In this intermediate-advanced level course, we will focus on tapping into the subtle connections in the body. We will be using improvisational scores and somatic exercises to hone these connections and increase self-awareness. Gentle focus can be used to achieve high intensity movement. Tracking what we are doing as we do it–we will acknowledge the nervous system’s role in our movement efforts. It is important that we are able to do this with a non-judgmental mindset. We will learn to watch openly, gathering information from others, to increase possibilities in performance.
We will consider balancing in relation to physics, timing, and stillness. We will use incremental amounts of force in order to gain support from the surfaces around us. We will slow down shifts of weight in order to feel them entirely, so that we can choose when to harness momentum and when to release it. We will differentiate tension from stillness and use each attribute as an individual treatment for various movements. We will work to achieve ease and comfort from open space, enabling ourselves to settle in ungrounded positions.
Co-requisite: Dance or Drama lab assignment if students sign up for 4 or more credits in dance.