Somatics and Dance:
Summer Intensive 2025

Moving in Relation: through Shape, Space and Environment
focusing on themes from the Shape and Space categories of the Laban/ Bartenieff Movement Studies System, in direct applications to Somatic Dance Practice.

This summer intensive offers somatic classes, as well as Pedagogy classes for dance artists who teach (or want to teach). Classes focus on being relationship through shape, space and environment inspired by concepts found within the Laban Movement Studies System. Learn how to shape and carve space in the kinesphere, with inner bodily support, in direct application to dance. Together we learn and discover that our bodies take-shape-in-relation and that this being in relation is what creates space. The intensive also explores shaping in relation to self, objects, nature and others. The notion of kinesthetic empathy is also addressed as we dance with others. All classes are taught with a somatic approach to dance.

July 7th to 11th, 2025
10:00am-4:05 pm (Friday ends at 3:00pm)
Scotiabank Dance Centre in downtown Vancouver, BC, Canada

photo by Rui Nunes of dancers Bryony Ollier, and Avis Yang in class with Donna

Dance Artists, Dance Teachers, Dance Facilitators and Dance Enthusiasts (with a min of 2 yrs dance experience) interested in Laban Movement Studies and a Somatic Approach to Dance are welcome to register.

This intensive is for dance artists who like to explore, ask questions, investigate, and remain curious. The classes weave movement theory and somatic dance practice in a symbiotic way.

Those who attend the intensive all week may be able to use the 24 hours towards the 150 hour Somatic Teacher Training Mentorship Certificate. Those interested should contact Donna directly as there is an application process required for those who qualify. If interested in the Somatic Teacher Training Certification Program click here for more information

Summer Intensive Schedule:

Morning Session

10:00am-11:30am: Somatics and Dance Class 1/ based on specific Laban theme/ concept

11:35am-12:35pm: Pedagogy class*/ putting concepts of prior class into somatic teaching practice

*students must attend the 10-11:30am class.

12:35-1:30: Lunch Break (55 minutes)

Afternoon Session

1:30-3:00pm: Somatics and Dance Class 2/ based on a specific Laban theme/ concept

3:05-4:05pm Pedagogy Class*/ putting concepts of prior class into somatic teaching practice

*Students must attend 1:30-3:00pm class.

*No Pedagogy class on Friday. Friday ends at 3:00pm.

Each day focuses on a different concepts from the Shape and Space Categories within the Laban System - in direct applications to dance.

Register for the whole week, or just the classes that work for your schedule.

Registration Deadline June 14th