This course will introduce students to physical fundamentals often utilized in Western contemporary dance techniques. This class will attend to the physical structure of the body—including its commonalities and idiosyncrasies—to build the strength and range required to move horizontally and vertically, with gravity and against it, with momentum and in stillness.
We will work towards proprioception, wherein the student is aware of their body through sensation and able to make choices and changes according to comfort and desire. Together, we will explore initiation, momentum, and dynamic. This class is designed for students who are curious to better understand their physical form—its tendencies, its structures, its patterns—to work with their body as it is and easefully guide their body towards sequences and spatial patterns that prioritize ease, efficiency, and innate power. No prerequisites required. This class is open to motivated non-dancers and courageous beginners.
This class will have live piano accompaniment on Tuesdays throughout the term.
Learning Outcomes:
Develop spatial and interpersonal awareness
Gain functional mobility and connect sensation to action
Learn about shape, alignment, posture, and direction for your particular body
Ability to receive feedback and adapt to new information
Expanding one’s movement range and movement possibilities
Delivery Method: Fully in-person
Corequisites: Dance or Drama Lab Assignment if students are registered for 4 or more credits in designated dance courses.
Course Level: 2000-level
Credits: 2
Tu/F 8:30AM - 10:20AM (Full-term)
Maximum Enrollment: 20
Course Frequency: One time only
Categories: 2000 , All courses , Course Title Change , Dance , Fully In-Person , Two Credit , Updates
Tags: body mind , dance , dance technique , improvisation , research , somatics