Variability and predictability as key factors in a new approach to choreographic complexity in dance

Area of Science:

• Cognitive Science
• Dance Studies
• Aesthetics

Background:

• Aesthetic appreciation is influenced by complexity and order in various stimuli.
• Dance research often overlooks choreographic structure, focusing on individual movement kinematics.
• A gap exists in analyzing choreographic complexity beyond kinematic measures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a theoretical and empirical framework for analyzing choreographic complexity.
• To conceptualize choreographic complexity as a multilayered process.
• To explore the relationship between choreographic structure and perceived complexity in dance.

Main Methods:

• Conceptualized choreographic complexity across four levels: movements, dancers, visual setting, and aural elements.
• Conducted a behavioral experiment using continuous assessment to measure real-time complexity perception.
• Utilized a model to predict perceived complexity of dance performance sections.

Main Results:

• The developed model successfully predicted perceived complexity in broader sections of dance performances.
• Moments of particular audience interest correlated with the model's complexity predictions.
• Movement variability was identified as a significant factor influencing perceived choreographic complexity.

Conclusions:

• Choreographic complexity is a multilayered construct influenced by spatial, temporal, and relational dimensions.
• The framework bridges the gap between choreographic structure analysis and audience perception.
• Understanding cognitive processes in dance perception requires a dual focus on structure and behavior.