adf school | practice

practice

technique

“The ADF is the place to discover the incredible range of contemporary dance techniques being taught in the world today. The ADF’s richly varied offerings span the historical spectrum, from classical modern techniques to ballet to release-based ‘counter-techniques’ and styles too new to name. Daily technique class is an essential tool in the preparation and maintenance of the dancer’s body for optimum articulation, strength, and expressivity. Every technique class taught at the ADF is student-centered and will nurture, challenge, provoke, and transform.” –Brenda Daniels

improvisation improvclass

“The purpose of improvisation classes at the ADF is to engage students in an exploration of their creativity. Not overly concerned with a ‘right’ and a ‘wrong’ way to proceed, many different strategies will be used to draw out each participant’s personal and individual dance. There are skills and techniques of improvisation, and the various classes will investigate several of them. These include releasing technique, contact improvisation, improvisation with speaking while moving, improvisation in site specific situations, Improvisation Technologies, etc. In some situations this improvisation work will be an end unto itself, and sometimes it will be used as a compositional tool to lead each student to find his or her unique choreographic voice. There will also be a weekly improvisation jam where students can practice their skills in a safe and supportive environment.”– Ishmael Houston-Jones

composition

“Composition classes at the ADF are an opportunity for students to engage in and explore a wide range of creative processes as they relate to contemporary performance and culture. The ADF’s composition classes celebrate the multiplicity of approaches to process and imagination through classes, artist’s talks, and open showings. Each student is challenged to find their own creative voice, interests, and passions within a thinking and responsive community.” –Neta Pulvermacher

repertory & performance ensemble

The exposure to challenging, diverse repertory is a powerful component in the artistic development of a dancer. At the ADF students build experience by learning and performing specific dance works, both contemporary and historical, of preeminent choreographers. Over the course of the six weeks students will have time to grow, rehearse, and perform. Participation in these classes is determined by open auditions held preview weekend. Students chosen to perform in the Past/Forward program will perform on a shared program in Reynolds Industries Theater as a part of the ADF performance series. This year’s Past/Forward includes a Laura Dean reconstruction by Rodger Belman, an Erick Hawkins reconstruction by Katherine Duke, and a world premier by Mark Dendy.

wednesday open showings pie

“These are times set aside each week for informal showings and feedback on creative work. Questions are asked and suggestions are made as selected community members lead a critical dialogue in response to the work being shown. During this time, students have the opportunity to hear different and intersecting points of view about what motivates choreographers and their work. The conversations that begin during Open Showings continue throughout the summer and help to shape a community where young artists learn to support their fellow artists.” –Donna Faye Burchfield

first two photos: by Noah Hilsenrad
bottom photo: by Nicolle Wasserman