Natural Body in Somatics Dance Training

Somatics is a popular dance training method that originated in the 1960s as an alternative and dissident form of dance education. It is now found in dance curricula worldwide, helping to shape the look and sensibilities of dancers and choreographers. The Natural Body in Somatics Dance Training is the first book to examine Somatics in detail, tracing its history and development in different locales. It emphasizes the concept of the natural body and the importance of a natural way of moving as central to the claims of Somatics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 10 December 2020
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Somatics, a transformative approach to dance training that originated in the 1960s as an alternative and dissident form, has emerged as one of the most widely adopted and influential methods for educating dancers in the late 20th century. Its widespread presence in dance curricula worldwide has profoundly shaped the aesthetic and sensibilities of dancers and choreographers, influencing a significant portion of the dance performed on stages across the globe.

One of the pioneering works in exploring Somatics in depth and analyzing its teachings within the dance studio is "The Natural Body in Somatics Dance Training." This book delves into the process by which dancers discover and incorporate new movement patterns and the broader cultural values associated with these movements. It traces the historical development of Somatics, highlighting its evolution in different regions while engaging with local politics and dance histories. By doing so, the book establishes a distinctive pedagogy that shares fundamental concepts with other national and regional contexts while still maintaining its unique identity.

Through its focus on the concept of the natural body and the significance of a natural way of moving, the author emphasizes the core claims made by Somatics regarding its effectiveness and legitimacy. Somatics emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with the innate wisdom of the body, promoting a deeper understanding of movement mechanics, and fostering a more embodied and intuitive approach to dance. By guiding and shaping the experience of bodily sensation, constructing forms of reflexive evaluation of bodily action, and fostering relationships between bodies, Somatics aims to cultivate an embodied politics that goes beyond mere performance.

In conclusion, Somatics has emerged as a transformative force in dance training, revolutionizing the way dancers approach movement, creativity, and self-expression. Its widespread adoption and influence have shaped the aesthetics and sensibilities of dancers and choreographers, contributing to the rich diversity and evolution of dance as an art form. By emphasizing the natural body and the importance of a natural way of moving, Somatics offers a holistic and integrated approach to dance training that empowers dancers to reach their full potential and make a profound impact on the world of dance.

Weight: 344g
Dimension: 196 x 311 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197538746