We explore the subject of stillness: specifically the
stillness that occurs in the midst of movement,
turbulence or chaos. It is found in the midst of
movement - it can also be conceived as that which
frames, or holds all movement. A principal focus is
to distinguish the therapeutic value of this
stillness. A Christo-centric philosophy and worldview
are ground to the work and the research methodology
is hermeneutic phenomenology. Within this framework a
choreographed dance work and written exegesis are
equal parts of the whole. The choreography for the
dance work employs a neo-classical-contemporary
technique particular to the choreographer. The dance
work was choreographed on and presented by four
dancers. These four dancers and four watchers were
the research participants. As the dance work evolved
it was presented in process and the participants
interviewed subsequent to the showings. Information
was sought about the essence of the danced/watched
experience, with particular attention being given to
the felt experience of stillness. This is a story and
a journey - being the vehicle for the central theme
of the thesis to be best elucidated.
stillness that occurs in the midst of movement,
turbulence or chaos. It is found in the midst of
movement - it can also be conceived as that which
frames, or holds all movement. A principal focus is
to distinguish the therapeutic value of this
stillness. A Christo-centric philosophy and worldview
are ground to the work and the research methodology
is hermeneutic phenomenology. Within this framework a
choreographed dance work and written exegesis are
equal parts of the whole. The choreography for the
dance work employs a neo-classical-contemporary
technique particular to the choreographer. The dance
work was choreographed on and presented by four
dancers. These four dancers and four watchers were
the research participants. As the dance work evolved
it was presented in process and the participants
interviewed subsequent to the showings. Information
was sought about the essence of the danced/watched
experience, with particular attention being given to
the felt experience of stillness. This is a story and
a journey - being the vehicle for the central theme
of the thesis to be best elucidated.