Graham Technique with Larissa Longsee

Classes

Minimum age: 16

Sunday: Graham Technique

  • Level:Beginner
  • Time: 11:30 – 13:00
  • Fee: £1

Class Description

This class will follow the traditional structure of the codified technique, sequencing through a set series of seated floor exercises, standing exercises and across-the-floor sequences.  The Graham Technique is an immensely valuable technique to layer on top of any dance training as it emphasises the importance of the usage of the back, as well as accessing the deep core abdominal muscles.

Fundamental principles in Graham Technique are the contraction and release, opposition, shift of weight and spirals.  Graham dancers believe that it is important that we not simply see ourselves as objects in space when dancing, but that we expand their body, energy and focus so they are amplified enough to fill that space.  The class will serve to free up the back, open up the hips and the body. On top, form the dancer to find dynamics, intricacy and articulation of the spine.

Biography

From Sydney, Australia, Larissa is a dancer and teacher currently based in London, sponsored by the Arts Council of England as an artist of exceptional talent.

Upon graduating from the School of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and performing in their New York City Center Season’s “Memoria”, she followed to make the move to London.  Since, she has performed with Rambert Dance Company under the direction of Benoit Swan Pouffer, London Fashion Week and NBC Universal / Amblin Television.  Her other prominent credits include working with Australian Ballet First Artist Juliet Burnett, Joss Arnott and Tony Award-winning Chet Walker.

Larissa studied the Graham technique in New York extensively with ex artistic director of the Martha Graham dance company, Christine Dakin, and ex principal dancer Jacqueline Buglisi.  She believes very much in passing on this traditional knowledge, yet bringing a fresh approach for dancers of the contemporary world. Most recently, Larissa led the Graham technique stream in vocational dance training schools across Sydney, Australia (Australian Music & Performing Arts, Brent Street and Danceformation) guiding pre professional dancers towards their goals and ultimately wonderful achievements.