Module #1 - Contemporary Dance Technique

The focus of this module is to establish the foundations of contemporary dance technique. The exploration of technique will be divided into three categories: basic movement patterns, extended movement sequences, and technical improvisations.

On the theoretical side, this module will delve into the 'Technical Parameters Toolkit,' an empirical system of self-analysis designed to assist each student in recognizing shortcomings and developing the ability to self-correct technical errors.

Detail breakdown of module 1:

Unit 1 (4.5 hours): Floor technique

Unit 2 (4.5 hours): Vertical traveling - Spirals and slides

Unit 3 (4.5 hours): Spinal mechanics

Unit 4 (4.5 hours): Coordination practice

Unit 5 (4.5 hours): Falling techniques

Unit 7 (3 hours): Turns and spins

Module #2 - Partner Work

In this module, the students will be exposed to foundational principles of parter work through the exploration of repeatable forms and technical improvisations. We will use our technical foundation to explore the vast landscape of partner improvisation. On the theoretical side, in this module we will examine the ‘Kinetic Flow Compass’ - an empirical system to describe the manifestation of kinetic energy in relation to the environment and other moving objects/people.

Detail breakdown of module 2:

Unit 1 (4.5 hours): Skin sensitivity

Unit 2 (4.5 hours): Ground Movements

Unit 3 (4.5 hours): Weight Sharing

Unit 4 (4.5 hours): Level changes

Unit 5 (4.5 hours): Inversions

Unit 6 (3 hours): Big lifts and jumps

Module #3 - Dance Improvisation / Movement Research

Detail breakdown of module 3:

Unit 1 (10,5 hours): Body, time and space - from simple to complex tasks

Unit 2 (10,5 hours): Working with imagery and imagination

Unit 3 (9 hours): Group improvisation skills

Unit 4 (9 hours): Integrating movement research into creation

Unit 5 (7,5 hours): Jamming - longer improvisation session with a given score

Module #4 - Individual Creation / Performance Practice

In this module each participant will be encouraged to work on an individual creation. We will explore different performance strategies and composition methods through exercises, theory, discussions and individual work. The sessions will alternate between individual/group exercises and presentations and feedback.

Detail breakdown of module 3:

Unit 1 (4.5 hours): Searching inspiration - where does movement come from?

Unit 2 (6 hours): Creation approaches in contemporary dance

Unit 3 (6 hours): Performance strategies

Unit 4 (6 hours): Composition tools (individual)

Unit 5 (6 hours): Composition tools (group)

Unit 6 (24 hours): Individual work on creation, feedback

Module #5 - Self Practice/Individual Rehearsals

The final module is the self-initiated module. Each student can choose the number of hours to participate, with a minimum requirement of 12 hours. Engagement in this module should be initiated by each student with the aim of deepening their understanding of the materials taught in classes and further developing their individual creations in preparation for the final presentation in the last week of the program.

The module is designed as a flexible structure where each student can decide the level of intensity and engagement suitable for their pace and development, on a week-to-week basis. Participation in this module can take place during the studio times we offer or elsewhere, according to each student’s capacity and desire.

Registration process:

Acceptance to the program is conditioned by having a personal interview with The Movement Lab director Matan Levkowich. A demonstrated commitment to the program and the group process will be assessed and regarded as the primary criterion for acceptance or rejection of an applicant.

Certification

To receive the Movement Lab Study Group certificate you need to:

1. Attendance of at least 90% for modules 1+2 and 12 hours of module 3
2. Send 2 videos for each module, documenting the materials you have learnt (solo and partner videos).
3. Form a peer group and spend a minimum of 6 hours of practice together on the material of the program.
4. Submit a final report on your experience in the program detailing what you have learnt and benefited from the program personally.

Certification outcome

The Study Group certificate would support you in the following (in accordance with your own responsibility and self engagements) :

1. To be accepted to audition for professional dance education programs such as Sozo-VIM.
2. To integrate into your professional engagement in other fields of embodied work.
3. To hold group sessions and teach private classes in the fields of contemporary dance, contact improvisation and partner work.