I've been forced to deal with big changes in how I dance lately, due to an arthritic back and knee ligaments that just won't mend. I've relied a great deal on my perfect health so far in life but now just walking is challenging, let alone dancing.
What's more, I am preparing to perform a solo piece March 30th and April 1st at Peterborough's Public Energy "Emergency #19" annual show of new work. It is a piece exploring chaos and the dark goddesses who roam the underworld of our subconscious; Maeve, Kali, Lilith. What a time for my body to decide to withdraw! Because that is exactly how I feel; like my energy is withdrawing to some small place inside that doesn't hurt. Gone is my expansive range of movement (OK, not as expansive as it was when I was young but still big enough for me to lose myself inside of).
Now I am reflecting on a whole new experience during our ecstatic dance sessions. I can't rely on a cathartic release after dancing full tilt for 90 minutes. Now my spirit is having to work much harder at staying present and connected to the flow of music and the dancing bodies around me. I'm searching for a new way of participating but it hasn't come to me yet. I am still resisting the changes.
But the dance carries on, so here is what is coming up for the Afro-Modern class:
Classes continue in the Ptbo Square 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm
We will perform again Feb. 26th, at 3:00 pm at the Public Library main branch, lower level, for a free family event celebrating Black History Month. We'll be joined by Drothia and some of her West-African dancers, and Anotinette VanVeen telling children's stories from African and the Caribbean.
