Body Wisdom for Performers

Semester and Year	FA 2011
Course Number	ARTS-UG1107
Section	001
Instructor	Robin Powell
Days	Tue
Time	6:20 PM - 9:00 PM
Units	4.0
Level	U
Foundation Requirement

Description

This experiential workshop explores the theory and practice of The Alexander Technique, The Feldenkrais Method, Kinetic Awareness, and other body awareness techniques. The developers of these methods recognize that the ability to notice sensations, feelings, differences, and changes in the body lead to better integration of the mind and body and can effect profound changes in functioning. These techniques are valuable for performing artists who want to gain more freedom of expression, range of motion, comfort, concentration and presence in their work and daily lives. By using focused attention to sense your body in motion and at rest muscular tension and poor body habits that interfere with performance can be released. The course is designed for the student who is ready to commit to an in-depth investigation of their body and is ready to make physical and mental changes through quiet focused attention. Each class will be divided between lecture, discussion, and experiential material.Students will keep a detailed journal relating to their experience in and out of class, their practice of the exercises, and weekly readings. In addition, essays will be assigned. Readings include Mirka Knaster's The Knowing Body and a packet of articles on the various methods.

Course Type

Arts Workshops (ARTS-UG)