Rehearsal Update | Justine Choreography & Wolf Physicality

A choreographed piece that Justine has taught the class is no going to replace the opening sequence we had previously created. In this practical rehearsal we were introduced to the physical theatre element in more depth which will be featured in our play. To convey the wolves we were taught a devised sequence from Justine that included many characteristics that reflect a wolf. As a class we discussed that dynamics and key words like 'sharp, slick, strong, fierce' etc. would be things we had to bare in mind when developing the routine's choreography. To further portray this I discussed with the class that whilst the physical theatre piece reflecting wolves is completely abstract and unrealistic, we should still try to incorporate genuine wolf mannerisms- the way a wolf moves, looks and pants is something that we are going to research in order to develop our physical theatre opening piece.

One characteristic that I noticed when researching images of wolves is the way that they are always alert and a pack of wolves give their attention mutually to the same direction in most situations. 

Another observation I made is that wolves move in a pack and remain quite close together- I feel we could apply this to our physical theatre piece by adjusting the proxemics and creating a sporadic yet tight formation which should remain throughout the piece when in character.

The angry, fierce and 'hunting' side to wolves is usually dominated by the stern looks and sharp head turns which create an intense focus- if we were to apply this to out physicality when performing the routine and at any other point the wolf physicality may come up in the play, we would also create an intensity that would make the physical theatre aspect in the play a lot more powerful and evocative from the audience's point of view.