Theater and Dance 219H - Dance Technique: Contemporary Partnering

In an atmosphere of curiosity, warmth and constructive risk-taking, this course investigates the dynamic possibilities of the moving relationships of our dancing bodies. We will practice and develop deep kinesthetic sensitivity and listening as we explore both an intellectual and embodied understanding of contemporary dance partnering basics such as weight sharing, momentum, counterbalance, force, fulcrums, tone and resistance. Directing our attention to cause and effect, our experimentation with different choices will guide our learning process. Skills to build trust and open communication, pillars of healthy dance partnering practices, are folded into every class. Those students who have experience with  Contact Improvisation will observe similarieies in the practices and approaches in this course. Skills will be taught through both codified movement material and improvisation. A half course. This course may be repeated for credit. Spring semester. Professor Jenna Riegel.

How to handle overenrollment: THDA majors given priority. Instructor will choose students based on a balance of interests and class years.

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: This course will involve regular attendance and class participation, class discussion, reading, possible viewing and writing assignments, group work outside of class including rehearsal or other artistic assignments, as well as physical or vocal performance work and/or visual, aural, and physical analysis as applicable, and appropriate to a 2-credit course workload. Attendance at performances outside of class may also be required.