The aim of this module is to introduce students to this core aspect of aerial dance. This module forms part of a suite of aerial modules designed to create an aerial dance strand within the MA Festive Arts programme. This responds to the demand for third level training in the field, combined with the management and research elements of the MA Festive Arts programme. Creative Lab is an integral part of aerial dance as it uses the performance skills and tools developed to create an aerial solo or group piece. This module focuses on creativity within choreography, and on building and working towards aerial acts, including individual, duo and trio performance pieces.

Creative Lab is an integral part of aerial dance as it uses the performance skills and tools developed to create an aerial solo or group piece. This module focuses on creativity within choreography, and on building and working towards aerial acts, including individual, duo and trio performance pieces. Students learn sequences and then improvise with it, using other choreographic skills for working on material. Students will also learn how to move with the trapeze or cocoons spinning, circling, swinging and changing heights. This module develops ease in moving in and out of the floor and in an out of the aerial apparatus as it spins and swings. It also develops each student's creative ethos and thinking by working through different exercises originating in theatre, dance and clowning to overcome blocks and fears in performance.

Identify key aspects of aerial dance repertoire from a number of technique sets, including hoop, cocoons, vertical dance, wall running and trapeze. Examine the key dynamics within each aerial technique in order to develop improvised solo or group performance pieces. Devise and compose individual and group solo work using a range of aerial dance techniques. Identify key rigging and safety needs for each improvised performance and techniques employed.

Demonstrate new repertoire as part of solo or group performance choreography. Cooperate with other dancers in the development and performance of improvised performance work for aerial dance.

Skilfully perform a range of aerial dance techniques. Combine and construct new solo and group work using a range of aerial dance techniques. Choreograph new solo and group aerial dance for performance.

This module will be taught in collaboration with Fidget Feet Aerial Dance, who are a Dance Company in Residence at the Irish World Academy (2015-2017), and delivered at the newly-established Irish Aerial Creation Centre, located in close proximity to UL. This module will allow students to work directly with artists in the creative development of work in this emergent area of performance, linked to the MA Festive Arts. It reflects research into the area of festive arts and the development of creative large-scale public performance, and will draw on research ongoing by PhD students in this field at the Irish World Academy and elsewhere. The module reflects the graduate attributes in its emphasis on creativity and proactivity in terms of developing new work, and also promotes collaborative work in the physically demanding teamwork required for aerial performance. It will encourage students to become knowledgable both about the art form and its development, as well as practical aspects of rigging and safety, and articulate in developing and creating their creative vision with others throughout the module.