THEME
For this week's theme Play and Body, I did a collaboration with the amazing Duncan and Monique. Initially, we discussed a few things like body synchronisation, where one person does something, the others have to copy the movement wherever they are; or a game of body movement chain reaction, where one person performs a movement according to a theme, the next person will copy and add a new movement and then keep passing to the rest. After brainstorming, we continued working on these concepts and eventually came up with the idea of embodying each other's cherished memories through our body.
CONTEXT
Duncan mentioned the example of A Mile in My Shoes by the Empathy Museum which is a great example of using physical embodiment to create powerful storytelling, which allows the audience to feel the connection and see the world through the perspective of a stranger. This inspired us to create something similar that invokes strong emotions and empathy.
METHOD
Each of us picked a most cherished memory of our own and used a series of movements to design a choreography before we met up. On the day of recording, we went to the park where it's sunny, quiet and relaxing. I also brought along my dog Bmo who showed up in the video as a special guest. We first learned each other's choreography without given any context. Through repetitive practice, we would ponder the meaning behind each memory while familiarising with the movements. During the final performance, each of us would then reveal our story as the other two re-enact this intimate moment.
We made three videos that showcase our teaching, learning, and performance of each other's cherished memories. It's a great mix of sadness, happiness, romance and lots of fun. Since it's about embodying other people's memories, we came up with the title Membody.
REFLECTION
Offer an evaluation of your completed response where you point out improvements, challenges or further opportunities. Reflect on the value and significance of the response.
After finishing recording, we gathered together to chat and further explain our stories. I felt the enthusiasm and special bond between Monique and her dogs during my re-enactment. While Duncan took an artistic turn in his choreography by using lots of abstract motions, almost like an interpretive dance which made Monique and I very curious during the whole learning process. Comparing to their choreography, I felt like mine was a bit straightforward. This activity has the potential to turn into an exhibition and it'd be more interesting if we can incorporate more dance moves and theatrical performances to amplify the emotion we try to convey. Overall, I really appreciate this week's theme and Duncan's invitation for a collaboration. Besides the good work, I got to go outside and socialise with my friends for the first time in a long time. Getting to know each other through the re-embodiment and sharing this intimate memory together was a fantastic experience.
YouTube Link:
Video 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LkTLJPqsamQ
About This Work
By Yunshu Shu (Maggie)
Email Yunshu Shu (Maggie)
Published On: 04/05/2022