Gibney Dance to Observe Domestic Violence Awareness Month

In observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Gibney Dance (GD) (www.gibneydance.org) will host a diverse range of events during October at Gibney Dance Center (GDC). The free activities are open to the public and have been designed to provide information and increase awareness around the issue of domestic violence both in the United States and abroad.

In conjunction with the schedule of activities, GD will carry out a month-long communications campaign, highlighted by a purple theme (the color of domestic violence awareness) and “I Am Against Violence” photos, in which Members of The public can volunteer to be featured. Throughout October, GD will also promote Community Action (CA), a first-of-its-kind program centered on dancer-led workshops that use the power of movement and creativity to empower domestic violence survivors living in shelters in New York City and beyond.

“Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a time not only to recognize the significant efforts that have been made to reduce domestic violence but also to recommit ourselves to serving the critical needs of survivors and their families,” said Gina Gibney, Artistic & Executive Director of Gibney Dance. “Through our Community Action work, we have learned that there is a powerful synergy between domestic violence and dance that helps survivors take their whole self forward—both body and mind. We look forward to sharing with the broader community the knowledge and expertise we have gained through 12 years of work around the issue of domestic violence.”

The schedule of events will include a discussion with Beth Silverman-Yam, Clinical Director of Sanctuary for Families, one of the most prominent social services organizations in the country and a longtime CA partner. The month’s roster of activities also includes free yoga classes, coaching opportunities on work/life balance, and a CA Open Studio featuring Gibney Dance Company. All activities will take place at Gibney Dance Center, 890 Broadway, Fifth Floor. Participants can register for and learn more about October’s events by emailing community@gibneydance.org.

GD’s observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month occurs amidst a significant increase in support and programming for Community Action. Through the leadership support of the Agnes Varis Trust, during the 2012-13 season GD will conduct 365 free movement workshops in New York-based domestic violence shelters. In addition, in the spring of 2013, GD will export its groundbreaking Community Action model to Istanbul, Turkey, partnering with Mimar Sinan University and leading local domestic violence organizations. The Turkish Community Action Residency will be the first in an ongoing series designed to share GD’s unique programming at domestic violence shelters abroad, in countries where there is a dire and documented need.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month Schedule of Events

Domestic Violence Informational Session
Wednesday, October 3, 2:30 – 3:30 pm / Studio 3
Dr. Beth Silverman-Yam, Clinical Director of Sanctuary for Families, will lead a discussion on domestic violence and healthy versus unhealthy relationships.

Community Action Open Studio
Wednesday, October 10, 6:30 – 8:30 pm / Studio 5–2
Artistic & Executive Director Gina Gibney presents an overview of the Community Action model while The company demonstrates workshop content and performs an excerpt from its repertory.

Body and Wellness Week
October 15 – 19, 8:00 – 10:00 am / Studio 2
A week of free wellness events.

Monday / Wednesday: Mind Body Dancer®
Led by Liz Montgomery
90-minute Yoga class followed by 30 minutes of optional guided meditation.

Tuesday / Thursday: Tools for Managing (physical, mental, and emotional) Stress
Led by Jennifer Edwards, jened.com
The coaching sessions will guide participants through practical approaches to (1) creating a holistic model for how to manage life, work and their personal brands; and (2) using tools for sleeping better, reducing anxiety, and managing stress symptoms.

Friday: Chi Kung/Qi Gong
Led by Laura Shapiro
Chi Kung/Qi Gong is often translated as “life force energy practice.” With roots in Chinese medicine, martial arts, and philosophy, its gentle movements over time restore balance and harmony to body, mind, and spirit.

“I am Against Violence” Campaign Open Photo Shoot
Tuesday, October 23, 12:00 – 4:00 pm / Studio 5
Members of The public are invited to join the Gibney Dance community in taking a stand against domestic violence by having their photos taken for our online and Center-wide advocacy campaign.

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