The Evans Somatic Dance Institute

For dancers, educators, and anyone interested in the profound connection between body and mind, The Evans Somatic Dance Institute in Port Townsend, Washington, stands as a truly remarkable "point of interest." Founded by the internationally acclaimed dancer, choreographer, and educator Bill Evans, this institute is a beacon for somatic dance—a practice focused on internal physical perception and the experience of bodily movements. It’s more than just a place to learn dance; it's a center for deep embodied learning, designed to enhance health, creativity, and a deeper understanding of movement itself.

Bill Evans, with over 75 years of lived dance experience, developed his unique Evans Somatic Dance Technique, drawing on concepts from the Laban/Bartenieff Movement System and other scientific and somatic approaches. His journey into acknowledging bodily wisdom began in the late 1960s when injuries threatened his career, leading him to discover sustainable and efficient movement habits. Now, at 82 and still dancing strong, he attributes his longevity to these explorations. The Institute, relocated to Port Townsend in 2018, continues his legacy, offering a rare opportunity for individuals in the Washington region to learn directly from a pioneer in the field.

The Evans Somatic Dance Institute is located at 670 Hudson Pl, Port Townsend, WA 98368, USA. Nestled in the charming and artistic community of Port Townsend on the Olympic Peninsula, this location provides a serene and inspiring backdrop for immersive learning experiences. Port Townsend itself is a popular destination in Washington, known for its Victorian architecture, maritime history, and vibrant arts scene, making the institute easily accessible for those traveling from across the state or beyond. While the specific details about parking or public transport for this address are not widely available, Port Townsend generally offers a walkable downtown area and various parking options. Visitors can enjoy the unique atmosphere of the town, combining their pursuit of somatic dance with exploration of local shops, restaurants, and natural beauty.

The Evans Somatic Dance Institute offers specialized programs designed for both professional dancers and those interested in a deeper understanding of movement and the body. Their core services include:

• Workshops (Online and On-site): The Institute provides a variety of workshops that delve into the Evans Somatic Dance Technique and related somatic practices. These workshops explore topics such as:

  • Bartenieff Fundamentals: An exploration of the core movements underlying human experience, focusing on tuning into sensation and learning from the body's wisdom.

  • Evans Somatic Dance Technique: Investigations into dance etudes created by Mr. Evans to explore embodiment, articulation, three-dimensional access to the kinesphere, musicality, and expressivity.

  • Concepts related to functional anatomy and efficient movement habits.

• Teacher Certification Program: A comprehensive program for individuals seeking to become certified teachers of the Evans Somatic Dance Technique. This program ensures rigorous training and a deep understanding of the methodology for dissemination to future students.

• Summer Institutes of Dance: Carrying on a tradition that began in 1977, these intensives offer immersive learning experiences for dancers and educators looking to deepen their practice and understanding of somatic principles.

• Somatic Dance Conference and Performance Festival: Founded by Bill Evans in 2013, this annual event (sometimes hosted in Port Townsend, as in July 2024) provides a forum for experiencing and exploring the intersections of Somatic Movement and Dance Education, featuring performances, presentations, and workshops.

• Occasional Performances: The Institute may host or organize performances, showcasing the artistry and principles of somatic dance, offering the local community an opportunity to witness this unique form of expression.

• Archival Work: While not a direct service to the public, Bill Evans is organizing his extensive archive for submission to the University of Utah Fine Arts Library, contributing to the preservation and dissemination of dance knowledge.

The Evans Somatic Dance Institute is distinguished by several unique features that make it a significant destination for movement education in Washington:

• Founding by Bill Evans: The direct involvement of Bill Evans, a renowned figure in modern dance, choreography, and somatic education, is a primary highlight. His extensive experience, Guggenheim Fellowship, and lifetime achievement awards underscore the caliber of instruction and philosophy at the Institute.

• Emphasis on Somatic Wisdom: The core philosophy revolves around learning from the "living body" and developing "bodymind harmony." This approach focuses on internal perception and replacing inefficient movement habits, leading to healthier and more expressive dancing.

• Unique Method of Teaching: The Evans Somatic Dance Technique is a distinct methodology drawing from Laban/Bartenieff Movement System, other scientific approaches, and decades of practical dance experience. This offers a highly specialized and effective learning pathway.

• Rigorous Teacher Training: The certified teacher program ensures that the Evans Somatic Dance Technique is disseminated by highly qualified and knowledgeable instructors, maintaining the integrity and quality of the method.

• Focus on Longevity and Health: Bill Evans's own story of extending his dance career through somatic exploration is a testament to the benefits of this approach. The Institute teaches tools to prevent injuries and promote sustainable movement for a lifetime.

• Connection to the Somatic Movement Field: The Institute is deeply integrated into the broader somatic movement education and therapy community, hosting conferences and contributing to the dialogue on embodied practices.

• Intellectual Depth and Practical Application: The programs combine theoretical understanding of anatomy and movement principles with practical application through dance etudes and improvisational practices, offering a well-rounded educational experience.

To learn more about programs, workshops, or the teacher certification at The Evans Somatic Dance Institute, you can reach them here:

• Address: 670 Hudson Pl, Port Townsend, WA 98368, USA

• Phone: (505) 280-6250

• Mobile Phone: +1 505-280-6250

• Website: www.evanssomaticdance.org (as indicated by ISMETA listing and other sources)

For residents of Port Townsend and the wider Washington state region, The Evans Somatic Dance Institute offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the profound art and science of somatic dance. This "point of interest" is particularly suitable for locals who are dancers, dance educators, movement therapists, or simply individuals seeking a deeper, healthier, and more expressive connection with their own bodies. The direct involvement of Bill Evans, a living legend in the dance world, provides a unique chance to learn from a master whose methodology has been refined over decades to promote longevity and artistic freedom.

The Institute's focus on healthy movement habits, drawn from the Laban/Bartenieff Movement System and other somatic approaches, offers practical tools that can benefit anyone, regardless of their current movement background. For aspiring or current dance teachers in Washington, the rigorous certification program provides a valuable pathway to advanced professional development. Furthermore, the presence of an annual Somatic Dance Conference and Performance Festival in Port Townsend enriches the local arts and wellness community, offering opportunities for engagement and learning right in their backyard. The serene and inspiring setting of Port Townsend complements the contemplative and physically engaging nature of somatic dance, making The Evans Somatic Dance Institute an invaluable resource for locals dedicated to the art and wisdom of embodied movement.

The Evans Somatic Dance Institute

670 Hudson Pl, Port Townsend, WA 98368, USA