Developed by Anouk van Dijk, Countertechnique® provides tools for body and mind to deal with the demanding dance practice of the 21st century. It is a movement system to help the dancer think about the dancing body, focusing on the process of incorporating information into action. Within a clear structure of exercises, the Countertechnique class thoroughly prepares the body for rehearsal and performance, enabling dancers to move bigger, more fluidly and more spatially in relation to whatever else is external and in relation with the body.
The consistent use of the directions and counter directions in all movements is key to the technique; both the awareness and application of this principle is trained throughout the Countertechnique® class. Dancers are introduced step-by-step to the various tools – making sure, however, that the priority always lies with experiencing and enjoying the difference in moving, rather than first having to understand the tools intellectually.
Dancers are encouraged to be pro-active in discovering connections and solutions. Throughout the process dancers increasingly become their own teachers, allowing them to practice and progress even at times when a teacher is not available.
The workshop will be organised in two different section : the Countertechnique® warm-up, consisting on a recurring set of exercises, and a section where dancers will investigate on a deeper level the tools and principles around the technique. Through improvisation and guided exploration, with a particular attention to the ability of consciously shifting attention while dancing, like between two body parts, or two persons in relation or between the bodies and the space they live in. Both sessions feed and support themselves allowing the dancers to have a deep and profound experience.
