Rob List (from Amsterdam) - performance workshop March 13, 2010

One of the major challenges for the performing artist, no matter what form or style of dance, mime or theater, is actually ‘being in the moment’ when performing. How does one avoid getting ahead of oneself, acting only from memory, being overly self-conscious or self-analyzing when moving or acting onstage.

Studio Soto is pleased to host the return to Boston of the award-winning American choreographer and performer based in Holland, Rob List, following his performance here last April. He will conduct a special two-day workshop on performance, based on his unique approach to movement and the pedagogical tools he uses to develop composition and illuminate the performer's presence. For more information about his work and methods, read an article on his website www.ozu.nl/news.html; view his videos of performance workshop "models" http://www.vimeo.com/videos/search:colaboratorio2009; and follow his blog, Mirror to the Flower: http://roblist.wordpress.com/. To inquire and sign up for the workshop, contact Jed Speare at jed@studiosoto.com or call 617-426-7686.

In this workshop we will look at some basic principles and techniques to help overcome these difficulties. We will begin each day’s work with specific drawing exercises to stimulate concentration, bringing the eye in sync with the act of drawing — without engaging memory, planning or self-judgment. We will then create a simple movement phrase to use as a model in order to successively examine different techniques for bringing the performing mind and body together. We will deal with topics like no repetition, no symmetry, no simultaneity, precarious balance, and inhalation as inspiration.

As well throughout the workshop we will continuously examine the ideologies of movement, choreography and the dramaturgies of performance, and how these can affect meaning in theater and dance. We will attempt to collapse the distance between viewer and performer, to see how interpretation and judgment can be subverted in a search for a new and unexpected way of moving and being onstage. The goal is a continuously open and fresh approach to the act of performance.

This is an open workshop for dancers, actors, directors, performance artists, teachers and everyone who is interested in how the body communicates meaning in movement, gesture and posture. No previous qualifications or experience needed.

Rob List is an American choreographer based in Amsterdam, who has developed a highly unique stage language that seeks to subvert meaning and create a contemporary and individual role for dance outside the modern and post-modern tradition. For the past twenty years he has performed and taught his work in Europe, Brazil and the US. He has won numerous awards, and worked with many young dancers and performers in his company OZU. In 2007 he was movement advisor to Anna Teresa De Keersmaeker in the making of her solo “Keeping Still.” In June he will be in a special month long residence at Parkers Box Gallery in New York, presenting new and old works with his international company.

More information about Rob List and his work at www.ozu.nl.

Official Website: http://www.studiosoto.org