QUASI NORMAL: Performance; Choreography: Susanne Linke for Jeanne Ruddy Dance; Performance Garage, Philadelphia; 2008
Through the art of dance-performance I have learned about its magic and healing significance. Part of this magic lies in the ability to transform. For over 50 years of performing, weather improvisational or choreographed, I observed this process of preparing for and entering into an altered state. In doing so, we enter and connect with the unknown of our being, entering an altered state of consciousness which we admire, seek, and also fear. It resembles our fear of death or dying, calls for letting go of control, of ‘losing our mind’, yet trusting to gain another sense of knowing.
In doing so, we activate a certain part of our nature, we gain insight, and heighten our physical and mental skills in order to perform and connect with an audience.
Dance performance is a known practice throughout human evolution, celebrated in ancient rituals, shamanic rites and contemporary contests.
In dance making and performance I practice my capacity towards wholeness, and its ability to be the catalyst for transformation.
I believe that this ability and practice serves the survival of the human race.
Gitta Herrmann