Conversation with Dr. S Ama Wray about Dance Improvisation, Embodiology, Jazz Music, Rhythm, Community Building, and Performance

In this episode of act/re/act I have the pleasure of talking with Dr. S Ama Wray, a dance artist and founder of Embodiology - a dance improvisation practice developed from Dr. Wray's expertise in jazz dance, African arts, and creative practice. This was an exciting conversation that touched on many aspects of the importance of art making, and a wonderful expression of the breadth of dance improvisation out in the world.  Here’s a bit more about Dr. Way: Dr S. Ama Wray is the creator of Embodiology® - a movement method, based on West African principles of human communications, that leads to human flourishing. She is a Professor of Dance and founder of the Africana Institute for Creativity Recognition and Elevation at UC Irvine. Embodiology’s distinctive breath-informed, rhythmic movement and music concepts have shown evidence-based efficacy in elevating vitality, well-being, and resilience, along with emboldened activation of community responsibility. Her virtual classes, Joy in Motion, begin with breathwork, supporting everyday people to transform their indoor spaces into experiences of 'co-liberation'. Wray has been a guest speaker/lecturer at the United Nations, Institute of Advanced Studies, TEDx, and other globally renowned organizations. Her roots in art making have been informed by collaborations with artists including Wynton Marsalis, Bobby McFerrin, Mojisola Adebayo, and Derek Bermel. Embodiology®  is registered as a trademark, rendering its creator and beneficiaries’ ethical responsibility to reciprocally return acknowledgment and resources to the Ewe community in Ghana, where its principles were uncovered - each time this work is shared. Her writing about Embodiology is published in edited volumes by Routledge and Oxford Books. You can find out more about Dr. S Ama Wray at the following links: Embodiology: https://www.embodiology.com Joy In Motion: https://www.joyinmotion.io 2023 Summer Embodiology Intensive: https://events.embodiology.com You can find my website here: https://www.danielburkholder.com/ Enjoy this conversation, please subscribe, and stay tuned for many more this season! Take care, be well, and live spontaneously!