Date of Award

2019

First Advisor

Anne O'Dwyer

Second Advisor

Kati Garcia-Renart

Abstract

This project developed out of my interest in broader applications of dance as an alternative approach to psychotherapy that utilizes movement both as a means of diagnosis and treatment. In the work, I strongly connected with ideas about fostering a connection between emotional awareness and physical expression. In the narrative portion of the project, I discuss three foundational techniques: authentic movement, physical storytelling, and kinesthetic empathy, as well as parts of the self that are relevant to this work: mind, body, heart, and soul. The performance portion this thesis involved rehearsals and choreography that aimed to encourage the dancers to connect with their dancing bodies and consider the physicality that each movement requires. The dance performance consisted of five pieces in which the relationship between dancers and audience members was also challenged. The narrative explores the questions that emerged from the audience following the performance, as well my own reflections on the process.

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