The Power of Pausing

Emma Tishler

This course has taught me a lot about dance in ways I didn’t think I would ever learn. Having had classical training for many years of my childhood, I thought I knew all I could about dance. This course has taught me that dance comes from within. We have to dig in deep within ourselves in order to express ourselves. We also make our own music. Dance for me growing up always involved music, but this course taught me that I do not need music to be dancing. This course also taught me the power of pausing. Dance does not have to always be moving, there is a story within the silence and the pauses.

This class made me feel free. I felt free of judgement from others, free of societal standards, and free from my own judgements. During the first class when Jorge talked about unleashing our inner child, I took that to heart. As graduation approaches, I feel really old. I do not know how the time has gone by so fast but here I am. Every dance class has made me so happy. I get to be myself and better myself through stretching and movement.

I am starting medical school this fall, and I want to go into psychiatry. I want to use dance movement therapy in my practice. Not only will I be able to use the tools learned in this class and my other dance courses for my future patients, but also I will use them for myself. I know the next chapter of my life will be stressful, but I can always escape with dance. Sometimes our emotions are too big for our minds to hold on to and we must get them out. When words do not suffice, movement can be useful to process emotions and start healing.

Everyone is Unique

Meng Wang

I am so glad that I was able to have a class that allowed me to relax and learn so much during my last semester of school. In this class, I learned to use different levels, directions, and strengths to express my emotions and thoughts according to the rhythm of the music, which is very different from the dance training I have learned before. This class showed me that everyone has a distinctive style, that everyone is unique and shows their true feelings in improvisation. Usually, improvisation without any preparation is more impressive to the audience. Not only that, the warm up activities at the beginning of each class improved my flexibility and helped me to have more possibilities in improvisation. At the same time, I think that improvisation has helped me to know more about myself which is really grateful.

This class made me feel as if improv is not as difficult as I thought it would be, and it made me feel very free to do any movement. At the beginning, I was worried about how to improvise because I have never tried to perform without any preparation. Later on, I learned that I can create a lot of different movements from imitating animals, in my own bubble, and by describing my dreams. And that it's fine no matter what kind of movement you make, even if you're just moving to music, that's still workable! Especially, when I cooperate with different classmates I get different inspirations, which makes me get more surprises in this class.

In the coming days, I hope I can continue to do the “warm up” activity, I find that it not only makes me more flexible, but also relaxes and stretches my exhausted body, and makes me feel better. I don't know when my next improv performance will be, but I hope that the next time I face a “challenge” I won't be afraid and will be able to perform with ease. Lastly, I would like to thank Professor Morejon for all the fun and motivation he has brought to me.

There is No Limit to Movement

Shayla Modi

This class has opened my eyes to the world of improvisation and provided a new meaning to the word dance. I have learned how objects, animals, and even abstract shapes can transform into movement. There are an infinite number of ways to physically express various feelings and emotions. A simple, small movement has the power to morph into hundreds of movements, through varying levels, intensities, and directions. There is no limit to movement, no constriction to dance. One’s level of previous dance training does not matter in the world of improvisation, for everyone can move in their own ways.

This semester has truly changed my perspectives on improvisation. In the beginning of the semester, I was more hesitant to move, and resorted to solely arm movements. As I began to feel more comfortable, I added lower body, levels, and direction, and the bubble I danced in grew enormously. The more I put my whole body into the movements, the more I was able to feel free, and the more emotion took over me. It was relaxing being able to spin around the room without my brain being completely occupied. Especially on less stressful days, I was fully able to immerse myself in the music and dance.

In the future, I hope to become a physician. Through this class, I have learned coping mechanisms to both de-stress and have fun. With my heavy course loads, I hope to be able to utilize these techniques to overcome excessive stress, clear my mind, and let go at times. Sometimes, all it takes is finding your inner beat and discovering ways to move in order to release emotion and tension, and come back to a healthy mindset. These techniques will definitely extend beyond the classroom.

Vulnerability is not Weakness

Lauren Tedesco

This class taught a very valuable lesson: nothing is as serious as it seems. When I first enrolled in this class, I was nervous. Having never taken a dance class before, I had no idea what to expect. The idea of having to pretend to be an animal in front of people I did not even know scared me. However, when I found such a positive and light hearted environment, I realized that it was going to be okay. From that moment on, I was never nervous walking into class again.

Throughout the course, I learned that perfection isn't a prerequisite for enjoyment and meaning. The class made me realize that they are no rigid rules in dancing and that movement is about expression, not conformity. Going to class became a highlight of my Tuesday and Thursdays and a source of joy and rejuvenation. Even if I had a bad day or "needed a nap", the energy of the class lifted my spirits. I'll miss the laughter and the mental escape this class provided. Each class promised something new and entertaining, whether that meant doing the salsa with my classmates, or all of us running around the room holding hands.

As I look to the future, I'll carry the lessons of this class with me. I'll embrace imperfection and release the grip of embarrassment. Whether I'm presenting to coworkers or simply stepping beyond my comfort zone, I'll remember that a performance doesn't have to fit a mold. The memories of joy and liberation from class will serve as a powerful reminder that vulnerability is not weakness—it's a gateway to growth.

The Deepest Parts of My Soul

Daniel Bron

As I sit down to reflect on our dance improvisation class, words seem scarcely sufficient to capture the profound impact it has had on me. Your class was more than a series of lessons; it was a transformative journey that touched the deepest parts of my soul.

Throughout the semester, your infectious energy and unwavering dedication created an environment that was not only exhilarating but also deeply nurturing. Each session, you brought a passion that was palpable, igniting a similar fervor within each of us, your students. Your commitment to dance and teaching shone brightly, inspiring us to explore the realms of our creativity and physicality.

I am immensely grateful for your understanding and empathy regarding my physical challenges, particularly my back pain. Your sensitivity and adaptability in adjusting the routines ensured that I could participate fully without fear of injury. This thoughtful approach allowed me to trust in the process and, more importantly, in my own body’s capabilities.

Moreover, your patience with my initial resistance was a testament to your expertise as an educator. You recognized my struggles and gently pushed me out of my comfort zones, encouraging me to be more open and vulnerable. This nudging was done with such respect and care that it felt like a natural evolution rather than a forced step.

Your teachings went far beyond dance techniques; they were lessons in courage, self-acceptance, and liberation. The freedom to express myself without judgment, to explore movement uninhibitedly, has been incredibly empowering. It has taught me to embrace my imperfections and to view them as unique aspects of my creative expression.

Professor Jorge, thank you from the bottom of my heart for guiding me through this journey of self-discovery and liberation. Your mentorship has not only improved my dance but has also enriched my life in unimaginable ways. The joy and freedom I now find in dance are gifts that I will cherish and continue to explore thanks to your profound influence.

The Realm of Thoughts and Dreams

Lauryn Lee

Improvisation is the spontaneous act of moving. An art form that is derived from the inner workings of a person. Whether that being their experiences, emotions, or the realm of thoughts and dreams. This course was a unique experience of letting go and finding your inner flow. During this course we broke down the basics of dance including shapes, flow, staccato, chaos and lyrical. This allowed me to delve into movement that I may not have otherwise thought of. It also made me greater appreciate the intricacies of the movements that I already knew how to do. Dance is challenging in its own manner and improvisation is simply a master class. Despite it being a course open to all experiences, I appreciate the artistry and effort of those around me because you must create the movement yourself. Being a creator, an innovator is no easy task, and its difficulty is proven in this course.

Throughout the semester I often found myself caught up in the stress and tension of events happening in my life and I looked forward to the class to relax even if relaxing meant jumping around as a class with my heart racing and myself out of breath. But it was times like these that made me feel isolated in the moment. I felt like the world outside the class was simply fuel for ideas but even with the worries of my day I found I could shift and concentrate on the acts and movements in the class. Some days, I found myself concentrating on every fiber and joint in my body while other techniques allowed me to be lax. There was no wrong movement when in the practice room but instead it was a room to experiment your limits of your body.

Going forward I hope to continue improvising and pushing the limits of my creativity and imagination to express myself and how I perceive the world and my emotions. Furthermore, the course has reminded and encouraged me to continue stretching out both physically and mentally as I get older. Dance and especially improvisation is a place where you can be and do anything you want. I have thoroughly enjoyed experimenting and expressing through this creative outlet and I look forward to my next adventure on this merry go round of life.

Understanding My Inner Self

Jingjing Pan

This class taught me what improvisation is, which is to move your limbs and body according to the rhythm of music, your own heart, and your original thoughts in your brain. This is different from the dance I learned before, which involves doing prescribed movements to the music. The dance learned in this class is free, created casually, and expresses own thoughts through movements from the inside out. Watching other people improvise dance moves is also another way of learning improvisation, understanding how they express themselves through music and movements. This class showed me that everyone has unique and true feelings that come through. I am happy to have learned another way of dancing and to understand my inner self better gradually during this class in the last semester.

I am glad I took this dance class in my last semester, because it makes me feel relaxed and free, from the inside out, both for my heart and my body. The initial warm up allowed me to stretch my body and limbs, and then I could improvise along with the music. Even though I was shy about performing in front of other people every time, I still enjoyed the relaxation of this kind of improvisation. At the same time, I also realized there are many ways to improvise, such as thinking about myself in a bubble, imitate other's movement like mirroring, or describing the dreams/goals, etc. These ways of creating movement were something I had not seen before. Through my own performances and group collaborations, I gradually gained a lot of inspiration for improvisation.

In my future life and study, I will do some “Warm Up” in my free time or before going to bed, as we did every-time at the beginning of class. This will allow me to stretch my body and be relaxed. At the same time, I will also become braver in front of crowds in the future, because I have gained the courage through many improvisational performances in this class.

Every Dance is Different

Xuanrui Peng

First of all, the improvisational dance class was the first dance class I took in my four years of college. I'm glad I had the opportunity to take this class and meet such a great professor. I feel very relaxed when I finish each class. Because I had very distinct feelings from before to after class. I can deeply feel the whole person is full of energy every time the class is over. By warming up for each class, I also got a good stretch out of my body. This class is open to everyone, whether you have a foundation in dance or not. The most common thing I heard my professor say was, “Don't look in the mirror.” I think that's really good. No need to worry about who you are in the mirror. I can dance to my heart's content. Because there is no right or wrong way to improvise dance. I feel very free and relaxed. I like this kind of dance very much.

I also learned a lot through the improv dance class. It made me realize that anything I can express with my dance. Through dance, I can go and express my mood, a certain element, or anything. I have the freedom to play and create dances based on the music, mood, stage, etc. So every dance is different. We can create more possibilities. I think that's the most fascinating thing about improvised dance. It better helps the dancers to show their form and express their attitude. No one is going to score and evaluate your dance. This is more conducive to inspiring dancers to reach their potential.

In the future, I will continue to do the warm-ups we learned in class. By warming up with each exercise, my body will be more flexible and healthy. At the same time, the class brought me a lot of confidence. From the beginning, I demonstrated dancing alone needing to close my eyes in order to finish. Now, in the final solo, I can show my dance freely and confidently. I'll carry that confidence all the way through to anything in the future.

Everyone is Unique

Yiyun Yang

This class taught me how to improvise dance. I once studied Chinese classical dance, so my dance movements always pursue elegance and beauty. However, this class made me realize that dance doesn’t have to be perfect, it can be anything. It is a way of self-expression, showing unique self and thoughts and feelings. Improvisational dance can even be performed according to one's own inner rhythm without following the music, while ignoring the scrutiny from others or even oneself. In China, because of the large population, everyone has the same requirements, neat, systematic, thus easy to manage. This is reflected in our education system since childhood. But here, I experience personal expression, and learn that everyone is unique in the world.

This class takes a lot of time to warm up. My body used to be very flexible, but due to not practicing dancing for a long time and sitting at a desk for a long time, my body functions are not as good as before. But this class allowed me to re-challenge my body and relax, and teach me to love my own body. Every time I take this class, it is an escape from the heavy academic pressure. At the same time, this class also helped me get out of my comfort zone, let me know more people, and made me braver.

As a senior who is about to graduate, I am really grateful to Professor Morejon. I took many classes with Professor Morejon. I enjoyed every class very much and learned a lot. Professor Morejon’s encouragement and praise made me more confident. These dance techniques, concepts, and warm-up exercises will be used by me in my future life, and I will also face future challenges with more confidence and courage.

A Tool to Unleash that Inner Child

Claire Llewellyn

Taking the course DAN 211, I honestly did not think it would be anything more than a fun elective that I would take with some friends and learn more about the art of dance. However, this class gave me an invaluable perspective on dance, and how it can have a meaningful impact on my life. At the start of this course, Professor Jorge talked about his background in using dance for psychology. He told a story on how dance is a tool to heal trauma by unleashing the inner child. I remember this as it was the first time I had heard of dance being available as a form of therapy, and this was the initial conversation that shifted my insight on dancing.

With each class, we practiced how to officially “let go”. At first, I was hesitant on how to achieve this ability. Professor Jorge eased this hesitation with an exercise that followed a similar routine: start by slowing down your breath, then focusing one by one on a limb or section, then becoming aware of your full body. We learned to dance like this, with one section and then the other. With each class I became more comfortable moving, and overtime it became easier for me to let go. As I danced, I felt free and my outlook on dance shifted. I now saw that improv can be used as a tool to unleash that inner child and reap the benefits of positive feelings. With this being the key understanding from the first classes, there was also one other way I learned that I could use the tool of improv to help me release. I learned this through a following class, as Professor Jorge put us through an exercise. He had us write down a word that we didn’t like about ourselves, then stand there and really feel it. It was hard to bring up a deep emotion, but finally I felt the emotions of anger and sadness. He then instructed us to release it with dance, and as doing so change the word to one that has a positive view. As I danced, I felt a physical unbind from the negativity. This was my “Ah Ha!” moment and the “therapy” part of dance clicked inside. With this, I now not only learned to use improv to liberate me from my thoughts, but I can also use it with a prior purpose to change my thoughts and liberate me from emotion.

All in all, I am immensely grateful for the teachings I learned from Professor Jorge. I truly believe that I would not have the same take away if it wasn’t for him. Right away, he set the culture of the classroom to be a “no judgment zone” and he encouraged each of us to open without embarrassment. Adding to this, I really felt that he cared about us as students. During the course he was patient in teaching, he connected with us personally, and was understanding of our progress. As a professor, he truly just wanted to share his passion of dance with us, and thus his style of teaching benefited the outcome of my learnings. With this, the insights that I took from this course are something that I will use tremendously in my future. Moving forward, I will continue to practice improvisation to find joy and freedom in my everyday life. I am forever grateful for this new outlook on dance and am excited to see how it will enrich my life.

Connecting with Each Other

Jordyn Solages

This course has taught me so much about dance and how to express myself through movement. Even though I have been dancing my entire life, I still find that there is so much about dance for me to learn. Throughout this course, I found myself able to let go and have fun with dance. I learned to find my own rhythms and music to create movements that felt right for me in the moment. I also learned the importance of dancing in my own space and not worrying about what I look like improvising.

I really enjoyed the warmup that we did each class because it was a good way for us to stretch and prepare for improvising. I also liked how each class was different in the way that we would approach our movements. For example, one class focused on improvising based on shapes and a different class was based on emotions. I think this really helped me to figure out how to begin my improv and then my movements were able to flow easily after. I also really enjoyed the videos that were played in class because they helped me to understand the different styles of improv. My favorite class was when we went to the Lowe art museum and did an improv dance to a piece that inspired us. I thought it was very fun to relate what we learned in class to different art works. I also really enjoyed how we ended each class by connecting with each other in a circle before we left.

My main takeaways from this course are to be present in the moment and not take things too seriously. It’s been hard to not worry about the future and what life will look like after college, but improv has allowed me to realize the importance of enjoying the present and taking things one step at a time. I also think I’ve learned it’s important to not take everything too seriously and have fun with all the things that I do. Improv has helped me to express myself and my emotions in a way that allows me to escape from all of the distractions going on in my life. Dance has always been a constant in my life, and I hope to continue to use the skills that I have learned in this course in my everyday life.

There is no Wrong Way to Dance

Danielle Levine

This course has taught me how to express myself through movement. Prior to this course, I had never danced before (besides the 2 recreational classes I took when I was 6 and 7). I came into the class with no knowledge or experience. I learned that dance is not just about making movements look good, it is about expressing yourself and completely letting go. In addition to learning how to dance, I learned the importance of stretching and keeping my body young. Stretching keeps your muscles flexible and healthy.

This course has been one of my favorite classes at UM. I have never felt so welcomed into a subject that I have no prior knowledge of. I was initially nervous about taking a dance course, however, you taught me that dancing is not about looking perfect, it is about expressing yourself. I loved doing the warmups each day to start class. I have noticed I am now more flexible and can move my body in ways I could not prior to taking this course. I also liked how each class we learned different kinds and styles of dance. It was always exciting to see what new movements we would learn. I always came to class excited and ready to let loose.

The main takeaway I learned from this class is that there is no wrong way to dance. As long as you let your body feel the movements, you are dancing correctly. I have also committed to stretching each day, even if it is only for five minutes. Stretching every day will help keep me active and healthy as I get older. Another important takeaway is the ability to dance in front of a room full of people. Upon registering for this class, I never thought I would be able to dance in front of a class for one minute, however, I have grown throughout the semester and learned to embrace my own unique movements.

My Sanctuary

Gianna Angelillo

The dance studio became my sanctuary a space where I could escape the stresses of daily life and lose myself in the rhythm of movement. Each time I came to class, I was transported to a realm of expression and self-discovery.As the music played, my body moved effortlessly, following its own rhythm. In those moments, dance became my way of expressing emotions too complex for words.Improvisation equipped me with the tools and techniques to use dance as an authentic form of self-expression. Exercises like "body mapping" invited me to tune into the physical sensations coursing through my body and translate them into movement. I can vividly recall releasing the tension from my body.

In class, the real magic happened during our improvisation exercises. Following the directions, we let go of any plans and embraced the spontaneity of the moment. It was all about trusting our instincts and expressing ourselves through raw, unscripted movement. Each time we improvised, I felt more and more free, shedding my self-consciousness and embracing my truest self. As my journey in DAN 211 draws to a close, I find myself changed both as a dancer and as a human being. This class has not only refined my technical abilities but has awakened in me a deeper understanding of movement as a potent channel for self-expression. I have learned to listen to the wisdom of my body.

DAN 211, Modern Improvisation, has been a journey for me, shaping not just my understanding of dance, but also my outlook on life itself. There has been a change in my approach to movement and self-expression since I started the class. I could relate to the emphasis on accepting vulnerability, which inspired me to let go of my inhibitions and explore the depths of my existence. I developed my ability to trust the present moment and let myself flow with the flow of each experience as it happened through a variety of exercises and approaches. These sessions have greatly impacted my personal development in addition to improving my ability to express myself artistically. They have given me a renewed sense of bravery, a deeper sense of connection, and an appreciation for the transformative potential of movement as a form of self-expression. Thinking back on my time in DAN 211, I am incredibly appreciative of the priceless skills I learned.

A Journey of Liberation

Celeste Pongratz

Taking this class DAN 211, Modern Improvisation, I began on a journey that was both unexpected and transformative. Throughout this semester, it provided a place where I felt both liberated to care less about what others think of me and focused to pay closer attention to my inner rhythm. Sometimes it seems easier to isolate myself from the world, but I have learned that the people I surround myself with bring out the best in me if I let them get close to me. It’s easy to get caught up in this fast paced world and forget to slow down and appreciate where you are now. That is something I will take with me: a newfound appreciation for living carefree.

From the very first class, Modern Improvisation stood out as an environment filled with freedom and exploration. Having such concepts in a dance class, it allowed me to experience dance as a pure form of self-expression unbounded by rigid choreographic sequences and perfect movements. All I know or feel like I mostly know is how to appear perfect and not step outside of the box. This freedom was exhilarating. I didn’t have to be perfect. I think each class peeled back layers of self-doubt and inhibition. Even when I felt out of place, I used that to grow into the space and free myself through random movements that then turned into a story.

One of the most significant moments I remember from the course was dancing with my group and picking out the song we would use in our final performance. It was here that everyone shared a common goal of having fun because nothing else mattered during this time. It was our escape and how we interacted in this shared space showed how we understood each other. This collective energy was seen as, creating a dynamic space that seemed to lift each of us and free us independently. I benefited from being a part of this group because even if it was different every time, it flowed beautifully, showing off every personality. When feeding off the group's energy, it was as if our individual creative spirits were magnified, making the dance class feel like a sanctuary where all stresses and worries of the day melted away, leaving room for pure creativity. I can say we grew closer as a class and more significantly as a group.

A pivotal moment in the course was the opportunity to perform solo in front of my peers. Initially, the thought of solo performances was daunting; however, these moments turned out to be incredibly empowering. As I danced, I felt the supportive energy of every person in the class, which transformed my nervousness into strength. It was not just about performing but sharing apart of myself. I'm proud to have done this performance, because I can be very introverted and uncomfortable in the vicinity of many people. This class taught me to dance like no one is watching, because it’s a waste of time focusing on them and missing out on what makes you happy. Moreover, observing my peers perform their solos added layers to my understanding of how everyone moves differently. Each performance was a narrative, a deeply personal story told through bodies, which also deepened my appreciation for the uniqueness of each dancer's style and emotional depth.

I learned that improvisation is not merely a dance technique but a tool for building community and self-assurance. The support system that was created from our shared vulnerability during performances has been one of the most gratifying aspects of this experience. I am grateful that it created a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect that I believe is rare in competitive environments like other college classes. This has been a journey of liberation from internal constraints, as I learn to let go, and a celebration of individuality. As I move forward, I carry with me not only more confidence but strength to believe in myself.

A Transformative Experience

Katherine Aguero

My improvisation class this semester was amazing, and it quickly became the highlight of my week. Each session was a new adventure, filled with fun exercises and spontaneous scenarios that really pushed us all to think on our feet. We laughed a lot, and I really enjoyed the bond that formed between all of us in the class. The way our instructor led the sessions made everything flow so smoothly. They always gave us great feedback that helped me, and my classmates improve and feel more comfortable trying new things.

The class was laid out in a way that made learning fun and easy. Our instructor was great at explaining complex ideas in a simple way and always encouraged us to support each other. This created a positive environment where I felt safe to take risks and step outside my comfort zone. I tried different roles and styles, which helped me become more flexible and confident in my performances.

Looking back at the semester, I can see how much I’ve grown not just in my improvisation skills but also in my personal confidence. Each class left me feeling energized and inspired, ready for whatever was next. The experience went beyond just learning how to perform without a script; it taught me valuable skills that I use in my everyday life, like thinking quickly and handling unexpected situations. This improvisation class wasn’t just another course it was a transformative experience that really made my semester special.

The Exhilaration of Dance

Tusca Mahmoudpour

In the midst of academic pressures and the demands of competitive soccer, the dance studio became my sanctuary, a place of respite and rejuvenation. Under your guidance, the studio transformed into a haven where I could escape from the stresses of my everyday life and immerse myself in the freedom of movement and expression.Your nurturing and caring demeanor as a professor made all the difference. It was evident from the start that you weren't just teaching dance; you were fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where students could feel safe to explore and create. Your genuine passion for dance and genuine concern for our well-being shone through in every class.

In the studio, surrounded by fellow dancers and enveloped in the rhythm of the music, I found solace from the relentless pressures of academia and athletics. Your encouragement to simply let go and allow the music to guide our bodies was liberating. It was a reminder to embrace the present moment, to release the tension and stress that weighed me down, and to reconnect with the joy of movement. The dance studio became a place where I could express myself freely, without judgment or expectation. It was a space where academic worries and soccer responsibilities faded into the background, replaced by the exhilaration of dance and the camaraderie of our dance community. You showed me the importance of improvised dancing and you have helped me more than you may think.

So, thank you, Professor, for creating such a nurturing and inspiring environment. Your dedication to your students and your passion for dance has left an unforgettable mark on my journey. The lessons I learned in your studio extends far beyond the dance floor, reminding me to always seek moments of joy and self-expression amidst life's challenges.

Moving Freely Anytime I want

Oriana Davila

Architecture can be a time consuming major, endless deadline, a lot of stress, late nights, and the constant push to turn ideas into reality. My job has the same intensity, with high demands on creativity. That’s why I need a space to decompress and let go of all the stress. For me, the dance studio became that escape, a place where I could leave everything behind and lose myself in the rhythm of movement. Stepping into class felt like entering a different realm. Whether with music or not, I let my body find its own flow, and just let my body move the way it wanted. Dancing became a way to express emotions that words couldn't quite capture.

For me one of the best parts was when we did not have any instructions and the professor was only saying to let our body speak for itself. That showed me how we can be feeling so much or have a weight on us from something that is bothering us, and sometimes we don’t want to talk about it but just by letting our body move it can say a lot. As class comes to an end, I realize how much I’ve grown as a person. The class did more than improve my dance technique, but it transformed the way I express myself and just let my body move the way it wants because it can reflect what I’m feeling.

These classes have changed not just my dance skills, but also my outlook on life. I’ve gained courage, built deeper connections, and developed a new appreciation for the power of movement as a form of expression. As I look back on my time in this class, I feel immensely grateful for all the personal growth and the lessons learned. In the future I could use what I learned by just moving freely anytime I want, and just let my stress or what I’m feeling out of my body. I’m happy I can do this anytime, anywhere.

Mantra, choreographed by Covenant Babatunde. Photo by Rob Cannon.

More Courageous

Savannah Park

Before enrolling in our improv class I was out of tune with my body. Over the course of the semester I have learned more about my mind, body, and how they connect. Through our warm ups I was able to reset and learn how to properly take care of my body, releasing the stress and tension. During our exercises I was able to let go of my mind and let my body freely move. By expressing my unconscious desires it allowed me to clear my head, which made me more in tune with myself.

This class allowed me to truly feel free. I am usually a shy person but the atmosphere that enclosed to dance studio made it easy to try new things. Allowing myself the freedom to just move without judgment from myself or worried about judgement from others was liberating. This class also helped me feel more confident with myself. I have never dance before in my life and by having to take risks and dance in front of our class allowed me to work on my confidence and gave me opportunities to be more courageous.

In the future I plan on using the warm-ups daily to make sure I am taking proper care of myself. The stretching and breathing exercises allowed me to calm my mind and body. I also plan on using the exercises we learned throughout the semester as a stress reliever or coping strategy.

Beauty and Expression

Nadia Chan

I discovered insights that have reshaped my approach to how I move my body. Firstly, I learned and embraced repetitive movements, that it is okay to return to what I am comfortable with. Instead of viewing them as monotonous, I found beauty and expression in their continuity, realizing that they serve as a canvas for exploration and interpretation.

Furthermore, I delved into the realm of raw, unfiltered movements, uncovering a channel for releasing trauma and processing emotions. Through uninhibited expression, I found solace and healing, transforming movement into a medium for self-discovery and emotional release. This journey has been cathartic, allowing me to confront and navigate my inner landscape with newfound clarity and resilience.

Moreover, the fusion of meditation and movement proved to be a transformative experience. The tranquil moments of introspection allowed me to center myself, fostering a profound sense of presence and mindfulness in my dance. Whether seamlessly integrating technique or defiantly diverging from it, I found solace in the flexibility of our approach, discovering new avenues for creative exploration. I want to extend my gratitude to Prof Jorge and everyone else in class for a nurturing environment where I could grow and express myself freely. I look forward to learning more ways in which I can challenge myself.

New and old friends coming together

Sofia Kauderer

This improvisation dance class taught me invaluable lessons beyond just the techniques of dance. It provided me with a unique outlet for stress relief and personal expression, allowing me to channel my emotions and anxieties in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. The class emphasized the importance of spontaneity and creativity, encouraging me to trust my instincts and embrace the unknown.

The course has not only enhanced my confidence in dance but also in my personal and professional life. The skills I developed in this class—such as adaptability, collaboration, and the ability to think on my feet—are ones that I will carry with me as I move forward, especially in the world of marketing and entrepreneurship. The freedom and joy that come with improvisational dance have inspired me to approach challenges with a more open and innovative mindset.

As mentioned above, this class served as a wonderful respite during the demanding days of my senior year. It was incredibly refreshing to be in an environment where I felt completely unjudged, and supported by a professor who sincerely wanted only the best for his students. Amid personal family challenges, the pressures of schoolwork, maintaining an outside job, and pursuing my dream of starting a marketing agency, this class was a bright spot in my routine. I always looked forward to the moments we spent dancing, laughing, and experiencing pure joy. My favorite moment was undoubtedly the last group dance—it was my final class as a student at the University of Miami, and it couldn't have ended on a higher note. I will forever treasure the video of us dancing, a beautiful memory of both new and old friends coming together.

Exploring New Dimensions

Delaney Brown

Taking DAN 190 has been a very eye opening experience. I took this course to fulfill an elective to graduate. I have never been a dancer, nor am I any good at dancing. I am quite a reserved person and tend to feel stage fright. I am definitely not someone to enjoy getting up and dancing in front of people. Although I took this class as an elective I was hoping it would help me overcome this stage fright fear and feel more confident. Furthermore, I wanted to learn how to move my body and become a little bit better of a dancer and be more confident. This class definitely helped me achieve this.

Not only was the class very enjoyable, uplifting and fun, it taught me many things about dance. This class helped me to be more creative and express my creativity. Improvisation encourages dancers to explore their own creative ideas and express themselves freely through movement. This can lead to the development of a unique dance style and a deeper connection with one’s emotions. This class as well increased my confidence, not only in dance but in day to day life. Dance has many benefits for improving confidence.

As dancers learn to trust their instincts and make spontaneous decisions, they often gain confidence, both on and off the dance floor. This can translate into greater self-assurance in daily activities and other performance. Improvisation is also very beneficial for body awareness. This class focused on exploring different movements and how the body can flow through space, which can increase body awareness and control. This is beneficial not only for dance but also for general health and fitness.

This class helped me learn to move freely and allow my body to move in ways I wanted to without thinking. Improvisation classes are also very beneficial in social interaction and teamwork. Although I had many friends in this class, I met a lot of new people and created connections with them. It also improved my teamwork skills by working with many different people, all who had great ideas. We learned to collaborate our ideas and create beautiful dance pieces.

Furthermore, it was eye opening and a bit challenging in a good way to work with people of all different dance levels. There were great dancers in the class, and then some who were on my level who weren’t sure what to do. It was really fun to learn from the great dancers and watch them. I also learned a lot from them, on how to move my body more freely. Improv is really beneficial for social interaction and teamwork as it offers opportunities to interact with others, respond to their movements, and create in a group setting.

Lastly, this class was a great stress relief for me. As a senior finishing the last semester of college, I needed a class to allow me to not only learn something new but have fun. It allowed me to breathe and take a break from all the stressors I had. It allowed my body to relax and breathe. It was enjoyable to let my body move about and let out all the stress and tension my body was holding onto. I could express my emotions through dance, and let go of any emotions that were built up.

Overall I really enjoyed taking this class, as I learned many new techniques of dance but also gained creativity and confidence. Taking this class significantly boosted my confidence, pushing me to step out of my comfort zone and trust in my spontaneous decisions. Initially, the thought of dancing without a set routine was daunting, but as I grew more comfortable, I found a deep sense of liberation in expressing myself freely. This freedom has not only enhanced my creativity but also allowed me to explore new dimensions of my personality and capabilities. The supportive environment of the class encouraged me to experiment with movements and ideas without fear of judgment, fostering a newfound boldness that has permeated other areas of my life. Overall, the experience has been transformative making me both a better dancer and a more self-assured individual.

A newfound sense of confidence

Tomi Frame

Taking an improvisation class has been an incredibly enriching experience for me. Initially, I must admit, I was quite hesitant about stepping into the world of improvisation and taking a class knowing that I had to dance. As someone who tends to prefer structure and predictability, the idea of spontaneously creating scenes and dialogue seemed daunting. However, as the course progressed, I found myself falling in love with the class regardless that I was nervous.

One of the most significant takeaways from this class is how it pushed me out of my comfort zone. Each session presented new challenges and opportunities for growth. Whether it was performing in front of the class or engaging in improvisational exercises, I learned to embrace the uncertainty and trust in my instincts. This shift in mindset not only enhanced my improvisational skills but also extended to other aspects of my life. I became more comfortable with taking risks and adapting to unforeseen circumstances.

Moreover, the supportive environment fostered within the class played a crucial role in my development. The support among fellow classmates and the encouragement from our instructor created a safe space where I felt free to explore and experiment without fear of judgment. This sense of community helped alleviate any embarrassment or self-consciousness I initially felt, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the creative process.

Overall, this improvisation class has been the best class I have taken at UM. Not only did it teach me valuable performance skills, but it also instilled in me a newfound sense of confidence and resilience. I am grateful for the opportunity to have participated in such a rewarding experience, and I look forward to continuing to apply the lessons learned both on and off the stage.

Miguel Alejandro Castillo in his loud and clear. Photo by Maria Baranova, courtesy Castillo.

Truly Opening Up

Adaria Fennoy

Taking this class has truly introduced myself to a side of me I've never met. I've learned different improv techniques that I have never been introduced to during my dance career. Coming into this class as a dancer I Had my reserves about truly opening up and allowing myself to be free.

After time went on and I got comfortable in the space and with those around me, I reached new goals and accomplishments I don't think I ever would've achieved on my own. Improv was never a favorite of mine while dancing because I prefer to just be told what to do and when to do it, but this class has changed my outlook on improv heavily.

Since I still currently train, I want to incorporate more improvisation into my weekly training because it has brought to much happiness into my life again. Thank you once again for everything this semester professor!

I know Longer Feel Alone

Enrique Santos

Dance 190, improvisational, has had a profound impact on me going forward in my spiritual, physical & mental health/life. Improvisational Dance is a class I wish I would have taken in my freshman or sophomore year because it has opened my eyes to a new world, the improvisational world. This class is a fantastic reminder to me that no one really knows what they are doing rather everyone has been given fundamental skills to continue in life. I no longer feel alone. I never saw improvisational dance or dance in general as an expressional way.

In class we learned to dance through shapes, letters, past experiences, animals, emotions, etc. These are the fundamental skills that have been instituted in me by Professor Jorge. I can now continue to go on with my life with the skills necessary to express myself while not having to necessarily explain myself. I can easily see how I can implement dance in my day-to-day activities such as at work. While life may be stressful because of all of the unknowns, what I do know is that I have dance to express myself. Weather I am happy, angry, sad, etc. I can explore myself through movement.

By no means do I think I am an incredible dancer, what I do know is that, that, does not matter because “good” or “incredible” is a subjective feeling. If I am feeling great and that I am doing it my way of expressing myself then I am happy.

A Complete 360

Carolina Mojena

This class was a breaking point in my life. A positive breaking point. I struggle a lot, and this class gave me an escape. I learned a lot of things in this class, not just dance. We learned how to be outgoing, we learned how to be patient, we learned how to be open minded, we learned how to be caring, we learned how to be adventurous, and we learned how to be kind to each other. This course was so special to me because Jorge forced us to step out of our comfort zone and try something new. I already knew everyone would go into class, taking it as a joke or not fully submerging themselves in the class. By the end of the semester, it was a complete 360. As a former dancer, it was so amazing to see the class' impact so many people who live with dance. Dance heals, especially improv.

I had a really hard time with attending class regularly and being fully present. This semester was especially difficult for me. There were a lot of family life issues, personal issues, all while managing school and a job. Sometimes I could not get out of bed but there was always one person who reminded me I have the strength and what it takes and it was our professor and the entire class. Everyone made me feel so joyous and for an hour I felt like I could escape and be at peace. That environment was created for me and I could not be more grateful for that. I learned that there is also so much more to improv than “free style dance”. There is intent, ideas, and emotions that go into it. I also learned that we can incorporate it into our daily lives as well as yoga to stay healthy and even live longer.

In the future, I would love to continue incorporating yoga warm-ups and stretches I can not only benefit from that as a way to focus and calm down but it can also help me stay flexible since I am dancing again. I also dream of being a physical therapist, so I can stress to my patients that there are other ways of treating your body with care that aren't medicine, but dance can also do that for you.

I've Found My Purpose

Alejandra Hernandez

Stepping into this class was like shedding layers of tension and expectations built up over my time in college. As the music began to play, I became engaged in the freedom of movement, free of the constraints of deadlines and grades. With each step, I let go of the challenges and frustrations that had held me back, embracing the present moment with every flowing motion.

Dance has always been my love, a form of expression that goes beyond words and helps me to connect with myself on a more profound level. In this class, I rediscovered the delight of simply moving and expressing myself without restraint or judgment. Throughout the course, I felt a sensation of rejuvenation wash over me, reminding me why I chose to pursue dance in the first place.

Beyond my collegiate experience, I am committed to continue on this path of self-discovery via dance. It is more than a hobby or a passing interest; it is an integral part of who I am. I imagine a future in which I can spend more time and energy to honing my skills, sharing my enthusiasm with others, and exploring new paths of artistic expression. I've found my purpose in dance, and I'm excited about the opportunities that await me.

Amazing Way to De-stress

Al Jacobs

Walking into this class on the first day I had no idea what to expect. I actually thought I was walking into dance 290, but after the first week I realized I enjoyed the class so much I knew I had to switch in. A choice I am very content with. This class provided me with an amazing way to de-stress and start my day full of warmth love and compassion.

As a finance major many people will pressure you to feel rushed or like you are in some sort of race. This is simply not how I operate, throughout the course of this class I was quite happy with how mindful I became as well as self aware. Aware not just in thoughts but I’m how my body felt as well.

The strategies we learned about transitioning feelings through movement I have used quite often over this semester whenever I get a second to breathe I remember the things we talked about in class. This class in my honest opinion is significantly more important than my other coursework. Walking into class sometimes with a full day ahead sometimes felt overwhelming but we’d then do a warmup and I would be drawn back to the present and would come to realization that all is well.

I am definitely thrilled I took this class and would love to find similar outlets after I leave UM to help me stay present and mindful.

Escaping the Pressures

Katerina Molina

Participating in the dance improvisation class was an amazing experience for my senior year. As I was going through the final stretch of my undergraduate studies and was stressed with the pressures of applying for graduate school, this class provided a nice escape. Dancing with friends added an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience. It became a free space where we could all set aside our worries and simply be in the moment and enjoy the freedom of movement.

Throughout the semester, I found a happiness in the spontaneity of improvisational dance. In those times I discovered a sense of freedom and a release of stress. It was a reminder of the therapeutic power of movement, offering a much-needed escape from the stress and emotional weight of academic responsibilities. Whether I was dancing alone, or dancing with friends each time gave a me a quick getaway where I could momentarily escape the pressures of daily life and reconnect.

The class served as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing movement because it helps with life's challenges. It taught me that sometimes, the most effective way to get through a hard/stressful time is simply to dance it out. Looking back on my time in the class, I am so grateful I was able to enroll in this course and with this professor. He made it all the more enjoyable. As I prepare to go onto the next part of my life I’ll always remember the sense of freedom and pure enjoyment this class brought to me. I am not sure I will ever take a course like this in my academic career again, so I always want to carry it with me.

Every One Can Dance

Gabrielle Ramsamy

Taking this class has taught me that everyone can dance. Dancing is not just big elaborate moves you see done by professional dancers, but also the simplest movements someone does such as moving your fingers. I've also learned that nothing can stop you from dancing. When I broke my ankle a couple weeks into the semester I was worried about how I was suppose to dance in this class. But I quickly learned that I could still dance even though I broke my ankle while I sat in my chair moving my hands and body as much as or could, or when as I got better and I could do small movements while standing.

What I really enjoyed in this class was the stretches at the beginning of class. This semester I had a very packed schedule and 3 back to back class before dance, so I found the stretches very enjoyable. They were a way for me to de-stress from all the hard work I had to do from my classes before and helped me. I also found the stretches very tranquil and allowed me to focus on nothing but the stretches and movement we were doing and nothing else that was happening in my life. So, I found these overall very helpful and looked forward to them everyday. I also of course loved everyone with the class and I really enjoyed getting to meet some many amazing people that I felt comfortable enough to around to let go with dancing without worry.

I'm so grateful I took this class will truly miss it, but there are so many takeaways I have learned. One thing I will take away from dance is that you can always dance, and that everyone person opinion of dances differ, everyone has there own styles and movements they like and prefer. I also have started to incorporate some of the stretches we did in class in my daily life. I've started doing this stretches in morning before I have to go to school, and this has been so helpful with not only allowing me to de stress and allowing my brain to rest.

Sources

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2. Dance Your Soul: As Your Body Moves Your Spirit Soars. https://coolcleveland.com/2011/03/dance-your-soul-as-your-body-moves-your-spirit-soars/

3. Celestial Whispers: A Nighttime Dance of Dreamshttps://discover.hubpages.com/literature/celestial-whispers-a-nighttime-dance-of-dreams

4. Milants, Kim (2024). The Healing Whisper: A Dance with the Inner Self. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/healing-whisper-dance-inner-self-kim-milants-pfcce?trk=article-ssr-frontend-pulse_more-articles_related-content-card

5. Okeeffe, Ann. Alchemy Dance Improvisation: Dancehouse, https://www.dancehouse.com.au/whats-on/alchemy-dance-improvisation/

6. Osho Quotes. https://twitter.com/OSHO/status/524651342023782400

7. Pauly-Tarr, Weena (2022). SE+AM: The Value of Aliveness. https://www.theideacrucible.com/articles/seam-the-value-aliveness

8. Bat Haim, Sigalit (2017). Dance Of Liberation: A 7-Step Guide to a Life of Joy, Vitality and Purpose. https://www.foodmatters.com/article/dance-of-liberation-7-step-guide-to-a-life-of-joy-vitality-and-purpose

15. Chaewon (Alexa) Han (2023). Dance, The Transformative Rhythm of Body, Mind, and Soul. https://nlcshub.com/arts/dance/3707/

16. meanycenter. https://www.instagram.com/meanycenter/p/Cyd4DeVRwuq/?img_index=1

17. Sassos, Stephanie (2022). Best Online Dance Classes to Try at Home Right Now. https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/fitness/g32686399/best-online-dance-classes/

18. nachmo dc choreographers. http://gladedance.org/nachmo-choreographers

19. The Dancer's Face - Keeping the Audience Involved. https://www.thedancecentreperegiansprings.com/single-post/2016/03/18/the-dancers-face-keeping-the-audience-involved

20. Friends Dancing Pictures, Images and Stock Photos. https://www.istockphoto.com/photos/friends-dancing

21. Nowness. https://youtu.be/M28nqKlAsNs?si=fEWQwQRGUVHJAjLg

22. Everybody Can Dance.https://carrollwoodcenter.org/everybody-can-dance-body-confidence-dance-class-w-devan-bittinger/

23. Introducing our 2024 "25 to Watch" (2023). Miguel Alejandro Castillo in his loud and clear. Photo by Maria Baranova, courtesy Castillo. https://www.dancemagazine.com/introducing-our-2024-25-to-watch/

24. Synny Crimea and Grinda - Not Alone. https://edmc.nu/music/sunny-crimea-grinda-not-alone-565174/

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Dance Improvisation / Spring 2024

Final Reflections