Creative ID: 772
Dunedin area - Prepared to discuss working in Otago areas outside of Dunedin
My arts or creative practice (including details about my specific focus within that art form/practice and my strengths)
My work encompasses:
- BALFOLK which is a fun, easy form of dance currently incredibly popular across Europe; something like a European social with a specific focus on the French dance repertoire
- Historical dance, more specifically the English Country dances of the Jane Austen period.
My track record of experience and success - or the track record of experience and success of the creative or artist that I will partner with
Currently, I am working closely with a New Zealand choreographer to promote BALFOLK in New Zealand. Through our collaboration, we aim to introduce New Zealanders to the rich cultural heritage of European folk dance and music and its current international developments. Our efforts include organising (and taking part in) workshops, performances, and other cultural events. By sharing our passion for dance and music, we hope to inspire others to explore this dynamic dance form. Our ultimate goal is to spread the joy of dance and cultural appreciation throughout New Zealand, while also promoting the values of inclusivity, community engagement, lifelong learning, physical and social well-being and connection. Additionally, I am also collaborating with the home school network in a series of weekly classes (teaching BALFOLK dance to more than thirty children, teens, and young adults) leading towards their Regency Ball.
Describe the experience you have had working with children or young people, teaching or facilitating creative processes
With a background in teaching (I worked as a primary school teacher with children up to 13 years for the French Ministry of Education for 15 years), I have strong interpersonal skills, which enable me to connect with diverse groups of people and create a safe and welcoming environment. I am also passionate about European and Historical Dance. I find that the evolution of society through dance is a fascinating subject, and I bring this passion to my work. I have worked as a dance instructor with all ages in and around Dunedin in a variety of settings, including community events, schools, and historical presentations. I have experience in collaborating with other artists and organisations on creative projects, residencies, including community dance workshops, classes and performances.
Why I want to be part of the Creatives in Schools programme and how my involvement will link to my creative practice
I am convinced that teaching young people dance through school programmes is an incredibly effective way to promote the art form throughout the community. BALFOLK and Historical Dance offer a unique opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation of the beauty and diversity of the world, and to connect with the rich cultural heritage of Europe through the art of dance. Not only does dance education in schools expose children to the benefits of dance, such as increased physical fitness, coordination, and social skills, but it also helps to establish a foundation for lifelong learning and appreciation of the arts and other cultures.
By nurturing young people's love for dance in schools, we can inspire them to pursue further education and involvement in dance as they grow up, leading to the development of a vibrant dance culture in the community. I also believe that BALFOLK and Historical Dance programsme offer a unique opportunity to bridge physical, artistic education and academic instruction, creating a more holistic and enriching educational experience for students. For example, teachers can easily link dances to literature and history lessons, exploring the cultural significance of dance in various time periods and regions. Students can learn about the customs, clothing, and music that accompany different dance styles, and gain a deeper understanding of the context in which they developed.