Journal #1 (1A)

While watching Bill T Jones’ depiction of phase four in his theory of the 5 phases, I was most moved when Jones changes the tone of the performance from 6:00 to 6:37. In this section of the demonstration, I was able to see and understand this as being the turning point in the performance. Jones utilizes his arms in order to establish the inner emotion that is being emphasized and changes the speed at which he moves them to symbolize a shift in tone. This movement that is being emphasized in this excerpt is a clear depiction of a moment of realization. The audience is able to identify each moment of realization through Jones’ incorporation of his voice. What’s being expressed and how it is being shown is significant as it highlights the importance of identity within dance. At the beginning of this excerpt, Jones uses his arms and swings them around and over his body at a slow speed that shows the disassociation of one’s identity. This later changes as Jones swing his arms out at a faster pace after his sense of realization which can show the importance of staying true to one’s self in order to successfully dance. This excerpt of phase 4 differs from phases 1, 2, and 3 as it is the only one that successfully displays Jones’ message. Phase 4 focuses on one’s emotions regarding the situation which then leads them to come up with dance moves that can display what they’re feeling while the other phases emphasize the movements being perfect instead.

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