Teaching

Please note: The classes listed below can be adapted to fit all ages, populations and abilities. Custom-made classes for specific groups or populations may also be requested.
For information on upcoming classes check out my calender.

WORKSHOPS/RESIDENCIES

Structured Improvisation

Using improvisation in a variety of structured formats, we will explore different ways of creating movement. We will start the class with a warm-up to help get students used to moving bodies around the space in ways that are both rooted in relaxation and exercise; the goal is to gain awareness of limbs, bones, guts and heart. This type of awareness helps individuals be more present, listen to instinct, trust oneself and to be able to make decisions from a place deeper than the mind. After a warm-up students will explore different ways to create movement, following the impulse of improvisation within a clear structure. This type of workshop invites students to be creative, to look at dance and art in a new and different way. The joy in this class comes partly from the sheer brilliance and creativity that lies in each of us.  No prior experience necessary. All sizes and abilities welcome.

Photo (top) Flynn Center for the Performing Arts 

Stomping Stories: Performance Art Skills and Experience
 
Using improvisation we will explore different ways of creating stories and movement.  We all have many stories that contribute to how we see ourselves and how we operate in the world. Very rarely, however, do we have the opportunity to tell our stories and really be heard, and in that same light we rarely have the opportunity to fully witness each other's stories. By sharing our stories through movement and narrative we are building bridges between each other and contributing to the growth of community. Creativity and an open mind is all that is needed to enjoy this workshop; no prior experience necessary. All sizes and abilities welcome.

Swimming Lessons

Diving deep into the creative process, Lida leads exercises to help participants understand how to engage in their own creative narratives. She will share insight on her own struggles to overcome a disability. Using improvisation, participants explore different ways of creating stories and movement together. Telling and hearing each other’s stories requires risk, but by sharing them we build bridges between each other. This hands-on/feet-on workshop will appeal to many students who have struggled as learners, prospective teachers who envision teaching to a class full of diverse learning styles, as well as instructors who continually strive to assure that content and discourse is available to all students. Creativity and an open mind is all that is needed to enjoy this class- no prior experience necessary. All sizes and abilities welcome.

Photos: Left by Derrick Senior
Above - Gene Parulis
Background image by Gorka Bravo

As a performing arts educator, I encourage students to see themselves, their bodies, and their environment from a new angle. It is my hope that what transpires within the class is brought out into the world, as we walk taller with our heads held higher we see each other. I believe that art is a translator of truth. Our need to communicate comes through our words and body no matter what our background is. It is my hope that all students leave my class feeling seen and inspired.