Exploring the accessibility of contemporary dance in Malta : what is the perception of performance and what are its engaging factors?

Abstract

This Practice as Research (PaR) study investigates relatable dance choreography as a means of engaging wider audiences to watch/attend contemporary dance performances. The Maltese culture, theatre history and habitus are examined in order to make grounds for justifying relatable themes as a potential strategy for the creation of more accessible and receptive contemporary choreography. Western traditional performance paradigms are challenged in an attempt to propose audience inclusion and various methods are explored to find ways in which to make choreography more identifiable. The contemporary choreographic paradigm is acknowledged as an approach to make more collaborative choices in dance making, which may result in more authentic performances. To illustrate and present this hypothesis, three choreographies are created using relatable themes, and presented to Maltese communities. The feedback given via questionnaires post performance, was analysed and used to support/challenge the argument.