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The Art of Listening: Intuition & Improvisation in Choreography

Darla Johnson

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Modern dance has evolved over time to encompass a wide variety of definitions. Stepping out of comfort zones and following the voice of improvisation is a much-needed necessity for modern choreographers."Listening is exactly where we need to start," says author Darla Johnson, founder of the Dance Department at Austin Community College in Austin, Texas. The world of dance revolves around listening - to other dancers, students, the environment, and to oneself. Choreography takes the reader on a guided tour of the different landmarks of listening needed to take a dance from idea to actuality.This book also explores how to listen to and express your creative voice, engage in creative processes and what practices work for each person as a choreographer, along with practical advice on rehearsal and performance etiquette. Those desiring to choreograph professionally will gain insight into what it takes to keep an improvisational mentality, the most basic tool for dance-making.

225 pages, Paperback

First published April 21, 2012