Dancing Torah
Two sessions of physical researching in which we dance the holy texts.
Join me for a class in which we dance explorations of the Torah portion. We will start with text study, followed by a warm-up, and physical improvisation.
In this two-session class we will explore the weekly parasha through a deep-listening improvisational practice of dance and movement. We will start with a skill-building warm up. The work emerges from observation, sensation and imagination, inspired by narrative, imagery, trop notation, phrasing and rhythm, the grain of the reader’s voice and a practice of kinetic midrash-making. It’s a great way to experience embodied Torah, as well as a regular dance movement practice.
This class is for adults and teens over 16. All bodies, abilities and levels of experience are welcome, although attending “Availability” would be helpful for new movers.
Please bring a yoga mat (or two) to cushion your feet for stationary work.
While this is technically a barefoot class, if you need more cushion please feel free to wear soft shoes that will stay on (no slides, clogs or sandals without back straps). Shoes should fit well and bend with your feet.
Tuesdays 6/13 and 6/20, 2023
5-6:30pm
The Eastside Jewish Commons, Portland, OR
Week 1:
Sh’lach/שלח
Numbers 13:1-15:41
Availability
To be “available” as a mover means to be ready to move.
This movement practice class is all about increasing our physical capacities to dance, to access our readiness through play and experimentation. We will build our physical libraries through sensation, emotion and creative imagery as a way to move and be moved. The framework of this approach is rooted in Jewish ideas and approaches. Students are invited to explore and express the unique dances that wait within them.
This class is appropriate for adult movers of all levels from advanced dancers to lovers of movement and folks who are new to moving. This class is a great starting point before joining Dancing Torah!
Please bring a yoga mat (or two) to cushion your feet for stationary work.
While this is technically a barefoot class, if you need more cushion please feel free to wear soft shoes that will stay on (no slides, clogs or sandals without back straps). Shoes should fit well and bend with your feet.
Wednesdays, 6/7 & 6/14 from 1-2:30pm
@ the Eastside Jewish Commons
