PERFECT REVISION GUIDE
Facts on Perfect
- It was first performed in 2005 by the company Motionhouse
- The choreographer for perfect was KEVIN FINNAN
- The costume design was by CLAIRE ARMITAGE
- The set was designed by SIMON DORMAN
- The accompaniment was composed by SOPHY SMITH
The Sections
There are 13 sections in Perfect:
- Spirits of Time
- Shadows
- Legs
- Faces
- Time Flies
- Garden
- Loops
- Interlude 1
- Hands of Time
- Pregnant Pause
- Rake
- Interlude 2 - Suspension in Time
- Finale - Slings
SHADOWS SECTION
Set
- The front section of the stage is filled with sand
- Lighting is used to produce shadows - these represent memories and images in the past and the present (like sand that falls in a sand timer)
Lighting
- The lighting gives the audience an impression of the mood as it is mostly dark and it develops the emotional intensity
Choreography
- Unison is used between the dancers on the stage and the shadows
- Extension of the arms and contractions along with wrapping arms around them represent consoling themselves.
- When the male dancer walks in, one dancer sinks down to represent hurt and rejection
- When the female dancer freezes and looks in pain, the shadow consoles her from behind the screen
RAKES SECTION
Set
- The stage is completely opened and filled with sand to represent memories.
- Rakes are the main props used and they are held by the men signifying their male role
- The rakes are used as a prop to show physical support by using lifts, tension and balance
- Watering cans are used to show nurturing and care as well
Accompaniment
- Mostly percussion
- Positive correlation between the music and the movements in the dance, for example as the stronger drum beat kicks in the other dancers begin
- The music is loud and rhythmic
Choreography
- The duets start in unison but you can see over time the difference in the two relationships
- Stuart and Helen (on the left hand side) have clear cracks in their relationship as throughout the dance it becomes more abusive and aggressive
- Junior and Vanessa (on the right) have a much more loving and caring relationship, and Vanessa is lifted by Junior to show support
Perfect by Motionhouse