I trained many years ago at Northern School of Contemporary Dance (UK) and continued developing my practice in improvisation at the School for New Dance Development (NL) and workshops with artists such as Kirstie Simson, Eva Karczag and Gaby Agis. My dance practice is greatly influenced by Skinner Releasing Technique (SRT) and in 2011 I became a certified teacher. I love its rich imagery and inclusive nature which allows complete beginners and seasoned pros to take class alongside each other. Its principles, such as releasing tension to allow better alignment and new movement to emerge, runs through all my practice which recognizes the interrelation between mind, body and spirit and the importance of play and creativity.
I have a MSc Dance Science and Education from the University of Edinburgh.
Current Projects:
Moving Landscapes
Since 2013, I’ve co-led this 5 day intensive course nearly every year with Rosemary Spencer. Through the week we explore SRT inside and outdoors in beautiful landscapes including Timble Forest and Brimham Rocks. The field of Ecosomatics has recently grown giving much greater awareness to the benefits of moving and being embodied in nature. It’s the highlight of my year 🙂
For more info see our Facebook page.
Northern Ballet
For almost 20 years I have worked for Northern Ballet making dance accessible to all. This has included establishing their multi-sensory Early Years programme, Founding and leading the Ability course for adults with additional learning support needs, leading numerous schools projects and training apprentices, Dance Artists, undergraduates, school teachers and staff internally and externally.
Shift Dance
A notable achievement was leading the Shift Dance research project. Funded by Erasmus + and working with two European partners, the project aimed to develop new teaching practice for dancers with additional learning support needs that enables to fulfil their potential and is underpinned by safe practice. This resulted in the creation of a website resource and international conference in 2021.
Key Freelance work:
I have worked for numerous arts organisations and HE providers. This has included:
- Northern School of Contemporary Dance – guest teacher on BA, MA and CAT programmes
- Leeds Beckett University – Lecturer in Community Dance Practice on BA Dance
Research
Echome Movement Sonification Research Project, University of Leeds
As a member of the core research team I explored the technology’s potential for movement training and composition, including with dancers with additional learning support needs.
Publications
Chapter title Is it working? Challenges concerning use of imagery, learning disabilities and keeping faith (Ed. Emslie, M. 2021) Skinner Releasing Technique Emerging Narratives, Triarchy Press.