Dancing to (re)connect: Somatic dance experiences as a medium of connection with the more-than-human. Issue 2 (1st December 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Laidlaw, Brittany; Beer, Tanja
• Is Part Of: Choreographic practices. Volume 9:Issue 2(2018)
• Page Start: 283
• Page End: 309
• Publication Date: 2018-12-01
• Subjects: Dance -- Philosophy -- Periodicals; Dance -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Choreography -- Periodicals; 792.82
• DOI: 10.1386/chor.9.2.283_1
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2040-5669

Abstract

Many scholars suggest that the primary reason for our current state of socio-ecological crisis is the persistent social construct of human–nature dichotomies. This dualism implies that humans are separate from and superior to nature, leading to erosion of our intrinsic and codependent relationship with the natural world. Nature is commonly framed as something out there beyond the city – to be controlled, conserved or commandeered for human utility. A surge of researchers and practitioners have advocated for the importance of (re)connecting with the more-than-human as a transformational tool for developing more ethical relationships with our environments. Research shows that effective forms of connection must be felt through the multi-sensory feeling body, not just the thinking mind. This article examines the case of somatic dance as a potential tool for reclaiming our embodied connection with the more-than-human world. In doing so, it highlights the capacity of dance to cultivate a sensory-informed world-view of interdependency and hence, responsibility. Using Laidlaw's own practice-led research as the primary mode of enquiry, the investigation draws upon theories across materiality, phenomenology, object-oriented ontology, ecosophy and somatic ecology to explore how somatic dance experiences can be used to build a greater understanding and connection with our environments. We identify five steps for facilitating more-than-human embodiment through somatic dance experiences, including: (1) an open willingness to surrender; (2) whole-body listening; (3) moving as one; (4) finding identity through place-making; and (5) reverence and gratitude. These steps not only provide new insights into the potential for somatic dance experiences to connect to the more-than-human, but also the significance of dance as an ecological necessity and stewardship responsibility.