In this workshop led by Leevi Rauhalahti, participants will be introduced to his movement practice Study of Gendered Shapes. The exercises are based on the idea that by becoming aware of our tendency to perceive bodily forms and movement through gendered frameworks, we can begin to move beyond them and explore alternative ways of relating to our bodies. The workshop begins with a guided attunement to one’s own body, then to the space and the other bodies within it. It continues with guided improvisation exercises, interspersed with opportunities to share reflections and observations. The session concludes by returning attention to our own bodies and reflecting on the experience.

The exercises explored in the workshop have also served as foundational building blocks for Rauhalahden’s solo work Wounding the World, which is featured in this year’s festival programme. A warm welcome to all!