# data[].attributes.body
Opening section

# data[].attributes.body
Bell section to end

# data[].attributes.body
With blindfold

# data[].attributes.body
Without blindfold

# data[].attributes.body
Rehearsal 1

# data[].attributes.headline
Throughout technique and rehearsals we have taken video footage...

# data[].attributes.subject
Throughout technique and rehearsals we have taken video footage...

# data[].attributes.body
In the style of Matthew Bourne

# data[].attributes.body
In the style of Matthew Bourne

# data[].attributes.body
Mock

# data[].attributes.body
This video is where we got most of our choreographic influences. Then took this and developed this into our own.

# data[].attributes.body
This is what we came up with in our brainstorm.

# data[].attributes.body
As you can see in this youtube clip. The tension that builds from the story is shown throughout this, the climax that they reach is something that we want to show throughout Something that stands out to me from this youtube clip is  the way that the mum protects her children. This is how we end the piece with myself in T shape position stand infant leaning back over the girls.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Bird Box | Official Trailer [HD] | Netflix

# data[].attributes.body
Opening section

# data[].attributes.body
Bell section to end

# data[].attributes.body
With blindfold

# data[].attributes.body
With blindfold

# data[].attributes.body
Without blindfold

# data[].attributes.body
Rehearsal 1

# data[].attributes.body
Week one-
This week we were briefed about the piece that we need to create within the next thee weeks. We were told what the task was and what we need to create to reach distinction level on stage and in the studio. We then all sat down as a group and brainstormed all of the ideas and intentions that we want to include within the piece. We noted down all the potential ideas and then decided on the one we feel will present Matthew Bournes style that he uses in Dorian Grey. We all watched this piece several times picking up sections that we feel like we can develop into our own choreography. The final idea that we all wanted to work with was to focus the piece on social media and the struggles that people go through around this. For example, having a constant battle to get the perfect instagram picture or selfie. We want to show the audience the way how people compare themselves to celebrities aspiring to look like them. The phrase that we feel links with this the most is Instagram vs reality this is what its based upon and the effect this has on social media. Music was something that we struggled finding as nothing was really linking with the piece or the Dorian Grey Style. After searching for many different songs, we decided that keeping the original piece would be the best option and add camera shot sounds as an adding effect. We then started to choreography the first section, where myself and a peer will be acting out a scene where we are fighting for attention from another peer that will be acting out as a photographer. To show a clear image of the story line we have decided that we will be using fake phones and lights on stage.
Week two-
During this weeks rehearsal we wanted to develop the material that we created in the previous week. We made slight changes in terms of making it more based on gestures instead of choreography. Dorian Grey is a piece thats not specifically focused on just contemporary it includes gestures and  actions. We really focused on finishing the choreography so we are able to have next week polishing making it ready for the stage, getting used to the props that we will be using. A lot of the work in Dorian Gray is at a low level this is something that we wanted to incorporate in the piece. We choreographed a unison floor section and the unison section where all the formations are scattered making it random facing in different directions. The floor motif was then developed into the unison section at a high level using different dynamics throughout. Using the different choreographic devices means that the piece will add interest and more depth. Something that we were struggling on the most was making sure that each movements was linked to his choreography. To help us with this, we kept referring to the youtube clip that we found. This really helped me in terms of getting the correct facial expressions and attitude during the piece. The emotions that we needed to portray for this piece are..
-Cocky
-Stuck up
-Arrogant
-Confident
-Over the top
Once we finished creating the choreography, we ran the piece multiple times, making sure that we are confident with the piece. We also needed to check the sound effects are played at the right time, making sure that our timing is perfect.
Week 3-
This week we have managed to find time to rehearse the piece, making sure that peers that were absent in previous lessons caught up with the choreography. Once we had ran it through from the start we came to the conclusion that we had more work than we had thought. For example, making sure that we knew when to turn our props on and what angle we are holding them. This makes a massive difference in terms of lighting the stage and the dancers, as we have planned that in some sections we would be lighting the stage with just our props. Using the lights made the piece feel slightly more real and portrays the story easier to the audience. Todays lesson, our tutor was able to give feedback...
-Make sure that all the movement is based on the Matthew Bournes style, not going off in the classical contemporary style.
-Make sure people are clear on choreography.
-We needed to add more characterisation, playing the character with the correct expressions.
-Confidence needs to be increased.
We finished todays lesson, pleased with how the piece looked and how the intention was getting across. Overall, i am proud of how the piece looks and the devices and choreography that we have used.

Evaluation-
Throughout this process, we have been able to really understand Matthew Bournes style, using our written research portfolio and linking this to create a piece thats based on Dorian Gray. As a group we all put in many different ideas and this came across in the final piece as we linked these all together to create the piece based on his style. When watching this piece back, the props really help to portray the subject and also add a different detail to the piece giving it more depth. Something that i feel need improvement was the formation, at some points within the choreography i feel like it looked messy and didn't have a formation. Characterisation as group needed to be improved to make sure that the audience where able to understand the story and subject.

# data[].attributes.body
Overall, I feel like this assessment went well and were some clear positives and negatives throughout. Something that I was worried about was my movement memory this is something that I have been working hard on in my own time as we have 3 weeks to learn all the exercises and week 4 was the assessment. I made sure that i was able to get into a studio and practice until I was confident with all the exercises. This really helped me in terms of keeping technique to a high level focusing on the little details that i feel like I need to keep being reminded off. Something that I feel could of gone better is my parallel positions. Something so simple as standing in parallel held me back in terms of having the correct contemporary technique. I believe that I need to get in the habitat of checking the position and constantly adjusting when I need it, training my body getting the right muscles engaged. My core control throughout the assessment was good i felt confident and safe when lifting leg above 90 degrees knowing I am strong enough to hold this without wobbling or letting ankles shake. Although, holding my core can add tension in my upper body. With nerves for the assessment i believe that my shoulders did rise and neck was extremely stiff. I need to direct that tension into my core and relax the rest of the body to get maximum amounts of benefits. This can makes the exercises look tense and can also effect the fluidity of the piece not relaxing into the movements.

# data[].attributes.body
What I need to improve on...
In todays lesson, I need to make sure that I don't forget about the little details in terms of technique. I need to pay attention more towards not rolling my feet in first and second position. This means that I need to make sure i hold my glut muscles when turning out. Also spreading toes out and making sure that the weight is evenly spread over all five toes. This also prevents injury protecting my ankles.

Positives...
During todays lesson, I was able to use my movement memory and remember the exercises without hesitating though the lesson or exercises. I was confident in performing these exercises as a solo, duet or group. I believe this was because I had spent enough time during the week going over all the exercises. Knowing the exercises meant that I was focused on using the correct technique and using effort on this, instead of wasting my effort trying to remember the exercises and order.

# data[].attributes.body
What I need to improve on...
In todays lesson i have really struggled with contractions. I wasn't contracting from the correct body part. I need to start training my body in a way that is technically correct when contracting. The contraction should come from my core and not just making a C shape with my upper body. I need to be able to feel the contract when dancing, not just use this as a movement. I will be making sure that I practice contractions throughout this week making sure that I am able to gain and feel the correct technique. I will be making sure that I get my tutor to check this technique when performing a contraction.

Positives...
Throughout this lesson I was using my plie when performing elevations. This was something that allowed me to get good height the jumping, especially with the corner exercises. I need to make sure that i track my knees over my toes when performing a plie, in preparation to jump. I was able to show the correct alignment whilst in the air, making sure that my shoulders don't hold any tension in them.

# data[].attributes.body
What I need to improve on...
In todays lesson I need to be able to relax my neck when performing floor work, especially when rolling. I naturally hold tension in my neck. This is something that holds me back from relaxing into the floor. This was something that was picked up by my teacher, she said that I hold tension in my upper body. To improve this, I need to make sure that i think less about technique and more about melting into the floor. This will stop me from pulling any muscles and letting my body warm up to its maximum. I need to loosen up my upper body for the next lesson.

Positives...
During this lesson, I feel like my core control was at its best. Throughout the exercises i was able to hold my core to the maximum not wobbling and feeling secure when transferring weight. This is something that helps in contemporary as a lot of movements are based on weight change. This is something that i want to keep throughout the lessons working towards the technique assessments.

# data[].attributes.body
Birdbox Rehearsal 1-
In todays lesson, we got briefed to watch the film over the next week so we are able to understand the theme and storyline that we will be basing the piece about. We will then be able to add the emotion to the piece and add our own thoughts about the piece. Understanding the piece means that we are able to perform knowing the change of motion throughout.
The exercise that we did during todays lesson, was based on improvisation. We were all given blindfolds that we weren't allowed to take off. The reasoning behind this was that our tutor was able to see what we thought personally not being persuaded by the group of peers. Every movement that we did come from our head and how we felt at that exact time. In groups we took turns in getting in a space, making sure tat we are already wearing blindfolds.We got given situations that we had to act out. This could either be...
-Trapped under ground
-Finding each other
-Look after each other
-Feet being stuck to the floor
-Listening outside
We also did some improvisation using a large piece of black see through material as a group. This was something that I found very difficult in terms of improvising in a close space with peers around me. This is something that I need to improve on, and be more comfortable using the space around me. This process was recorded throughout the whole improvisation section. The material that we performed within the lesson will be used to create the rest of the choreography taking our favourite sections from everyone and putting them together.
Birdbox Rehearsal 2-
In todays lesson, we are are able to start the floor section, where we are all wearing blindfolds. We were able to get 2 minutes 30 seconds of choreography done. From this we were able to know the emotion that we had to portray throughout the first section. Throughout this rehearsal we were able to use last weeks improvisation to create movements in the motif and link them together to produce the information that we wanted to get across to the audience. The movements needed to show being scared and frightened so the movements need to be slow and very timid movements. Posture changes shoulder are raised and head movements slow down, the suspense is added by the tension and the characterisation. Faces are showing fear and anxiety. The slow movements and tensions that are added to the piece all create anticipation for the next section within the piece where the dynamics will change. Because we are blindfolded for the whole of this section, our senses are high so any change of direction is something that we need to show and not make sharp, over the top movements.
Birdbox Rehearsal 3-
At the start of todays lesson, we started a new section of choreography that includes taking off the blindfolds. This links to last weeks choreography as we are changing dynamics and are introducing the next section of the choreography. This also meant that we had a new formation meaning that we needed to include a travelling link step. This was something that was very basic yet extremely forward. After the first unison section that was learnt in week 1 the music changes. This is something that goes from being spooky to being scary and also very loud, building the tension for the faster dynamics. Our main aim was to show the relieve of taking off the blind fold gaining all of our senses back and becoming slightly more confident with our body movements. Taking off the blind fold needs to show a release of energy and exaggerating every movement made. An example of this would be the first initial movement when taking off the blindfold, the arm circles around the whole body then grabs the blindfold and the we rip if off our faces. Something that i struggled with, in this situation, was being too graceful I need to look like I mean it and really express the relieved emotion that was felt in the film if Bird box. This section has more contemporary dance content and less gestures compared to the first section where most of the choreography was gestures as choreography would of created the image or emotion that was needed. Once we had created this section we explored some movements with a sheet of material. This was going to represent the rapid section in the film. As you can see the movement to this section where very physical and we had to use team work to make sure that the lift happened smoothly making sure the material is at the correct angle, allowing her legs to go over the sheet. We all weren't holding the material once throughout the whole section, other dancers were around the edge performing a rolling section in unison making sure they were out the way of the movement that was created by the material. In my opinion, this looks messy and would need a lot more time on it to get the image that was needed to represent the rapids. in my opinion this can be shown in a clear way.
Birdbox Rehearsal 4-
In todays rehearsal, we first recapped what we had created in weeks 1, 2 and 3, making sure that we are all confident with the work before adding more choreography. This took us longer than expected as a few members of the group were absent so as a group we needed to teach some parts of the choreography to other peers. This helped everyone as a group as we were able to go through it in detail, making it perfect and unison. We also were able to add on choreography after the blindfold section where we need to add onto the fast unison section. I was told to leave the stage at this point as she wanted a small section for solo movement. I was then able to watch this section of the rehearsal, giving critic and advice from a peer watching it. This was also a moment for me where I realised how important it was to use facial expressions throughout. As I was able to feel the correct energy off the students that were using there expressions, compared to the students that were more reserved and held back. It helps so much more as an audience member as I am able to understand the emotion and story. We were then brie on the next section where we were warned that this will be a test of our cardio stamina. And over the next few weeks we all need to focus on stamina, making sure that we give the same amount of energy from the start of the piece till the end. Whilst learning the quick choreography, i really struggled with the timing. This was something that i felt pressured to get right as I was at the front for this particular section. I was getting annoyed with myself as I just wasn't able to get the timing right which let the group down in terms of unison. I know from watching rehearsal videos that I need to spend more time on this with my peers making sure that I know the correct timing for the next rehearsal. We were able to learn 50 seconds of choreography of the rapid section and this isn't the end of it.
Birdbox Rehearsal 5-
In todays lesson, we started with recapping all sections, except the floor section. The floor section is something that I feel doesn't really need to be practice as this is the section that we are most comfortable with. We got through this quickly, as we had spent extra hours throughout the week practicing all sections. We were then able to start a partner section. This partner section is where I will be performing a solo section, so I was stepping in for a peer that was absent this week. From this I will need to book an independent rehearsal to teach her this section, so we don't waste time going over it in the next rehearsal. This section was showing the relationship between the brother and sister throughout the week. This meant that it included contact work an we needed show the bond through our actions and movements. We also managed to fill a section of choreography that links our sections together, this was between flicking off the blindfold and the rapid section. Once we had created this movement we were able to run it throughout with all the new sections added. The movement that was used in the duet section was very weighted and included a lot of lifts between each dancer. Trust falls were included in this section of choreography, this was something that was clearly portraying the bond that they have between each other. The dancers never let go of each other in terms of contact work.
Birdbox Rehearsal 6-
As a group we first ran through all the sections that we had learnt in the previous weeks making sure that we were all confident and knew the choreography. Me and a peer ran through the partnering section a few times, making sure that she is confident and can perform this section. This week we also made a decision that we were incorporating the choreography with the material, as a group we felt like this wouldn't have the effect than we initially thought it would of. This is why in todays lesson we need to create 50 seconds of the rapid section, that takes us into the bell section. The bell section represents them going through the forest on edge wondering what all the noises are. The difference from going from the rapid section into the bell section is a massive contracts especially in terms of energy and movement. The bell section is an important part, when showing emotion, we need to be able to portray a feared image and scared of what could be around us. The emotions change instantly from, losing there minds to being very sneaky and keeping a low profile. Slowly working through our feet making small but effective movements. We were able to use motif development also, this is where we take choreography from different motifs and develop them into a new motif. We were able to use the taking off blind fold motif and dance this without the blindfolds. This section was put after the bell section. The formation for his section was an inner circle and an outer circle so this look scattered but the unison element made it look neat and effective. We developed this by using the bell instead of the blindfold, the actions were the same just without the prop. The dynamics to this piece was also changed, making the movements slower and more controlled. During the choreography that we included this week we also developed  another motif that was created in the first section, where we are loosing control with the blindfolds on. This again was something that was developed without the blindfold and with different dynamics. We needed this too look more control showing fear and concern. We needed to really focus on the counts being this section, as the other half of the group were ringing the bell during certain movements. This added pressure and did take a big part of the rehearsal up going through this several times. To get the correct tension and effect this section needed to be perfect in unison and with the correct counts.
Birdbox Rehearsal 7-
In todays rehearsal, we were able to finish the whole piece, allowing us to perform the piece start to finish patching up any areas where we need to fill. This is something that I feel we needed to work on a group. We needed to make sure that we were fluent not letting the audience know the different sections.We added on a section where we use spoken word counting 1, 2, 3, 4 walking backwards whilst a lift is being performed in the centre of the stage. The feed back that we got throughout this rehearsal was that we needed to focus on characterisation making it more of an emotion that just a movement. We were given a piece of choreography where we are stood still and have to look in four different directions. We all lacked on looking with meaning not just moving our heads, we needed to add facial expressions and understand the story which will portray to the audience. As a group, we watched some youtube clips to remind ourselves of the theme and energy that we need to use within the choreography.

Evaluation...
Throughout this rehearsal process, there were many challenges that we faced that we had to over come to produce a piece of choreography that was held to a high standard. I feel like as group we have been able to interpret the Series well, making sure that we know the story line behind the choreography. This has helped us to create the atmosphere and characterisation and portray this to the audience from start to finish. Our stamina each week has been developed, the challenging piece really tested our stamina and this is something that we need to focus on, keeping the energy the same from start to finish. After watching the rehearsal videos from week 1 to dress rehearsal i feel like we were successful in developing out fitness levels. Something that i feel like we needed to work on was the timing of the choreography. This is something that we have struggled with but i still feel like we needed more time on this to make it absolutely perfect.

# data[].attributes.body
Start by throwing leg as high as possible jumping
Bring knee into chest and contract
Drop roll and repeat this going along the room

What i need to remember...
- Make sure that both legs are straight when elevating
-Contract from core
-Make sure that both feet are pointed especially when elevating
-Make sure that spine is curved when contracting
-Relax head when elevating
-Make sure you hold your core when dropping to the floor making sure that the you roll with control, making less sound
-Aim is to get splits in the air
-Arms in line with the height of the legs
-Make sure that there is no tension in shoulders and neck
-Use gluten and thighs to stand up into the elevation
-Make sure you melt into the floor
-Make sure its quick to the music
-Make sure you use musicality

# data[].attributes.body
Retiere with leg behind knee and arms in closed 4th position
Retiere with leg behind knee and arms in 1st position
Repeat x8
Swishing back legs in attitude arms in 1st position
4x travelling ronde de rambe
Retiere with leg behind knee and arms in closed 4th position
Retiere with leg behind knee in 1st position x4

What i need to remember...
-Make sure that my toe is behind my knee when in retiere position
-Knee needs to be turned out and held by the gulf muscles.
-Make sure that feet are pointed underneath when elevated
- Make sure that shoulders are pushed down and dont rise when elevating
-Make sure supporting leg is straight
-Use plie to get the height of the jump
-Dont stop travelling across the room and in joined de jambe
-Make sure that back is straight and dont lean forward
-Work through your feet when landing
-Hold core for maximum control when landing
-Make sure that eye line is high, making it easier to get height
-Dont twist hips
-Arms need to be held in correct positions.
-Elbows need to be rounded

# data[].attributes.body
Start in parallel
Raise in parallel slowly
Then bend dropping weight forward
High release
Roll up
Repeat
Open to second position in a plie
Into contraction
Repeat opposite side in second
Turn to corner and perform a flat back
Touch toe and stretch backs of leg
Come back flat back
Back bend
Repeat par de bras  on opposite side
Transfer weight on each side putting weight into the ball of the foot
Circling arms above head
tendu x4 in paraelle
place foot flat infront and contract
repeat on opposite side
Repeat tendus to the back
Swing leg to a diagonal lunge
Swing supporting leg into attitude position
transfer leg into arabesque
Repeat on opposite side
Windmill over to back corner to a sitting position
Front leg into attitude with bottom leg bent
Weight shift up
repeat other side

What i need to remember...
- Make sure that you get a snatch feeling when dropping
-Make sure you are able to feel weighted
-Make sure that you role up through each vertebra
- Make sure that seat muscles are held and in neutral when plie is second position
-Knees over toes when performing a plie
-Push the demi point when transferring weight
-Make sure that foot isn't sickled in attitude position
-Hold core when standing one leg making sure that you have ultimate control
-Leg needs to be behind body in arabesque with hip pushing down not open
-Make sure that there is no tension in shoulders or neck throughout the whole of the exercise
-The exercise needs to be fluent never stopping movement

# data[].attributes.body
Start in paraelle
Roll shoulder back with shoulder
Roll shoulder back touching elbow
Circle arm back
Into a contraction
Push arm across body
Circle movement
Drop arm down relaxing effort
Pull arm up and bend from the upper body
Take arm behind
Repeat on other side
Roll shoulders
Roll shoulders with shoulder
Roll shoulder back touching elbow
Contact from core
Take arms out into flat back
Take arms above head
Touch toe with one hand then change to opposite side
Release and drop weight bending knees
Release and pulling motion over the head
Repeat all dance in...
-Parellel
-First position
-Second position

What i need to remember...
-Make sure that you hold you core not twisting upper body
-Feet need to be in the perfect parallel with wrists width apart
-Make sure shoulders are pushed down in shoulder blades not holding tension in shoulders or neck
-Gluts muscles need to be held when leaning down touching toes twisting the torso
-Make sure feet stay in the same position throughout the whole of the exercise
-Make sure you dont roll your feet when in first and second position
-Weighted drop when releasing tension
-Make sure you lift up out of supporting legs when circling arms
-Make sure you are able to fully circle arms warming up

# data[].attributes.body
Roll down for 8 counts
Roll up for 8 counts
Roll down for 4 counts
Roll up for 4 counts
Pulse and contract x6
Take leg back into lunge
Turn out hip and side lunge into
Turn back into a lunge facing the back
Roll up for 8 counts
Repeat moving clockwise the repeat moving anti clockwise
roll back up for 8 counts

What i need to remember...
-Make sure that you roll down all your vertebras
-Feet need to be in the perfect parallel with wrists width a part
-Knees over your toes
-Core held throughout the whole piece
-Make sure your head and neck is relaxed when rolling down
-Weighted feeling when rolling down
- Make sure heels are down in the lunging positions, getting the maximum stretch along the back of your legs
-Make sure that the knee is turned out to its maximum
-Use glute muscles to control turnout
- Push the back ankle down in a lunge
-Make sure you contract from the core
-Arms need to be rounded when pulsing in the exercise
-Make sure that feet stay in the same place when transferring weight
-Back should be in a straight line when lunging not arching back
-Head is the last thing to come up in a roll down
-Weight evenly distributed in parallel
- Pelvis needs to be straight and seat muscles need to he held throughout

# data[].attributes.body
Start on back with knees up facing the ceiling
Push leg straight on floor x4
Slowly drag legs straight into first with turnout
Retiere leg and push over the opposite leg turning the body, slowly in a full circle, back to starting positions
Repeat with other leg
X 4 leg swings
push pelvis and hips up making adjustments to body turning to the left 90 degree
Repeats for the other 3 sides.
After the last one swing legs around sitting with legs infant of me
Contract bring arms over legs x 3
x4 relax and push body over legs
Repeat the whole sequence from the weight shifts

What i need to remember...
-Making sure that legs are in parallel
-Knees constantly need to be over toes no wider and smaller
-Use the floor when pushing foot through
-Quick using the back of the leg throwing leg heigh stretch the backs of the leg
-Making sure that seat muscles are engaged when turning both legs out
-peel from the foot when retiring leg up the leg
-Twist upper body first then slowly compensate for the lower body to move with it
-Make sure that you are able to get hips level and thrust hips equally
-Make clear steps when travelling the thrust
-Make sure that shoulders are kept pushed down into floor when performing a weight shift
-Make sure that the  your spine is pushed down into the floor
-Dont arch back on the floor
-Hands flat on floor
-Use gluten when turning out
-Make sure that the exercise is fluent and never stops.
-Hold core for ultimate control.
-Pointe feet throughout the whole of the exercise
-Make sure that use your head to travel in the correct direction.

# data[].attributes.body
Start facing the opposite way of travel sat on bum with knees up
Start with a backwards roll going over my right hand shoulder
Finishing on knees
Roll down the spine
Swimming through onto front, leaving seat muscles the last to come down
Hands pushing upper body up in parallel
Turn head to the right then left
Sit back on feet getting a stretch along the back releasing tension
Swim through again
Leave weight in upper body lifting legs one straight and one bent getting an arch in the back
Swinging legs around to seating position
Twist back to starting position
Repeating this traveling across the room

What i need to remember...
-At the start feet need to be i parallel and in front of my hips
-Make sure all the weight is on the right shoulder when rolling backwards
-Land roll with knees locked together and heels placed touching
-Use each vertebra to roll down
-Dont rush the roll down there is plenty of time to warm the back up
-Make sure my body is skimming floor when rolling through
-Hands need to be under shoulders when pulling up into a stretch
-Make sure you only twist the neck not the whole body getting the wring alignment
-Make sure chest is on floor when lifting back legs to get the ultimate stretch
-When swinging legs around make sure there is a re bound
-Hold core throughout getting the control i need and avoid any injuries
-Feet need to be pointed throughout the whole exercise.
-Roll on back evenly and don't favour one side or i won't be rolling in a straight line
-Roll melting into the floor, getting maximum stretch.

# data[].attributes.headline
Exercise 2- Downward dog/weight shifts sequence 

# data[].attributes.subject
Exercise 2- Downward dog/weight shifts sequence 

# data[].attributes.body
Start on knees facing side of room
Post arm through and roll onto knees
Push up into a downward dog
plie circling knees x2 right and x2 to the left
Step through getting the foot to going your right hand pushing off turning you to the opposite side
Repeat circular motion with knees on the left side
Step through with left foot turning them in a clockwise motion
Roll over toes and post arm through to start again
Repeat travelling along the room

What i need to remember...
-Make sure that you start with your heels and knees touching before moving
-Roll down spine when posting arm across the body
-Melt into the floor warming the whole body up
-Feet need to be parallel when in a downward dog
-Feet need to be under the hips in a downward dog
-heels need to be pushed down getting the maximum stretch in a downward dog
-Aim to get both heels down
-Circle knees keeping the same distance between them
-Get knees as low as possible, working and warming up the back of the legs
-Make sure that you get the full lunge with the feet in parallel when turning clockwise.
-Hips need to be pushed down in the legs
-knees need to face correct way and not buckle them

# data[].attributes.body
Start kneeling on floor facing the side of the room
Lean forward posting leading arm under the opposite arm and roll onto making making a full circle around back on my knees
Lean in opposite direction to travel and weight shift onto knees starting again
Repeat across the room

What i need to remember...
- Make sure that knees are firmly pressed together when kneeling
-Roll down using the spine
-Make sure that you slide arm through with control lowering upper body
-Make sure that neck is relaxed and holding no tension
-Make sure you get a pulling sensation before the weight shift
-Hold core whilst performing a weight shift controlling landing
-Heels need to be together when kneeling
-Relax body into floor when rolling
-Make sure arms hold you correctly when doing a weight shift
-Pelvis needs to be in neutral throughout the whole sequence
-Dont rush through music and allow the whole body to warm up.

# data[].attributes.body
This is my last technique assessment for my qualification.

# data[].attributes.body
Technique
Throughout the assessment, i feel like i have really shown a different style of contemporary compared to my last assessment. I have learnt a different style of contemporary dance and i feel like i have like i have become more versatile in the style. I believe that i have learnt this well in the past 5 weeks. Although, i do feel like i have made improvements throughout the weeks in terms of letting go and loosing up my upper body. I am disapoinnted as i feel like in the assessment i could of used my upper body a lot more, like i have been doing in previous weeks. The tension was held slightly in my shoulders i think this was nerves as they did start to relax during the assessment. I am disappointed with this, as i have been working and concentrating on this factor the most. During the assessment, i feel like i really pushed myself in terms of strength and stamina, the pace was fast moving throughout. I kept up with the pace and i didn't feel like this had an negative affect on my performance at all. My technique also wasn't effected by the pace, which shows that i have a good fitness level as these exercises were very tough in terms of cardio and flexibility. Something else i feel like i could of improved on was my parallel positions especially in exercises 1, 2 and 3. My position drifted out in an open parallel and sometimes did turnout. This is something i didn't really have an issue with during the class technique lessons. To improve this for my next contemporoary assessment i will practice and watch myself in the mirrors, i could also record my feet during technique class to see which positions i am more likely to widen my stance. I feel like i have really worked on my flexibility and this really did show in my assessment, my legs were strong enough to be held over 90 degrees.

Overall, i am really pleased with my performance during the assessment and was worth the hard work that i have been putting in over the past 5 weeks.

# data[].attributes.body
Technique
What i need to improve on...
Throughout this week, i used the incorrect technique when performing a forwards roll from a standing develope position. This resulted in a few sloppy rolls. I needed to get my shoulder lower and feel more compact when lowering for the role. I needed to roll over the right shoulder, and not role over on my neck. This was causing pain and discomfort and can be dangerous with all the pressure being taken on my neck or dropped onto my back. I need to practice this throughout the week and gain the correct technique as this is classed as incorrect technique.This also means that it effected my fluidity and flow to the exercises. By next week i will be able to do this without having discomfort, as this will then give me the correct power to stand from the forwards roll.

Positives...
In todays lesson, i feel like i was able to perform with confidence knowing the exercises and all the little details that make up the exercises. I feel like they were performed with a lot more fluidity and technique. The little details that i have been working on throughout the past week made a massive difference and was worth the hard work that i have been putting in throughout the week. I now feel confident for the assessment next week, i will be practicing this week so i am confident with the exercises.

Show Work...
Todays lesson was all based on finishing the piece and making sure that Laura was happy with all of the sections put together. This session was very intense and was very full on which i really enjoyed we got finally got what Laura envisioned. We had a final task that we had to complete with a partner for the ending of the piece. The task was to create 16 counts of material filled with movements that are in the piece this could be minimal movements or physical movements. Me and my partner agreed that we were going to show our movements in a physical motion. I really enjoyed doing this as it felt like a good round up to finish the piece. Laura then developed all the motifs, staging them adding in the final last movements in unison for a powerful ending. Because we only got to learn this piece for 4/5 weeks we still need time to polish and fine tune unison sections.

# data[].attributes.body
Technique
What i need to improve...
During this week, i missed some of the finer details within the exercises. My movement memory could of been a lot better in terms of remembering the transition steps. To improve this i need to go over the exercises, in fine detail step by step. This just makes the exercises look more fluent and professional, instead of having to stop and start. I will spend the week going through the exercises knit picking each section to get all of the movements into the exercises. I believe that because some exercises are fast i feel like i am rushing the movements not getting the maximum stretch or movements that i should be doing.Which then means that the exercises are incorrect and im not getting the benefits from them as i should be.

Positives...
In todays lesson, i feel like i really used my upper body more, starting to understand the feeling that i should be getting when performing the exercises, i believe this could of been one of the reasons i forgot some movements this put me off as i was using my body in a way that i wasn't used to. This felt really good and i felt like i was able to express myself a lot more and not feel so constrained and controlled. Also, i was able to use my upper body to its maximum but still have the core control that is needed for the exercises. I just need to remember to drop my shoulders a little bit more in static positions, and close my ribs when needed.

Show Work...
In todays lesson, we ran through the piece that was set from the previous week and Laura made changes to it to make it suite her vision more, this was more focused on our own choreography. The starting section is now static with half of us on stage and the other half off stage. The starting position is very pedestrian and neutral. This wasn't as easy as it looked as we needed to relax our bodies 100% with no tension just standing there in a relaxed comfortable position. Which then juxtaposed with the girls that run and fall on stage as this is dramatic and eventful. For me this shows the emotional side of the word "SPIRAL" as we are portraying two completely different emotions then we all come into the same level for the unison section.

# data[].attributes.body
Technique
What i need to improve...
Throughout the lesson this week i was able to get some feedback on what i needed to improve on. I need to start using my back more when performing movements, now that i have relaxed my upper body more. There is still tension there but this will go once i start using my back more. Arm movements needs to come from my back not just my arms. This will then break down the tension and allow me to dance fully in the contemporary style that was set. I need to dance less class room style and perform more from the heart. This will then help me to loosen up and get the best stretch a possible doing the exercises. But i still need to keep in mind my core as this will help me control the movements.

Positives...
In todays lesson, i feel like i was able to perform with good flexibility . The exercises that were set, did allow us to push ourselves with our flexibility. This links with core strength that i feel i have been achieving well over the past few weeks. The angles that i was able to get my leg at were 90 degrees and over. Also when performing lunges on the floor i didn't feel restricted or unable to get as low as possible. Also, the exercises that were taught allowed us to have moments where we could have a good stretch and use the muscles that are needed.

Show Work...
In todays lesson, we were able to teach each other the motifs that we created in the previous week. This was interesting to see how the groups portrayed there words through movement. Along side this Laura made a start to the piece and explained her intentions that she feels we can portray throughout her choreography. The feedback we got from the start of this piece was to be less fixed and more natural. Something that as a group we need to focus on was dropping our chin and shoulders as we automatically all held tension in our upper body. Which then would have a knock on effect on how we wouldn't be able to shoe spirals through motifs if out boys were holding tension and stiff. We have created to separate sections which Laura is planning on putting together during the next rehearsal. Already from the 2nd week you can see the choreography fall into place and can easily see the intention behind it.

# data[].attributes.body
Technique
What i need to improve...
During this week, i really need to focus on relaxing my head and shoulders when performing the exercises. I need to relax my upper body more or i won't be able to get the full maximum stretch as i would if my upper body was relaxed. This also doesn't look good aesthetically pleasing for the style the that the choreographer wanted. To do this i need to that the energy that is in my neck and put it into my core, this allows my upper body to be more free and still get the control that i need from my core. A lot of the exercises Laura wanted us to move with our breathe. We needed to move with the music, but i wasn't able to do this when i am holding that much tension in the upper body, it looked stiff and uncomfortable. This is something that i will be practicing during my free time this week, so i won't be faced with the same issue in the following class.

Positives...
In todays lesson, i feel like i did really well in terms of core control. A lot of the exercises were a good test of the core and allowed me to push myself to the maximum. For example, standing on one leg with the leg lifted in develope over 90 degrees. This takes a lot of control and the correct technique to hold this for a period of time. I was able to hold the position without wobbling, once i got my balance i was able to move my arms but still contain the control. For exercise 2, i was also able to show my control by showing high legs in the grande battements, not wobbling or showing struggle. Having good balance across the foot, the weight needs to be equal across all the foot not favouring one side or this will knock you off balance and give you the incorrect alignments.

Show work...
This week were able to sit down and talk about the idea and what the stimulus was. For this contemporary piece the main focus was portraying to the audience what we thought and what represents the word "Spiral". As a group we sat and wrote lots of notes and discussed what the word spiral meant to us as young woman. These are imagines below are from the notes that i took during the discussion. It was interesting to link all of the ideas together into choreography. We needed to be able to capture emotional layers, physical layers and mental layers through movement.
The words that we took note of was...
-Twist
-Circular Movements
-Falling Movements
-Turns
-Rotation
-Circle
-Relationships
-Rolling
-Corckscrew
-Craziness
-Period
-Repetition with change
-Holding space
-Confusion
-Knock on effect.

In groups of 3 we then had to pick 3 words from the list to portray through a motif. The three words that we choose was Relationships, period and rotation. These motifs will then be used to be developed into something that will be added in the piece 'Spiral". As a class we then performed the three different groups and the motifs that we have all created. We there then able to get feedback and what we could improve on and what the enjoyed watching. Laura then slowly adapted it to the style and intention that she had created an image of. She changed ours to become more wild and let loose, attacking the movement with different dynamics focusing on speed on contact work.

# data[].attributes.body
1-
4 bounces with feet flat on floor
4 small jumps in parallel
4 Drag runs
Repeat but turn in small jumps

2-
Bull changing of weight with legs changing in front of body travelling across the room, take ams up and over the body

3-
Par de sha across the room leaning over front leg, with arms in 4th position

What i need to remember...

1-
-Make sure that knees are over toes when jumping or bouncing the legs
-Make sure that legs are straight in drag runs
-Make sure that the jumps are facing 4 clear directions
-Arms need to be relaxed and move with the bouncing motion
-Make sure that feet are pointed and not sickled when leaving the floor
-Work through the foot when bouncing to have a light landing
-Hold core for maximum control
-Make sure that shoulders are dropped down into shoulder blades and aren't holding tension in the back or neck
-Heels need to be firmly placed on floor when bouncing to get maximum stretch down the back of the legs
-Having a feeling of being pushed behind in drag runs to travel to the maximum

2-
-Make sure that legs are pointed and not sickled when elevating
-Make sure that legs are straight in the air
-Back needs to be inclined in the air
-Arms need to be thrown up and over the body
-Shoulders need to be firmly pushed down in the back
-Plie on the landing
-Use the plie to elevate the jump
-Control the landing by using the core
-Make sure you work through the feet on the landing avoiding a loud landing
-Travel the runs between the elevations
-Relax head and neck holding no tension

3-
-Make sure that the upper body is leaning over the front leg
-Both feet need to be pointed and not sickled when they leave the floor
-Make sure that both arms are rounded and held without elevated
-Make sure that both legs r turned out from the hip
-control landing by using core muscles
-Make sure that you work through the feet to alway a soft landing
-Make sure that you stay at a low level and dont change level through out the travel across the room
-Make sure you dont straighten legs
-Heel need to land
-Head needs to be looking down in the direction of travel
- Dont hold tension in neck

# data[].attributes.body
Starting in corner, jump in first, into second, bring the foot in retiree and grade jete. Repeat this corner to corner.
Repeat on opposite side.

What i need to remember...
-Make sure that pelvis is not sticking out when jumping into a plie position in first and second.
-Dont allow the feet to roll in hold the glute muscles
- Make sure that core is held
-Land the jumps working through the feet, making sure that the landing is light and controlled.
- The legs need to arrive at the same time in the plie
-Make sure that legs are turned out in the leap.
-Dont land the leap with rolled in feet
-Make sure that the elevation is from the plie
-Dont sickle feet
-Land in a plie
-You need a feeling of leaping up and over something
-Travel push beyond the leap
-Dont sit in plie, keep weight on toes to move quick
-Arms need to point to travelling direction

# data[].attributes.headline
Exercise 3- Moving in and out of the floor

# data[].attributes.subject
Exercise 3- Moving in and out of the floor

# data[].attributes.body
Start in Parellel position and twist arm in front of body, spiral body to the floor, Roll around to face the opposite side transferring from back, sit up to a side lunge transfer weight through a grande plie in second into lunge on opposite side, take leg around the back, to transfer over the foot taking arms up and over, transfer into side lunge through grande second plie into lunge on second side, slowly lift the leg in second with the upper body contracted over supporting leg, drop shoulder and lower body into a forwards roll, stand up to retire leg in a relaxed position leaning shoulder back transferring into a second position plie, into a attitude transfer of weight. To repeat on opposite side.

What i need to remember...
-Make sure that shoulders are raised when twisting the upper body, they need to be pushed down into shoulder blades
-Relax head into spiral making sure there is no tension in the upper body.
-When reaching the floor the body needs to be contracted keeping in a small ball, making sure that the body is nice and compacted.
-Relax back into the floor, feeling a melting sensation
-When lunging both legs need to be turned out and make sure that the need aren't locked turning in.
-The pelvis needs to be tucked under body and not sticking out when lunging as this is the incorrect alignment
-Make sure that leg is turned out when swinging to the back.
-Foot needs to be flat on the floor and not flexed
-Transitions need to be smooth and look easy
- When lunging the knee needs to be over the toe
-Make sure that head and shoulders are tucked under when preparing to forwards roll.
-Use core and impetus to stand from roll without using hands to help
- Pelvis needs to be tucked under when performing a grande plie
-Both feet need to be turned out in plie.
-Make sure the leg that is supported is turned out and straight
-Lift from hamstring not the top of the thigh
-contract from core not shoulders
-Make sure that you dont sit in the lunges and allow them to slow into the next movement.
-Allow the body to feel relaxed and move with the music and movement.

# data[].attributes.headline
Exercise 2- Tendu and Grande Battements 

# data[].attributes.subject
Exercise 2- Tendu and Grande Battements 

# data[].attributes.body
Start in parellel with arms down the side of my body, Tendu on the floor, tendu taking the leg to 45 degrees, tendu to 90 degrees swishing through parallel throwing leg into arabesque taking arms in front of body, step behind transferring weight onto other le, taking the leg into a 90 degree lift, repeat this on the opposite side, Repeat in first position with right and left leg, when performing this exercise in first the leg grade battements to the side when transferring of weight, into a deep second position rolling shoulder back with and leg in a retiree position, flowing into a deep second position ronde de jambe the leg in a semi circle reaching forward with the back arm.

What i need to remember...
-Make sure that feet are always
-Use the floor to push legs higher
-Use metatarsals through the foot
-Make sure there are no sickled feet. The feet need to return in either parallel or first position
-Arms need to be soft holding no tension
- The leg needs be held with the back the leg not thigh, or cramping will happen
-I need to make sure that you can see a clear difference between the floor, 45 degrees and 90 degrees
- Dont rush the music, make sure there is suspension when lowering leg, as this also shows control.
-Shoulders need to be pushed down in back holding no tension
- Return pelvis back to neutral when throwing the legs to the back, bring back and pelvis back together
- Make sure that arms and hands hold no tension as they glide through the air
-Leg in the arabesque needs to be straight
- When leg is in arabesque head needs to be relaxed and not jolted backwards
-There needs to be fluidity, as this will show control and technique
-plie in second needs to be deep and pelvis under hips
- Weight needs to be evenly over the 2 legs when replacing working leg
-Return to standing position in-between each tendu
- Weight need to be distributed evenly throughout the foot, no rolling or favouring one part of the foot.
-Hold core to balance, to stop wobbling.
- You need a reaching motion when performing a ronde je jambe, having the feeling of stretching both ways

# data[].attributes.headline
Exercise 1- Roll down into downward dog 

# data[].attributes.subject
Exercise 1- Roll down into downward dog 

# data[].attributes.body
Start in parellel, roll down 8,bend knees into crouch, walk out into plank, push back into downward dog, tuck toes underneath into a back stretch, walk hands back into a crotch position, release right arm up and out stretching upper body, return into crotch, please the left arm, roll up for 8, plie in parallel taking right arm first to second position, repeat with left arm, release and take arms into 5th position , slowly lower into a grande plie, release into a flat back, lower right arm to the floor taking the left arm inline with right over the head, repeat with other arm, catch into plie arms in 5th position, return into standing position, repeat the arm section in 1st position, then in 2nd position, roll down for 8, into a plank, push into down ward dog, release right leg, making circular movements, following the foot with your head, push the leg through making a circular action in front of the body, allow leg to come through pushing the pelvis up and extending the arm getting maximum stretch, back to crouch and roll up for 8, repeat this with left leg , finish to roll up for 8 counts in parallel.

What i need to remember...
- Make sure that feet always return back to parellel
-Dont rush rolling down, use each vertebrae to lower the upper body
-Relax head in roll down
-i nees to relax head in downward dog having no tension in the neck, allowing the maximum stretch
-I need to make sure feet are in parallel position when executing a downward dog
-Make sure plank position is performed correctly, gaining the benefits, seat muscles need to be in line with the body
-Belly button needs to have the feeling of being sucked into spine
-Make sure that feet are pressed together when stretching back on the floor
-Make sure that the arm is weighted when stretching upper body, not worrying about alignment, more about getting the maximum stretch
-Dont sit in the plies making sure that core is held to get the maximum balance
-Dont rest weight not heals
-Arms need to be in line with body when performing a flat back
-Dont arch back
-A line needs to be from top of the head to the bottom of the spine.
-Head needs to relaxed holding no tension when following foot around the back
-Make sure that the pelvis is pushing up and not sitting in the plie or the alignment will be incorrect.
-When in 1st position of the arms, the hand needs to be inline with your belly button
-In second position with the arms they need to have a slight curve at the elbow, imagining they are resting on a table
-Open up hip when following the foot with head
-Use the back to get maximum rotation
-Make sure you use counts to hold the stretches to get the maximum stretch

# data[].attributes.body
Start in corner, facing the back, x4 steps back. take arm out reaching side to side transferring weight, turn in a clockwise circle and rebound hands on shoulder, take leg in crossed parallel 4th with arms thrown above head, keeping turn the movement into a turning attitude, then rebound and throw supporting leg behind other swinging arms across upper body, x4 step gallop, circling arm over head, slide in second travelling into corner following your hand, tourette the leg taking arm over, finish with end little cartwheel, run to other corner.
Repeat on other side.

What i need to remember...
- Relax upper body
-Make sure the plie in second is deep
-Walks need to take large steps pushing myself
-Reach out to the sides with stretch down the sides of my upper body
-Make sure that the rebound takes you into the next step
-Travel step change of weight
-Use plie to get height
-Work through the feet
-Use back to reach side to side
-Flip hips in tourette quick
-Make sure hand travel you in handstand
-Both legs need to be straight in the handstand
-Make sure there no tension in the neck
-shoulders need to be pushed down
-Fluidity throughout
-Dont sickle foot in attitude turn
-Make sure the movements are facing clear direction
-Use all of the studio space throughout the travelling sections

# data[].attributes.body
For this contemporary technique assessment we were taught by a contemporary practitioner Laura Vanhulle. During the next 5 weeks, we will be learning technique exercises and learn a contemporary piece for HNC/HND showcase in the 3 hour sessions we have. Lauras technique is based on using the whole of the space not just static movement. The main aim of this technique session was to focus on extending the limbs away from the spine, constantly extending away from the core. The exercises are greatly influenced by the Horton Technique.

# data[].attributes.body
Start in corner, step hop x3 facing one direction, step hop x3 facing opposite direction, step hold to prepare for a gallop and grande jete, into a pike jump, straight into an attitude jump.

What i need to remember...
-Point feet when elevating
-Push leading hip forward when hopping
-Use arm to help elevate
-Time arm and leg together to arrive at the same time
-Make sure you breathe throughout the exercise
-Stamina needs to be held throughout the whole thing
-Straight leg when jumping then land in a plie to help elevate into next jump
-Knee needs to be over toes
-No rolling feet when landing
-Make sure that legs are behind in grand jete and there is a clear of change in direction
-Use Plie to get a higher elevated jump
- Make sure that both legs are straight and pointed in pike jump
-Arch back in attitude jump tilting upper body up.
- Land in plie tracking knees over toes

# data[].attributes.body
In my opinion, i feel like as a group we portrayed the piece in a professional manner with good technique and performance. As a group, we worked on this during independent rehearsals as it was a challenging piece. The piece was heavily based on our own choreography and then was changed with different choreographic devices. As a group we were faced with an issue, as one of our dancers couldn't make any of the three shows. This was something as a group we had to re block and sort out different sections where we needed to fill, this was sorted within 20 minutes. The final performance wasn't effected by this situation and was rebooked in a way that you couldn't tell a dancer was absent. This was a reflection on our teamwork and dedication towards the piece. Something that i feel needed work on was the spacing, as we weren't able to perform certain movements fully due to being squashed in the group. Next time, i would make sure that we rehearse more in the black space and then space it in the actual space. I would probably also be more aware of the space when rehearsing in the studio, not using as much space as we have been doing. Also, i feel like we need to be able to set the lights earlier than tech rehearsals as this did change the spacings slightly when performing duets together. In terms of costumes, they were very effective and looked great on stage. The black costume looked classic on stage and suited the contemporary piece, and the movement. Although, the black costumes didn't stand out from the back, the shapes we were making within the piece were a little bit hidden with the black drop being black. In my opinion, a lighter coloured leotard would of portrayed the different shapes a lot better with the black back drop. The images taken from the piece is something that backs this opinion up, as you cant see the full outline of our bodies. The lighting in the piece really worked with separating the different motif styles. For example, the different spot light highlighted the different devices that were used. The section where all dancers were in a spot light in the middle looked really effective having no distraction from any other choreography. Which showed a massive contrast compared to the other sections in the piece where the stage is very busy and a lot is going on. I feel as though we all rushed the choreograph on Thursday night, which then set us out for lighting so this didn't look as effective as it should of looked. We all agreed that we were out of time and this was something that we needed to work on as a group for the next performance. We then took the time out and made sure that this issue was sorted and we were confident with the timing for the next show. Something else that i feel could of looked better, was the over all projection. I feel like as a group we needed to lift our heads and project more the the audience, when looking back at the video clip the eye line on me and my peers was low and didn't really get the audience involved. Because the style of the dance was very much like contemporary technique class work we went into classroom mode and was thinking to much about high legs and just the technique of the movements overall. We needed to raise our eyeliner to the audience and use then to create tension. In this case i feel like we needed more of a connection with the audience. There were moments were we weren't able to do this, but then the the moments we were able to we need to make the most of it and really take in the audience. Also, i feel like this would of created more of a atmosphere and made the audience part of the piece. I felt like the energy on stage was amazing, we were all able to get a buzz from each other and feel each others movements on stage. Which then links with the stamina of the group, it was really positive we all gave the piece our full energy start to finish. In terms of fitness, we were all able to get from start to finish of this intense 8 minute piece of the choreography. We used certain movements to get ourselves and use breathe to get the best from the movements. We were all able to take breathe at the same time which again links with feeling each others movements. Fluidity, was something that we struggled with during the rehearsal period. Because we learnt all of this choreography from peers in different sections at different time, we had to work extra hard to link these sections so the audience doesn't have to see stop and start in the piece. The choreography should look like a never ending performance and they shouldn't need to see the different sections. After watching the final performances, as a group were able to connect the different motifs well to the point where the piece looks whole and one.

Overall, i feel like this piece looked extremely mature and professional on stage and was a performance that we can be proud of. Although, saying this we now know what we need to improve on and work on for the next contemporary performance piece.

# data[].attributes.body
Throughout this week we managed to get plenty of time to rehearse on stage and set the formation in the space. This did change a few sections as we had didn't have as much room to travel, this wasn't a massive issue we just changed it to slower walks and used the whole of the stage. This was easily fixed and didn't change the choreography, just the speed. In my opinion, i feel like we did rush the whole piece when we go onto stage. This was something that as a group we agreed on and made sure that we changed this for the dress rehearsal. Personally, i thought that the lighting was perfect for this piece. The lighting that was used added extra pressure for us to get to the correct positions in the correct time. In our spare time during show week we went over and over the piece to get the best timing. When it came to dress rehearsal i believe that we could of done a lot better and we lacked energy. From this video clip we knew we had to up our game to get the effect that we wanted to portray to the audience. But overall, we were disappointed with ourselves as we know we could of performed better as group. We needed to work better as a team and really feel each on stage and work together instead of many solo performances. Technically, i feel like we performed it to the best ability and made sure that we kept the contemporary technique.

# data[].attributes.body
Week Severn-
This week is the first week where we start the contemporary dance for our performance in Dance works. We spent most of our lesson being briefed trying different exercises and styles to fit our teachers idea/image she has created for the piece to look like. Our task, was to create a motif that spells out contemporary with our bodies. This was something that was out of our comfort zone and challenged us choreographically. we had to make the movements as angular as possible. Once we had done this we performed this to our partners and got feedback from them to help make it more aesthetically pleasing. The feedback i received from my partner was to make the movements sharper and more precise. Which i agree with, when looking back at the recording i rush the motif not getting the image what i had imagined when creating. Slowing the motif down will also help give me the maximum stretch and will give me longer extensions.

Week Eight-
This week we started off our rehearsal with recapping our motifs what we created in the previous week. A task was to perform these to peers and getting there feedback. We were then given another task to develop the motif on the floor/low level. We had to incorporate the floor as much as possible. I really struggled with this and the task took me a long time to get finished. I believe that i was taking too long and thinking too much of the movements representing the different letters. Eventually, i had a developed motif that i was able to get feedback from my teacher. After changing a few movements this was complete and i was personally ready for the next task. At this point in the lesson, me and my peers had the original motif and a developed motif using the floor. This was enough material for our choreographer to work with. We were set and started to learn the next section, first she set our formation for the beginning of the piece. We numbered our motifs, the numbers were then put in an order on the board for us to perform in that particular order. At the end of this lesson we had around two minutes of choreography.

Week Nine-
This week we started with recapping the piece from the previous week. Our movement memory was very good and we manages to go through it start to finish without any issues. This is something that we have worked on during the week and spent time perfecting it before adding anymore choreography. A task that was given to the group was that we need to develop our origninal motif and use elevation to add a dynamic. I found this task a lot more easier than developing the motif on the floor. This was done a lot quicker and i was more pleased with the outcome compared to the other developed motif. We then changed the layout of motifs on the whiteboard. Having the order on the white board helps us learn the order whilst rehearsing, this will then add to our movement memory. After adding these developed motifs, the choreographer added some choreography that linked sections together. From this lesson we had around four minutes of choreography. I personally feel like this rehearsal was extremely productive and we learnt a lot of new choreography.

Week Ten-
This week we got put into partners and created a motif that included contact work. This was a task that was enjoyable to create and pushed us as a group. The outcome from this was positive, we all performed the duets to our peers and got feedback. The duets then got put into the choreography, in an order that our choreographer played around with to suite her image. More choreography was then created on the group. The task was to spell "Contemporary" using our heads. Watching back the videos i feel like this piece of choreography was extremely effective and different to watch. I am looking forward to seeing this section with lights on stage. The piece was finished in this session and just needed to be polished and make small adjustments that will make the fluidity of the piece look more professional.

Week 11-
This week we have polished the piece and made it slick and added fine details. We just went through the piece as many times as it needed to get it perfect. We also ran the piece with the costume, which we all thought looked effective and suited the piece.

# data[].attributes.body
This week we had our final assessment for the technique exercises that we have been learning for the past five weeks. This is something that will show the hard work that i have been putting into the exercises. Something that i feel like i need to work on is my parallel positions. This is something that i have been working on but in an assessment atmosphere i forget and my attention was on other parts of the contemporary technique. I need to get into the habit of adjusting my feet into a smaller stance. This is something that i can also focus on during the performance piece in Dance Works. When learning the next contemporary exercises i will make sure that i keep checking my parallel in the mirror making adjusts when needed.
Throughout the past weeks i have been working hard on getting the correct technique for contractions. Contractions is something that i have been struggling with and I've been working on them all term. I feel like i have really improved performing these and are now technically correct. Looking at the rehearsal videos the difference between the first and last video shows a clear difference of improvement and strength.I am now able to get the correct benefits from the contraction, instead of just doing a contracted movement. I need to improve on my musicality throughout the lesson, i feel like i rushed the assessment and didn't listen to the music. This is something that i am annoyed about as this was a correction that i was given a few weeks back in a technique lesson. For the next technique assessment i need to slow down, not rushing movements getting the full benefit, this could be elevation or stretch. For some exercises, there are lyrics to the song so i could link some movements to certain words in the song.

Overall, i was really pleased with my performance in this technique assessment,

# data[].attributes.body
This week we performed a mock assessment. From this assessment i should feel confident and be able to sort out sections that i feel needs work. This will be easy to rectify my issues as this has been recorded, so i will be able to see them clearly. And i will be able to use them whilst rehearsing before my assessment next week.

What i need to improve on...
When watching the clips back, i feel like i need to work on my musicality. I need to make sure that i listen to the music and not rush the movement. Rushing the movement means that i am not getting the maximum stretch that i should be getting. Throughout the week i will be practicing with the correct music and slow the exercise down feeling the music not going through it. i also need to improve on relaxing my neck. You can see clearly how much tension i am putting into my neck and shoulders throughout the exercises. I need to make sure that i relax and direct that tension into my core. This will help the exercises to look more relaxed and controlled.

Positive...
From the video clips i believe that my foot work is using all the correct muscles. I am able to work through all the correct muscles and bones to push my feet and legs to the extreme when performing a simple tendu. My hips were straight and weren't tilting, favouring one side. This is showing that i am pulling up and out of my hips, controlling my lower body and feet.

# data[].attributes.body
Due to a back injury i was unable to take part in todays lesson. i was able to watch my peers and write notes and record them .

The main thing that stood out to me was there movement memory. The individual independent rehearsal really stood out and made the girls look really professional and that allows the girls to relax into the movement getting the maximum stretch. I picked up on the fact that the girls struggle to keep there feet in the correct parallel. They have a tendency of keeping there feet wide and not wrist width apart, especially in downward dog. A positive that i found within the group was that they all performed there contractions technically correct allowing there whole body to work the right muscles.

# data[].attributes.body
In todays lesson, we finished learning all of the exercises. And started to polish them. This meant that we were able to perform all of the exercises start to finish.

What i need to improve on...
In my opinion, i feel like i need to really work on my movement memory. I need to spend more time on my own going through each exercise a few times to really get the technique and exercise correct. I could break down the exercises making sure i get the correct technique. By next week i will be sharper and the exercises will be cleaner, ill personally be more confident with them exercises. This is something that i will be doing until the assessment to get the perfect technique and the best grade as possible. I will be able to see the difference as i record each week and ill be able to look back through the videos and pick of sections i need to improve on.

Positives...
A positive that came from this week is that i was able to relax into the movements and allow my body to not hold tension where its not needed. I believe this is because i am becoming confident with the exercises and allowing my body to move in the space more. I think that i am still holding the correct technique whilst doing this. I am still holding my core, which allows me to push my flexibility.

# data[].attributes.body
In todays lesson, we learnt a few more exercises and learnt more technique from the first lot of exercises we learnt. We became more confident and aware of the exercises.

What i need to improve on...
In my opinion, i need to improve on musicality. Throughout the exercises, i feel and got feed back that i was rushing through the exercises. I need to slow down and make sure i use all the music and get the maximum stretch. By doing this the whole of my body will be warm stretched and ready to push myself. Rushing exercises will only limit myself and not allow me to get the benefits the exercise is designed to give. Relaxing into the movements is something else that i need to work on. By relaxing into the movements will allow my body to use muscles that i dont necessarily use in Ballet and jazz.

Positives...
From last lesson something i needed to improve on was contractions. After a week of practicing contractions i feel like i have got to grips with the movement and now understand the technique and what i need to feel when performing a contraction. I felt more of a benefit this week getting the maximum stretch from it. Something else i feel like i did well in this weeks exercises is core control. Exercise 6 (Plie and tilt) includes a movement where you roll to the floor and stand up without using the hands. this means that there has to be a lot of core strength to bring you to standing position. I feel like this was a strength in mine and i performed this with confidence. Having a strong core can help to prevent injuries and falling over. Core helps you to feel grounded and safe in contemporary dance.

# data[].attributes.body
In todays lesson, we learnt the first five exercises. And were briefed on the styles that will be included within the technique assessment. I focused on my movement memory making sure that i picked the exercises up quickly, allowing myself to have more time to polish and gain the correct technique.

What i need to improve on...
In my opinion, i need to gain the correct technique for contractions. I was able to be exampled and demonstrated by my tutor to gain knowledge and get the correct benefits from a contraction. The contraction needs to come from the core not shoulders and pelvis. This is something that needs to be fixed and changed, i felt the difference once she altered my body. I need to re train myself with the correct technique. Another point that i need to work on is relaxing my head on the starfish rolls. The whole point of this exercise is to relax into the floor and allow my head to melt into the floor. I feel like this will come with time and when its in my movement memory, i will be able to relax into the movement.

Positives...
A positive that came from this lessons was that i performed the second exercise (knee roles) with strong technique. The exercise needs to be performed with suspension and i feel like i did this throughout. To perform with suspension you need to perform the movements reaching and stretching your body to the maximum. The feeling of pulling from every angle is something that helps to build the suspension and then the final reach allows the body to realise and let go of the tension. Suspension, allows the body to stretch your muscles and get the best warm up as possible. This is why it is one of the first exercises and allows the body to warm up to its maximum.

# data[].attributes.body
Start in second position with body weighted down over legs, transfer side by side swinging the body, step through to 4th position and contract taking arm opposite belly button, tilt and arch upper back pushing arm down, drop and roll to floor and return to parallel bouncing in knees x4 swinging arms relaxing body, bull change to corner, step hop pushing hip forward circling arm above, step turn to push and contract body pushing arm in front, return to starting position to change of weight travelling to the left, come up and twist hips to a parallel 4th position with body leaning over legs with straight back flicking arms in front above head, drop and roll to floor, stand push hip forward and bull change slowly raising head forward step turn and gesture pushing arms down to the corner of my box.

What i need to remember...
-Make sure that Legs are turned out in second position and hold this whilst swinging side to side
-Relax body with a weighted feeling getting the maximum stretch
-Head needs to be dropped and relax when swaying
-contract needs to come from the core and not upper body
-scopping feeling needs to happen to the stomach when contracting
-Make sure that my arm is in front of my belly button when contracting
-Use upper back to high release dont hold tension in neck as this is a risk of strain and can look awkward
-Drop to the floor with control using core muscles landing lightly melting into the floor
-Use core to bring yourself up with ease
-Loose knee bounces relaxing ankles staying in parallel
-Push hip forward to get the correct stretch
-Point feet in elevated jumps
-Make sure that weight is pushed forward over toes when contracting with bent legs leaning the upper body back
-Make sure that contractions are controlled
-Travel and use most of the space

# data[].attributes.body
Start in corner, 4x pops of the heel right foot then leg foot, 4x pop of the foot right then left, 4x tends right left alternating,2 tends with lifting the toe/ all of foot
Repeat this section in first, return to parallel, perform 4 parallel walks, Using alternate legs brush through walking x4 steps, repeat brush steps to a rise
Repeat whole exercise, but walking and brush steps are performed travelling backwards to starting position, Once at corner finish in parallel.

What i need to remember...
-Make sure that i am in the correct parallel with feet wrist width apart
- Use metatarsals throughout the whole exercise
-Make sure that you always stand in the middle of the foot and dont role in or outwards
-Make sure that you use your glute muscles to control your turnout
-Dont lift hips when performing a tendu, make sure that hips are level
-Dont sit in the supporting leg pull up on both sides
-Make sure that the upper body is still help and shoulders are pushed down in back
-Head should be focused looking out in the direction of travel
-Dont crunch toes make sure they are fulling extended and not pointed by the knuckle
-Hold core when working on one leg to stop wobbling and show control

# data[].attributes.body
Start in Parallel, Plie with arms to 5th and out to 2nd position
Zig zag foot into 2nd position with the same arms as in plies in parallel, Plie three times into a tilt, suspend the 3rd tilt to sit and roll to the floor, stand to recover hope into arabesque with arm circling over, turn with bent legs and flat fleet with arms in 2nd position, Repeat exercise in 1st positioning end turns onto a rise with arms in 1st position
Repeat on left side.

What i need to remember...
-Knees need to be over toes
-Make sure that feet in wrist width apart getting the perfect parallel
-make sure that heels stay down when performing a plie
-Dont stick seat muscles out when excruciating a demi plie
-Make sure that you push down in heels when going down
-The weight needs to be distributed evenly of the whole foot and not roll when going down
-Make sure that the leg is turned out when tilting
-feet need to be pointed and no sickle
-Make sure that alignment is correct
-Fall to the floor with control using core
-Melt into the floor
-Shoulders need to be pushed down in elevated arabesque

# data[].attributes.body
Shoulder roll, elbow roll, full circular arm roll, into a contraction, moving arm over the top into a high release, the twist torso with arms swing front to back x2, Plie in second to face the front changing direction, then swing arms with a twist to the torso, Repeat on other side.
Repeat with a lunge and take the arm under when contracting instead of over the head.

What i need to remember...
-Make sure that feet are in parallel throughout the exercise
-Hold no tension in arms
-Hold turn out in second position
-Make sure hips are pointing in the correct directions
-Use isolations
-Contract from the core
-Relax head
-Be clear with all movements
-Push shoulder blades into back when possible
-Get maximum rotation in shoulder blades
-Relax head when contracting
-Make sure heel is pushed down in lunge getting maximum stretch on the back of my legs.

# data[].attributes.body
Roll down for 8 counts, roll up for 8
Roll down for 4 counts, roll up for 4
Contract and arch back x2
Roll down for 8 counts, extend right arm with a twist of the body
Circle arm relaxing the whole of the body
Repeat all on left side
then repeat all of this exercise in first position and second position.

What i need to remember...
-Make sure that feet start in parallel
-Knees over toes
-Don't buckle knees
-Shoulders are relaxed and lose in the shoulder joint
-Dont raise your shoulders
-Put all tension in your core to contain balance and control
-Hands and fingers relaxed not pointy or holding tension
-Roll through spine using every vertebra
-Hold turn out in first and second position
-Make sure seat muscles are in use and holding turn out when circling arm
-Relaxed head holding no tension in neck or collar bones

# data[].attributes.body
8 Leg swings into Fatal position, banana stretch(x2 to repeat on other side), Swing legs onto front, downward dog walk feet in stretch, repeat on other side, tilt onto back and extend one leg at a time, carry on into a backwards roll, weight shift x3 fish roll onto front then post arm through to finish on back.

What i need to remember...
-Make sure that shoulders are on the floor when performing a weight shift
-Don't sickle the foot thats swinging
-The head needs to be relaxed in the fatal position getting the full stretch
-Arch back in Banana stretch
-Point feet
-Make sure that feet are in parallel at all points
- knees need to be under hips
-Hold core when resting weight on shoulders
-Lead fish role with head twisting in waist
-Push heels down when walking feet through in downward dog
- Feet hips width apart
- Head relaxed in downward dog
-Listen to beats to music and dont rush
-Hold core for maximum control
-Straight leg when lifting

# data[].attributes.body
Lean with leading hip, Roll back onto knees, roll down the spine, slide through body onto stomach, fish balance fall out of it to leg swing around, roll with leading hip, weight shift to return to original position

What i need to remember...
-Transfer of weight
-Make sure hips are isolated
-Make sure i use a pulling sensation when leaning
-Hold core whilst leaning to gain control
-Roll down each vertebra
-Make sure that arms are fully extended
-Feet always need to be in parallel
-Use all of the music
-Never stop moving
-Use core control to land easier/more graceful
-Fluidity
-Gain the best stretch
-Elevated weight shift
-Pointed feet
-Don't rush the stretches
-Glide across the floor

# data[].attributes.body
Start in a starfish position with back to the floor then slowly transfer onto a front facing starfish.

What i need to remember...
- Dont rush the exercises
- keep feet pointed
- Don't sickle feet
-Keep neck relaxed and dont hold tension
-Make sure that shoulders are pushed down into back
-Make sure that the leading foot gives resistance
- Make sure that my waist is twisting as much as possible
-Arm needs to be the last body part to leave the floor
-Make sure you finish each star position facing the correct way
-Both legs need to stay straight
-legs need to be turned out
-Dont ache your back
-Melt into the floor
-Use your hip to push you over to the opposite side
-Always keep head on floor
-Relax your body
-Make sure that hips are level

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Pearson_BTEC_Level_5 HND Contemporary dance techniques & Performance