During this week I have been observing and evaluating the A Level groups drama piece. This involved watching two run throughs and the actual exam. I'd enjoyed doing this because I am really passionate about drama and it is something I will be doing over the next two years. It was good to get an idea of the type of things I will be doing.
The first run through I saw was a bit shakey but I understood the story line very easily. They made it clear and the whole thing made complete sense at the end. I know some people were a bit confused but I think I have an advantage as I do GCSE drama. This means I know how to use different techniques and how different things can represent other things. I am also very into drama and enjoy watching things where it's not obvious and you have to think about it and work things out for to yourself to understand. I think this instantly makes the performance a lot more interesting and more enjoyable to watch. The story was about a painter and his conscience playing around in his mind. The trick was you could see his consciences being played by Georgia Stillman and Zoe Fletcher. We could see them but the doctor who was being played by Emily couldn't. It's a very confusing piece to put into words but it made sense when being acted out. At the end it became clear that the artist was in a mental hospital and the two girls were all in his mind.
The acting was amazing and it was hard to fault any of the actors. John's performance got stronger every time I saw it. He had a very hard character to play and some of the language he used was extremely strong. I admire him for being able to stay in character and use that language in front of his mum! I understood his character and not once did he come out of character. His change into a little boy was very clear and wasn't over acted too much. The only thing I would say he could improve on was maybe to try not to stutter some of his lines. This could of been down to nerves but some lines were a bit shakey. Although this did not throw him and not once did he step out of his character.
The girls playing this conscience did this very well. By their slight over acting you could tell they were fantasy characters. Their connection with each other was very strong and it was almost like they were one. The thing that made they characters perfect was what they did with their eyes. They had this evil look and stare that really did send shivers down your spine. The eye contact they used with each other was really effective as well. The relationship with John was very strong and you really believed they were part of him. If I was to give them something to improve on I would suggest they over acted even more to really show they are this mind and fantasy characters. It would have been interesting to have had a good and evil conscience and to have seen it done like that. This may have made it too stereo typical though.
Personally I think Emily had a very difficult job as she had to remain a completely normal person with all this madness going to around her. If she over acted her role the fantasy side wouldn't have come across as well. Her physical theatre part with John was done very well and it was the most powerful hard hitting part of the performance. When she showed people around the gallery at the beginning I think she needed to show more confidence and she seemed a bit unsure of the lines. Other than that I thought she did a brillant job.
The set was very well thought about and all the painting they had chosen were quite eerie so this made the atmosphere tense. I really liked the use of the cctv footage at the beginning and end. I think this made the piece make more sense and it was different making it more interesting. The drama studio is not the best place to perform but they made good use of the space they had. The change of lighting was really effective and made it a clear switch between fantasy and reality. The eerie music also added a lot to the performance.
All in all the performance made me feel very uncomfortable and the eerie atmosphere freaked me out a little bit. Watching this has given me a better understanding of A Level Drama and I look forward to the next two years when I will be doing this sort of stuff. It was a excellent performance, I wish them all the best and hope they get the grades they want and deserve.
Thursday, 9 February 2012
Wednesday, 8 February 2012
Evaluation of my own performance
I have decided to look back on a performance I gave last year; evaluate it and to pick out points I know I have improved on over the year. I felt I gave a strong performance but my end notes really needed improvement. I carried them on and stopped them suddenly almost causing me to swallow the note. I think this may be due to nerves but it's something I will have to train my voice not to do. This didn't sound brilliant and made the performance weaker. Looking back has made me realise this and now I am aware I am very careful when ending my notes. I started the song very shakey as I was nervous and it took me a while to find my feet. This is something I need to improve on, I need to be able to start and attack it with buckets of confidence. This will make my voice stronger and sound better.
I felt I acted the song well but there was room for more desperation as Mrs Johnstone (the character I was playing) has just lost both her sons. This might have been due to my age as I haven't got children myself so it was hard to put myself in her shoes. I would maybe plan out more movement if I ever did another performance of this song.
If doing it again I would definitely stage it better and have more people on stage with me to create more of a scene and to get the mood of the scene across better. This would make it more of a musical theatre performance and add more emotion.
The end note of the song I need to improve on a lot. This means making it stronger and more in tune. I feel I would do it better now because my voice has become a lot stronger due to the fact that I have started singing a lot more in the last year.
All in all I felt I gave a good performance but with a lot of room for improvement. Hopefully in the future I will be able to repeat the performance and develop it more creating a better outcome.
I felt I acted the song well but there was room for more desperation as Mrs Johnstone (the character I was playing) has just lost both her sons. This might have been due to my age as I haven't got children myself so it was hard to put myself in her shoes. I would maybe plan out more movement if I ever did another performance of this song.
If doing it again I would definitely stage it better and have more people on stage with me to create more of a scene and to get the mood of the scene across better. This would make it more of a musical theatre performance and add more emotion.
The end note of the song I need to improve on a lot. This means making it stronger and more in tune. I feel I would do it better now because my voice has become a lot stronger due to the fact that I have started singing a lot more in the last year.
All in all I felt I gave a good performance but with a lot of room for improvement. Hopefully in the future I will be able to repeat the performance and develop it more creating a better outcome.
Wednesday, 25 January 2012
Fabrics For Costume Construction
DENIM
The material Denim has been something used in America since the later stages of the 18th century. The word denim originated from the word Serge, which was actually made in the French town of Nimes. Putting the name together created ''Serge de Nimes'' which when shortened became Denim.
In the 1960's & 70's, the jeans were reinvented and no longer were they associated to the working class. The casual look started off the ''care free generation'' and accessorizing jeans with patches and embroideries followed.
This carefree image that came with the jeans led to them being banned from schools as they were classed as a stand against them.
The 1980's was the definitive turning point for Denim, and fashion designers worldwide started creating many different ideals involving the material. This led to the sales of denim rocketing.
Now in the 90's onwards, denim is considered a youthful clothing item linked to fashion and beauty, a far cry from the working class association it once had.
The material Denim has been something used in America since the later stages of the 18th century. The word denim originated from the word Serge, which was actually made in the French town of Nimes. Putting the name together created ''Serge de Nimes'' which when shortened became Denim.
Denim was first used to create the iconic Jeans in 1853 by Levi Strauss, which is where the Levi Jean comes from, and the name Jean also came from the location in which it was made. The French word for Italy is Genoa which when translated becomes Genes.
The Denim Jeans were highly durable and that is the reason why in 1873 the American coal miners wore them as their unofficial uniform. The jeans stood up to the harsh environments which they worked in and survived the tasks in which they undertook. Because of this, the Jeans became an iconic symbol for the working class.
The durability of Jeans once again showed when in the late 1930's the American Cattle Ranchers (Cowboys) took on this look, and the film industry boosted the Denim jeans even more by having the top stars wear them in their motion pictures. The public, wanting to look just like their heroes, went out and bought Jeans and sales soon started to soar.
The durability of Jeans once again showed when in the late 1930's the American Cattle Ranchers (Cowboys) took on this look, and the film industry boosted the Denim jeans even more by having the top stars wear them in their motion pictures. The public, wanting to look just like their heroes, went out and bought Jeans and sales soon started to soar.
In the 1960's & 70's, the jeans were reinvented and no longer were they associated to the working class. The casual look started off the ''care free generation'' and accessorizing jeans with patches and embroideries followed.
This carefree image that came with the jeans led to them being banned from schools as they were classed as a stand against them.
The 1980's was the definitive turning point for Denim, and fashion designers worldwide started creating many different ideals involving the material. This led to the sales of denim rocketing.
Now in the 90's onwards, denim is considered a youthful clothing item linked to fashion and beauty, a far cry from the working class association it once had.
WOOL
Wool mainly comes from the fleece of a sheep but it can also come from other animals. Wool fibres are naturally crimped which makes them very stretchy and strong. Wool can be used for clothes but its also very strong and can be used for carpets. Its very warm and very hard wearing.
Warmth
The fibres have natural crimps in them and each has tiny scales on them. They work together and trap air which helps to keep in warmth. If the wool is knitted, the knitting pattern making more pockets for the air to be trapped in which makes it warmer.
The fibres have natural crimps in them and each has tiny scales on them. They work together and trap air which helps to keep in warmth. If the wool is knitted, the knitting pattern making more pockets for the air to be trapped in which makes it warmer.
Resilience
Once again the crimps in the fibres make wool very resilient. You can fold it up very tightly but when you shake it out the creases fall out.
Once again the crimps in the fibres make wool very resilient. You can fold it up very tightly but when you shake it out the creases fall out.
Absorbency
Wool is very very absorbent. This is quite useful when its being used for a garment or clothing. So even when its wet wool will still keep you quite warm. The problem with this is when you wash it, it absorbs a lot of water and you have to be careful how you dry it or it will stretch or go out of shape.
Wool is very very absorbent. This is quite useful when its being used for a garment or clothing. So even when its wet wool will still keep you quite warm. The problem with this is when you wash it, it absorbs a lot of water and you have to be careful how you dry it or it will stretch or go out of shape.
Washing
you have to be very carefully when you wash because if you wash it on a high temperature it can turn into felt. You have to wash it at a even temperature to stop it shrinking. It’s important to use a soft washing powder to it doesn’t damage the fibres, so it’s often better to hand wash pure wool items.
you have to be very carefully when you wash because if you wash it on a high temperature it can turn into felt. You have to wash it at a even temperature to stop it shrinking. It’s important to use a soft washing powder to it doesn’t damage the fibres, so it’s often better to hand wash pure wool items.
Heat
Wool is affected by strong heat. You need to be very careful when ironing it and keep it on a low heat.
Wool is affected by strong heat. You need to be very careful when ironing it and keep it on a low heat.
Strength
Wool isn’t as strong as synthetic fabrics. It can be damaged if washed in the wrong way. It can also be damaged by moths. Wool does resist acids.
Wool isn’t as strong as synthetic fabrics. It can be damaged if washed in the wrong way. It can also be damaged by moths. Wool does resist acids.
Dyeing
Wool is very absorbent so takes on dye very well.
Wool is very absorbent so takes on dye very well.
Flammability
Wool doesn’t burn easily.
Wool doesn’t burn easily.
Cost
Wool is more expensive to produce than synthetic fibres and cotton. It’s cheaper to grow a crop than keep animals. Factory production of fabrics is more relievable. Outside factors like the weather don’t have a impact.
Wool is more expensive to produce than synthetic fibres and cotton. It’s cheaper to grow a crop than keep animals. Factory production of fabrics is more relievable. Outside factors like the weather don’t have a impact.
ACRYLIC
Acrylic is a manmade fibre which is made to be like wool in its warmth and how it feels. It’s stronger and easier to wash than wool. It can be blended with other fibres. It’s cheaper to produce than wool and it easier to keep.
Warmth
Like wool it can be knitted or woven which created pockets which keep in warmth. It can be produced in different weights or thicknesses to produce different types of clothing. The thicker the clothing the warmer it will be.
Like wool it can be knitted or woven which created pockets which keep in warmth. It can be produced in different weights or thicknesses to produce different types of clothing. The thicker the clothing the warmer it will be.
Absorbency
Acrylic has a low absorbency so washing and dries easily and quickly. It can be woven into a fabric that breathes easy so it lets moister leave the body.
Acrylic has a low absorbency so washing and dries easily and quickly. It can be woven into a fabric that breathes easy so it lets moister leave the body.
Resilience
Acrylics are soft and light weight. They resist creases, they are stretchy fibres so they fit well.
Acrylics are soft and light weight. They resist creases, they are stretchy fibres so they fit well.
Washing
They wash and dry quickly and at low temperatures making them a really popular fabric. They dry well without losing their shape. Not really suitable for tumble drying at high temperatures.
They wash and dry quickly and at low temperatures making them a really popular fabric. They dry well without losing their shape. Not really suitable for tumble drying at high temperatures.
Heat
It needs to be ironed at low temperatures however when it produced it can be set into pleats or folds at high temperatures so its suitable for dresses and blouses.
It needs to be ironed at low temperatures however when it produced it can be set into pleats or folds at high temperatures so its suitable for dresses and blouses.
Strength
Acrylic is stronger than wool but not as strong as nylon or polyester. Its resists acids, alkalis and bleaches so can be washed with any washing powder. Its resists sun light so it’s very good for curtains and other furnishings. I doesn’t get attacked by mould or moths, it can sometimes go bobbly.
Acrylic is stronger than wool but not as strong as nylon or polyester. Its resists acids, alkalis and bleaches so can be washed with any washing powder. Its resists sun light so it’s very good for curtains and other furnishings. I doesn’t get attacked by mould or moths, it can sometimes go bobbly.
Flammability
It burns and melts very easily.
It burns and melts very easily.
Dyeing
Acrylic is resisted to dye.
Acrylic is resisted to dye.
Cost
It doesn’t cost much to produce.
It doesn’t cost much to produce.
SILK
Silk is seen as a special fabric that’s often worn by wealthy people or royalty. Silk is made by the caterpillar of the silk moth. They eat mulberry leafs, the caterpillar then spins its self a cocoon by producing a long thread and winding it around its self hundreds of times. Each cocoon produces a mile of silk thread. This method has been used in China for 4000 years, Japan and China produce most of the worlds silk. Silk reflects light beautifully. When silk is spun together it gives a very strong fabric but the threads are still very fine. It used to be made to make parachutes.
Warmth
Its soft and feels warm. It doesn’t conduct heat very well so it keeps the body warm but because its fine it can also keep you cool in summer.
Its soft and feels warm. It doesn’t conduct heat very well so it keeps the body warm but because its fine it can also keep you cool in summer.
Resilience
Because its natural its very resilient.
Because its natural its very resilient.
Absorbency
As a natural fibre its very adsorbent but it dries easily.
As a natural fibre its very adsorbent but it dries easily.
Washing
Silk needs to be washed very carefully. It needs to be washed in very cool water with very mild soap powder. It better for it to be hand washed and you should ring it out or twist it. It does need ironing but it should be ironed damp and at a low temperature.
Silk needs to be washed very carefully. It needs to be washed in very cool water with very mild soap powder. It better for it to be hand washed and you should ring it out or twist it. It does need ironing but it should be ironed damp and at a low temperature.
Heat
Silk is affected by high temperatures so should kept cool at all times including washing and ironing.
Silk is affected by high temperatures so should kept cool at all times including washing and ironing.
Strength
Its light weight and fine but it’s very strong. However its easily damaged by acid, alkali and bleach. Even sweat can damage it.
Its light weight and fine but it’s very strong. However its easily damaged by acid, alkali and bleach. Even sweat can damage it.
Flammability
Silk does burn but very slowly.
Silk does burn but very slowly.
Dyeing
Silk takes dye very well, if you print a pattern it comes out both sides.
Silk takes dye very well, if you print a pattern it comes out both sides.
Cost
Silk is the most expensive fabric there is, it’s expensive to produce and unwinding the silk from the cocoon is a highly skilled job.
Silk is the most expensive fabric there is, it’s expensive to produce and unwinding the silk from the cocoon is a highly skilled job.
NYLON
Nylon is a man-made fibre. It’s made with by products from making patrol so there’s always plenty of products available. Nylon is a modern fabric, it was invented in 1935. It’s very light and sooth and has lots of uses. Its washes easily and dries quickly. It’s a very popular fabric with companies because it’s cheap and easy to manufacture. Nylon is often blended with other fibres to improve its properties.
Warmth
Nylon is a good conductor of heat but it’s not naturally warm. It can be made warm by making it a bit bulkier to trap air.
Nylon is a good conductor of heat but it’s not naturally warm. It can be made warm by making it a bit bulkier to trap air.
Resilience
Nylon is very resilient and creases fall out easily. It goes back into shape easily and it doesn’t much ironing. It’s quite a stretchy fabric.
Nylon is very resilient and creases fall out easily. It goes back into shape easily and it doesn’t much ironing. It’s quite a stretchy fabric.
Absorbency
Nylons not very absorbent so it dries quickly after it’s been washed. It’s not a very good fabric to wear close to the skin because you get quite sweaty but it can be improved to let in more air.
Nylons not very absorbent so it dries quickly after it’s been washed. It’s not a very good fabric to wear close to the skin because you get quite sweaty but it can be improved to let in more air.
Washing
Nylon doesn’t stain very easily so it washes well at low temperatures and dries quickly.
Nylon doesn’t stain very easily so it washes well at low temperatures and dries quickly.
Heat
Nylon melts quite easily so should be ironed at very low temperatures. Manufactures can use heat to make permanent creases or pleats.
Nylon melts quite easily so should be ironed at very low temperatures. Manufactures can use heat to make permanent creases or pleats.
Strength
Nylon is very strong even though it’s very light. It can be harmed by bleach and acid but it’s not affected by mould like natural fabrics.
Nylon is very strong even though it’s very light. It can be harmed by bleach and acid but it’s not affected by mould like natural fabrics.
Flammability
Nylon doesn’t burn but it melts so Nylon should never be anywhere near a naked flame.
Nylon doesn’t burn but it melts so Nylon should never be anywhere near a naked flame.
Dyeing
Nylon takes dye well. Colours are normally added during manufacture.
Nylon takes dye well. Colours are normally added during manufacture.
Cost
Nylon is a cheap and cost affective fabric to make.
Nylon is a cheap and cost affective fabric to make.
POLYESTER
Polyester was invented in the 1950’s and we originally called Terylene. It’s a manmade fabric but it’s better than nylon. The name changed to polyester because it is a polymer.
Warmth
Polyester is not very warm to wear unless its blended with other fibres such as wool. Polyester can be used for a filling for quilts and pillows because it traps air and is very light and warm.
Polyester is not very warm to wear unless its blended with other fibres such as wool. Polyester can be used for a filling for quilts and pillows because it traps air and is very light and warm.
Resilience
Polyester is very resilient and doesn’t need much ironing. It doesn’t stretch much so clothes keep their shape well. It holds heat very well so is often mixed with other fibres to make it more comfortable to wear. Polyester blended with other fibres make clothes that are warm, look good and easy to look after.
Polyester is very resilient and doesn’t need much ironing. It doesn’t stretch much so clothes keep their shape well. It holds heat very well so is often mixed with other fibres to make it more comfortable to wear. Polyester blended with other fibres make clothes that are warm, look good and easy to look after.
Absorbency
Polyester resists water. It doesn’t stain very easily and washes and dries quickly and easily. Polyester is used for sails because it resists moisture and doesn’t need lots of drying after sailing.
Polyester resists water. It doesn’t stain very easily and washes and dries quickly and easily. Polyester is used for sails because it resists moisture and doesn’t need lots of drying after sailing.
Washing
Polyester washes very easily at low temperatures and dries quickly and doesn’t need much ironing.
Heat
Polyester melts at high temperatures so should be ironed at a low heat. Permanent creases or pleats can be put in using heat during manufacture.
Polyester washes very easily at low temperatures and dries quickly and doesn’t need much ironing.
Heat
Polyester melts at high temperatures so should be ironed at a low heat. Permanent creases or pleats can be put in using heat during manufacture.
Strength
Polyester is very strong. It’s so strong that it’s used for seats belts in cars. It’s not harmed by alkalis, bleaches, acids or moulds. It makes good curtains because it’s not affected by sun light.
Polyester is very strong. It’s so strong that it’s used for seats belts in cars. It’s not harmed by alkalis, bleaches, acids or moulds. It makes good curtains because it’s not affected by sun light.
Flammability
Polyester doesn’t burn easily but it will melt at high temperature. If it’s mixed with cotton it’s very flammable.
Polyester doesn’t burn easily but it will melt at high temperature. If it’s mixed with cotton it’s very flammable.
Dyeing
Polyester does not take on dye very well so dye has to be added at the manufacturing stage.
Polyester does not take on dye very well so dye has to be added at the manufacturing stage.
Cost
It’s an easily manmade fibre so it’s cheap to produce.
LINEN
It’s an easily manmade fibre so it’s cheap to produce.
LINEN
The word linen comes from the word 'linium'. It is one of the world's oldest fabrics, linen is manufactured from the fibres of the flax plant, which is a natural resource.
Warmth
Linen is a good conductor of heat. It’s good for summer clothes because it can keep you cool but it’s also very good for bed covers because it keeps you warm.
Linen is a good conductor of heat. It’s good for summer clothes because it can keep you cool but it’s also very good for bed covers because it keeps you warm.
Resilience
Linen is a strong fabric but it creases very easily. I can be chemically changed to resist creases. Linen is not stretchy. It can be affected by mould.
Linen is a strong fabric but it creases very easily. I can be chemically changed to resist creases. Linen is not stretchy. It can be affected by mould.
Absorbency
Linen absorbs water very well which means it’s often used for tea towels. It takes a long time to dry.
Linen absorbs water very well which means it’s often used for tea towels. It takes a long time to dry.
Washing
Linen can be washed at any temperature but will take a long to dry. It needs ironing when it’s damp to avoid creases.
Linen can be washed at any temperature but will take a long to dry. It needs ironing when it’s damp to avoid creases.
Heat
Linen takes heat very well and needs to be ironed at a high temperature. It resists sunlight so it’s a good fabric to wear in summer.
Linen takes heat very well and needs to be ironed at a high temperature. It resists sunlight so it’s a good fabric to wear in summer.
Strength
Linen is very strong and hard wearing. It resists sunlight well but it can be damaged by mould.
Linen is very strong and hard wearing. It resists sunlight well but it can be damaged by mould.
Flammability
Because it’s made from a plant fibre it burns easily and is very flammable.
Because it’s made from a plant fibre it burns easily and is very flammable.
Dyeing
Linen takes dye very easily as it’s a natural fibre.
Linen takes dye very easily as it’s a natural fibre.
Cost
Linen is an expensive fabric because it’s made out of natural resources which take time and money to grow.
Linen is an expensive fabric because it’s made out of natural resources which take time and money to grow.
Fibres
Research shows all fabrics are fibres. They can either be short or long. Short are called staple fibres and long are called filament fibres. Fibres are weak on their own but when they are twisted together into yarns they can be very strong. There are three different groups of fibres:
Natural Fibres
Natural fibres can either be plant or animal based. Wool and silk are the main animal based but you can also have angora, alpaca, cashmere, camel hair, wild silk, mohair and vicuna. The plant based fibres are linen, cotton, hemp, jute and ramie.
Research shows all fabrics are fibres. They can either be short or long. Short are called staple fibres and long are called filament fibres. Fibres are weak on their own but when they are twisted together into yarns they can be very strong. There are three different groups of fibres:
Natural Fibres
Natural fibres can either be plant or animal based. Wool and silk are the main animal based but you can also have angora, alpaca, cashmere, camel hair, wild silk, mohair and vicuna. The plant based fibres are linen, cotton, hemp, jute and ramie.
Synthetic Fibres
There are two types of synthetic fibres, manmade from oil-based by-products, e.g elastomeric, acrylic, aramid, modacrylic, polyamide, polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and Micro-fibres which are fine synthetic fibres, e.g polyester and nylon. The name for micro-fibre trade is Tactel.
There are two types of synthetic fibres, manmade from oil-based by-products, e.g elastomeric, acrylic, aramid, modacrylic, polyamide, polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and Micro-fibres which are fine synthetic fibres, e.g polyester and nylon. The name for micro-fibre trade is Tactel.
Regenerated Fibres
Regenerated fibres are made from a combination of chemicals and cellulose waste e.g lyocell, viscose, cupro, acetate, tencel, modal.
Yarns
Yarns are made by twisting fibres into long lengths and are wound onto cones or spools. They is two methods you can use for putting fibres together, spinning or twisting. The different types of yarns are spun yarns, filament yarns, multi-filament yarn, monofilament yarn, assembled yarn, folded yarns, plied yarns, complex yarns and fancy yarns.
Regenerated fibres are made from a combination of chemicals and cellulose waste e.g lyocell, viscose, cupro, acetate, tencel, modal.
Yarns
Yarns are made by twisting fibres into long lengths and are wound onto cones or spools. They is two methods you can use for putting fibres together, spinning or twisting. The different types of yarns are spun yarns, filament yarns, multi-filament yarn, monofilament yarn, assembled yarn, folded yarns, plied yarns, complex yarns and fancy yarns.
Costume Construction
As part of our performing arts btec course we have to constructed a costume that is made well enough to be performed in. As rock challenge is a big part of school life here at kings langley we thought we could tie the two into together. This means we will be constructing costumes for our rock challenge performance that will be performed in both febuary and july.
Our theme is Midsummer Night's Dream and we have been asked to construct the costume for the fairy scence. We were all very happy when given these costumes to construct because it meant being able to make them very pretty and over the top so they are seen on the stage.
I have made a costume for one of Titanias fairies. I have used netting and elastic to form the basic skirt. I have added strips of silk like material in a range of different colours. The colours I used were hot pink, pale pink and pale yellow. I used these colours because they compliment each other and will really stand out on stage. These colours also match the theme and will fit the scene perfectly. For decoration I have added leaves and roses to the band of the skirt. This adds effect to the skirt and will make it stand out more on stage. The costume will be worn with a coloured leotard and tights. The colours will be decided according to the different colours on the skirt. All the colours will need to compliment each other. I have to ensured that the costume is made well, and that it fits correctly. It will have lights underneath to add effect.
I will also help to make the main character costumes such as Titania, Peaseblossom, Mustardseed and Cobweb. These costumes need to be bigger and stand out more than the other fairies. These are the main fairies so elements of there costumes will be different. I will be spray painting Titanias costume silver. She is the queen of the fairies so needs to stand out the most. More decorations such as roses and leaves will be added to these costumes to make them stand out more. The colours will go according to the character. Titania is the queen so she will have a mix of all the colours. She will also be wearing a tiara with roses added on to it. Mustardseeds costume is a mixture of different shades of yellow, Peaseblossom is wearing a range of purples and green and lastly Cobweb is wearing a gothic inspired costume. This gives each main fairy an individual look.
This is my finished skirt. I am very please with the way it has come out. Obviously in the picture it's laying down but when it's on it has a nice shape and the strips of material fall nicely. I secured all the strips tightly onto the waistband so they don't fall off during the performance and when being taken on and off. If I was to make another skirt or I had more time, I would sew on more strips onto the skirt to give it even more body. I might also think about adding a few more colours without making it look too over the top. I would add more decorations but wouldn't want to take the attention away from the four main costumes.
Our theme is Midsummer Night's Dream and we have been asked to construct the costume for the fairy scence. We were all very happy when given these costumes to construct because it meant being able to make them very pretty and over the top so they are seen on the stage.
I have made a costume for one of Titanias fairies. I have used netting and elastic to form the basic skirt. I have added strips of silk like material in a range of different colours. The colours I used were hot pink, pale pink and pale yellow. I used these colours because they compliment each other and will really stand out on stage. These colours also match the theme and will fit the scene perfectly. For decoration I have added leaves and roses to the band of the skirt. This adds effect to the skirt and will make it stand out more on stage. The costume will be worn with a coloured leotard and tights. The colours will be decided according to the different colours on the skirt. All the colours will need to compliment each other. I have to ensured that the costume is made well, and that it fits correctly. It will have lights underneath to add effect.
I will also help to make the main character costumes such as Titania, Peaseblossom, Mustardseed and Cobweb. These costumes need to be bigger and stand out more than the other fairies. These are the main fairies so elements of there costumes will be different. I will be spray painting Titanias costume silver. She is the queen of the fairies so needs to stand out the most. More decorations such as roses and leaves will be added to these costumes to make them stand out more. The colours will go according to the character. Titania is the queen so she will have a mix of all the colours. She will also be wearing a tiara with roses added on to it. Mustardseeds costume is a mixture of different shades of yellow, Peaseblossom is wearing a range of purples and green and lastly Cobweb is wearing a gothic inspired costume. This gives each main fairy an individual look.
This is my finished skirt. I am very please with the way it has come out. Obviously in the picture it's laying down but when it's on it has a nice shape and the strips of material fall nicely. I secured all the strips tightly onto the waistband so they don't fall off during the performance and when being taken on and off. If I was to make another skirt or I had more time, I would sew on more strips onto the skirt to give it even more body. I might also think about adding a few more colours without making it look too over the top. I would add more decorations but wouldn't want to take the attention away from the four main costumes.
Thursday, 15 December 2011
T4 Stars 2011
For me, I was most disappointed by Pixie Lott. She was one of the biggest names there but I feel gave one of the weakest performances. Her voice is no where near as strong as some of the other performers and her performance involved a lot of moving around to avoid singing.
Sunday, 4 December 2011
Ballroom and Latin
Ballroom dance is a partner dance. As a style of dance it was most popular in the early 19th century but it lost popularity towards the end. The programmes such as Strictly Come Dancing have brought Ballroom back to life.
Ballroom is popular as a social dance but in these days it’s more of a competition dance. It’s also sometime done by dance groups and group dances. Originally ballroom dancing was for the upper classes while the lower classes did folk dancing. The word ball came from the latin ballare which means to dance. Large houses had ballrooms which is where the phrase ballroom dancing came from.
The first record of ballroom dance is in the 16th century. Many of the dancers were developed to entertain royalty. The original movements were based on ballet steps. This lasted until the 1800’s when it was decided that ballet should be left to professional dancers.
The Waltz was the most popular dance in England in the early 1800 until other dances became popular such as the Polka and Mazurka. At that time everybody danced around the room in formation. Modern ballroom changed in the 20th century and couples danced interpedently. The most popular era was the 1930s when ballroom dance was featured in many major movies. Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers were probably the most well known ballroom dances in film.
Around this time ballroom dancing was popular for the public as well. People would go to dance halls in the evening to do ballroom dancing. Ballroom was originally for royalty but over time it became popular with everybody. In the earlier part of the 20th century Latin dance became popular along with the more traditional styles of ballroom. During the Second World War years when the American forces were in England Latin American dance become more popular.
Ballroom and Latin dancing is now a very popular competitive sport. The dances that are used in competition come into two categories.
The International Standard Dances
- Waltz http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g1o31fsZxCc
- Tango http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDCtYRY3LQY
- Viennese Waltz http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5crgpP8ClIs
- Foxtrot http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qjopi9GICbM
- Quick Step http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KcBop6cQV_k
The International Latin Dances
- Samba http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Za-jol3P7Y8
- Cha-Cha-Cha http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kb2Om6lwi6U
- Rumba http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9cMoR6Z2YzY
- Paso Doble http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7GSoZAzMNlI
- Jive http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ajcmtpR4oV8
- Waltz http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g1o31fsZxCc
- Tango http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDCtYRY3LQY
- Viennese Waltz http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5crgpP8ClIs
- Foxtrot http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qjopi9GICbM
- Quick Step http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KcBop6cQV_k
The International Latin Dances
- Samba http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Za-jol3P7Y8
- Cha-Cha-Cha http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kb2Om6lwi6U
- Rumba http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9cMoR6Z2YzY
- Paso Doble http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7GSoZAzMNlI
- Jive http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ajcmtpR4oV8
Dancers in competition are marked on -
- Poise
- The Hold
- Posture
- Musicality and Expression
- Timing
- Body Alignment and Shape
- Floor Craft
- Foot and Leg Action
- Presentation
- Poise
- The Hold
- Posture
- Musicality and Expression
- Timing
- Body Alignment and Shape
- Floor Craft
- Foot and Leg Action
- Presentation
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0cYAOskFoBY – This is an example of a ballroom competition.
People used to enjoy ballroom dancing as just an evening activity. There didn’t practically wear anything special although they may have had a pair of dancing shoes. However with the rising competition and TV shows such as Come Dancing and more recently Strictly Come Dancing have made amazing costumes a part of ballroom dancing. Traditionally the costumes were very long and elegant but as time has passed the costumes have got smaller and sexier. This has brought around the argument that people should focus more on the dance than the costume.
People used to enjoy ballroom dancing as just an evening activity. There didn’t practically wear anything special although they may have had a pair of dancing shoes. However with the rising competition and TV shows such as Come Dancing and more recently Strictly Come Dancing have made amazing costumes a part of ballroom dancing. Traditionally the costumes were very long and elegant but as time has passed the costumes have got smaller and sexier. This has brought around the argument that people should focus more on the dance than the costume.
Anton and Erin
Due to the popularity of Strictly Come Dancing most people can name someone from the world of ballroom. Probably the most famous ballroom dancers in the country at the moment are Anton Du Beke and Erin Boag. The couple have been dancing together since 1997. Erin is originally from New Zealand but moved over to England in 1997. They are international dance champions. They were one of the first couples invited to create the programme Strictly Come Dancing which started in 2004. Erin was the winner of the 2006 Christmas special with Colin Jackson. They then went on to do a series with Sky 1 called Ballroom High. In this series they thought teenagers from a poorer part of London how to ballroom dance. Other performances include -
Due to the popularity of Strictly Come Dancing most people can name someone from the world of ballroom. Probably the most famous ballroom dancers in the country at the moment are Anton Du Beke and Erin Boag. The couple have been dancing together since 1997. Erin is originally from New Zealand but moved over to England in 1997. They are international dance champions. They were one of the first couples invited to create the programme Strictly Come Dancing which started in 2004. Erin was the winner of the 2006 Christmas special with Colin Jackson. They then went on to do a series with Sky 1 called Ballroom High. In this series they thought teenagers from a poorer part of London how to ballroom dance. Other performances include -
- 2004 Royal Variety Performance,
- BBC TV’s Test the Nation,
- Celebrity Star Spell,
- The Weakest Link
- ITV’s Loose Women
- GMTV
- BBC TV’s Test the Nation,
- Celebrity Star Spell,
- The Weakest Link
- ITV’s Loose Women
- GMTV
They have both been so successful that they have done a sell out tour in major venues throughout the UK. They both also have DVDs on sale. Anton is quite an encouraging figure in the dance world because he didn’t start dancing until he was 14 whereas, Erin started dancing at the age of 3. She is the longest running female in the series of Strictly Come Dancing.
Street Dance
The term street dance covers lots of different urban dance styles. It describes dances that people have created outside studio settings. The dance style originally started literally in the street. This type of dance wasn’t originally called street dance it covers lots of styles of dance such as
- popping
- locking
- hip hop
- break dancing
Street dance and hip hop are now recognised as styles of dance and dance school and studios offer classes where you can be taught. Traditional street dance doesn’t have set steps so anything goes, this is the same as contemporary dance. However some street dance that is taught in classes does follow set steps and moves. The two different styles are often called just ‘street dance’ and the more formal style that is taught is known as ‘commercial street dance’.
- popping
- locking
- hip hop
- break dancing
Street dance and hip hop are now recognised as styles of dance and dance school and studios offer classes where you can be taught. Traditional street dance doesn’t have set steps so anything goes, this is the same as contemporary dance. However some street dance that is taught in classes does follow set steps and moves. The two different styles are often called just ‘street dance’ and the more formal style that is taught is known as ‘commercial street dance’.
Street dance is so popular because anyone can join in and develop their own style. Even street dance troupes performing a routine well often have a section which lets individual dancers to freestyle. Street dance became popular because not everyone can afford dance classes so crews that started dancing on the street offered a free alternative. Dance street is often showed as a battle between dancers so by doing this dancers can express themselves and battle with other crews through dance without actually fighting.
This is a quote from the idance website-
‘At idance, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to express themselves through dance. Whether to exercise, socialise, improve technique, relieve stress, or simply for the love of it, dancing encompasses so many benefits from building confidence and self-esteem to increasing fitness, physique, and improving your moves on the dance floor!’ (2) I decided I would use this dance group as my example because we have worked with them in the past on projects, also they are a local group and I like to encourage and support local based groups. I also use some of their dances for inspiration in my own work.
‘At idance, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to express themselves through dance. Whether to exercise, socialise, improve technique, relieve stress, or simply for the love of it, dancing encompasses so many benefits from building confidence and self-esteem to increasing fitness, physique, and improving your moves on the dance floor!’ (2) I decided I would use this dance group as my example because we have worked with them in the past on projects, also they are a local group and I like to encourage and support local based groups. I also use some of their dances for inspiration in my own work.
idance is a dance group in Watford that has been running since 2007. It started as an informal group of street dancers from the Codicote Youth Project. They only met to train when they could and they just experimented with moves and did some choreography. Unfortunately their original venue flooded and they didn’t have enough money to get another venue so they applied to North Herts District Council for help. They accepted their application and got a lot of help to get a new venue. After this idance developed a lot and became very popular. It now offers lots of different classes of many different varieties of dance. It offers classes for young people and adults.
Street dance started in the 1970’s so although it’s 30 – 40 years years old it’s still now compared to other forms of dance. Influence of street dance has even had an impact on Bollywood.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPzj8W_EPdQ&feature=player_embedded
I liked this dance by Hrithik Roshan because it was very original and had a western twist to it but also has very traditional Bhangra dancing in it. It made the dance look modern and a bit different the traditional Bhangra. It was a party and a celebration so all the moves were very big and over the top. It was also an upbeat dance to reflect the mood of the party. The western twist made the dance original but it also looked very good with the traditional Bhangra. The dance was also telling a story because you can see a connection between Hrithik Roshan and the girl watching. This is telling us that they like each other and he is trying to impress her. In our Bhangra dance we decided that we were going to put a western twist to our Bhangra. This meant twisting our Bhangra moves and making them more street like. This made it our own but also made it easier for us because we know street dance a lot better than we do Bhangra.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPzj8W_EPdQ&feature=player_embedded
I liked this dance by Hrithik Roshan because it was very original and had a western twist to it but also has very traditional Bhangra dancing in it. It made the dance look modern and a bit different the traditional Bhangra. It was a party and a celebration so all the moves were very big and over the top. It was also an upbeat dance to reflect the mood of the party. The western twist made the dance original but it also looked very good with the traditional Bhangra. The dance was also telling a story because you can see a connection between Hrithik Roshan and the girl watching. This is telling us that they like each other and he is trying to impress her. In our Bhangra dance we decided that we were going to put a western twist to our Bhangra. This meant twisting our Bhangra moves and making them more street like. This made it our own but also made it easier for us because we know street dance a lot better than we do Bhangra.
Major movies have been made based around the street dance style. One of the most popular being Step up. Three movies have been created and have been a massive hit with all ages. Personally my favourite is Step Up 2 The Streets. The blurb on the back of the DVD reads – “The follow-up to the smash hit STEP UP is an electrifying tale of bodies, hearts and dreams in motion. Rebellious newcomer Andie (BRIANA EVIGAN) is an outcast street dancer trying to fit in at the elite School of the Arts. Chase (ROBERT HOFFMAN) is the school’s red hot talent and a rising star. Both want to win the biggest, baddest street dancing battle, “The Streets”, and they might just do it if they team up. As the gifted dancers clash and sizzle, Andie must learn to build a bridge between love and loyalty, between who she is and who she believes she can be. It’s time to Step Up.
The dancing in the film is amazing and must of taken ages to choreograph and make perfect. This film made street very popular and encouraged a lot of people to start after seeing the film. My favourite dance is the end dance they do in the streets. It’s raining at this point and it gives it a really good effect. I really like the part where they dance with lights in their hands. As it’s dark they really stand out, it’s gives the dance the wow factor. The only bit I could criticise it that because it’s dark you can’t always see very well a bit more light would have complimented the dancing more.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fv-cQrD4MS0
The dancing in the film is amazing and must of taken ages to choreograph and make perfect. This film made street very popular and encouraged a lot of people to start after seeing the film. My favourite dance is the end dance they do in the streets. It’s raining at this point and it gives it a really good effect. I really like the part where they dance with lights in their hands. As it’s dark they really stand out, it’s gives the dance the wow factor. The only bit I could criticise it that because it’s dark you can’t always see very well a bit more light would have complimented the dancing more.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fv-cQrD4MS0
I have taken part in Street dance showcases before at Watford Palace Theatre. This is a showcase of talents that blends contemporary, hip hop and street dance. Previous guests have been -
- World Hip Hop Champions Plague
- Sin Cru
- Former UK Champions and Britain’s Got Talent finalists Nemisis
- UK Hip Hop Junior Varsity Bronze Medalists Dance Nuvo
Plus local groups such as -
- idance
- T21 Collective
- Alter Ego
- R-te Crew
- XenZam
- the best of work from local dance groups and schools
The two times I have done I have really enjoyed myself and it’s been a great experience. The dancing is always up to such a high standard. One year we mixed a soundtrack and created a dance with a mix of street dance and contemporary. This went down a real hit and the dance troupe Peridot loved it. Seeing and performing in this performance has encouraged me to take up street dance as a hobby.
- Sin Cru
- Former UK Champions and Britain’s Got Talent finalists Nemisis
- UK Hip Hop Junior Varsity Bronze Medalists Dance Nuvo
Plus local groups such as -
- idance
- T21 Collective
- Alter Ego
- R-te Crew
- XenZam
- the best of work from local dance groups and schools
The two times I have done I have really enjoyed myself and it’s been a great experience. The dancing is always up to such a high standard. One year we mixed a soundtrack and created a dance with a mix of street dance and contemporary. This went down a real hit and the dance troupe Peridot loved it. Seeing and performing in this performance has encouraged me to take up street dance as a hobby.
Street dance has become very popular especially on talent shows such as Britain’s got Talent. There has been many successes with the street dance groups such as –
- Diversity
- Flawless
- Twist and Pulse
- Peridot
- George Sampson
Diversity won Britain’s Got Talent in 2009. 2 million viewers tuned in to watch the troupe win the competition. The troupe formed in 2007 in memory of a friend. There are eleven members in the troupe all from East London and Essex. The ages range from 13 – 26. Diversity’s members think of each other as family. The troupe also consists of a number of brothers. The leader of the group is Ashley Banjo who also choreographs the pieces for the troupe. He has been dancing since the age of 5. Simon Cowell described the troupes performances as “sheer and utter perfection”. The troupes motto is ‘Dream, Believe, Achieve’.
- Flawless
- Twist and Pulse
- Peridot
- George Sampson
Diversity won Britain’s Got Talent in 2009. 2 million viewers tuned in to watch the troupe win the competition. The troupe formed in 2007 in memory of a friend. There are eleven members in the troupe all from East London and Essex. The ages range from 13 – 26. Diversity’s members think of each other as family. The troupe also consists of a number of brothers. The leader of the group is Ashley Banjo who also choreographs the pieces for the troupe. He has been dancing since the age of 5. Simon Cowell described the troupes performances as “sheer and utter perfection”. The troupes motto is ‘Dream, Believe, Achieve’.
I have just started doing street dance classes and I am really enjoying them. I find it very hard but I’m determined to learn the style and be able to do it well. Since starting I have learnt how to baby freeze. I got taught how to do it and did it first time. Since then I have developed it trying to use one hand and not resting my legs on my arms. I’ve done it a few times but haven’t mastered it properly yet.
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