Description
Book SynopsisDarren Royston is a Dance and Movement Tutor and Choreographer at RADA, and the Artistic Director and Choreographer for Nonsuch History and Dance. He is council member of many professional organizations including The Laban Guild for Movement and Dance, The European Association of Dance Historians, DANCE UK Choreographers' Forum and the Early Dance Circle (UK) and a member of UNESCO International Council for Dance.
Trade ReviewRoyston, a tutor at Rada, gives the reader a fascinating insight into the techniques used at this prestigious institution ... A lively exploration of how historical dance forms can be brought to life on stage. -- Gillian Spickernell * The Lady *
Actors get so much from the practical experience of exploring historical dance ideas . . . Darren’s fantastic, thorough approach to dance for the actor can be referred to throughout the rehearsal process and helps to unite the style of the production. * Jamie Lloyd, Director, She Stoops to Conquer, National Theatre, London *
This all-embracing approach gives actors a grounding in fundamental stagecraft and a vital sense of body while preparing for a role. * Andrew Normington, Director, The Lord Chamberlain’s Men & former Head of Acting, Bristol Old Vic Theatre School *
Table of ContentsIntroduction Alternative Approaches: Making Dance Dramatic
Chapter One Ancient Ideas: Dionysian Orchestration
Chapter Two Medieval Realms: Feudal Formations Video samples: [1] French Basse Danse: La Dame; [2] Royal Estampie: La Quinte Estampie Real
Chapter Three Italian Balls: Renaissance Rhythms Video samples: [3] Italian Bassadanza for 2: Alexandresca; [4] Italian Bassadanza for 3: Pellegrina; [5] Italian Ballo for 2: Rostibolly Gioioso; [6] Italian Ballo for 4: Anello
Chapter Four Shaking with Shakespeare: Court and Country Video samples: [7] New Almaine; [8] La Volta; [9] Italian Balletto: Torneo Amoroso; [10] Washerwomen’s Branle; [11] Country Dance for 2 couples: Rufty Tufty; [12] Country Dance for 3 couples: Shepherds’ Holiday; [13] Country Dance for 3 couples: Picking of Sticks
Chapter Five Baroque Around the Clock: Mincing by the Minuet Video Samples: [14] The Ballroom Minuet; [15] Bourrée
Chapter Six Nineteenth Century Coupling: Partners Please Video samples; [16] Allemanding; [17] Mazurka; [18] Polka
Chapter Seven Twentieth Century Foxtrots: Crazy Dances and Dance Crazes Video sample: [19] Charleston
Conclusion Taking Leave: The Final Bow
