Dynamic Geometry
sound shapes and transitions for movement artists
Axis Syllabus-universal motor principles – advanced

The AS-ump™ derives its name from the medical orientation system using the axes and planes to describe the body’s dimensions and spatial disposition. An axis is a point around which a joint or motion segment can rotate, as well as a general direction taken. A plane is a surface or cross section, as well as a general direction taken. These two concepts describe space and orientation, indicate mass in motion, implying inertia. In both cases, direction implies time and therefor dynamics and ultimately physio-dynamics. Syllabus means a list or table of contents in old Greek. A Syllabus might also be described as an acquired number of skills, a grammar of ability. Thus, the Axis Syllabus-universal motor principles™ can be called the grammar of physio-dynamic principles.

The AS-ump™ is an inertia and weight-distribution analysis system that can be applied to any human body in any situation. Movement patterns are examined according to the following criteria, observance of healthy parameters for joint and muscle-function, logical falling and walking reflexes and most importantly the conservation of kinetic energy.
This last implies the ability to permit and steer inertia-driven undulations in the body-core, the sequential use of the various body elements for support and locomotion and the application of appropriate alignment to dynamic situations.

This workshop for experienced movers will apply the C-Star and the Flight Basics (see other workshop discriptions) in a complex and demanding way. Gradual addition of the motives to each other will lead to long phrases intertwining the different principles in floor and standing work.


Frey Faust
Frey Faust was given direction, discipline and the chance to develop a passion for his chosen muse by his mother, Shekhinah Mountainwater, a known author and leading figure in the women’s spiritual movement of America. He worked under her direction from age 8 to age 15, performing as a pantomime-dancer-actor in all manner of circumstances, from the street to the theatre. Nita Little, co-creator of Contact Improvisation, initiated him to its liberating concepts at the age of 14. At Marcel Marceau’s invitation he then went to Paris to study at the former’s Écôle de Mimodrame for one year. Afterwards, he returned to California to pursue his personal education through the practice of Afro-Haitian dance, Aikido, Capoeira and Percussion.

In 1980, he decided to try his luck in New York. Ten years later, having worked with some of the best of the NY movers and shakers such as David Parsons, Donald Byrd, Randy Warshaw, Gina Buntz, Ohad Naharin, Meredith Monk, Merce Cunningham and Stephen Petronio, he was granted the opportunity to be the artist in residence at the Werkstatt, Düsseldorf, Germany for two years (now the Tanzhaus NRW). There he was able, with the support of the German government, to create six solos and three evening-length works and to begin the consolidation of his pedagogical ideas. He is the author of the book and the originator of the "Axis Syllabus-universal motor principles, a method for teaching movement" through which he aspires to assist his students to deepen their understanding and use of nature's gift to us.