Dance Ecology as a Live Research Practice

Abstract

This chapter looks at some of the shifting territories that have marked the Irish contemporary dance landscape, from the early nineties to the present day, citing notable developments that have effected a marked change in perceptions and attitudes surrounding choreographic practices and processes both within and beyond Ireland. Spanning over twenty years of dance culture in Ireland, the writing reflects on notable developments within formal training provision, artistic collectives, company structures and performance platforms that have altered the terrain of Irish contemporary dance. The writing considers how transdisciplinary research practices in dance have significantly shifted moving bodies beyond aesthetic-bound stage production to continue to expand and challenge definitions of art, politics and place through Irish contemporary dance culture.