HEARD

What if being heard didn’t depend on finding the right words?

HEARD is currently developing as a series of workshops where people give themselves permission to play—and perhaps surprise themselves. Using movement, rhythm and tap shoes, we create a space where connection, respect, laughter and curiosity can flourish. This is not at all about learning to dance, it’s about becoming more curious. Curious about the stories we’ve heard and carry with us through life. And perhaps more importantly, curious about what happens when we step outside everyday life and experiment with being a little more visible, a little more audible, and a little less concerned with getting everything right.

Although everyone arrives with their own story, something interesting can happen as the workshop unfolds. Strangers begin making noise together, laughing together and quietly encouraging one another. Creating a warm, safe and playful atmosphere is an integral part of the joy.

Why tap shoes?

Because they bring joy. And because they make us curious.

There's something about putting on tap shoes that seem to invite play. They encourage us to experiment, to laugh, to make noise and to be a little less concerned with getting everything right.

Tap shoes also do something ordinary shoes don't. They make even the smallest movement audible meaning that no matter how lightly you tread, there is nowhere to hide your footsteps! For some people that may be exhilarating; for others it may feel surprisingly exposing. The shoes are the same, but the stories people bring to them are completely different.

What happens in a workshop?

A HEARD session is playful, gently held and reflective.

We begin gently, getting to know one another and building enough trust that people feel able to experiment. Gradually we introduce simple activities exploring themes such as leading and following, mirroring, joining in and standing out. About halfway through the workshop the tap shoes go on—and then we play some more. In between all of these are spaces to reflect on how it feels, privately, in pairs and in the wider group.

Throughout all of this the ethos is invitational. Participants can join in, opt out, adapt tasks and go as far as they are comfortable with. There are no expectations to perform, no choreography to get right and no perfection required.

There are also moments of laughter, joy and mayhem as well as moments of quiet and reflection. There may also be thoughts or realisations that pop up unbidden. Sometimes people leave with a thought they’d like to keep exploring.

What people said about HEARD?

"It felt very welcoming and safe to explore something new."

"Having the chance to make confident, loud, happy noise with my feet!."

"A fun experience with unexpected revelations."

Is HEARD therapy?

No. HEARD isn't group therapy and you won't be asked to share personal experiences if you don't want to. It is an experiential group to focus on what’s going on with you now – we’re staying curious and exploratory rather than digging deep.

The workshops are, however, psychologically informed. I'm an integrative counsellor and coach, and I bring that understanding into how I create a space that feels safe enough for people to experiment, reflect and be curious about themselves.

Sometimes people leave simply having had fun. Sometimes they leave having noticed something unexpected. Both are welcome.

Who is it for?

HEARD is for anyone who is curious about what they might notice when they're given permission to play.

You don't need dance experience.

You don't need confidence.

You simply need a willingness to try something new.

What's next?

HEARD is currently being developed through a series of pilot workshops in East London.

Curious? Leave your details here or, follow along on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/heard.sessions/