This class is designed to help prepare the body for each day, while providing knowledge that can be implemented in future self-care and injury prevention. For the most part, exercises will be based on traditional Pilates mat choreography, though emphasis will be placed on contemporary understanding of functional anatomy. We may also take time to explore specific issues as needed in order to promote healthy joint mechanics.
No previous Pilates experience is necessary since we'll begin towards the basic/intermediate end of the spectrum, and build from there. Please bring a mat and a towel, or two towels if you don't have a mat.
Contemporary Dance Technique
9:00am-10:45am
All classes will be taught on a rotating basis by Doug Varone and company members, ensuring a rich overview of styles and perspectives for each student. Investigating the line of human movement and how it can affect the broader strokes of our dancing is at the center of this highly technical, movement based class. Through the expansive use of the back and limbs, Varone’s style will be explored through an emphasis on breath, strength, dynamic lyricism and musicality. (Levels and classes by placement only)
Phrasework
11:00am-12:00pm
All classes will be taught on a rotating basis by Doug Varone and company members. This class investigates individual phrases created on the spot as well as phrases from the company repertory. Students will focus on quick assimilation and exploration of movement in terms of quality and musicality. (This will be a mixed-level class)
Ballet
2:15pm-3:45pm
Ballet technique will be taught with an emphasis on the freedom and support inherent in the skeletal structure and the integration of technical ability from a neutral stance. This starting point will allow movement to flow from a centered core and radiate into space through long, connected limbs. The awareness of specific individual movement is addressed including the dancer's ability to define and impact space. Musicality and phrasing are prime ingredients.
Somatics
2:15pm-3:45pm
Previous somatics classes have included Irene Dowd Training Sequences® or Feldenkrais Method®. Exact class and instructor will be announced soon.
Choreographic Devices
4:00pm-5:45pm
Taught by Doug Varone
Varone will conduct a composition class with an initial emphasis on compositional structure. Using these ideas as a springboard, new devices for expanding and inventing material will be explored. A large body of material will be created, varied and manipulated both in and out of the studio, pushing towards the development of a new work utilizing the material built in class. For students seriously interested in choreography. Enrollment is based on choreographic experience. Those wishing to enroll in this class should submit a resume describing their choreographic experience.
Repertory I: Large Work
4:00pm-5:45pm
One of Varone's larger works will be staged for informal performance at the end of the workshop. The class will focus on movement dynamics and spatial awareness within group choreography, as duets and solos gather seamlessly into group explosions of choreographed chaos.
Repertory II: Exploring Excerpts
4:00pm-5:45pm
This class will spend short intense spans of time exploring excerpts (i.e. duets, trios, etc.) from a variety of pieces, offering the student an overview of Varone's work. Through this investigation the class will experience the wide range of movement dynamics, emotional nuance and spatial architecture inherent in Varone's choreography.
Performance Techniques
4:00pm-5:45pm
This class will investigate dance as a performing experience by examining how one can communicate most clearly and honestly. Observation and discussion will help to articulate both first-hand performing involvement as well as viewing perception. The class will include detailed investigation of repertory selections and development of creative assignments with participation in informal performing events.
New Work
4:00pm-5:45pm
This class will focus on the creation of a new work, choreographed by a member of the company. Participants will be involved in the creative process, and will have the opportunity to explore the personal and performance aspects of the dance throughout the three weeks.
Evening Events
Evening Events include lec/dems and showings, unique master classes and specialty workshops, improv nights, massage classes, community discussions, and the ever popular bowling night. Activities are available 4 to 5 nights a week and are free* to workshop students!
*except bowling night
Teachers, classes and schedule are subject to change.
