PATHFIT 4 (Dance Choreography) Creative Presentations
Topic 1: “Introduction to Dance Composition and Choreography - PANEL DISCUSSION
Moderator: Good day, ladies and gentlemen! Welcome to this virtual presser CHA-CHA-CHA
where we will embark on an in-depth exploration of the captivating realms of dance
composition, choreography, choreographers, and staging of cha-cha (dance dance). I'm your
host, Crisza Mae M. Beri, but before we immerse ourselves in our discussion, let's take a
moment to meet our panelists. Please join me in welcoming Ms. Liezel Go, an accomplished
dance composer and choreographer whose innovative compositions have captivated
audiences around the world. (PANEL 1 IN) We are honored to have Mr. Christian Mendizabel
with us, a renowned choreographer celebrated for their ability to create breathtaking dance
sequences that evoke emotions and tell compelling stories. (PANEL 2 IN) Lastly, let's welcome
Ms. Maria Jonesa Mabilog, an esteemed choreographer known for their distinct artistic vision
and contributions to expanding the boundaries of dance. (PANEL 3 IN)
Moderator: Thank you, panelists, for gracing us with your presence. Let us now embark on a
journey to ballroom dancing, specifically cha-cha-cha. Ms. Go, could you please illuminate the
key elements and considerations involved in the art of dance composition?
Ms. Go: Sure! Dance composition is the art of arranging movement, music, and emotions to create an expressive
performance. Cha-cha’s composition involves arranging steps, patterns, and movements to create a cohesive routine. It
considers partnership, frame, musicality, and style, aiming for a harmonious performance. As a dance composer, I
explore rhythm, dynamics, patterns, and themes to enhance choreography and resonate with the audience, typically
danced during the 4&1 counts of the music.
Moderator: Thank you for the illuminating dance composition intricacies. Now, turning to
choreography, Mr. Mendizabel, as a renowned choreographer, could you discuss the vital role
choreographers play in giving life to a dance composition?
Mr. Mendizabel: Absolutely! Choreographers are creative architects who bring dance compositions to life through
movement. They collaborate closely with dancers, interpreting and visually translating the music. They possess a deep
understanding of the dance style, technical proficiency, and an artistic vision that guides dancers to embody the
composition's essence. With expertise, they ensure precise, purposeful movements filled with emotion, captivating the
audience and leaving a lasting impact.
Moderator: Thank you for the insightful explanation. Now, shifting focus to choreographers.
Ms. Mabilog, as a visionary, could you highlight the defining qualities of a successful
choreographer and their impact on shaping the artistic process?
Ms. Mabilog: Indeed! Successful choreographers possess a unique blend of creativity, technical expertise, and
leadership skills. They are movement masters, translating their artistic vision into captivating choreography that
resonates with dancers and audiences alike. Effective communication fosters collaboration and trust. They adapt their
choreography to different styles and dancers, encouraging creative exploration while maintaining the composition's
integrity. Inspiring creativity, guiding dancers, and balancing their vision with individuality sets them apart.
Moderator: Thank you for sharing those valuable insights. Now, let us shift our focus to
staging. Ms. Go, could you shed some light on the significance of staging in dance
performances?
Ms. Go: Staging is an integral and often overlooked aspect of dance performances. It is a comprehensive art that
involves lighting, props, costumes, and set design. In dance, it's about strategic dancer placement and choreographic
decisions, considering factors like positioning, spacing, and movement trajectories. Lighting effects can enhance the
mood and atmosphere, while costumes play a vital role in portraying the characters and improving the overall aesthetic.
The stage design should complement the dance style and the composition, creating a cohesive and mesmerizing visual
spectacle that enhances the audience's connection with the performance.
Moderator: Thank you for that enlightening explanation. Now, let's add a touch of excitement
to our discussion with a wonderful performance. Please welcome Ms. Marliza Frances Campos
and Mr. Aryan Domingo, both prominent students of Ateneo de Zamboanga University. Their
performance consists of two parts: part 1, where they will showcase the basic steps, and part
2, where they will incorporate the steps into choreography and staging.
(CLAP SOUND) ***
DANCE PERFORMANCE (ARYAN WILL EXPLAIN BASTA 2 MIN YAN SILA)
Moderator: Bravo! That was an exquisite performance by Ms. Campos and Mr. Domingo.
Thank you for sharing your incredible talent with us today.
Moderator: "Now, we will open the floor for the Q&A session. In this segment, we will present
two randomly selected questions from our comments section to our panelists. The first
question is from our Twitter subscriber, Ms. Natalie Foster. Ms, Mabilog, could you please
address her inquiry: "Are there specific techniques or movements that you find particularly
effective when choreographing a cha-cha, and how do you ensure the choreography
complements the music?"
Ms. Mabilog: When choreographing a cha-cha, dance experts often emphasize the use of sharp footwork, quick weight
transfers, and dynamic hip movements to capture the energetic essence of the dance. Ensuring that the choreography
complements the music involves a keen understanding of the rhythm and accents, allowing us to synchronize steps,
turns, and patterns with the beats and melodies. This harmonious interplay between movement and music enhances the
overall impact, creating a captivating and rhythmically expressive cha-cha routine.
Moderator: "Thank you! Now, let's address Ms. Olivia Lewis's question about how the
incorporation of improvisation in choreography contributes to the creative process and
collaboration between choreographers and dancers, enhancing authenticity and connection
in the performance. Could we please hear from Mr. Mendizabel?"
Mr. Christian Mendizabel: Improvisation plays a significant role in choreography, allowing dancers to explore their
creativity and bring their unique artistry to the performance. Choreographers often incorporate improvisation as a tool
for generating movement ideas and fostering collaboration with the dancers. It can add an element of spontaneity and
freshness to the choreography, fostering a sense of authenticity and allowing the dancers to truly connect with the
piece.
Moderator: Thank you for your engaging questions and enlightening answers. Our time
together has come to an end. I'm deeply grateful to our esteemed panelists, talented dancers,
and all who joined us for this enlightening virtual presser. Remember, dance transcends
boundaries, connecting us all. Let's keep exploring its wonders, pushing artistic limits. Until
we meet again, farewell!
Panelists: Thank you, and goodbye! (1,2,3 gather and BOW)...
