Laban for All

Rudolf Laban is one of the great theorists and practitioners of movement. He laid down a system for analysing - and annotating - the way the human being moves in space. He ascribed values to these movements, releasing the expressive power contained within each one of them.
Laban for All offers a simplified version of his system which can be used by relative beginners upwards. We are introduced to the kinesphere - which simply means the personal space surrounding each one of us extending as far as we can reach. Then to the Dimensional Cross - which is simply a way of describing movement in three dimensions: high/low, forwards/backwards and side to side. Then we learn about Pathways and Trace Forms, Levels and Zones.
Each new term is accompanied by very specific exercises - clearly illustrated with line drawings and diagrams - designed to strengthen and deepen our understanding. When we have grasped - and practised - the basic vocabulary, we move on to its expressive possibilities in drama and dance. The result is a thorough - and thoroughly practical - grounding in the most significant movement system of modern times.

Jean Newlove was Laban's assistant after he went to England as a refugee in 1938. She has taught Laban's ideas at the Royal Shakespeare Company and throughout the world. Her Laban for Actors and Dancers is also published by Routledge. Actor, voice teacher, and musician, John Dalby also assisted in some of Laban's coureses and has taught around the world.