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 informed by engagement with the Parkinson’s and physically integrated dance communities. I recognize the importance of accommodating differences in learning styles and access to resources. In these populations, my classes focus on the essence of movement that introduce changes of gait patterns, purposeful neuromuscular balance, connection to musical tempos, and embodied empathy. My participation in the disabled dance community has given me insight on increased states of consciousness in time, body image, feelings of rejuvenation, grace and beauty all of which produce cathartic moments to feelings and sensations that cannot be verbalized.
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!
