In this special episode, the Dance Gems team shines a spotlight on an unmissable event: the Dance GEM International Innovation Seminar 2025, hosted in the beautiful city of Kerkrade, Netherlands, byTon Greten, creator of the GEM method, to discuss everything you need to know about the upcoming seminar, its unique format, the guest lineup, and what sets this conference apart from anything else in the dance world.
Ton shares insights into why he brought the seminar to his own dance studio after two years in Berlin, reveals the impressive roster of international professional dancers and choreographers attending, and explains how the GEM method transcends dance disciplines. Whether you're a teacher, student, seasoned pro, or passionate amateur—this seminar promises inspiring crossovers and new ways of thinking about movement, dance education, and creativity.
1. Cross-Disciplinary Learning & Collaboration
This conference brings together top-level dancers and teachers from diverse backgrounds: ballroom, classical ballet, hip-hop, breakdance, contemporary, and more. You’ll experience a rare environment where diverse dance styles connect, collaborate, and exchange ideas. (You’ll witness and participate in genuine crossovers between genres—something Ton says is “very unusual” and “probably once in a lifetime.”)
2. The GEM Method: Dance from a Different Perspective
Ton Greten’s method—built from 15,000+ hours of research—offers tools, strategies, and language for teaching, learning, and moving that apply to all dance styles and all ages. The focus on language, proprioception, musicality, and neologisms helps dancers break out of their usual patterns and see dance through a fresh lens—no matter your experience or background.
3. Inclusive & Supportive Community
The seminar is open to all ages and levels, from world-class professionals to dedicated amateurs. Each participant is treated equally, fostering a true sense of community and shared inspiration. “Quality has no age,” says Ton, and learning here happens through discovery, dialogue, and stepping out of your comfort zone.
4. International Connections & Unique Experiences
Meet colleagues and dancers from across the globe—America, Egypt, Russia, Curacao, the Netherlands, and more. You’ll have the chance to connect, learn, and share experiences with people you’d likely never meet otherwise. Plus, you’ll experience Dutch hospitality in Kerkrade, with great local food and a beautiful dance studio setting.
Dates:
November 29-30, 2025
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (each day), with regular breaks
Location:
Kerkrade, Netherlands (Ton Greten’s dance school; 210 m² of studio space)
Who’s Attending:
Dancers and choreographers from contemporary, ballet, Latin, ballroom, hip hop, breakdance, and more—including self-employed artists, company dancers, and amateurs. New participants welcome!
How to Register / More Info:
Contact Ton Greten via social media or his website: www.gem.dance
Event details, accommodations, and travel tips provided upon inquiry.
The seminar is a rare opportunity for all levels and all ages to learn, collaborate, and innovate together.
The GEM method emphasizes creativity, language, and sensory experience in dance—inviting you to “dance from a different perspective.”
Open-mindedness is the key. Expect aha moments, simplification of complex ideas, and inspiration that lasts beyond the event.
Space is limited—over 20 world-class participants are already registered, but there is room for you to join.
Podcast Website: www.gem.dance/podcast
Listen on: Spotify (Dance Gems), Apple (Dance Jam), YouTube (@TonGretenPodcast)
Questions or Registration: Reach out directly to Ton Greten or contact the hosts via show notes/social media.
We hope to see you at the Dance GEM International Innovation Seminar—where inspiration, connection, and dance innovation await!
Episode Summary: In this very special episode of Dance GEMS, host Jean welcomes an illustrious panel to celebrate 50 years of the Tanz-Trainer-Sport-Kongress—a cornerstone event in the German dance community. Joined by Peter Mangelstorf, Evelyn Hadrich-Hormann, and Ton Greten, the group dives deep into the inspiring history, colorful anecdotes, and enduring legacy of this unique annual gathering for dance teachers and trainers.
Guests:
Host:
Highlights:
Takeaways:
Special Thanks: To Evelyn and Peter for their decades of dedication, to Ton for bridging international perspectives, and to all who keep the spirit of Tanz-Trainer-Sport-Kongress alive.
Stay Tuned: Don’t miss future episodes of Dance GEMS for more inspiring stories and deep dives into the world of dance!
For more information on the Tanz-Trainer-Sport-Kongress and upcoming events, keep following Dance GEMS—where dance legends and stories come alive!
Episode Summary
In this engaging episode of Dance GEMS, Ton Greten and Jean Dorff dive deep into the nuanced topic of freedom of choice in dance. They explore whether dancers really have control over their own decisions, or if external and internal factors—like organizations, rules, traditions, and upbringing—limit personal agency. Through real-life stories, comparisons across dance styles, and honest reflections, they shed light on how choice, freedom, and power dynamics play out in studios, companies, and competitions. The conversation also branches into the responsibility of teachers, the psychological side of decision-making, and the unspoken influences shaping every dancer’s journey.
Join Ton and Jean as they encourage dancers, teachers, and dance lovers to reflect on the real scope of their choices. Are you truly free—or just following someone else’s choreography off the dance floor?
Share your thoughts, and don’t forget to check out previous episodes on teaching styles and coaching dynamics.
For more resources and episodes, visit the Dance GEMS podcast archive.
5 Key Takeaways from Jean5 Key Takeaways from TonListen & Reflect
In this episode, Jean Dorfff and Ton Greten dive into the different functions, or roles, involved in teaching dance. They highlight that, like in any professional field, teaching dance has evolved from a generalist role to a range of specialized jobs.
Jean distinguishes between key roles: dance teacher, who imparts foundational knowledge; coach, who focuses on a dancer’s developmental process; and choreographer, who creates routines and innovates movement. They note that while one person can fill multiple roles, it’s crucial to understand the unique responsibilities and boundaries of each.
Ton shares his own journey from dance teaching to choreographing across various styles and stresses the value of building a diverse skill set. The discussion expands to include repetitors (who help dancers rehearse choreography), trainers (focusing on physical preparation and safety), judges, and even less obvious roles like mental coaches, lecturers, and dance researchers. Both hosts emphasize the value of teamwork and clear communication, echoing how in non-dance contexts (like sports or TV), collaborative teams deliver the best results.
They explore practical scenarios, such as the risks when a repetitor or trainer changes choreography without consulting the choreographer, the overlooked importance of understanding lighting and staging for choreographers, and how culture and industry standards shape these roles (with examples from TV productions in different countries).
Jean and Ton advocate for dancers and teachers to research these roles themselves, using modern tools like AI or traditional resources, so they can better identify what kind of expertise to seek at different stages of their development.
They touch on the common confusion around titles—like the American habit of calling any one-to-one dance lesson a “coaching”—and encourage listeners to clarify terms and expectations in their own practice.
Finally, both hosts stress the holistic nature of dance, where body and mind are deeply connected, and urge professionals to recognize how changes in one area affect the whole dancer. They close by suggesting that even with limited resources, being aware of different roles helps everyone deliver better support to dancers.
In summary: This episode breaks down the multiple, often overlapping, specialist and generalist roles in dance education, with practical advice and personal anecdotes encouraging clearer definitions, better collaboration, and ongoing research to support dancers’ growth.
Welcome back to Dance GEMS! In this episode, hosts Jean Dorff and Ton Greten dive into the evolving landscape of dance education, exploring the contrasts, benefits, and intersections between traditional and modern styles of teaching dance.
Jean and Ton unpack how teaching methods have shifted, why neither approach is "good" or "bad," and how both educators and students can benefit from understanding and blending these styles. The conversation flows through personal experiences, historical context, and even touches on social changes, offering practical insights for dancers, teachers, and anyone passionate about dance learning.
In this episode, you'll hear:
Why traditional and modern are better terms than old vs. new.
Ton’s personal journey moving from strict traditionalism to a more creative, student-centered style.
Examples from ballet and ballroom showcasing how teaching styles can influence the dance itself.
The importance of terminology, self-discovery in dance, and how societal trends shape teaching.
How you can make informed choices in your dance journey, whether as a beginner or a seasoned artist.
Highlights from Ton
Personal Evolution: Ton shares that he taught for years in the traditional style—very strict and technique-focused—without initially realizing it, and only recognized the existence of "modern" styles more recently.
Approach to Individuality: He now feels more at home with modern teaching, which places emphasis on the dancer's individuality and creativity, seeing it as more equal and process-focused rather than result-driven.
Traditional vs. Modern in Practice: Ton compares how he used to uniformly treat students in a rigid way, versus his current approach that draws out unique qualities from each dancer.
Influence of Associations: He discusses how dance association rules, especially in competitive settings, can enforce traditional, restrictive teaching—even when rules themselves can be open to interpretation.
Terminology and Discovery: Ton values the modern style’s openness to new terminology, self-discovery, and encourages teachers to pioneer and explore uncharted territories in their teaching methodologies.
Highlights from Jean
Pedagogical Trends: Jean notes that the shift from summative (result-oriented) to formative (process-driven) learning in education began decades ago, influencing how dance is also taught.
Neutral Perspective on Approaches: He emphasizes that neither traditional nor modern teaching is inherently better; understanding both allows for informed, situational choices best suited to students and context.
Role of Technology: Jean brings up the integration of technology (like video analysis) in both traditional and modern teaching, highlighting that tools can serve both paradigms with different intentions.
Teaching vs. Coaching: He draws a valuable distinction between teaching (transferring skill/knowledge) and coaching (managing the learning process), advocating for teachers to know when to switch hats.
Language Matters: Jean explores how language and terminology—sometimes originating from pioneers like Laban—can help define and refine teaching methods, stressing the ongoing importance of developing new vocabulary in dance education.
Featured References:
The documentary “The Dancer” (Sergey Polunin’s story)
Discussion on Rudolf Laban’s contribution to dance terminology
GEM Method’s approach to structuring choices in dance learning
In this dynamic episode of Dance GEMS, hosts Jean Dorff and Ton Greten dive deep into the concept of the kinesphere and its relevance in dance. Whether you're new to the term or familiar with its origins, this conversation unpacks the roots of kinesphere, its evolution in dance theory, and how dancers can use it as both a technical and creative tool. From ancient philosophy to contemporary dance science, this is an epic journey through movement, measurement, and meaning.
What is a Kinesphere?
Unpacking the meaning of the word, its etymology (movement + sphere), and how it describes the personal space a dancer occupies and defines through movement.
History & Origins
Tracing the concept back to ancient thinkers like Plato, exploring Da Vinci's iconic Vitruvian Man, the geometry of Roman architects, and following the concept through the dance theories of Rudolf Laban and his students.
Laban Notation & Kinesphere in Practice
Conversation on Laban’s efforts to systematize and notate movement, and how the idea of the kinesphere developed into a three-dimensional understanding of personal movement space.
Space, Time, & Individual Choice
Ton and Jean discuss connections to Einstein’s concepts of space-time, the notion of time as a constant in movement, and how both space and time are colored by an individual’s choices and awareness in dance.
Making it Personal: The Fifth Dimension
The pair expands the conversation beyond four-dimensional space-time to include consciousness and subjective interpretation, illustrating how personal choices shape artistic movement.
Practical Applications & Creative Exploration
Learn how to explore the kinesphere with just your hand, or by focusing on different body parts and creative movement possibilities. Tips on breaking habits, unpredictability, and owning your unique movement signatures.
“Kinesphere is always there—if there is a body, there is a kinesphere.”
“You color the space and you color the time—this is what makes art so personal.”
“Don’t just follow teachers—interpret at the end as yours.”
“Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response.” (from Viktor Frankl, as shared by Jean)
Historical figures discussed: Plato, Vitruvius (Vitruvian Man), Leonardo da Vinci, Rudolf Laban, Irmgard Bartenieff, Albert Einstein, Hermann Minkowski, Martha Graham, Doris Humphrey, Eric Franklin.
Key concepts for further research: Labanotation, Modern Dance History, Kinesphere in Dance, Dance Notation, Space-Time in Art, Vitruvian Geometry.
Eric Franklin’s books on imagery in dance
Join our WhatsApp group – message Ton or Jean for access!
This episode is an invitation to question, explore, and make movement theory your own. Listen closely, revisit the conversation, and dive into the resources mentioned. Remember, in dance (as in life), your freedom is in your choices.
In this enlightening episode of Dance GEMS, Jean and Ton deep-dive into the significance of observational and imitative learning in the world of dance. Exploring why these forms of learning are fundamental, especially in the early stages, Ton and Jean unpack the nuances between imitation, copying, and mirroring. They discuss how habits are formed, the role of concentration, attention, and focus (CAF), and the transition from simple imitation to personal interpretation. The conversation is rich with insights applicable to dancers, teachers, and lifelong learners, emphasizing the importance of observation through all senses and the continuous evolution of learning, regardless of age or experience.
5 Key Takeaways from Jean
Imitation As The First Learning Modality
Jean highlights that our most natural way of learning—especially as children—is through observation and imitation, which is deeply rooted in how we acquire movement and behavior from those around us.
Precision of Language Matters
Within the GEM method, Jean stresses the consistent use of the word “imitate” (rather than copy or mirror), reflecting the nuance that true copying isn’t possible because every individual’s movement is unique.
Synchronized vs. Asynchronized Imitation
He distinguishes between learning by following in real-time (synchronized) and imitation after observation (asynchronized), noting that each method demands different levels of concentration, attention, and focus (CAF).
Knowledge Shapes Perception
Jean explains the concept that "you can't see what you don't know"—our perception is influenced by our existing knowledge and experience, impacting how effectively we observe and imitate movement.
Imitation to Interpretation
He champions the developmental progression from imitation to personal interpretation, encouraging listeners to learn from others first, and then make conscious choices to create their own authentic movement style.
5 Key Takeaways from Ton
Repetition Builds Habits (and Breaks Them)
Ton emphasizes how habits—good or bad—are formed through repeated imitation. Changing existing habits requires conscious effort, focus, and repetition, benefitting both body and brain at any age.
Beyond Visual Observation
He expands the concept of observation to include all external senses, not just sight. Auditory and kinesthetic input play crucial roles in how we learn and absorb movement.
KAF: Concentration, Attention, Focus
Ton introduces CAF as essential for meaningful observation and learning, breaking down how concentration (time-related), attention (space-related), and focus (detail-oriented) interact during the learning process.
Shortcutting Through Proprioception
He explains how enhanced body awareness (proprioception) allows for quicker and more accurate imitation, emphasizing the role of self-knowledge in achieving learning shortcuts.
Imitation as a Path to Artistic Expression
Ton reminds listeners that the ultimate goal is to move beyond imitation: repetition and mastery create a foundation for personal expression—where dancers evolve from mimicking the form to embodying their unique artistic interpretation.
Stay tuned for future episodes where Jean and Ton explore more about the dance learning journey, including deeper dives into repetition, muscle memory, and the art of developing your own dance language.
On this thought-provoking episode of Dance GEMS, Jean and Ton tackle a topic that impacts every dancer—financing your passion. Stepping away from the usual technical dance talk, they dive deep into the real costs associated with dance training, education, competitions, and the smart strategies dancers and parents can use to make their passion more affordable and sustainable. Sharing both personal stories and broader insights from the dance world (with comparisons between the Netherlands, the US, and beyond), Jean and Ton offer practical, actionable advice for dancers at every level.
Bonus Tips:
Key Topics Covered:Highlights from JeanHighlights from Ton Greten
Episode Shownotes
Ready to dive deep into the world of dance dynamics? This episode of Dance GEMS is a masterclass in understanding and applying dynamic qualities in dance. Hosts Ton Greten and Jean Dorff break down the concepts, challenge common perceptions, and share practical advice you can use right away in your dance journey.
Why listen to the full episode? Here are just a few highlights:
Defining Dynamics Beyond "Fast and Slow": Ton expands beyond the usual "just change your speed" advice. He introduces a precise definition of dynamic qualities based on conscious muscle tension and continuous change within body parts.
Muscle Tension & Movement Quality: Learn why starting from the lowest possible muscle tension is crucial, and how building up tension leads to powerful, expressive movements like pops and ticks.
Practical Application: Ton emphasizes practicing dynamic qualities individually in different body parts—think of yourself as an artist combining movement colors on the dance floor!
Individuality in Execution: Hear why every dancer’s unique muscle tension and personal feeling will always create a different result—and why that’s the magic of dance.
Six Primary Dynamic Qualities: Jean clearly breaks down the six core dynamic qualities—sustained, percussive, swinging, suspended, collapsed, and vibratory—complete with practical dance examples.
Contrast & Artistic Power: Discover how using contrasting dynamic qualities (like stillness vs. fast movement) can create striking impact, both for audiences and as a training tool.
Science Meets Dance: Jean draws fascinating parallels between dance dynamics and scientific concepts of force, power, and energy—making complex ideas accessible for every mover.
Dance Is More Than Just Steps: By the episode’s end, Jean and Ton push you to see dance as more than technique—urging you to explore musicality, dynamics, emotion, and intention at every stage of development.
Whether you’re a seasoned dancer, a curious teacher, or simply passionate about movement, this episode will get you thinking, experimenting, and redefining your approach to dynamic qualities.
Tune in now and find the magic in your movement—with dynamic contrast, conscious intention, and a whole lot of dance GEMS wisdom!
Muscle Learning in Dance: Exploration, Memory, and Manipulation
Description:
What happens when dancers talk about "muscle memory"? In this lively and thought-provoking episode, Jean and Ton Greten dive into the fascinating world of “muscle learning” – a deeper, more dynamic way to think about how our bodies acquire, adapt, and transform movement.
In This Episode:
Beyond Muscle Memory:
Most of us have heard of muscle memory, but did you know it’s just the beginning? Discover why Jean and Ton believe "muscle learning" – a blend of exploration, memory, and manipulation – leads to better, healthier movement habits for dancers of all levels.
Muscle Manipulation & Exploration:
What if you could change your habits before they become limiting? Learn how muscle exploration and manipulation can make you not only a more adaptable dancer but also more creative and less prone to injury.
Adaptive Learning & Staying “Young":
Hear how the process of continually exploring and tweaking your movements isn’t just good for your dance – it might even help keep your brain sharper and your body feeling younger!
Teasers:
How many repetitions does it take to make a movement automatic – and what happens when you want to “unlearn” something?
Can multitasking exist for dancers – or is it just a myth?
What do factory conveyor belts, comfort zones, and dopamine have to do with your progression as a dancer?
Why might a dancer’s biggest asset be their willingness to feel… uncomfortable?!
Who’s this for?
Dancers, dance teachers, movement lovers, and anyone curious about the link between body, brain, and creativity will find golden nuggets throughout this conversation.
Ready for some myth-busting, science-backed, and fun stories from inside the studio?
Tune in and let Jean and Ton challenge your ideas—and maybe even inspire a new approach to your practice!
👉 Subscribe and listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or at www.gem.dance!
Don’t forget to join the conversation in our Dance Gems Facebook group. Let us know—what are YOU exploring in your dance?
Hit play and discover: The secret powers of muscle learning in dance!
In this insightful episode, Jean and Ton dive deep into the nuanced differences between feelings and emotions, particularly within the world of dance. While often used interchangeably in daily conversation, Jean and Ton explore why understanding the distinction is essential for dancers, teachers, and performers alike.
The duo references research and writings, breaking down the science and psychology behind both concepts. They discuss how emotions are immediate, physical responses often sourced in our limbic brain, while feelings are more reflective, processed over a longer period, and tied to our personal experiences and character.
Together, they consider:
- How emotions manifest physically and are hard to fake or suppress.
- Where emotions and feelings “live” in the brain and why that matters for dancers.
- The spectrum of emotions from Darwin’s six primary emotions to Robert Plutchik’s nuanced eight-emotion model, including how each can be expressed in dance.
- Practical exercises dancers can use to become more emotionally expressive and authentic on stage.
- The importance of self-awareness, acting, and life experience to enrich a dancer’s ability to portray real emotions, not just mimic them.
- How muscle tone, timing, body posture, and dynamics all play a role in expressing emotion through movement.
Throughout the discussion, Ton and Jean share personal stories from their teaching and dance backgrounds, offer practical advice, and challenge typical approaches to “emotional expression” in dance. They conclude that a genuine connection to emotion—rather than surface-level imitation—creates the most impactful performances.
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Key Topics
- The difference between feeling and emotion in dance and daily life
- Brain science: limbic system (emotion) vs. analytical brain (feeling)
- Physical versus internal manifestation of emotions
- Emotion categories used in psychology (Darwin, Plutchik)
- The role of drama/acting techniques in dance training
- Practical ways to practice and express emotions as a dancer
- The risks of mimicking versus genuinely exploring and owning emotion
- Inspirations from theater, acting, film, and classical dance
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Notable Quotes
“Emotions are always immediate…Emotions are a physical outing; crying, feeling it in your stomach, sweating. Feelings you can think about and analyze—they last longer.” (Jean)
“If you have only limited expression like smiling and sadness or neutral in the face, what happens then? The body also needs to react when you express those emotions.” (Ton)
“You don’t have to truly feel happy to express happiness, it helps to have experienced it—but as a performer, you are in charge of what you project.” (Jean)
Your Turn:
What emotions do you find easiest (or hardest) to express in your dancing? Share your experiences and connect with Jean and Ton through their website or socials!
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Next Episode:
Stay tuned for more episodes where Jean and Ton continue to explore the art and science of dance.
In this episode of DanceGems, Jean and Ton return to unpack a trio of foundational skills not just to dance, but to all learning: Concentration, Attention, and Focus—collectively referred to as "CAF." While these terms often mean the same thing, Jean and Ton explain how distinct they are and why understanding their differences can elevate your dance practice and daily life.
The conversation starts by clarifying the definitions. Attention is described as the broad act of tuning in, filtering out distractions to notice what deserves your awareness. Focus comes into play as you narrow that attention to drill into a more specific element. Concentration is sustaining focused attention over time, even as distractions try to creep in.
For dancers, the ability to develop their CAF is transformative. As Jean explains, attention is the root of all cognitive processes, forming the basis for effective learning and movement. Ton dives into how the five senses and proprioception (your sense of body position) are vital in helping dancers refine their craft.
The episode is full of advice for teachers, highlighting how the words we choose matter deeply when giving instructions. Jean and Ton discuss strategies for making lessons meaningful, fostering student motivation, and supporting students as they develop their concentration and focus skills. Both hosts share candid stories about interruptions—classroom noise or personal distractions—and how they adapt by acknowledging these moments and gently redirecting everyone’s focus to the work.
CAF isn’t just for dancers; it’s a universal skill that can be trained and strengthened in anyone, regardless of age or experience. The hosts reflect on how today’s world is full of distractions, especially for younger people growing up surrounded by technology, and they discuss how this can present unique opportunities for developing focus.
Listeners will appreciate how Jean and Ton weave in references to concepts like sensory perception, the importance of rest and sleep, and the learning cycle of orientation, exploration, execution, and reflection. There’s a fun, practical tone throughout, with memorable analogies and gentle humor, like their “internal joke” about the importance (and limitations) of so-called “normal life.”
You’ll come away from this episode with a much clearer sense of how concentration, attention, and focus differ—and why mastering these can make you a stronger dancer and a better learner in every aspect of life.
Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share your thoughts!
In this episode of Dance Gems, Jean and Ton dive deep into the topics of movement quality and dynamic quality in dance and how these concepts also apply to daily life. The hosts discussed the intricate relationship between movement and quality of life, covering a wide spectrum of related topics such as the influence of lifestyle choices on physical abilities, the importance of environment and upbringing, and the impact of nutrition and exercise on movement quality.
Key Discussion Points:
Understanding Movement Quality:
Definition and importance of movement quality in both dance and everyday life.
The influence of DNA, lifestyle, and environmental factors on movement quality, even before birth.
Importance of fostering movement from a young age for lifelong benefits.
Dynamic Quality in Dance:
Distinction between movement quality and dynamic quality.
Exploration of different dynamic qualities in dance, such as swinging, collapsing, and vibrating, and how they contribute to a dancer's expression.
The role of muscle tension (tonus) in achieving dynamic qualities.
The Balance Between Form and Function:
Discussion on whether dance movements should be functional or purely aesthetic.
Quotations from renowned dancers on the evolving nature of form and dynamic qualities in dance history.
Cultural Influences on Movement:
Examination of how cultural habits, such as those seen in Blue Zones, affect longevity and quality of life through movement.
The impact of social dance styles and how they differ from more technical styles like ballroom and Latin dance.
Practical Tips for Dancers:
Encouragement to explore dynamic qualities individually and in combination.
Advice on how dancers can integrate knowledge of movement quality into their practice to enhance their performance.
Conclusion: Jean and Ton wrap up the episode by emphasizing the interconnectedness of movement and life quality, highlighting the necessity for dancers to consider their entire lifestyle as part of their craft. They plan to do a potential follow-up episode dedicated solely to dynamic quality in dance.
Hosts: Ton Greten and Jean Dorff
Overview:In this episode of DanceGEMs, hosts Ton Greten and Jean Dorff dive into the intricate concept of 'pathways' in dance, offering both philosophical reflections and practical insights. They explore how dancers interact with their kinesphere, the space around them, and how understanding movement through this lens is vital for both performers and choreographers.
Key Topics Discussed:
Introspection and Movement: Jean introduces the theme of introspection as a means to understand movement, highlighting the importance of a grounded feeling.
Kinosphere Explained: Ton breaks down the concept of kinosphere, combining physical movement and spatial awareness, across four dimensions—three spatial and one temporal.
The Role of Time: Both hosts stress the critical role time plays in movement, drawing on ideas from historical figures like Minkowski and Einstein.
Past, Present, Future in Dance: A philosophical take on how understanding these temporal elements can enhance the empowerment and comprehension of movement.
Laban's Influence: The discussion acknowledges the contributions of Rudolf Laban and how the kinosphere concept was inspired by ideals such as da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man.
Floor vs. Air Pathways: The distinction between movement trails on the floor and through the air, encouraging a broader notation system in choreography.
Complexity in Movement Notation: Jean praises the challenge of codifying air pathways in choreography, while Ton introduces the "10 Body Parts Concept" for a consistent movement language.
Dance Styles and Creativity: Various dance styles, from ballroom to contemporary, are examined for their unique use of pathways, underscoring creativity and inclusivity in dance.
Conclusion:Ton and Jean wrap up with thoughts on future explorations of this vast topic, inviting listeners to tune in to future episodes for a deeper understanding.
Tune in to hear more captivating insights and stories on our next episode!
Ton & Jean
In this episode of Dance GEMs, Jean and Ton dive into the fascinating world of forms in dance, with a special focus on the in-between forms—those transitional moments between defined forms. They explore how movement flows between forms, whether shape and form are the same, and how dancers can develop greater awareness of their transitions.
Along the way, they also discuss:
The difference between shape and form and how language has evolved around these concepts.
How dance is not just about arriving at a pose but about consciously moving between forms.
The importance of proprioception and how dancers can refine their awareness of form in space.
The historical evolution of words like "shape" and "form", looking at their etymology.
The visual vs. kinesthetic perception of movement—how we tend to think in two dimensions while dance exists in three (or even four!).
This episode challenges listeners to rethink how they approach dance: Is it just about hitting the final pose, or should we give equal importance to the transition?
💡 Movement is not just about hitting the final form but about how you transition between forms.
💡 Proprioception—our awareness of our own movement—is key to refining our forms in dance.
💡 The difference between form and shape is more than just semantics; it changes how we approach choreography.
💡 Dancers must balance visual learning (which often flattens movement into 2D) with kinesthetic awareness (which embraces movement in 3D and beyond).
💡 Thinking about dance in 4D (including time and movement) can change how we approach performance and training.
🔹 Episode 16 (Season 1): Form First, Function Second?
🔹 Episode 7 (Season 2): Form, Shape & Design
💬 What do you think about the idea of dancing between shapes rather than just from one form to another? Let us know!
📢 Follow & Subscribe:
🌐 Website: gem.dance.podcast
🎧 Available on all major platforms (Spotify, Apple Podcasts, etc.)
Until next time! Keep dancing between the shapes. 💃🕺
Join Jean and Ton in this intriguing episode of Dance GEMS as they dive into the origins of dance, exploring the fascinating world of dance terminology and etymology. Their shared Dutch background brings a unique perspective to the discussion on how language and culture influence dance.
Key Points Discussed:
Multilingual Challenge: Both hosts discuss their Dutch roots, which bring a rich, diverse viewpoint to the linguistics of dance. They highlight how terms used in dance can vary significantly across different languages and cultures.
Dance Terminology's Evolution: Ton and Jean emphasize the importance of having a uniform dance terminology to bridge communication gaps among different dance styles. They explore how terminology differs across ballet, hip hop, ballroom, and other dance forms, and the need for clarity.
Gem Method: Ton sheds light on his GEM method, which aims to create a consistent terminology in the dance world, facilitating better communication and understanding among dancers and educators. This approach introduces new terms, providing more explicit definitions to help educators give precise instructions.
Etymology of Dance Terms: Discover the etymology of common dance terms such as "plie," "pirouette," "jete," and even "mambo" and "cucaracha." Jean and Ton explain how understanding the origins of these terms can enhance a dancer's comprehension and execution of movements.
Improving Dance Education: The hosts discuss the benefits of using terms that precisely describe dance movements, moving beyond vague descriptors like "energy," to enhance dance education and instruction.
New Terminologies: Explore the introduction of new terms like muscle manipulation, muscle exploration, and the significance of a unified dance language through the GEM method.
Real-world Applications: Ton and Jean illustrate how the careful terminology selection can impact dance education and communication within the broader artistic and commercial sectors.
Encouragement for Dance Practitioners: The episode ends with a motivational call for dancers and educators to delve into the origins of dance terminology, encouraging self-discovery and exploration to unlock greater understanding and creative potential in dance.
In this engaging episode, hosts Jean Dorff and Ton Greten dive into a fascinating discussion about the concept of Lines in Dance. They explore the idea of lines existing both inside and outside the body and their significance in movement. The conversation is inspired by Ton's book, which dedicates a substantial chapter to these lines.
Key Points Discussed:
Introduction of Lines in Dance:
What are lines in the context of dance?
Can lines be literally inside and outside the body?
Types of Lines:
The distinction between straight and curved lines.
Organic vs. geometric lines.
Symmetry and asymmetry in lines.
Imaginary lines, visual lines, future lines, past lines, body lines, posture lines, and action lines.
Imaginary Lines:
Imaginary lines start where body lines end.
The impact of imaginary lines on the perception of movement.
Projection of imaginary lines in dance.
Proprioception in Dance:
The role of proprioception in understanding body lines.
Differentiation between interoception (internal body states) and exteroception (external perception).
Importance of Defined and Free Lines:
Posture lines are often defined by dance organizations and styles.
Body lines, conversely, are free and created by the dancer's artistic expression.
Practical Applications:
Using lines in choreography and dance forms.
The role of lines in spatial awareness and movement direction.
The impact of posture and body lines on dance expression.
Future and Past Lines:
Understanding future lines as movements towards a goal.
Recognizing past lines through the traces left by movements.
Listener Engagement:
Encouragement for dancers to experiment and question the lines in their movements.
A WhatsApp group where listeners can engage further with these concepts and get additional resources.
Additional Resources: Listeners are encouraged to check out earlier relevant episodes, such as:
Episode 36 of last season on body and posture lines.
Episode 5 of this season on straight and curved lines.
Conclusion: Jean and Ton highlighted the essence of understanding and utilizing lines in dance, providing both theoretical insights and practical examples. Their discussion also paved the way for further exploration in future episodes. Join their WhatsApp group to explore these concepts and enhance your dance technique.
Next Episode Teaser: Stay tuned for one of the upcoming episodes, where we discuss the pathways created by lines in dance and how they influence movement and choreography.
In this episode of Dance GEMS, hosts Jean Dorff and Ton Greten delve into the intricate topic of "Beyond Judgement, Subjectivity, and Assumptions in Dance." They explore how subjective language and preconceived notions can positively and negatively affect dance and discuss the importance of clear and objective communication in dance education.
Topics Covered:
The impact of subjective words in daily life and dance instruction.
How subjectivity and prejudice influence teaching and learning.
The challenge of avoiding subjective language and the effort required to stay objective.
Examples of how objective language can clarify instructions and improve learning outcomes.
The balance between using subjective and objective language in different contexts.
The psychological and societal implications of maintaining biases and stereotypes.
The commercial influence on perceptions and behaviors in the dance world.
Encouraging open-mindedness and growth by challenging existing beliefs.
Key Takeaways:
Language Matters:
The choice of words can have a profound impact on dancers' growth and perception.
Awareness is Key:
Recognizing and addressing our own biases and subjective tendencies is crucial.
Objective Communication:
Striving to use objective language helps in delivering clear instructions and maintaining fairness.
Positive Reinforcement:
Focusing on positive language can foster a healthier learning environment.
Cultural Context:
Different cultures may have varying perceptions of “normal” and “acceptable” in dance and other areas.
Open-Mindedness:
Growth often comes from stepping outside of comfort zones and embracing different perspectives.
🔔 Next Episode Teaser: Stay tuned for our next episode, where we'll dive into the fascinating topic of Terminology and its implications in dance. This episode will be closely related to today's discussion but seen from a different perspective.
WhatsApp Group:
Please send us a message to join our exclusive group for free!
Thank you for listening! We hope you found this episode insightful and inspiring. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us grow and improve! 🌟
Dance GEMS - Episode: Form, Shape, Design
Welcome back to another enlightening episode of Dance GEMS! In this episode, hosts Ton and Jean dive into dance's fascinating world of form, shape, and design. Together, they unravel the complexities and subtle nuances these three integral components bring to the art of dance.
Origins and Definitions:
Jean and Ton discuss the etymological roots of the words form, shape, and design, tracing back to Latin, Old German, and Old French origins.
Form vs. Shape:
Detailed examination of the significant differences between form and shape, as Ton shares his perspective on why form may be a more comprehensive term when teaching and understanding dance dynamics.
Design in Dance:
Exploration of how design encompasses both form and shape, along with dynamic and expressive elements in dance.
Artistic Implications:
Insightful discussion on how treating form and function influences the creative and practical aspects of dance.
Historical Context:
The evolution and usage of the terms in both dance and broader art forms.
Practical Application:
Ballroom and Latin dance examples show how these distinctions are utilized in teaching and choreography.
Conceptual Framework:
The Bauhaus influence on form and function and how it parallels concepts in dance.
Is it function before form or form before function? How does this influence the art of dance?
What makes design a more encompassing term than form and shape?
Join Jean and Ton in this thought-provoking episode as they venture into the depths of dance terminology and its practical applications. Whether you are a seasoned dancer, choreographer, or someone keen on the art, this episode promises to enrich your understanding and appreciation of dance.
Stay tuned, and keep dancing! 🩰💃🕺
In this episode Ton and Jean are focussing on the most fundamental part of the GEM Methode: The Ten Body Parts. Find out why focussing on the Ten Main Body Parts enhances the understanding of movement and the learning process of dance.
Episode Highlights:
Key Concepts Discussed:
Tools and Techniques:
Why You Should Listen:
Join the Dance GEMS Community:
Final Call to Action: Tune in, embrace the 10 body parts method, and elevate your dance! Don’t forget to join us in upcoming episodes where we explore more exciting topics. Happy dancing!