Dancing from within: the role of intuition

This thesis explores the role of intuition as a component in the creative process of dance performance and choreography. The nature of intuition is examined phenomenologically and epistemologically, addressing different ways of attaining intuitive knowledge and discussing the value historically assigned to contrasting epistemological models. Two creative projects were undertaken in order to illustrate and investigate the relationships between intuition and the creation, rehearsal and performance of dance works. The first project involved the performance of a duet entitled "Together/aparT." The second project consisted of the choreography and performance of a solo entitled "Ends and Beginnings." Both creative projects were explored through the use of various intuitive strategies and improvisational techniques. These creative projects reveal the potential for intuition as an integral component of the creative process of choreography and dance performance. Implications for individual growth as an artist and how the use of intuition contributed to such growth are also discussed.