The Science of Dance
Tracks Dance's Choreolab program was created in 2009 to help creatives develop an articulate voice as both dancer and choreographer. Over the course of 10 weeks, participants come together in a series of workshops to practice the art of collaboration and dissect dance making.
This month, 2022’s cohort presents How We Make Dance, the culmination of weeks of dedication, creativity and expression from eight participants.
By Kate Conway
Known as the Tracks Choreographic Development Program for a decade, it last year became Choreolab, the short and sweet title better reflecting the experimental nature of the program.
“We thought it was a really nice name to roll with. It gives a really quick way for people to understand what we are doing because, essentially, it’s like a workshop or lab type space,” says Tracks Dance Associate Artistic Director, Jess Devereaux.
Over the years, participants have broadly interpreted and utilised the program in different ways. Some are more interested in dancing and performing, while others consider the crafted composition side of things.
“In the past, we had a Sri Lankan dancer that was also interested in hip hop. They collaborated with someone, who was more into improv and experimental performing, to create a new style of movement,” says Deveraux.
Led by Tracks Dance Animateurs Kelly Beneforti and Steph Spillett, the latter previously a participant in 2021, this year’s cohort brings a diverse melting pot of styles and unique influences – from ballet and Tai Chi, to university level dance qualifications, and participants with international dance training.
Held in Tracks Studio, where the magic happens throughout the workshop series, How We Make Dance is an informal and intimate afternoon of dance. Part performance and part creative discussion, Beneforti says it’s a chance for audiences to witness the creativity that has been developed, and gain insight into the choreographic process.
“Choreography in its simplest form is a series of decisions that you have to make – what movement, where you want people to stand, where the energy is, all those things. There are so many places you can start, and so many threads you can follow,” she says.
“When you see a finished product, you see where all those threads have led to. But if anyone is interested in what all of the little pathways are to get there, or all the possibilities, that is what is exciting about the showings.”
Choreolab – How We Make Dance
WHEN SAT 29 & SUN 30 OCT | 1.30 & 4PM
AT TRACKS DANCE STUDIO
COST $10 | $5 CONC
INFO tracksdance.com.au
Photos: Duane Preston
