Teaching —
Léda Davies
My teaching is centered on training performers to be aware of their bodies and its capacity for truth, and my academic research is driven by a desire to physicalize theatre and reshape the way we define disciplines through the blending of dance, theatre and circus. This is actualized through a series of exercises involving impulse and energy work, anatomical investigation, movement, stretching, strengthening, writing, vocal work, colour exploration and games.
As a teacher I aim to cultivate a student’s ability to think and communicate ideas by provoking, listening and creating a safe space for the exploration their resistances, to play, to risk and to feel. I encourage agency through the practice of questioning. To question is to wonder, and the classroom, like the rehearsal hall, is a site for inquisition. By creating a safe space, which includes acknowledging my position of power within the room, I dismantle the hierarchization of knowledge and approach the classroom as a place of inquiry and play for both the student and the teacher.
I have been teaching, in various capacities, for over fifteen years and I continue to foster the future generation of theatre makers and performers. I am currently offering private and group classes in disciplines such as acting, circus, dance, clown, mask, physical theatre, movement and performer created theatre, both online and in person.
Léda Davies
Photos: Matt Simpson,
Going to the Fear Workshop
Photo: Matt Simpson,
Going to the Fear Workshop
TESTIMONIALS — GOING TO THE FEAR
“I feel I had zero training/experience coming into this course so the whole process for me was enjoyable and very educational. I will be able to use this in my life and work — thank you!”
“I was grateful for every part of this class — it was challenging and joyful and I will take these lessons with me for sure! So inspiring!”
“Every class I was surprised by how much we had discovered together. I felt like all of it, every week, was worth it. Thank you”
Photos: Matt Simpson,
Going to the Fear Workshop
“Every activity, movement and gesture taught me a lot of different things, not just about what my body is capable of, but more so how I can change my perception of things and be able to act impulsively or stupidly, and at the end of the day, still be able to say: ‘it's OK.’”
“I appreciated how Leda was in terms of being flexible and patient with her students. She understands that (online learning) is difficult for all of us, so having that empathetic aspect was much appreciated. Thank you for a wonderful class, Leda!”
“In person as we were able to develop ourselves as actors and people … I found that Leda reminding us to keep going and telling us that this is not going to be easy especially when dealing with all the struggles and challenges (of Covid -19) really helped me push myself until the end of the semester.”
Photo: Matt Simpson,
Going to the Fear Workshop
Private Training
Currently accepting applications for private aerial training in Calgary, Alberta.