Modern IV: Gut Motives – Hermesdorf & Mathias

photo by Ian Douglas

This class operates from a general unified theory of the act of motion -- from internal impulse to external expression -- utilizing a hybrid of forms to encourage deep awareness and understanding of the body.  Motivated from the gut (center & viscera), requiring guts (courage & instinct) and translating to 'good' & 'possession', the practice is a progression of energy cultivation, hands-on instigation, somatic improvisation, technical experiments and methods of falling, flying & inversion, culminating in dynamic, and three-dimensional phrase work.  An intimate and animated arena for physical and artistic exploration deeply informed by live original music, cultivating sensate virtuosity, kinetic efficiency and interactive intelligence.

Kathleen Hermesdorf is a dance maker, improviser, teacher and producer based in San Francisco, CA. She is the Director of la ALTERNATIVA and Alternative Conservatory, in collaboration with musician, Albert Mathias, and in residence at KUNST-STOFF arts.  la ALTERNATIVA is an apparatus for deeply integrated dance and music via improvisation, creation, performance and production.  Alternative Conservatory is a modular, mobile and intensive training ground in dance and related forms.  Hermesdorf was a member of Bebe Miller Company and Margaret Jenkins Dance Company, and worked extensively with Sara Shelton Mann & Contraband.  She co-directed Hermesdorf & Wells Dance Company with Scott Wells and has been in collaboration with Stephanie Maher in Berlin and Stolzenhagen, Germany since 2000, creating performance work and training opportunities through Ponderosa Tanz/Land Festival and PORCH.  Hermesdorf honors her many outstanding teachers and colleagues, holds a BFA and MFA in Dance alongside extensive experience in the field, and has received GOLDIE, IZZIE & BESSIE awards.  She teaches, performs and creates around the world. www.la-alternativa.us
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