The Health and Wellness working group puts out a new podcast every Thursday, revolving around holistic and natural health. To listen to this podcast from Reimagine TCWAC’s ‘Journey Through Health and Wellness’ series, click on the following link:
Gia Cacalano guides us through her method of improvisation. She links improvisation to meditation, and encourages a focused attention and consciousness drawn from sensory awareness and the energy of a space. As improvisation implies, it requires an acceptance of change, which is demonstrated by Gia as she exemplifies her process of moving her studio outdoors. Within the outdoor atmosphere, Gia and her interviewer, Dr. Elisa Haransky Beck, speak of the benefits of connecting with nature and grounding. The pull of the Earth is certainly attractive, and the landscape of the outdoors is pointed out to be a parallel to life in general.
About Gia
With a career spanning 30 years, a degree in Dance from Marymount Manhattan College, and a Masters in Improvisation, Gia Cacalano has spent the past twelve years researching improvisation methodologies. She works as an Educator in Physical activity for the University of Pittsburgh, and is an artistic leader in international improvisation music dance ensemble. She is drawn towards the moment of creation in improvisation, intuitive action, and the direct interaction of the performer and the public. To achieve such successful improvisation, it is vital to open one's awareness to their senses and be triggered by the unpredictable.