Why choose a workshop for the performance?
The workshops help children to understand, absorb and develop creative principles from the performance. They have the opportunity not only to reflect on the production directly and together with the artists, but above all to try out the creative process and the possibilities of using movement to render diverse, often abstract themes. Children thus encounter contemporary dance in a non-violent, experiential way. Thanks to this, new ways of perceiving a dance work are opened up for them.
Isn’t the interaction and discussion after the performance enough?
“In the theatre, children are part of the performance, which they perceive with all their senses, being drawn into the performance and the environment. The dance workshop at school is work where pupils become little dancers and experience the connection of thought, imagination, words and real live violin playing with their own body.” (primary school teacher)
When and where do the workshops take place?
The workshops can take place before or after watching the performance, right at your school. They are carried out in the gym, or even in a classroom or other suitable space. It is possible to order a workshop for several classes in a row. The date and time depends on mutual agreement.
Who leads the workshops?
The workshops are led by professional artists from the respective performances (usually choreographers/dancers and musicians).
How are the workshops conducted?
The workshops usually last for one lesson hour, accompanied by live music and led by a professional instructor.
What do the children learn?
In addition to movement, the workshops develop imagination, creativity, abstract thinking, the ability to work independently or in groups, and above all movement self-expression. Thanks to the live musical accompaniment, they also teach the ability to perceive and respond to music. At the same time, they introduce children to the principles of working with space, dynamics and the centre of gravity of their bodies.
If you are still undecided about whether to order a workshop for your school, perhaps the impressions of Daniela Volejníková, a teacher who has already experienced a workshop with us, will help you.
Why did you also choose a workshop and what do you think it brought to the children in addition to the performance?
“I chose the dance workshop that follows the Carnival of Animals performance, with the idea that it will deepen the experience that the students absorb in the theatre.
In the theatre, children are part of the performance, which they perceive with all their senses, being drawn into the performance and the environment. The dance workshop at school is work where pupils become little dancers and experience the connection of thought, imagination, words and real live violin playing with their own body. In close cooperation and with the guidance and support of professional dancer Bára Látalová, they try to move their own bodies as a means of expression. This direct contact and joy from the “work” brings them another kind of experience.
I feel that this manner of personal development has a place in school, and I am glad that the children very sensitively captured all these aspects in their evaluation of the dance workshop at the school.
It was amazing!”
Mgr. Daniela Volejníková, class teacher II.C
Nad vodovodem Primary School