It is exact, specific, and it demands precise execution. A designer's drill is a chart; a graph which indicates x and y coordinates for constantly changing geometric shapes and forms in both time and space (a fourth dimension?). Our equipment and props are always pushing the laws of physics with force and speed, action and reaction. All of this is done with an incredible control of time. Position-time graphs are encouraged.
Colorguard is Mathematical:
It is rhythmically and metrically based on the subdivision of time into fractions, which must be done instantaneously. We have angles and degrees, both acute and obtuse, sequences, ranges, and hypotenuse. Calculus can be applied!
Colorguard is a Language:
It is a visual picture alive with message and meaning. We use interpretive phases, sentences, and words, many times with music, which creates a most complete and universal language, to be recorded for others to see, feel, and understand. It is a language of expression, which is recited and shared many times both near and far, from Virginia to Miami, FL and hopefully beyond.
Colorguard is History:
Colorguard can be influenced by the environment and times of its creation, or it can reflect the past as well as the future. It can send us to a far away country or bring us closer to home. We are rich in our heritage and have forefathers as well.
Colorguard is Physical:
It requires fantastic coordination of your fingers, hands, arms, feet and legs; in addition to extraordinary control of the back, stomach, and torso; all of which are called to respond instantly to the sounds the ear hears and the sights the eyes see. Colorguard is centered around endurance, ability, strength, and balance.
Colorguard is a Sport:
Colorguard is a game, which we play with others, and in which we share and we shine. We compete with ourselves to perform better each time.
Colorguard builds Personality:
It allows us to learn more on our inside, on confidence and fear, self-esteem and self-image, as we get better on the outside with performances, people, expressing our feelings, and sharing our dreams. It is a chance to realize that our attitude is what makes us or breaks us, not anyone or anything else. It is a kind of mind frame with an increased awareness that challenges us to realize the potential in ourselves.
Colorguard is a Performing Art:
Colorguard is a show, which can be entertaining and enlightening! With directing, acting, producing, managing, and touring, colors, fashion, hair, excitement, and subtlety. Many hours of hard work and dedication go into making the show the best that it can be.
Colorguard is Educational:
It allows a human being to learn how to take all of these things; some dry and technically boring, some difficult and challenging; and use them to create EMOTION! It is the one thing that our world needs more of.