Ecological Bodying

Performance Creation/Research, Dance/Somatics, Practice/Theory

International Aerial Dance Festival, Boulder Colorado 2011, 2012, 2013

Rope Creation Lab Class: Exploring Climbing, Partnering, Swinging and Floor Work on
Vertical Ropes*
Kevin O’Connor
Mon. – Fri. August 1-5 AND August 8-12. 5:30 – 7:00 PM
This creation lab will provide time and tools to focus on subtle, in between instants and ethereal moments as we move on and between vertical ropes. We explore both the hanging sphere and all the places in between as we ramp our movement down to the floor. We will also explore weight sharing and partnering skills in the hanging sphere. Efficient lifting mechanics; appropriate weight distribution; counterweight and the idea of swinging up and on will be examined. We will use hanging ropes as a third support and as a swing to ramp up and onto our partners. We will explore ways to move our partnering skills from the horizontal to the vertical realm and ways to move using multiple ropes.

2. Ramping Up For Beginners- From the Floor to the Hanging Sphere
This class will explore movement from the floor to the hanging sphere and back down. Using suspended ropes, the movement material offered will explore ways to transition from the floor to hanging sphere in a fluid manner. In doing so we will transition movement from horizontal to the vertical realm. This class will examine efficient climbing principles and ways of finding rest in the air. Through set phrases we will explore how the undulating spine recycles kinetic energy and can ultimately lift us off the ground. Finally we will examine how in harnessing gravity one can find freedom in the hanging sphere. We will move slowly so that the participant has the time to incorporate the principles into their body.

3. Ramping Up for Advanced: Linking Set Choreography from the Floor to the Hanging Sphere
Using suspended ropes, movement material will be offered that explores ways to transition from the floor to hanging sphere in a fluid manner. In doing so we will transition movement from horizontal to the vertical realm. Through set phrases we will explore how the undulating spine recycles kinetic energy and can ultimately lift us off the ground. We will also explore how functional architect and the placement of external supports (hands and feet) aids in the transition from the floor to the hanging sphere. Finally we will examine how in harnessing gravity one can find freedom in the hanging sphere and ultimately create powerful and dynamic movement without strain. Gradual addition of movement phrases to each other will lead to long phrases intertwining the different principles from the floor, through standing and into climbing, all in relation to the vertical ropes. This course is for experienced aerialists who can invert with ease.