The Simonson technique: A qualitative assessment of the technique through Laban Movement Analysis (Lynn Simonson, Florence Kendall)

Lynn Simonson, the founder of the technique under study, has been a consistent and respected teacher in the dance field for over twenty-five years. To date no study has been executed examining this technique in the field. A methodology does not yet exist for a primarily qualitative examination of any existing dance technique, done in combination with a quantitative analysis of the effects of studying such as technique on postural alignment developed within dance medicine. This study initiates a methodology for dance technique analysis based on the theoretical framework of Laban Movement Analysis in conjunction with the static postural alignment assessment originally developed by Florence and Henry Kendall.; This study identifies existing methodologies for a primarily quantitative examination of an existing dance technique(s); investigates quantitative analysis of postural alignment developed within sports or dance medicine; develops a methodology for dance technique analysis based on Laban Movement Analysis in conjunction with static postural alignment assessment originally developed by the Kendalls; and applies this methodology to the analysis of a ten-week study of non-dance students training in the Simonson technique at a beginner level, and their static postural assessment before and after the study's completion.; The study presents an historical summary of the application of Effort/Shape and later Laban Movement Analysis to existing dance and movement techniques provides a historical summary of the literature and research in the area of Dance Injury; applies Laban Movement Analysis to the Simonson technique's 1.5 hour warm-up, at the slow intermediate and advances levels as taught by Simonson at the Dance Space Center in New York City, and assesses the analysis of the technique from photographs taken in the Kendal format and draws conclusions regarding the possible benefits and/or detrimental factors obtained by students in their static postural alignment. It develops suggestions for future qualitative and quantitative studies of the Simonson and other dance technique forms.