Within a clear structure, the Countertechnique class thoroughly prepares the body for rehearsal, creative process and performance, enabling dancers to move more fluidly and more spatially, while gaining strength and flexibility.
The class starts with a recurring set of exercises, allowing participants to investigate the Countertechnique principles in detail: By continuously and sequentially directing parts of the body away from each other in space, Countertechnique allows the moving dancer to work with an ever-changing dynamic balance. This dynamic balance reduces the pressure on the overall body structure and can be changed at any given moment. In the second half of the class, we are working towards luscious movement combinations and jumping at the end. The Countertechnique class often results in dancers using energy in different ways, allowing themselves taking risks and gaining speed in changing direction.
Participants are introduced step-by-step to the various tools – making sure, that the priority always lies with experiencing and enjoying the difference in moving. Classes are therefore very accessible, and can be taught to participants of all levels.
As a teacher Birgit aims to create an environment in which fearless learning, trying out, and the joy of moving can emerge. In the classes she offers an approach to movement from an anatomical understanding of the body and at the same time involve perceptive awareness as performance tool. Countertechnique was developed and created by Dutch choreographer, dancer and teacher Anouk van Dijk.
Birgit Gunzl