How to Choreograph a Dance Scene with a Fighting Feel: A Guide Inspired by 'Rewrite the Stars'

Writing a dance scene that evokes the feeling of two people fighting is no easy feat. Drawing inspiration from the dynamic Between Without Dawn in Rewrite the Stars from The Greatest Showman, we can transform a narrative of tension and struggle into a visually compelling dance performance. In this guide, we'll discuss how to craft such a scene using dialogue and dance movements.

Setting the Stage: A Dialogue-Based Dance Scene

One effective way to bring out the emotional tension of your dance scene is by structuring it as a dialogue-driven performance. This allows characters' internal conflicts to be expressed through spoken words and then translated into dance movements.

BEGIN DIALOGUE

Taylor: Why do we even try? Nothing changes.

Mike: Because we have to. There's something worth fighting for.

Taylor: What, hope? That we can find a way to connect?

Mike: More than that. Hope that we can change the world we live in.

Taylor: And if fighting doesn't work?

Mike: Then we'll keep trying. Together. No matter what.

END DIALOGUE

Melding Dance Moves into the Dialogue

Each line of dialogue can be paired with a specific dance move or sequence that captures the emotional weight and intensity of the moment. Here’s how you can turn this dialogue into a dance scene:

Taylor: Why do we even try? Nothing changes.

(The music starts with a slow, melancholic tempo)

Taylor: Why do we even try?

(Taylor moves slowly with long, dragging steps, his hands curled into fists, symbolizing a feeling of futility)

Mike: Because we have to.

(Mike enters with more determined movements, shoulders back and head held high, showing a drive to move forward)

Mike: There's something worth fighting for.

(Bursts of sharp, quick movements)

Develop a Unique Dance Style

Developing a unique dance style that reflects the emotional conflict is crucial. For example, Taylor's choreography might focus on sharp, jerky movements symbolizing his inner tension and frustration. On the other hand, Mike’s movements can be more fluid and intense, representing his hope and determination.

Interweaving Choreography with Emotion

Ensure that every movement has emotional weight. Taylor’s sharp, cutting steps could represent his frustration, while Mike’s flowing, interpretive style could show his passion and longing.

Symbolism in Movements

Infuse symbolism into the dance movements. For example, reaching out and pulling back can signify longing or obstacles in their relationship. Moments where their bodies almost touch but don't can represent a small step forward in their connection but also a barrier they can't overcome yet.

Utilizing Close and Distant Proximity

Vary the proximity between the characters to emphasize their connection and the challenges they face. Intimate moments where they move closely together can underscore their deep bond and the vulnerability they show to each other. Meanwhile, pulling away can emphasize the distance and conflict that separates them.

Dynamic Changes in Tempo and Music

Utilize changes in tempo and music to mirror the emotional shifts in the dance. Speed up during moments of tension and excitement, and slow down during more intimate or contemplative segments to give the audience the right emotional response.

Expressive Facial Expressions

Encourage dancers to convey emotion through facial expressions. The intensity of their gaze, smiles, frowns, or moments of vulnerability can add depth to the narrative and help the audience connect with the characters on a deeper level.

Narrative Arc within the Dance

Structure the dance to have a clear narrative arc with a beginning, middle, and end. At the beginning, the dance can convey the initial tension and conflict. The middle can explore the struggles they face and the moments where they test each other’s resolve. The end can show a resolution or a renewed sense of purpose and connection.

Costumes and Lighting

Ensure that costumes and lighting complement the emotional tone of the scene. Consider color choices, textures, and how the lighting can enhance the mood of each phase of the dance. For instance, Taylor and Mike could wear contrasting colors at the beginning to symbolize their initial separation, and then transition into similar hues as their connection deepens.

Remember, the key to a powerful dance scene lies in the seamless integration of choreography, emotion, and storytelling. Allow the movement to convey the unspoken words of the characters and the depth of their connection or conflict. By following these steps, you can create a dance scene that captures the essence of a relationship filled with struggles and strength.