CRY THE WORK Return to NSW HSC Online: Dance

In this tutorial you will investigate aspects of the work Cry including reviews and the role of the dance critic. CRY Return to NSW HSC Online: Dance

Alvin Ailey choreographed the work in eight days, working with dancer Judith Jamison. Cry premiered in ABOUT THE WORK CRY Return to NSW HSC Online: Dance

Judith Jamison describes her experience working with Ailey on this work in her Autobiography: Dancing Spirit (1993: Double Bay) edited by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Information about Judith Jamison can be found on the Alvin Ailey American Dance TheatreAlvin Ailey American Dance Theatre site. Read Judith Jamison’s Biography here.here CRY ABOUT THE WORK Return to NSW HSC Online: Dance

The role of the critic in dance can be an influencing factor to the success of a choreographer and their work/s. Reviews can also provide us with information about dance works - such as when they premiered and an audience’s reaction to the work. It is important to remember that whilst reviews can contain vital information about artists and their works, they are also subjective. CRY THE ROLE OF REVIEWS Return to NSW HSC Online: Dance

Activity The structure of a review is unique. Click the image to the left to begin an internet search to locate reviews of Australian dance works. Summarise the main features and the structure of the reviews that you read. The University of NSW provides some useful information about writing critical reviews. Read the information provided and compare to the summary you made for the online reviews that you located.University of NSW CRY STRUCTURING REVIEWS Return to NSW HSC Online: Dance

Activity Click the image to the left to read a review of Alvin Ailey’s Cry published by the New York Times. Write a review of Cry from a contemporary perspective. Consider the role of the critic in dance and placing the criticism in context. Consideration should also be given to the general values of contemporary society and the universal themes explored in the work.New York Times CRY WRITING REVIEWS Return to NSW HSC Online: Dance