Motivation

Definition

Motivation refers to the internal and external forces that drive individuals to act or create. It encompasses the reasons behind why a choreographer or dancer engages in their craft, influencing the themes and emotional expressions portrayed in the choreography. Understanding motivation is crucial, as it shapes the narrative and artistic choices made in dance, reflecting both personal and cultural influences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Doris Humphrey believed that movement should be motivated by the inner emotional state of the dancer, connecting physicality with feelings.
2. Humphrey's approach emphasized the importance of understanding one’s motivation as a means to deepen the expression and storytelling in dance.
3. She used a technique called 'fall and recovery' that highlighted how motivation drives movement dynamics in dance.
4. Humphrey's choreographic works often reflect her own motivations related to social issues and human experiences, allowing audiences to connect on a deeper level.
5. By exploring motivation, dancers and choreographers can create more authentic performances that resonate with viewers emotionally.

Review Questions

• How does Doris Humphrey's perspective on motivation influence the way dancers interpret their roles?
  • Doris Humphrey viewed motivation as essential for dancers to connect emotionally with their movements. Her emphasis on the inner emotional states of dancers encourages them to explore their personal motivations, resulting in performances that are not just technically proficient but also rich in emotional depth. This approach allows dancers to embody their characters authentically, making their interpretations more compelling and relatable to the audience.
• Discuss how understanding motivation can enhance the creative process for choreographers.
  • Understanding motivation plays a critical role in enhancing a choreographer's creative process by allowing them to tap into deeper emotional themes and narratives. By considering what drives their own artistic intent and the motivations of their dancers, choreographers can create works that resonate on multiple levels. This understanding fosters a collaborative environment where personal stories and experiences shape the choreography, leading to richer and more impactful performances.
• Evaluate the impact of external societal influences on an individual’s motivation in dance and choreography, as illustrated by Doris Humphrey's work.
  • Doris Humphrey's work illustrates how external societal influences can profoundly impact an individual's motivation in dance and choreography. Her explorations of themes like human struggle and social issues reflect her awareness of the cultural context surrounding her. This awareness not only informed her own artistic motivations but also encouraged her dancers to draw from their lived experiences, creating a dialogue between personal expression and broader societal narratives. As a result, this interplay enhances the relevance and emotional power of dance as an art form.

Related terms

Inspiration: The process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, particularly in the creative context of dance.

Emotional Expression: The way individuals convey their feelings through physical movement, which can be significantly influenced by their motivations.

Artistic Intent: The purpose or message that a choreographer aims to communicate through their work, often rooted in their motivations.