Somatics and Performance Practice

Rationale and Purpose of the Module: This module is one of five modules (three new, one existing and one elective from existing modules) put in place to provide the option of a UL based semester six for this programme. Currently there is a compulsory exchange semester that is no longer viable. This module will provide each student with the opportunity to continue to develop skills to research and develop an informed and intelligent approach to own specific technical needs so they can develop healthy and sustainable practices in preparation for performance; it will also provide the opportunity to develop skills and confidence to create innovative new models for performance; students will specialise in creating a project within a specific context and begin to focus on their preferred options for professional practice. This is particularly focused on the development of final performance programmes

Syllabus: Students will attend workshops during which they will study how somatic practices can support them in developing an enhanced awareness of embodied movement. These workshops will be based on principles drawn from practices such as Pilates, Yoga, Feldenkrais, Alexander technique Body-Mind Centering and T’ai Chi. Students will be required to use these methodologies to develop and extend their performance practice.