INTERMEDIATE PROGRAM 2 - WEEK 3 (24–28/07/2023)

Contemporary technique class with Susanne Bentley
Remixed ReleaseStrength, alignment, fluidity and economy…and fun!
These contemporary classes are release technique and floor work based, and include contact and other forms of improvisation, as well as other somatic bodywork.
I focus on the body’s alignment and working economically in movement through emphasis on direction, sequencing, impulse and fluidity. Part of working economically is use of the centre and internal musculature, so reinforcing and learning to access that power is a major objective also. Strengthening the upper body for contact and floor work is integrated gradually into the class.
The classes usually start by warming up at ground level: strengthening centre and upper body for taking weight by travelling across the floor with set material or improvisations. With a strong centre we can move fluidly and economically on all levels.
We then move into verticality: alignment (incl. Alexander technique exercises), thoroughly working feet, legs, arms and spine, learning release technique through specific set material. Often contact improvisation or other improvisational material is introduced at this point: working on specific techniques or images (incl. Skinner Releasing) with which to improvise together.
Lastly we transition into movement which travels farther through space: changing directions and levels, using impulse, sequencing and flow, learning set material which builds up to a final phrase that will end the class.
I teach dancers to work with partners, give feedback and take charge of their own education. The most important for me, however, is the enjoyment factor- otherwise why dance?!
Biography Susanne Bentley >>

Yoga class with Stéphane Bourhis
The teaching of Yoga following the BKS Iyengar methodology is based in depth practice of yoga postures and pranayama (art of breathing), with rigorously, intensity and precision of the body alignments.
During the class we gradually explore the outer and the inner geometry of the body in different groups of postures and movements.
Biography Stéphane Bourhis >>

Partnering workshop, improvisation with Emmi Väisänen
In this workshop we will bring awareness to our own body through another body, because we can learn a lot about ourselves through another person.Partnering can help us recognize where we have limitations and patterns and through these discoveries, re-discover ourselves. We will work in duos, groups and also improvise by ourselves, but with assistance of a partner.
The body is complex and while working with a partner there are multiple elements being negotiated constantly: agency, touch, weight. Therefore improving coordination and expanding awareness in our own body can make one more available to another.
In the past years I have been working closely with companies 'not standing' and ECCE, that have influenced and deepened my interest in the search for the unconventional and detailed, intricate movement of the body. This workshop is for curious minds who wish to challenge themselves and through partnering discover more versatility and new pathways within themselves.
Biography Emmi Väisänen >>