Dance in Musical Theatre Overview

Study Notes

The book "Dance in Musical Theatre: A History of the Body in Movement" was published in 2023 by Methuen Drama, London.
It was edited by Martincich, D., and Rumsey, P.
The book is part of the Bloomsbury Collections.
The book explores how dance and movement are used in musical theatre.
The book examines various aspects of dance, including the use of the body in movement, characteristics, and motivations.

Lights rise emphasizing the posture in various positions (standing or seated)
The music is loud, with folk-meets-pop beats felt throughout the body.
The choreography displays individuality with emphasis, showcasing the character's presence.
The choreography features micro-monologues interspersed into the song, the characters repeatedly claim "I am an Islander."
The townsfolk strike a mid-level crouch in parallel, one foot in front of the other, displaying unison and repeating the steps.
Physicality, clear character objectives, focus, and commitment are key components of the choreography. This is particularly important in understanding the various characters in the musical.
The show "Come From Away" (2017), a Tony Award-winning musical, is analyzed, examining its choreography's multiple influences (body percussion, jig, tap dance). The show emphasizes the community, resilience, and goodwill.

Musical theatre can be a "barometer of cultural and social politics."
Musical theatre can be an avenue to comprehend one's place in the world.
The book highlights analytical tools for reading movement and dance, drawing upon Foster's ideas as a key starting point, using observation tools to analyze movement.
The movement and body language in musical theatre are a mode of meaning-making, distinct from literary analysis.
The book examines how movement can be distinct, detailed, or intuitive.

Broadway revivals often have modified dance interpretations; choreographies in revivals are frequently the most exciting aspect.
Studying revivals offers insight into changing societal views and expectations.
Original choreographers' (e.g., from Oklahoma!) works can influence subsequent reinterpretations of the same musical, requiring careful consideration of the context.
Exploring shifts in movement styles or techniques in revivals, showcasing the evolving interpretations of the dance form, is crucial. The historical context behind the use of specific dance styles or techniques should be investigated.
The use of specific dance styles or techniques to suit narrative moments and evoke emotion.

Recognizing stereotypes in dance (like "jazz hands" from minstrel shows) provides crucial context.
Addressing the historical and social context of movements helps to analyze their meaning.
Choreographic choices provide a lens to explore cultural values, as highlighted by conventions.
Examining how visual elements support the dance itself allows deeper understanding, drawing on examples where this can be seen.
The use of dance as a way to reveal character dynamics is important, often used to show conflicting or contrasting characteristics.

Techniques like Labanotation, which involves describing the qualities of movement (like weight, space, time, and flow), can help readers deeply understand/interpret movement.
Specific questions to ask about dance movement (e.g., the relationship with lyrics, group dynamics, the use of specific space, etc).
Analyzing how dance, movement, and gesture support plot development, create character, and reflect the emotions of the piece, with a focus on how different aspects of the movement support the overarching narrative.