The weight of Light Contradictions for Susan Rose and dancers: An exercise in parallel processing and power. Issue 2 (1st December 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Schwadron, Hannah
• Is Part Of: Choreographic practices. Volume 8:Issue 2(2017)
• Page Start: 239
• Page End: 258
• Publication Date: 2017-12-01
• Subjects: Dance -- Philosophy -- Periodicals; Dance -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Choreography -- Periodicals; 792.82
• DOI: 10.1386/chor.8.2.239_1
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2040-5669

Abstract

This article returns to the improvisatory practice of Los Angeles-based choreographer, Susan Rose and her 1978 dance work, Light Contradictions. Analysis of the rule-based improvisation illuminates a critical choreographic practice based on parallel processing and power plays that has sustained in performance for four decades. Reliant on its simple rules, Light Contradictions makes its main message known: Do what I say as I say it, and I'll do whatever you tell me to. The doing and saying duet appears friendly enough as an arrangement based on equal parts. What ensues, however, is the hysteria of two people – or several sets of two – as they aim to draw out a boundless repertoire of tasks and actions by way of bossing each other around. As the piece travels, rotating performers and crowds, it acts as a platform for keen interpersonal provocation and cultural exchange, simultaneity and contradiction.