Listed are descriptions from past workshops. The classes offered for the 2012 workshop are to be determined
Technique
Technique class embodies Daniel and Natalie’s varied background in the field and includes influences from some of their longtime collaborative experiences. In combination with their own perspectives as dancers and choreographers, this class strives to help a dancer achieve their individual goals by working towards a strong technical foundation, artistry in movement, and dancing from a neutral, relaxed body. Fundamental elements such as suspension, release, opposition and focus are isolated in individual exercises and then utilized in movement phrases to help achieve these goals. The dancer is encouraged to cultivate individual expression within the confines of set material in an effort to develop a unique dancing voice.
Repertory
The center of this movement based class will be learning extended dance phrases from Daniel’s own repertory or from those created during the class. This material will be used to examine different elements of how to dance. Each day the emphasis and focus will change to explore a different aspect of dancing and performing. Ultimately, discovering one’s individual dance voice lies at the heart of this class.
Non-Traditional Partnering
The idea behind non-traditional partnering is equality. Everyone tries everything - both being supported and supporting, as well as being lifted and lifting. This class will investigate partnering by establishing an environment of awareness and trust. Improvisation, games, and studies will be used to help define and explore fundamental elements such as weightshare, lifting, and tactile connections. The class will apply these concepts to dance ideas created by the students, the teachers, or by dancing excerpts from Daniel’s own repertory.
Yoga
This yoga class will focus on preparing for an active day of movement. Particular attention will be given to awakening the spine, releasing the pelvis, hamstrings, and upper back to establish a neutral released alignment.
Preparation Sequence
The goal of this class is to learn a run-able sequence that helps warm-up a dancer. It can be implemented into one’s personal daily practice as a means of helping more efficiently prepare for a day of dance. Floor work that includes stretching and strengthening serves as the basis for this sequence.
Preparation Techniques/Warm-Up:
Each day will include techniques and ideas to prepare the body to dance. The overall emphasis will be to warm, stretch, and center oneself for the day. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday will focus on yoga practices while Tuesday and Thursday will use gentle improvisational explorations combined with simple repetitive ideas to unleash spontaneous and authentic movement.