Photo by r. nihiline

This workshop is a process of erasing and re-creating the body through guided improvisation inspired by nature imagery and Ukiyoe prints. 

Experience training methods towards a supple body and mind and investigate aesthetics common to butoh through creative explorations. ETS explores endless questions: What is life? What is the human condition? What is the body? The workshop structure includes explorations of physical, natural, and transforming bodies. Partner work will facilitate participants’ individual and collective journeys. In this workshop we will focus on the elemental body and work with famous Japanese Ukiyoe wood block prints to create movement sequences inspired by Joan’s time with Gnome, Yoko Ashikawa’s company. The workshop draws from Joan’s training with the Ohnos and Ashikawa in Tokyo, Atsushi Takenouchi in Europe and her background as a Tai Chi practitioner and professional gardener.

Workshop Date/Time: Friday, 4/25 from 12pm - 4pm and Saturday, 4/26 from 2-5pm

Workshop Location: SomArt @the HIVE, 561 Windsor St 4th Floor, Somerville, MA 02143

Workshop Cost: $100 for 2 days or $60 for 1 day

To sign up for the workshop, email Ellen Godena at: egodena@gmail.com

“Your presence was gentle and easy to take in, your teaching challenged me in unexpected ways. Ultimately, I felt a fresh flow of inspiration entering into me during the workshops. Afterward, I feel a subtle, powerful shift in the way I am relating to/experiencing my body, the space I inhabit, and other bodies around me. For that, I am deeply grateful.”
-ETS Workshop Participant (San Francisco 2025)

"It blew me open to the world of butoh and I'm beyond grateful for your precision and wisdom. I'm thirsty for more, hoping to be able to participate in a butoh-oriented community more frequently."
-ETS Workshop Participant Jaden Ramsey (San Francisco 2025)