from Linda and Giles last day and snaps

Gifts come from out of the blue and yesterday Linda sent me a wonderful email ..
I'm quoting some here and taking in a copy to the main co on Friday as she has included lovely appreciative messages for everyone she worked with. " I've  written something to let you know that you are all not forgotten despite my absence and you all share a place in my memory and heart."

"I am often thinking of you all and imagine you all dancing to heavenly music making connections and shapes laughing and lying on the cold wood floor whilst occasional spots of sunlight splurge areas warming them. I also visualise the massive bags and baskets that follow you around Jo like children all needing attention. The last minute panics and the laughs and camaraderie through rehearsals and performance. There was also the frustrations and limitations of the body whose moves when seen in the mind soar so easily but in reality rebel and I remember the aching limbs from trying to break free. But the sacrifices were so worth it. I remember the sweet tears on audience faces and the light and wonder in their eyes. I remember the dream of dancing unknown until it came true and the passion that drives despite the tiredness and doubt. It has been magical, thank you all for that. And Thank you Jo for keeping Shallal alive not giving in to your doubts and fears and tiredness thank you for believing in us all and giving us the wings to soar."

Each person brings so much to Shallal and we are about to also say Good bye but we hope not Farewell to Giles as he moves home to Bodmin. I will leave this blog to write him a letter. Here are some recent images.

Giles saying goodbye

Daniela, Kerry and Alex
Kerry was pleased and excited as she achieved 6 steps unaided in their warm up together. They created some lovely work with balance and support. Skye and Kate in the background Kate is at last working more at her potential and it is exciting to see.

trying to capture the variety of movement and relationship produced in open improvisation
structure, freedom and intent

Dylan with his puppet, it just so happened to be Downs Syndrome Awareness Day and Puppet Day!

Dylan with his Dad George creating wonderful music for the improvisation, (joined by Lydia and Demelza not in view)