Movement Laboratory/Workshop:
Our first classes in the workshop series are inspired by the method of the Dance for Parkinson’s program developed by dancers from the Mark Morris Dance Group as well as a similar program at The English National Ballet.
Our entire class is accompanied by the use of music giving a rhythm to the movements. In addition, one of us is always saying the counts of the music out loud while the other is giving oral instructions. In our research we had learned how helpful music and rhythm is to assist people with Parkinson’s to bypass the symptoms of the disease and help them to move.
We start the class on chairs with simple breathing and placement awareness before moving into sitting warm-up exercises for the upper body as well as the legs and feet. We focus on exercises which open and spiral the body to counter the symptoms which shrink and constrict. We had also learned that even the voice can be affected by the disease and can become smaller and more restricted. For this reason, we offer vocal work to warm up the voice, focusing on articulation of different vowels and activation of the facial muscles. The seated section on chairs is closed by a ‘crossing body parts’ coordination exercise to challenge the mind and body. Then a musical march brings up the energy and gets us off the chairs. The musical march brings the participants into the full space and greeting each other. The march ends up behind the chairs and is followed by standing foot-and balance work with the option to hold on to the back of the chair as a preparation for the dances to come.
The next section of the class is going across the floor emphasizing simple dance steps, enjoyment of the music, flow and the pleasure of dancing.
The class closes with a mirroring task where the participants mirror each other in couples. This part of the class opens creativity and interactive listening.
After the class there is a gathering in a circle for some discussion, tea and biscuits. The circle provides a space to reflect on the class, get to know each other better and to socialize.
Our reflections:
Our main aim is to design a class which not only lifts the spirit, but also addresses the various symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease which inhibits their movement. Each class should have an over-all focus such as a specific image/ body part/ theme which we can link back to throughout the class. We plan to add new steps, movements or music for each class and find a balance between repetition and freshness.
Mia and Monica
BrainDance 