All dance works tell a human story of sorts, as the human body is not an abstract instrument.

Designed for choreographers as well as ballet and contemporary dancers interested in exploring choreographic expression, Hong Kong Ballet Artistic Director and choreographer Septime Webre leads a dynamic session of dancemaking, exploration and creativity.

During the workshop, participants will experiment with various modalities for creating movement and learn skills for generating original movement phrases inspired by elements of narrative and character. Drawing on Webre’s experience as a choreographer of narrative work in both contemporary and neoclassical styles, attendees will be tasked with creating dynamic new movement combinations which are informed by the nature of a character, an emotional state or other aspects of storytelling. Newly created phrases will then be both refined and expanded, utilising movement-generating techniques, ultimately creating brief works which meditate on some aspect of the human experience.

Participants can expect to gain new skills for movement generation as well as making works which tell a story.

Participants can also expect to dance during the session and are encouraged to arrive early to do their own warm up. Participants are also requested to bring a smartphone or small video camera for recording and analysing newly generated movement.

Places are limited. Pre-registration is required to be considered for the workshop. Successful applicants will be contacted within five working days to purchase tickets for the class. Please dress comfortably.

This programme is part of da:ns focus – Ballet by the Bay, a ballet lovers’ weekend of classics and neo-classical works. Be inspired by world-class productions and be introduced to new perspectives on this celebrated art form.

Be sure to catch ALICE (in wonderland) by Hong Kong Ballet, a whimsical reimagination of Lewis Carroll’s beloved tale.