The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires. (William Arthur Ward) Beginning dancer, knows nothing. Intermediate dancer, knows everything, too good to dance with beginners. “Hotshot” dancer, too good to dance with anyone. Advanced dancer, dances everything, especially with beginners. (Attributed to Dick Crum) I try to help […]
There were so many wonderful master teachers who helped shape and form my professional life, and whose words will always inspire me. Gifted artists like Jonathan Watts, Alexandra Danilova, Stanley Williams, Robert Joffrey… the list goes on! So, in this section from time to time I will share a few stories/anecdotes from them. Richard Gibson […]
What does charisma mean? Who has it? Can anyone possess it? Does the word hold meaning only to the rich, powerful and famous? I believe within each of us there is a seed of charisma. This seed when cared for and planted is developed into an individual style and confidence. It is our personal magnetism, […]
And may the God of Song and Dance bless you, the Father who started the dance, the Son who calls the tune, and the Spirit who plays the pipes (An Irish Prayer) A great teacher never strives to explain one’s vision – he or she simply invites you to stand alongside and see yourself. (Reverend R. […]
The body is a sacred garment, it should be treated with honour (Martha Graham) The great thing about growing older is that you don’t lose all the other ages you’ve been (Madeleine L’Engle) There are some things you learn best in calm, and some in storm (Willa Cather) Flops are a part of life’s menu […]
Perhaps the greatest gift you can give to yourself is the ability to live in the present. Especially for an artist, this state of being is paramount. And what does it mean to be present? How can it be a present unto yourself? Dancing takes a focussed concentration and for many it is described as […]
Want to give yourself a special present? It won’t cost anything and you can enjoy it forever. Just make a pledge that today, this very moment, you are going to be totally awake. Awake in the moment. Commit yourself to fully participate in the unfolding drama of your life. If you have a shower in […]
In developing your dancing technique, how often do you think about your hands? Probably not a lot. The hands are such a beautiful expression of line. They are the artistic exclamation point of the arms. It is said that the eyes are the windows of the soul. The eyes reveal your feelings. You can smile […]
You use imagery everyday of your life. Mental images are like the blueprints of your hopes and dreams and fears. Have you ever wondered what might be lurking below your feet while swimming in deep water? When you stand at the edge of a high cliff do you wish you could fly like a bird? […]