In the framework of this project a library of dance phrases for different styles will be built, which will function as a reference database for re-composing material of related styles. Previous re-constructions on related material will be used as a body of reference, to make reasonable choices on how to fill the gaps in the documentation. Demonstrating the efficiency of this approach will be accomplished by examining a limited set of recorded materials.
Materials out of the 19th century collection of the Derra de Moroda Dance Archives will be selected as case studies.
This set will represent three different and significant types of notation used (not only) in 19th century and thus denotes three different challenges for the project. Type 1 is exemplified by the collection of dances provided by A(mint) Freising. Partly, these dances are notated as sequences of floor patterns; partly, the show a combination of floor plans and verbal descriptions. The goal here is to provide insight into the space concepts of the theatrical dances of the time.
Type 2 is represented by the manuscript of Franz Opfermann. It shows a great number of dance poses. The challenge here will be to explore their movement potential by connecting and coordinating the different poses and arrange them as dances. The particular focus of this research will be the exploration of physical and kinetic concepts and functions of the time.
Type 3 are iconographic sources. The images will be read as movement notations and thus examined by tracing the kinetic structures of the different gestures. The comparison of those will inform the understanding of the movement potential in dance as well as in everyday behaviour.
Visualizing and animating historic materials on dance will add an entirely new dimension to research. Increasing availability of the materials may be considered essential to this developing academic discipline, enabling the focusing on underlying movement structures and patterns. Ambiguities of interpretation will become transparent and will generate an independent subject of debate.
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