Are we the Champions?
A few hundred years after the first colonizers arrived to this land, most of the old trees that once lived here, are no longer alive. There are a few remaining however. They are called "champion trees". The Pacific northwest is a home for such beings, as well as the Atlantic southeast. I recently went to the Congaree National Park in South Carolina. Here the champions are the largest and oldest trees remaining. Trees too heavy to cut out and float for sale. Ancient, defiant, heavily networked and resilient beings, several hundred years old, holding the memories of what it was like before, and literally creating the very ground beneath our feet.
After visiting these trees, I am left thinking about how we can be more like these champions. What is it that allows for something to withstand devastation and still endure to become a champion? How do we hold onto our values, our integrity, while surrounded by the threat of harm? What is required to withstand, to be resilient, to live with a concern and care for future longevity?
This month, April 10-13, I will be teaching with Evie Ladin and Keith Terry at The Field Center: RHYTHM, HARMONY, FLOW: Body Music + Axis Syllabus. I worked with these beautiful humans for over a decade in California and around the world with Corposonic, and mOtOr. I have been wanting them to teach at The Field Center since its inception, and am so excited about this workshop. Singing and dancing together while creating a groove is one of my favorite things to do in the world! This is an opportunity to practice rhythmic precision, movement coordination and the complex and pleasurable weaving of harmonies. It is for anyone who can talk and swing their arms and legs. Come and have fun with us! Registration and info here!
Later in April, I will be supporting in the work of Nita Little with two workshops focusing on somatic communications April 17-24. This work is grounded in the practice of Contact Improvisation, and involves the practice of deep attention, honesty, and creativity. The first workshop will emphasize skills of Contact Improvisation and dancing in community, and the second workshop will focus more on research practices. These will happen at the Wildheart Center for Movement Research in Upstate New York. There are still spots available in both workshops! Please see here for information/registration for the April 17-20 workshop, and see here for information/registration for the April 21-24 workshop. There will also be a performance on April 27th. Please join us for one or all!
Finally, I will be in the Bay Area producing and teaching in two events this June:
Capoeira Arts Camp is taking place June 16th-20th. I will be teaching alongside Mestre Tico and Asé Arts. Registration information here!
The Bay Area Axis Syllabus Exchange is taking place June 24-29th. More information on teachers, classes, and registration linked here!
I hope to see you at one or all of these events. May we all be Champions!