An Analysis of Various Texts in Balanchine's Agon: Continuity and Change Across Time

Abstract

This research analyzed various texts in Balanchine’s Agon for changes and continuity within the choreography and its performance over time. For purposes of this study, texts referred to multiple modalities, as defined in performance and coaching videos, reviews and criticism of the work, and Labanotation scores. Parameters for defining “Agon-ness” emerged through comparison and close analysis of these texts, which included tension, contest, extreme feats of technique, and complexity of rhythm and musical relationships. Further, the woman’s “Bransle Gay” solo from the “Second Pas de Trois” section provided a case study for deeper analysis through personal communication with New York City Ballet principal dancer Wendy Whelan, and close readings of multiple performance videos and notation scores of the solo.