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• attendance stats: previous events - 1997-2002
• what participants
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• questionnaire comments
attendance
stats: previous events - 1997-2003
INAUGURAL 10 DAY EVENT 15-24 JAN '97
Number attended 127
New enthusiasts 57
Visitors 76
Locals 51
2nd 14 DAY EVENT 11-24 JAN '98 Number attended 204
Visitors 119
Locals 85
3rd 14 DAY EVENT 9-22 JAN '99 Number attended 266
New enthusiasts 128
Visitors 149
Locals 117
4th 16 DAY EVENT 1-16 Jan 2000 Number attended 308
New enthusiasts 163
Visitors 187
Locals 121
5th 16 DAY EVENT 1-16 Jan 2001 Number attended 382
New enthusiasts 184
Visitors 201
Locals 181
6th 16 DAY EVENT 1-16 Jan 2002 Number attended 641
New enthusiasts 295
Visitors 330
Locals 311
7th 16 DAY EVENT 1-16 Jan 2003 Number attended
782
New enthusiasts 361
Visitors 503
Locals 279
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COMMENTS
Hi Peter, I wanted to congratulate and thank you
for organising Stamping Ground - what an achievement! I thoroughly enjoyed my time
at the festival and found the experience interesting, engaging, challenging and demanding
- all in the right proportions. It was great having so many opportunities for different
kinds of physical work, and I know there are plenty of things I learnt that will
come in handy when I get back to teaching. I hope that you've found some time for
recovery over the last week or so. Let me know how things shape up when it comes
to 2003. Jonathan Bollen, 2002
from Theresa O'Connor - participant &
tech worker (2002)
As a lone traveller, arriving at an unknown territory at one in the morning was an
anxious but exciting experience. There was a welcoming party of one. The one man
with a vision, with a dream soon becomes the reality of Stamping Ground. If I was
asked to explain Stamping Ground in one sentence, it could not be done. It is an
overwhelming evolution for young and old, for professional and inexperienced. The
festival pushes boundaries, physically and socially, without any pressure but your
own drive, which has been summoned from a place you never new existed. All round,
a great opportunity for all. The atmosphere of Bellingen during the festival is inviting,
alive and extremely exciting, all with the sweet sounds of cicada choirs that seem
to go hand in hand with the summer heat, bats flying overhead at sunset, green tree
frogs swimming in the toilet bowl and the beautiful cool relief of being submerged
by the river that runs through the town. The Oxford dictionary meaning of stamping-ground
= a favourite haunt or place of action. The oxford thesaurus came up with = Habitat,
haunt, home, territory, turf Bellingen is definitely a favourite place of action
for me now that I have experienced Stamping Ground. I was asked today (30-01-02)
what was my best memory of Stamping Ground. I couldn't answer. There were too many.
Even the days where I slacked off and didn't do much were great. I was then asked
if I went again what would I do different. My reply "I would do more, and be
better at it." My advice to any up and coming stampers: Prepare for a style
of atmosphere where there will be little rest. Prepare to sweat even before stepping
into five different workshops a day. Prepare to slap yourself silly. Prepare to push
yourself to the limit. Prepare to learn. Prepare to use your skills in assistance.
And most of all, prepare to dance, Dance, DANCE. I'm now, like many others, a Stamper!
I strongly suggest don't doubt yourself, don't question, be inspired and go to Bello's
remarkable festival and enjoy!
Sascha Zdenkowski's words on the festival, taken from my holiday video archives,
"It's like a whole necklace of jewels when you're only used to wearing a ring."
I apologise if I have got carried away. Most of these words have been chopped out
of my journal I kept over my holiday. Thanx for everything Peter. I hope to share
your festival again soon. Theresa
THANK YOU for allowing me to share my passion
for Greek Dance with others...till next time....
Ciao 4 now, Keep Dancin'
Vas Aligiannis, Greek Dance Tutor, 2002
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Hi Peter,
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!! You have no idea how significant my time at SG
was for me.... Many circles completed from a long journey... sensing an important
shift in priorities... back to the original basic joy of moving with other people...
happy to be a catalyst for change in some boys and men... making a difference...
elite art without connection to non elite arts people is dead, or at least so far
removed it's really quite insignificant. I felt useful, giving of what I know, and
have experienced... discovering things in me I didn't believe I had or thought I
couldn't communicate... Yet the most significant learning was to see you in action
so totally committed and focused, giving, giving, giving (dramas aside...) and to
see the interaction between some other men and tutors with the boys... Tyler (age
5), asked me one day: " where are all the men?" men! - not 'guys' or 'grown
ups' or even 'big boys'.. Wonderful. It seemed really important to him wanting to
be with the men...
The ritual was fantastic to watch...regretting I didn't take part. I did my part
wishing loudly for their freedom to chose their own path/role without any pressure
of those already known.... I had questioned the cultural expression of the ritual;
feeling it could be too far away from my own... yet I realised that it had no importance
whatsoever... simply because of the symbolic nature of it and the fact that the process
and any ritual in itself is primitive and deep and talks to all of us on that level.
( Just happy it didn't involve eating raw liver of a seal or something...)
I made some significant friendships that hopefully will germinate into creative outcomes
of sorts, the talks are on.. "maybe you can come and do 'this and that' "...
etc. I am, apart from following up on personal friendships, really interested to
find out more of Jonathan's writing and his impressions and observations from the
festival...
Since returning to Perth I have been in total culture-shock and are now slowly returning
to normal... pressure is on... funny enough my backyard is turning into a communal
organic vegie garden with a barter system.. in the middle of the affluent suburb
of Nedlands... there are alternatives everywhere if you want them!... I was wondering
how to keep a sense of Bellingen in my life here in Perth... there's my answer to
a degree...
Stefan Karlsson, Ballet & Contemporary Tutor, 2002
Firstly, thank you for the opportunity to be involved
in Stamping Ground 2002. The experience, network and positive energy I gained from
the Festival has been immeasurable. Since the event I have found myself with a new
energy for dance and have taken on some interesting and creative projects outside
the realm of what is considered traditional Breakdance. Quite a few of the students
I taught at Stamping ground are in contact with me, letting me know of their progress.
I have also found my teaching techniques have improved and become more innovative,
this is due to working and exchanging ideas with other instructors and students at
the festival. Nick Power, break tutor 2002
I have nothing but respect for the work you are
doing. It is is truly inspiring to see a community arts project grow into such an
incredibly dynamic festival. Rachael Bending, 2002
I'd like to thank you for Stamping Ground. I've been wanting to to tell you what
an honour it has been to participate in the festival and to thank you for having
it open for women and families, too. The ceremony yesterday was so incredibly special
for the boys and men and to experience and support that process was truly a gift
for all of us. We really appreciated your work, along side you, Beck and the many
others. You've all given so much and I feel the rewards were incredibly great. The
opportunity for performance, exploration, confrontation of fears and love towards
other human beings amongst many more.
For me this has been huge. I can't begin to tell you how significant this has been
for me and where I'm going now. This was me finding myself after not dancing for
so many years. Next year I'd like to be a lot more involved now that I've experienced
S. Ground and making a commitment to myself to never stop dancing. I could say so
much more but this will have to do. You're a wonderful human being, Pete. Thank you.
Chelsea Curl, 2002
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from Peter Kalivas, New York, Ballet
& Modern Tutor, (2002)
I wanted to write again and thank you and Stephen and everyone else there for making
my experience so warm and special. I am still floating and excited and inspired.
It has actually made it quite difficult to get back to work here a little and accept
again what is actually here.
I had rehearsal the day after I returned for this conference we are doing tomorrow
and I really had to work hard not to brood in the corner over having to dance the
same choreography I had been doing all year and just being a pee-on dancer again
doing what I am told and in the confines of the city where the conditions of the
companies here is so different. Of course coming back to cold weather didn't help
that much either. Today it even snowed for a little bit. At least this Tuesday I
do get to go to Tamp/St. Petersburg, Florida to choreograph a pas de deux for one
of the ballet companies there for the three days which will be nice. Well, again
I had such a wonderful time meeting you and everyone. Be great and good luck with
all the rest, Peter
from Patrick Suzeau - Kansas University, USA (Ballet & Modern Dance/Laban
Tutor, 2002)
Stamping Ground is a marvelous festival where movement and dance, at their best,
is promoted within a supportive environment. It is a place where one can grow organically.
For anyone, but particularly for boys and men interested in the art of the moving
body it is a heavenly place. I had a great time, met wonderful people from all over
and enjoyed the fact that you have created a non competitive yet hard working atmosphere.
In addition, but you had little to do with this fact, Bellingen is a delightful place.
The beaches and nearby rivers are as close to paradise as one can get. I enjoyed
meeting you and wish you the very best, always.
PS: Regards to all
Peter, Thanks for creating such a magic festival. To see people shining and sharing
themselves has been a beautiful process to be part of. Thank you for such a special
and sacred experience. See you again.
Alexis Burns, 2002
Morganics, break tutor 2002
I had an awesome time up in Bello and am definitely keen to do it agin
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hope you're doing well and have recovered
from the brain melt of Stamping Ground.
I will just indulge in some quick praise
- Stamping ground proved AMAZING for me, if i have'nt said so already. The way i
approach dance and teaching has changed dramatically, not to mention performing/creation
in general - thanks for running such a diverse and exciting festival
David do Santos, 2002 "Living is a constant creative flux, the only
certainty is change"
I had a great time in Bellingen, so THANK YOU for the invitation!!
David Clarkson, tutor Stilts/Choreographic Theatre, 2002
Danielle Flynn, 2002
Thank you for facilitating such a wonderfully inspiring and truly magical event as
is Stamping Ground - I have been touched and healed on so many levels and hold no
doubt now that movement is where I will pursue my kinesiology work. Thank you to
all the men for allowing the women to experience the beauty of Stamping Ground, and
all the veteran stampers for making us newies so welcome.
QUESTIONNAIRE
COMMENTS
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DANCEMEN
Simon Adams Wow. What a special time Here we are at the beginning-full of passion.
Amitabh ...thanks for making it all possible
Phil Baxter A beginning of the future- love and light
Bere It has had a profound effect on my life.
Taciano Cavalcante ...a broadening motivating experience
Phil Channells It's been inspiring. Highlight of the event was having it happen!
Paul Cluff ...thanks for the initiative and motivation to carry Stamping Ground through.
Joel Corpuz Thanks for the opportunity to be part of this massive success. Bellingen
is the right place for these amazing workshops.
Wiruungga Dunggirr A lot happened with good feedback. A highlight was teaching men
separately.
Luke Dunsford ...the classes, the warmth, learning I can dance. I can be creative.
I can perform. A wonderful experience.
Ben Gauci ... teachers & dancers who were good role models ...an inspirational
experience. I've really enjoyed coming back!
Tony Geeves An inspiration for male dance. What's the go next year? I can hardly
wait.
Darren Green It has been rewarding spiritually, professionally and intellectually.
I will never forget this event...
John Haly I have enjoyed and been refreshed by the experience. ... learnt much from
my new brothers.
Patrick Harding-Irmer Great memories of people, places and events.
Michael Hennessy ...a highlight was the participants enthusiasm..
Martin Hogan Superb tutoring - ...meeting other dancemen ...has made me feel part
of a brotherhood.
Chris Hudson ...great potential in Stamping Ground - really bloomed in many people.
Jesse James ...a new respect for myself as a male, and as a dancer ...feeling there
are positive male role-models.
Toby Kavanagh ...a great range of activities that have really helped broaden my horizons.
Tony Kishawi Highlight was the overall commitment of students - learning I can dance
too!
Stuart Lynch Highlight? The younger, non new-age dancers
David Mack What a week ...a fantastic atmosphere. Keep it going.
Norm Melford ... a magnificent success... a tremendous contribution to the town,
to all who took part, and to the future of men's dance, both locally and nationally.
Let's keep it happening!
Philip Piggin Being part of an Australian first, a challenging and affirming male
dance experience...
Geoff Ryan ...some great friendships.
Stuart Shaw Beyond any of my expectations.
Russell Snelling It has changed my life. Another great event.
Alan Spies Highlight was Tallowood performance and renewing interest in dance
Danny Thomas ...watching first 8 counts of boy's tap routine... then listening to
the audience response...the boys were obviously electrified.
Dr. Rob Trigger Increased trust with men - friendships and good memories
Jeff Turpin Good classes. New techniques.
Llewellyn Wishart An example of what is possible within the dance community - shared
vision, respect and support with men
Phil Young ... the power and spirit of men dancing
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BOYS
Cody Adams ...such a great event.
Jan Adams I had lots of fun. Thanks.
Alan Beck I'll dance for you anytime
Gaelan Blainey I wish to take it up (tap dancing). I had lots of fun.
Perryn Collier I would like it to be on always.
Rohani Collier I like to jam to rap there was no rap Ha Ha Ha
Dorian Dene Thanks for ten days of fun. I have learnt a lot from it.
Sam Loos ...Thank you
Merlin Hi! I'm still the greatest magician in the world!
Tané Nicholson Thank you for helping me realise my potential in dancing.
Travers Ross New moves, ideas, lifts... intend to dance more often. I loved it.
David Warwick I 'm a great footballer and dancer
Dorje Vanyzendoorn ...see you next year.
DANCEWOMEN
major highlight "Tallowood" – so much
energy Nellie Beck
the overall integrity... sense of pleasure in discovering new perspectives (seemed
to be a common experience for all) Hilary Crampton
inspiration which will sustain my teaching Wendy Erskine
pas de deux class was a great experience Harriet Farrah
Excellent tutoring. I just wanted more and more Leslie Green
an unquestionably positive event Julieanne Hansen
I was thrilled women were invited. It was an excellent intro to dance for my partner
- which we could share. Ellen Krinsly
It's been stunning, inspiring and deeply nourishing Carola Krusche-Woolven
extremely open and inspiring, new friends and information Meredith Lucy
... that men dancing are beautiful Helene Markstein
World-class tutoring. Ellen Miller
I have gained the inspiration to put on a show Ulrieke Parkinson
2 big thumbs up! Aniko Rosewood
an enriching experience - new ideas - Julie Ross
... new ideas for teaching.... quality of tutors was fantastic Robyn West
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NEW ENTHUSIASTS
Graham Batterbury Great interaction between all
ages
Tim Campbell ...excellent, patient tutors
Peter Claussens ...gained a new interest in a unique artform ...opportunity to absorb
and give out energy and inspiration in a fantastic environment.
Trevor Cohen ...felt okay to have a go here - a special atmosphere. More!!
Brendan Dickie Great vision. I'd love to make it a regular date.
Dik Freestun Happiness in motion ...each event phase had new surprises.
Tony Groom ...one of the most invigorating holidays I've had.
Robin Hallam The Brazilian capoeira was excellent
John Hogan Tutoring was very professional
Ian Mannion ... the feeling I can dance
Ted Markstein ...the company of so many talented and intelligent people
Daniel Markstein Dancing as a family. Performing.
Jimmy McCready Thanks for the huge effort put into Stamping Ground.. It was a fruitful
learning experience.
Doug Moody Once we started we didn't stop! It was good to be here.
Tobias Mosner The whole event was one of the nicest moments in my life.
Peter Murphy I was happy with all of it.
Luke Rhodes Excellent tutoring
Giya Simpson ...an excellent platter of things to try. Well-priced and affordable.
Mikal Stribley ...truly unique event.
Arie Van Duijin ...meeting like-minded people and the teaching by gifted people
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