Moving Through States: Applying the Seven Levels of Tension

This thesis draws from Theatre Methodist Jacques Lecoqs and his Seven Levels of Tension to experiment with contemporary dance choreography and performance, and discusses the process and insights that unfolded during the creation of Meeting at R9: a short, contemporary dance film and my Masters thesis project. Focusing on ways a performer can access, experience, and recognize tension in the body, I explore ways in which choreographers can use tension levels (as well as mime and improvisation) to evoke a sense of urgency and different impulses in order to generate different physicalities (or physical capacities). Accessing and utilizing expressive, embodied movements inspired in this process, I argue, can serve to generate dynamic choreography and stimulate audience engagement. This thesis is intended for the performer, researcher, choreographer, or anyone who is interested in using the Seven Levels of Tension to craft movement for the stage and alternative locations.