Energy

An exploration of “how” a movement is done rather than “what” it is, gives us a richer sense of dance as an expressive art.  A dancer can walk, reach for an imaginary object and turn, making these movements look completely different by changing the use of Energy. For example, anger could be shown with a loud quick walk, a sharp reach, and a strong twisting turn. Happiness could be depicted by using a delicate gliding walk, a gentle reach out, and a smooth light turn. Energy is what brings the dancer’s intent or emotion to the audience. The element of Energy is sometimes called efforts or Movement Qualities.

Dancer and movement analyst Rudolf Laban broke it down into four efforts, each of which is a pair of opposites:

1. space (direct or indirect use of space) When the dancer is paying attention to the use of space, they can be direct, single-focused, and targeted in their use of space. Conversely, they can be indirect, multi-focused, and aware of many things in the space around them.
2. Weight or force (strong or light use of weight) The dancer can emphasize the effort or use of force by fighting against it, throwing their weight and strength into movements. The opposite is using a yielding,  light sense of weightlessness in their movements.
3. Time (sudden or sustained use of time) Not to be confused with tempo, the dancer’s use of time can be reflected in their movement. It can appear hurried, as though fighting against time. Conversely, the dancer can have a relaxed attitude toward time as though they have all the time in the world.
4. Flow (bound or free use of the flow of movement) When the dancer’s flow is bound up, they can appear to be careful and cautious, only allowing small amounts of flow. The opposite is when the dancer appears to throw the movement around without inhibition, letting the movement feel carefree.

Another way we can define Energy is by looking at the Movement Qualities. Movement Qualities are energy released during various time spans to portray distinct qualities. There are six dynamic Movement Qualities.

1. Sustained (slow, smooth, continuous)
2. Percussive (sharp, choppy, jagged)
3. Swinging (swaying, to and fro, pendulum-like)
4. Suspended (a moment of stillness, the high point, a balance)
5. Collapsed (fall, release, relax)
6. Vibratory (shake, wiggle, tremble)

Notice the kinds of Energy the dancers are displaying in the examples below.

In the first video the dancers are using efforts of direct, strong, sudden and bound movements. In terms of Movement Qualities the dancers are using percussive, vibratory, and moments of collapse.

Check Your Understanding