Rambert

Rooster was choreographed by a man called Christopher Bruce. He was born 1945 in Leicester, England. He started studying dance at the age of 11. After study at Rambert School he joined Rambert Ballet in 1963 and became a lead male dancer. The company began experimenting with ballet and modern, specifically Martha Graham technique.
In 1977 he was appointed associate director of the company until 1987. He created over 20 works for the company.
Influences
He focused on the political and personal issues. He using usual starting points to create up movement, poetry, literature, music, newspaper articles and world events. Through the choreography he would voice his concerns. His other works are:- Ghost dances/Swansong/Silence is the end of our song/ Cruel Garden/Sargeant Early's Dream.
Themes and ideas
The story line is based on relationship between men and women. His intention is to celebrate the music of 'The Rolling Stones', using qualities and stories behind the song to reflect 'sexual tension' (witnessed when growing up in 1960s). When Bruce grew up he was surrounded by sexism and racism. There were 8 specific songs by the rolling stones e.g Little red rooster / Ruby Tuesday/ Play with fire
Set and lighting
Not much set, the stage was undecorated. The lighting was simplistic throughout the whole piece. A bare stage is a key feature of Bruce's work as he is aware that dancers need plenty of room to dance.
Costumes
The costumes reflect on the 60'. The men wore velvet jackets, shirts and ties (each male with different colours) with black trousers and jazz shoes. In 'Ruby Tuesday' there were 4 males who wear all black jackets. The women are all identical, wearing simple black and red colour scheme. The male influences by Mick Jagger. This shows the sexism as the men are represented as different however the women all dress the same as though they are all seen as one person and no able to have their own identity.
The Dance
It has 8 sections each with a different song, It piece could easily be solos but its done together to create atmosphere and contemporary attitudes.
Distinctive movements though-out
'Rooster strut:- Men mimic cockerels
Grooming gestures:- Straightening cuffs, Sticking down their hair.
Jumps:- Men suggests a chicken trying to fly with stubby wings.
Everyday gestures:- Handshaking
Repeated floor work:- Both sexes, rolling and turning on the floor.
Repeated courtly geestures:- first in 'Lady Jane' but is repeated several times.
Ruby Tuesday
There are 5 dancers, 1 solo female, joined by 4 men
The men perform simple movements in unison/pairs. The choreography for the women are very typical style of Bruce and classical in nature. The female dancer plays with her hair a lot and picks something from the floor, maybe flowers? She twists her arms and hand suggest of underlying tension.