The workshops are based on the premise that the body is the fundamental instrument of Dance and that, by extension, the player (dancer) and instrument (body) are one and the same: As inseparable from each other as the dancer
is from the dance.
Out of this, Poliana has developed a pedagogical practice which works on (and from) both the purely formal, physical aspects of Dance, as well as the emotional and mental aspects of the dancer, performer or creator.
Observation and research are orientated around these pillars. The workshops encourage participants to develop responsibility for their own learning, in a space that’s open for
real dialogue and cooperation.
Creation
The creation workshops are a space for practice and reflection on the nature of the creative act, with a study on the specificities of choreographic creation, running parallel.
Physical excersices, together with writing practices, will sharpen both personal and collective listening in an effort to develop each participants unique artistic voice.
The creation workshops are tailored to the needs of participants.
Technique and improvisation
The technique and improvisation classes are a personal pedagogical approach, involving the elements of Dance that have revealed themselves to be useful and necessary tools of the trade to Poliana, throughout her training and artistic career.
On one hand, workshops aim to develop focus and increase proprioception through improvisation, putting the student and experience at the core.
On the other hand, technical work, involving set movement and pre-formulated coordinations, aims to frame and facilitate study of the body. This part of the course also seeks to expand strength, mobility and flexibility through the repetition of patterns and choreographic phrases and is very much focused on spinal mobility, with special attention given to relationship possibilities with the limbs.
It is necessary to emphasize that technical work is always at the service of the poetic, the objective being to develop students sensitivity and critical capacity. Thereby enhancing their artistic abilities.