Embodied performances of sexuality and gender: A feminist approach to dance movement psychotherapy and performance practice

Abstract

This paper is situated within contemporary views of sexuality and gender and advances in conversations across disciplines. It offers a model of ‘Embodied Performances’ that combines elements of dance movement therapy (DMT), performance and feminism. By drawing from examples of my practice and research, an explanation of how it is possible to deconstruct and re-constitute (or ‘undo’ and ‘re-do’) the performance of sexuality and gender in everyday life and in performance (dance/film) is provided. It is argued that embodied performances of sexuality and gender highlight an ‘autobiographical,’ ‘relational’ and ‘political’ unfolding through verbal and non-verbal expression. By building on feminist notions of working in the spaces ‘in-between’ dominant discourses and embodiment through language, this paper presents examples of how the process and outcomes of DMT and performance-making assist in moving beyond dominant hegemonic discourses. Furthermore, it is argued that bodies and discourses can be in constant dialogue with the potential to transform one another.

Keywords:

• sexuality
• gender
• embodiment
• language
• performance
• interdisciplinarity
• feminism

Notes

Notes

1. This Practice-based Doctoral Research included 36 short film episodes that were an integral part of the written thesis. The project took place between 2004–2007 and was made possible with a scholarship received from Roehampton University, School of Human and Life Sciences.

2. For details of Lab film screenings visit www.embodiedpractice.co.uk

3. All participants in the Lab doctoral research project gave consent for their names to be used and images to be shown publicly.

4. The author, bell Hooks, uses unconventional lower casing for her name.