Beyond the box – a collaborative choreographic project 2020
Inspired by the poem 'To Express a Feeling' by Jacqueline Suskin, The NSW Public Schools Dance Ensemble 2020 created a dance work about expanding one's imagination. Students in Years 4-12 collaborated remotely with dance ensemble tutor and choreographer, Lexy Panetta to produce the two films presented here.
Safety tips for online movement classes if you wish to participate
- You have been given approval from your parent/caregiver prior.
- You will clear a spot in your home big enough to give you space to move around. Be sure there are no coffee tables, plants or chairs in the way.
- Be aware of any pets or small humans that may sneak into your dance space.
- Check the height of ceiling fans and light fittings so the area is clear as you reach above your head.
- You will wear comfortable clothing that allows a full range of movement.
- This will include appropriate footwear:
- Sneakers, socks, ballet slippers, jazz shoes or bare feet.
- You may have to adjust based on the flooring you are dancing on.
- Bare feet may be better than ballet slippers on a slippery floor. Socks may be better on carpet.
- Be careful if you are on a rug on a slippery floor.
If you have an injury or a medical condition please follow the advice of your health professional. It is suggested you view the exercises beforehand and adjust according to your limitations.
Please stay safe, listen carefully to all the instructions.
If you study dance please think about your knowledge of safe dance practice as you execute the instructions.
The work
Based on contemporary dance sequences designed by choreographer Lexy Panetta, students explored contrasts of confinement, looking to the horizon and expanding ideas from within. Improvisational movement tasks were selected, repeated and taught to the members of the group virtually, then recorded and collated to produce the two films.
This has been fantastic journey of connection. A way for us to respond creatively to the year 2020.