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
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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.