My main goal as a teacher of dance is to mentor proficient and innovative performers, scholars and artists who will contribute their talents to enrich and engage both the dance world and public at large. I wish for my students to gain a full understanding of their art and through this understanding push the boundaries of dance to reveal new ways of expression.
When applicable, I use scientific theory to enhance learning. In the dance studio, I utilize a somatic and science-based approach with full consideration of anatomy for students to maximize their technique in a positive learning environment. From the start, I stress the need for my students to become thinking dancers who can identify problems, come up with possible solutions and apply those ideas to improve their dancing and dance-making. I seek for my students to discover how weight and energy can influence motion and how the flow of energy is integral for the way movement is created and performed. This awareness can lead students to develop into artists in their own right and guide them into new directions and discoveries about dance and themselves.
Dance, as with other art forms, has the ability to reflect the state of modern society. As dance has this power, it is my firm belief that it can be used in conjunction with other disciplines in order to grow and to stay relevant. An open mind, combined with a love of learning and a solid foundation, can fuel truly creative expression.
Mary C. Schnepf 