News
Symposium considers new directions for dance
A forum and masterclass event to demonstrate and expand inclusive dance practice in NSW is being presented by Accessible Arts in July 2011. Leaders and innovative thinkers in dance from across the country will share knowledge, experience and skills, to inspire new directions for inclusive dance practice.
The masterclass will offer a professional and integrated creative process experience. The forum will be facilitated by Jeff Meiners, Lecturer of Education, Arts and Social Sciences at South Australia University and forerunner in dance and disability education and outreach programs, both nationally and internationally.
Panel members include:
- Philip Channells, Artistic Director of Restless Dance Theatre, an industry leader in the field of disability arts practice achieving national and international acclaim.
- Cathy Murdoch the Director of Ausdance, the peak professional body for dance in NSW, bringing her wealth of knowledge in arts management and strategic planning.
- Tim Podesta the Artistic Director of Disassemble Dance Project, a creative development program in regional NSW, working with disabled and able bodied dancers to create a multimedia dance piece.
To register download the registration form (Word, 102KB) and return by 29 June 2011.
Dance Symposium
When: 8 July 2011
- Forum 9:30am – 2:00pm
- Masterclass 2:30pm – 5:30pm (limited to 25 participants)
Where: Track 12, Carriageworks, 245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh NSW
Who: Emerging and professional dancers with and without disability, dance industry professionals, teachers, choreographers, performers with movement background, educators with dance experience and arts practitioners with an interest in disability arts. The Master class is suitable for people with some dance experience interested in developing an awareness of improvisation techniques to inform the beginnings of creating new work.
Access: Fully accessible venue, amenities and parking. More access information.
Cost: $50 or $40 concession (includes lunch and refreshments).
Contact: Sarah-Vyne Vassallo, Arts Development Officer (part-time Thursday & Friday) tel: 9251 6499 ext 110 or artsdevelopment@aarts.net.au.
On Friday 8 July 2011, a diverse group of contributors passionate about supporting inclusive dance practice in NSW gathered at CarriageWorks to participate in Accessible Arts' Dance Symposium.
After six years of support from Accessible Arts and Sydney Dance Company, Accessible Dance classes will be managed by an independant dance practitioner with a passion for using dance and movement to work with people from all groups and backgrounds.
Natalie Hamam approached Accessible Arts during the middle of 2009 to enquire about dance companies that are accessible to people who are wheelchair users. Her and her partner Anthony Lloyd are not professional dancers, but have a passion for dance and go clubbing whenever they can.


