Alumna Rebekah Joann Guerra Presentation at CORPS de Ballet International
Alumna Rebekah Joann Guerra (Ballet MFA ‘24) gave a presentation titled “Integrating Afrocentric Principles and Gaga Methodologies in Ballet Education” at the 27th Annual CORPS de Ballet International Conference, this year hosted on the U campus from June 18-20, 2025. Guerra is currently an Adjunct Professor at Weber State University.
Title:
Integrating Afrocentric Principles and Gaga Methodologies in Ballet Education
Abstract:
This proposal emphasizes a feminist perspective and critical pedagogy in integrating Afrocentric principles and Gaga methodologies into contemporary ballet education. The central thesis posits that reimagining ballet pedagogy through these frameworks can liberate technical constraints and address systemic inequities within the art form. This approach advocates for a more holistic understanding of ballet, prioritizing community, individual agency, and diverse narratives.
Key research questions include:
1. How can removing mirrors from the classroom facilitate self-acceptance and body awareness among dancers? This question explores the psychological impacts of mirrorless environments, which may enhance internal awareness and authentic movement expression.
2. What role do pleasure and play have in reclaiming the female ballet body? This inquiry examines how integrating pleasure can empower female dancers, challenging historical narratives of objectification.
3. How can ballet be reframed to embrace diverse identities, particularly in confronting historical anti-Black narratives? This question seeks to uncover ways to integrate Afrocentric and multicultural perspectives into ballet education.
Methodologically, this study involves a comprehensive literature review to identify gaps and inform research questions, as well as my daily movement practice called unfiltering, which utilizes Gaga principles and Gloria Anzaldua's literary rituals. Additionally, implementing mirrorless classes and gathering empirical data through observations and feedback will facilitate an iterative process, contributing to a more inclusive ballet curriculum.