Choreography by Alexander Ekman: Artistic Research and Development of Art-Production Principles

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to reveal the artistic, aesthetic, and staging features of Alexander Ekman's choreography. Research methodology. The method of analysis and synthesis, the method of typological, art history, genre-style analysis of the choreographic productions considered in the study, as well as the method of theoretical generalisation, were applied. Scientific novelty. For the first time in domestic art history, the dance and performance activities of the Swedish choreographer Alexander Ekman as an innovative form of artistic creativity are comprehensively investigated; the philosophical-worldview, artistic-aesthetic, and staging features of the creative handwriting of the master are analysed; the specifics of the choreographic vocabulary of A. Ekman's productions in the context of the synthesis of classical and modern art are revealed. Conclusions. Alexander Ekman is an outstanding dancer who gives every movement a unique quality because it is determined by intention, and true-life energy. In his choreography, the artist combines elements of humour, theatricality and athleticism, usually expanding the boundaries of traditional dance styles. His works are characterised by high energy and a dynamic vocabulary of movement, extremely fast pace, interesting transformations, as well as the inclusion of unconventional props and elements of surprise. The goal of the choreographer-producer is to create an unusual atmosphere of the dance action, which would surprise the audience and lead to long-term reflections. The study revealed that the characteristic features of A. Ekman is used in the production process: improvisational dialogue with dancers; multidisciplinary and artistic innovations; the formation of a new plastic language and a new choreography; a combination of tradition and innovation. Alexander Ekman's choreographic language, both intuitive and with shades of humour, combines theatricality, the vocabulary of classical dance and contemporary dance, is usually accompanied by enticing rhythms, a special communicative energy, studies of the body in the process of interaction with sound and objects.