As a practice, dance reflects curiosity, humanity, and dedication. I was introduced to these ideas in my early days of movement classes taught from a small studio at the back of a strip mall in Colorado. I entered the amazing world of dance through ritual, imagination, and enhanced creativity, all of which informed my journey and grounds my current practice.
My teaching philosophy is anchored in the complexities and joys that come with venturing deeply into our bodies, particularly the complexities offered by the recognition of multiple abilities and body types. As an educator, I create learning environments that value individuality and celebrate difference as a creative force. Dance then becomes a tool for crafting social possibilities to make life understandable and meaningful by offering an expanded vision of beauty and the moving body.
As a loyal ally for disability rights in the arts, I approach the classroom with a deep commitment to inclusivity, informed by my engagement with the Parkinson’s and physically integrated dance communities. I recognize the necessity of accommodating diverse learning styles and access needs, ensuring that all movers can fully participate. In these communities, my classes focus on the essence of movement—exploring shifts in gait patterns, purposeful neuromuscular balance, connection to rhythmic structures, and embodied empathy. My participation in the disabled dance community has deepened my understanding of dance as a powerful metaphor for all movement—both the visible shifts in physical expression and the internal shifts in perception, emotion, and identity. Through this lens, I see dance as an embodiment of joy, intensity, and resilience. I believe that cultivating joy and staying curious are human duties, guiding my teaching, choreography, and artistic practice.
Dancing Through Parkinson’s
Invertigo Dance Theatre’s Dancing Through Parkinson’s (DTP) program has sparked a sense of community through the power of dance. DTP has been an important catalyst in creating a safe environment for physical activity, social interaction and mental stimulation. Our dancers show up to move, create, laugh, and share their best selves. The structure of the Dancing Through Parkinson’s program demonstrates how the principles of a dance class can become the foundation to success in daily living.
guest teacher David Leventhal with our DTP team!
