'Fire-ball of energy and talent’

Press, 29 August 1977, Page 12

'Fire-ball of energy and talent’

By

ALEX SAUNDERS

Cathy Brown, who “makes

it seem possible for every,'one to dance,” will arrive in Christchurch today for a week’s tuition for teen-aged dancers. ‘ A contemporary dance teacher from Tauranga, Cathy Brown is “a fire-ball of energy and talent” in" the opinion of Maggie Burke, who shows obvious enthusiasm, confidence and respect for someone she considers both an accomplished

dancer and an inspiring teacher. Dance becomes far from a dry subject with Cathy Brown, who is dynamic to watch, imaginative, flexible, (and “loads of fun.” She is I interested in each dancer’s uniqueness, enjoyment and development, Maggie Burke says. As well as imparting technical elements, she develops creativity, and believes in leading the class from the ranks by taking part in it herself. Her very rounded view of; dunce makes it seem pos-j sible for everyone to dance,! Maggie Burke says. Dancing! becomes more than just aj superimposed technique. TWO GROUPS

Designed for 15 to 16-year-olds, the Cathy Brown course — which will be in the Maggie Burke studios — will be in two groups, one for absolute beginners, the other for more advanced dancers. For beginners it could be an ideal ini’oduction to dance, Maggie Burke says, while for more accomplished dancers — irrespective of background — it could offer an entirely new perspective. Pupils don’t have to sign up for the whole course, and inquiries can be made at the studio.

Cathy Brown plans to teach her speciality, which is contemporary dance, as distinct from modern or jazz dance. The difference can be seen by analogy with modern music and the distinction between jazz and contemporary music. While jazz has more ethnic roots, contemporary dance evolved

|from the throwing away off i classical techniques and (finding new or contemporary forms, which include some yoga techniques. While in her early teens! Cathy Brown danced with the Canadian National Ballet, but later rejected ballet’s stiff formality. Since then she has immersed herself thoroughly in all sides of dance and an assortment of semi-related areas, including mime, theatre, yoga, gestalt ; therapy, meditation, teach- ! ing, motherhood, and physical education. ' She has travelled widely, and draws on experiences in several countries and different life-styles. Dancing is important for Cathy Brown, although it takes its' place in the over-all pattern of her life.