The Hobart Method was developed and focused particularly on the diversely-abled, giving support to a wide range of therapy in its use of the understanding of the body. Its innate ability for personal expression in defence of the non-verbal and physically disadvantaged person, brings about a better relationship with others.
However, it became clear that the method could be to the advantage of a greater and more complex number of users, thereby presenting a much wider and richer palette in educational terms.
The Hobart Method requires research into dance movement in order to form that particular unity of body-mind in its numerous expressive and communicative areas. Such research will lead to an in-depth study based on the ability to listen, to care and to form a personal body-language which helps to overcome the difficulty of verbal dialogue. In encouraging integration of the person’s inner life (and inner feelings) with others, dance contributes towards making individuals more active and creative, as well as giving an improved ‘ self ’ image. This presents the method as innovative and as a life-giving force in tune with the needs of our time.
The first positive results of the Hobart Method were evolved and developed at the Association for Assistance and Social Integration (AAIS) in Bracciano, as well as at the Cooperative for Solidarity, Ladispoli, and at the Movimento Centrale Dance & Theatre in Rimini. It was also applied in state schools in Emilia-Romagna, focusing on mixed classes presenting aggressiveness, Down’s Syndrome and familial violence.
Throughout the study course, emphasis is placed on musical appreciation which is fundamental to the successful outcome of the body-mind unity. It has the same educational and formative force for the individual as dance in the Hobart Method.
The Hobart Method was formulated by Gillian Hobart, well-known dancer and distinguished teacher, guest teacher for modern dance at the National Academy of Dance (Rome), the Syndicated Centre for Dance (Rome) and the Regional Centre of Dance (Perfection Course) in Reggio Emilia; she is also a Counsellor in the Psychotherapeutic method of Carl Rogers at the Italian Centre for Clinical Psychology in Rome, in collaboration with Dr. Raffaele Cavaliere, Psychotherapist, as scientific referee for the Hobart Method.
