Tuesday, November 17, 2009

My stay at the Dance Village


During my career in KCDC – Israeli modern dance company, I stayed in what is called the "Dance Village" – a Kibbutz in which the modern dance school, the modern dance workshop and the dancers' dormitory are placed. Kibbutz Ga'aton is located in the beautiful Galilee region. The view from the window when you wake up in the morning is breathtaking.

After living most of my life in the city, this was a great change. I used to wake up early in the morning and hike in the mountains surrounding the village. The 5 a clock hike was an experience I still miss. I think this can be compared to Yoga. It was so quiet during these hours, nothing but the Jackals, the birds, the trees – and me.

I did this two-three times a week, and my instructor at the modern dance center started noticing a change: I was more relaxed, my dance movements were smooth, and my mind was more creative.
I know it sounds weird, but this simple experience taught me what is best for my career as a dancer. After I left the Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company and started going to auditions for modern dance companies in the U.S, I decided I need to live in a small town or a village, not a city. I hope to find in the U.S other modern dance companies that are placed in towns similar to the Dance Village.