Integrating dance science and somatics to teach anatomically-sound technique

Daniels, Kathryn MA, Cornish College of the Arts, Seattle, WA, United States

To develop anatomically-sound dance technique, dancers need both conceptual understanding of the anatomical principles underlying efficient movement and deep kinesthetic awareness that discerns and differentiates subtle movement sensations.  The combined knowledge of the fields of dance science and somatics can support this refined technical development, enabling dancers to make subtle choices in motor planning and muscle activation.  

In teaching anatomically-sound dance technique, it is helpful for teachers to draw on both science and somatics, coupling the concepts and principles of biomechanics and anatomy with the kinesthetically-rich approach of somatic practices. This workshop will demonstrate ways to integrate somatic and scientific principles and learning strategies in a technique class. Participants will explore a basic technical concept--the relationships among alignment, breath and core support activation--from the anatomical perspective and through somatic experiences drawn from Alexander Technique, Feldenkrais Method, Bartenieff Fundamentals and Body Mind Centering. Exercises to isolate and identify deep support will begin on the floor and progress to standing execution of movements that form the building blocks of Western dance techniques (plié, relevé, tendu, dégagé, grand battement, and basic arm movements). The session will include suggestions for teaching cues and imagery based on musculoskeletal anatomy. Participants should wear clothing that permits movement.

Relevance: Dance teachers and medical practitioners will learn tools and strategies to facilitate anatomically-sound technique, thereby enhancing performance and reducing the risk of injury.