An experiential improv dance workshop for all. Move and Be Moved!
The History
The Group Motion Workshop
The Friday Night Workshop (FNW) originated in 1971 in a rehearsal session with the Group Motion dance company, led by the verbal instruction of Brigitta Herrmann in interaction with live music by Manfred Fischbeck and other musicians. A specific series of movement meditations, focus on the breath, sound, guidance, and movement qualities emerged as a blueprint. This led to a practice of structures and interactive games of movement expression, communication, and play
In a masterful integration of verbal and musical guidance, facilitated by Brigitta (voice and drum), and Manfred (voice and keyboard), the FNW has been accessible to people of all ages (professional dancers and interested individuals) for over 50 years, and is still ongoing!
Over the decades, the FNW has evolved, been modified, and informed by several factors: Brigitta’s studies in awareness, holistic healing practices, and Dance/Movement Therapy (including a MA in Somatic Psychology at Naropa University); and Manfred’s ongoing contributions to the workshops, company performances, touring work, and teaching at the University of the Arts and the University of Pennsylvania.
The FNW is a forum for creative and authentic expression through dance, music, and movement. It offers a space for spontaneous creation and communication, implying that dance is a language that anyone can speak and understand. It creates a ritual space for building and celebrating community.
Throughout the course of its duration, which includes hundreds of Friday night sessions in Philadelphia and numerous retreats and tours across the US and abroad, FNW has reached thousands of people: women, men and children from a spectrum of diverse ethnic and social backgrounds.
Upon demand, a Teacher’s Training was initiated in 1998 and has led to the formation of Satellite Workshops in: Wilmington, Delaware; Wayne, Pennsylvania; Rennes, France; and Berlin, Germany.
Learn about the weekly Friday Night Workshop in University City, Philadelphia.
Photo Gallery
