Date of Submission
Spring 5-9-2023
Degree Type
Undergraduate Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Architecture
Department
Architecture
Committee Chair/First Advisor
Mine Hashas-Degertekin
Abstract
Plaza Baquedano is a major historic landmark located in the center of Santiago Chile. It has been the center point for all the mass gatherings in the city. For instance, people gather to celebrate large events such as Independence Day, have community dance performances, celebrate a soccer game victories and they also gather to stand up for what they believe in. Ever since the end of Augusto Pinochet’s dictatorship (1973-1990), the people of Chile have been protesting for economic equality, affordable health care, educational rights and also for the 3095 men and woman that have disappeared during the dictatorship. After 30 years of protesting, this landmark has been destroyed, buildings and bus stops have been bashed and graffiti-ed, and parks have become isolated and destroyed. How can architecture work with dance choreographic methods to reactivate the space?
My thesis proposes how dance choreography can be used as a method to help reactivate Plaza Baquedano by incorporating choreographic elements and techniques to create a more immersive and interactive space where people can emotionally and physically connect with the space around them. This will help create a memorable experience where citizens of the and people from around the world can connect with the history and culture of Chile. This will be done by studying the national dance of Chile, Cueca and incorporating the movements and techniques to the spaces.