Workshop: Exploring Real-Time Composition in Contemporary Dance

Choreography is a decision-making process that can be broken down into its elements. These workshops delve into what it means to think choreographically and what decisions we make when composing in real time. This immersive experience is designed for dance makers, students, and arts professionals who seek to understand more about their thinking process, adding a new method to their toolbox for making dances.

Structured as a dynamic exploration, the class focuses on choreography as a versatile system of instructions adaptable to diverse contexts. Mangiola’s approach, rooted in multiple perspectives and styles, challenges participants to engage with simultaneous viewpoints, bringing ideas to life through movement.

This technical and condensed class offers a glimpse into the ongoing dialogue between dance, movement practice, and contemporary discourses within our interconnected world.

Workshop Structure:

  • Participants will be introduced to the fundamental concepts of real-time composition and its significance in contemporary dance. Mangiola will provide an overview of the workshop structure and goals.

  • A comprehensive warm-up session that focuses on cultivating efficency, strength, and heightened body awareness will be given and participants will engage in exercises specifically tailored to prepare the body for the demands of real-time composition, emphasizing fluidity and responsiveness.Participants will explore movement dynamics, spatial relationships, and the interplay between their bodies and the environment. This section lays the foundation for participants to use the space as a canvas during the composition process.

  • The core principles of real-time composition will be shared through guided directions and the integration of individual decision making, into a cohesive whole. Participants will engage in structured exercises to build confidence in their ability to create in the moment. Participants will apply the techniques learned to collectively build unique and dynamic choreography in real-time, fostering collaboration, communication, and adaptability.

  • Take time to reflect on the workshop experience, share insights, and provide feedback. The facilitator will guide a discussion on the challenges and successes encountered during the real-time composition process.

Outcomes:

  • Enhanced Creativity: Participants will develop the ability to think and be aware of what decisions are taken and why, fostering a deeper connection with their creative instincts and expanding their movement vocabulary.

  • Spatial Awareness: Gain a heightened awareness of the performance space and its role in shaping movement, allowing for more dynamic and intentional choreographic choices.

  • Collaborative Skills: Cultivate the skills necessary for collaborative decision making, fostering a sense of unity.

  • Confidence in Spontaneity: Build confidence in the spontaneity of movement and decision-making, empowering participants to embrace the unpredictable nature of real-time composition.

This immersive experience is designed for dance makers, students, and arts professionals who seek to understand more about their thinking process, adding a new method to their toolbox for making dances.

Mangiola Repertoire Partnering Workshop 

Drawing inspiration from Paolo Mangiola’s repertoire, this workshop is designed for dancers, professionals and vocational students, eager to delve into the intricacies of partnering work, trust, and dynamic collaboration that define Mangiola's unique choreographic style.

Workshop Structure:

  • The beginning of the workshop will introduce Mangiola's distinctive signature, exploring key elements of his repertoire and focusing on transitions, weight sharing, and the seamless integration of connections into movement.

  • A tailored warm-up focused on preparing the body for the physical demands of partnering work will be taught to participants, engaging in exercises aimed at building strength, flexibility, and trust between dance partners. Participants will learn how to navigate weight distribution, counterbalance, and intricate lifts.

  • Participants will work closely with the facilitators to learn and embody specific choreographic sequences, gaining a first hand understanding of Mangiola's unique movement language. This segment also fosters a space for dancers to experiment, adapt, and contribute to the development of original duet choreography.

  • The workshop concludes with a reflective session, where participants share their experiences, challenges, and insights. The facilitators will provide feedback and guidance, fostering a supportive environment for growth and improvement.

Outcomes:

  • Technical Proficiency: Develop a solid foundation in Paolo Mangiola's partnering techniques, including lifts, counterbalance, and seamless transitions, enhancing overall technical proficiency in duet work.

  • Collaborative Creativity: Hone the ability to collaborate creatively with a dance partner, fostering a shared language that goes beyond steps and movements.

  • Artistic Inspiration: Gain inspiration from Paolo Mangiola's unique choreographic style, encouraging participants to infuse their own artistic voice into the partnering work.