Abstract:
The Winter Guard International (WGI) organization facilitates the competitive sport of indoor percussion. Founded in 1993, WGI has seen a multitude of changes in the activity such as the introduction of visual-lines and a development towards a more theatrically-inclined production, including large props, intricate costumes, and detailed storylines and concepts for shows. The last few years especially have seen tremendous growth and by using a survey and performance analysis, this study explores what currently affects an audience's visual reaction. Dance plays a large role in audience reception, as do interactive props and color. All medalist groups from 2013- 2017 used the visual elements: props, color, and highlighted characters. Marching movement did not appear to be as important of a visual factor as it has in the past.
