Professor Diachenko's recent research focuses on the integration of various somatic practices in the training of dancers and the application of the Alexander Technique to dance performance and choreography and the other performing arts. She is currently investigating the complimentary nature of Alexander Technique and Prolotherapy in injury recovery, specifically addressing ligament laxity and compensatory movement patterns. She continues to choreograph for young students and professional dancers, incorporating the principles of Alexander Technique in her creative process. Her exploration of movement material and themes for the aging dancer is another area of her creative research. New research includes investigations on coordinated breathing and the influence on spinal alignment and speaking/singing.
keywords
Integration of somatic methods in dance training, dance medicine, dance science,injury prevention Alexander Technique as a complimentary modality with proliferation therapy, Alexander Technique application to the performing arts, choreography/performance for the aging dancer, current models of somatic training in USA dance departments,training Alexander teachers, integration of Alexander Technique and The Coordinated Breathing work of Carl Stough, Jessica Wolf's Art of Breathing
DNCE 3043 - Choreographic Process
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2018
Examines physical and spatial relationships via group and site specific work. New methods of creative problem solving unearth and mine one's imagination and inspiration, cultivating the individual's unique process of dance-making. Class interrogates and supports students' developing language for addressing, critiquing and comprehending compositional choices and structures through verbal and written feedback practice. Can be taken out of sequence with DNCE 3033.
DNCE 3601 - Alexander Technique for Actors and Dancers
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2018 / Fall 2018 / Fall 2019
Studies how human reaction, coordination, and movement play a role in all activities. Through in-depth class discussions, movement, exploration, and individualized hands-on lessons, actors and dancers gain an understanding of the technique and its benefits to performance. Meets with DNCE 5601.
DNCE 3901 - Technique Practicum
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2019 / Spring 2020
Topical course (intermediate level) in dance technique. See subtopic for specific form. May be repeated up to 6 total credit hours. May require an audition.
DNCE 5601 - Alexander Technique for Graduate Students
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2018 / Fall 2018 / Fall 2019
Studies how human reaction, coordination, and movement play a role in all activities. Graduate students will explore direct application to dance training, performance, choreography, and teaching. Through in-depth class discussions, movement exploration, and individualized hands-on lessons, actors and dancers gain an understanding of the technique and its benefits to performance. Meets with DNCE 3601.
DNCE 6056 - Professional Development
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2018
Examines current trends and issues in dance education and the professional dance world. Explores curriculum development, administration, and job opportunities along with other topics such as grant writing, community engagement, dance advocacy, and working as an independent artist.
