First Advisor

Minton, Sandra L.

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Document Type

Thesis

Date Created

12-2018

Department

College of Performing and Visual Arts, Theatre Arts and Dance, Theatre Arts and Dance Student Work

Abstract

Somatic based methods is an emerging area of interest within the subject area of dance study and more recent in aerial movement practice. Somatic movement experiences have inherent, distinctive and transformative characteristics to deepen understanding and knowledge of the concept of soma. This thesis investigates how somatic based exercises might influence physical strength, endurance, body awareness and sensitivity in an original research design. The study incorporates Progressing Ballet Technique or traditional based aerial circus methods with an aim to answer three essential questions. How might the use of somatic based or traditional aerial movement methods improve students’ muscular strength and endurance in specific body areas when performing static exercises? How might the use of somatic based or traditional aerial movement methods improve students’ strength and endurance while performing movement exercises? How might the use of somatic-based or traditional aerial movement methods compare to with students’ understanding of movement elements, and overall body awareness and aesthetic sensitivity. The study was conducted over a period of twelve weeks and used five research instruments to collect data from an experimental and control group of participants. The researcher attempts to present key insights regarding comparative practice regarding transformative practice methods useful to the student practitioner of aerial dance.

Keywords

Aerial dance; Somatic movement

Extent

87 pages

Local Identifiers

RojasThesis2018

Rights Statement

Copyright is held by the author.

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