I began this blog as a way of documenting my London experience. It became a useful tool in shaping what I feel about dance, giving me motivation, direction. I also hope that in this journey, you can find some of your own experiences reflected, and we can begin a dialogue to help one another. A vibrant arts community exists in every country, but the experience can often feel isolating and lonely.
So… from the month’s I’ve spent here, what can be a useful dance approach? Here’s some ideas that I’ve come up with so far:
Conditioning:
– Conditioning for the Weather Beaten – a good lesson I’ve learned from the English, don’t let the weather get you down. In the middle of winter, it can be difficult to be propelled to exercise, so here are a few ideas!
– Changing States – controlling our levels of alertness, motivation, are all important to a dancer. Here’s a few tips to regulate how you feel so as to not let your mood take over in rehearsals.
– To Learn, To Forget – technique. How best to learn?
Artists who are doing it: sometimes the best way is to look at someone who’s already doing what you want to do. Here’s some innovative practitioners:
– Bryony Kimmings – UK based performance artist, Bryonny Kimmings has a honest, down-to-earth and charismatic approach to her creations, and a sense of play that shouldn’t be taken lightly.
– Isabel Lewis – an dance artist who is willing to challenge the structure of how dancer’s do things. Thoughtful and intelligent, Lewis is well on the way to developing a unique dance approach that may just catch on.
– Wayne McGregor – incredibly fluid at integrating art into life, McGregor is an example of someone who isn’t afraid to go for what they’re after (creating amazing works to boot!).
Finding the path:
– Becoming a Mover – fundamental to dance, ultimately it’s movement that should inspire us.
– Happiness and Self Sabotage – how much are you your own worst enemy?
– 5 Things You Should Know About Australian Contemporary Dancers – it’s important to identify your strengths and weaknesses…
Something’s being shaped, developing. Look back to look forward, isn’t that what they say?!