Connection of dance cultures

Maori choreographer Louise Potiki-Bryant warms up participants at a workshop as part of a dance symposium at the University of Otago's School of Physical Education this week. Photo by Craig Baxter.
Maori choreographer Louise Potiki-Bryant warms up participants at a workshop as part of a dance symposium at the University of Otago's School of Physical Education this week. Photo by Craig Baxter.
A dance symposium heald at the University of Otago's School of Physical Education this week, was an opportunity to connect New Zealand dance scholars with other countries and other dance cultures, an organiser said.

The event has attracted about 60 students and dance academics from New Zealand, the United States, Asia, Europe and Africa.

Keynote speakers were Prof Susan Leigh Foster and Associate Prof Ananya Chatterjea, from the United States, and Prof Te Ahukaramu Charles Royal, from the University of Auckland, who had been invited to present their research on merging the academic and practical aspects of dance tuition and performance, University of Otago dance studies lecturer Dr Alexandra Kolb said.

"The symposium will connect New Zealand with other countries and other dance cultures. It is an excellent opportunity for physical education and dance programmes," Dr Kolb said.

- Annabel Reid