Tanzrecherche NRW: Classical Tradition / Modern Society by Mirjam Otten

THE ARTISTIC PROCESS
Andrew McNicol shines a light on the importance of an intentional artistic process.
In his own practice, he makes sure to be very clear about what a specific
combination of environment, group of artists, time frame and culture lend
themselves to in terms of artistic impact. To understand and integrate this well into
his work, he has found it important to get to know the artists and environment they
work in before beginning the artistic process. In building that rapport, McNicol
hopes that ‘the work is serving the environment, the culture, the community of
where it's happening’. This ties into an understanding of ballet as a contextual art
form described in earlier sections.
Speaking about challenges and hurdles within the artistic process, Richard
Bermange warns that ego can get in the way of creative success. He calls creators
to be reflective and regularly question their own role and contribution in the studio
alongside the the other involved artists.
TRAINING
The classical ballet technique is characterised by an inherent appeal described in
earlier sections. However, it is also a fundamental part of the industry’s daily
practice, and as such requires regular modernisation. Antonucci explains that an
important part of his work at Birmingham Royal Ballet is to ensure that technical
standards and methods used in training and rehearsals are current. As technical
abilities and understanding – fuelled by disciplines like physics and medicine —
evolve, it is important that the way of working is up to date. ‘Physical demands on
the dances are greater than they were, so how do we intelligently achieve those
demands while still keeping the dancers safe and healthy?’, is what he asks himself.
His strategy is keeping an open mind, taking on new input from other institutions
and companies and integrating them in one’s own practice. Richard Bermange
echoes that companies should put advancements in understanding of the human
body, dancer safety and training techniques at the forefront of their practice.
Classical Tradition // Modern Society 46