of the 80's, when the musical takes place, for example the flicks of the legs and head with opposition arm gestures. There are also several flips and tricks involved in the choreography.
On the day of the assessment, I arrived in a professional manner, on time and ready for the performance. I wore the correct costume for the dance, consisting of a tight fitting black, Lycra leotard. I chose to wear a long sleeved leotard, as opposed to the vest-top Alex wears in the film as this was available to me. I used safe dance practice by wearing no jewelry and having my hair tied back away from my face and to not cause a distraction or restrict my view. I thoroughly warmed up my body and stretched to ensure I was prepared for all of the movements within the routine. I knew that this was important as the routine had very demanding and flexible movements, including several flips and tricks that could inflict injury if not executed properly and to the best of my ability.
During the performance, I used the full space available, ensuring that my movements all traveled and filled the space. I danced in time to the music. My movements were executed to a high standard and with a good technique. Sometimes, my arm placements were not correct, this could alter the line of the movement and make it incorrect. My facial expression was blank for the majority of the performance. I know now from watching back the footage that I need to work on my characterisation and learn to project my movement and body language more.
Below are some photos of me during the performance:
During the performance, I used the full space available, ensuring that my movements all traveled and filled the space. I danced in time to the music. My movements were executed to a high standard and with a good technique. Sometimes, my arm placements were not correct, this could alter the line of the movement and make it incorrect. My facial expression was blank for the majority of the performance. I know now from watching back the footage that I need to work on my characterisation and learn to project my movement and body language more.
Below are some photos of me during the performance:
