In the decades since I received my certificate in movement analysis, Shape has emerged as a movement category distinct from Body, Effort, and Space.
Although “modes of shape change” and movement descriptors such as “rising, retreating, etc.” have been around, the emergence of shape as an independent category is new – and somewhat contested.
This inspired me to create the course “Mostly about Shape (and a bit about Effort)” in 2024. The course traces shape terminology from Laban to the present, with observation tasks to ground the concepts.
Positive responses on the part of participants in 2024 have encouraged me to offer the course again. Look for “Mostly about Shape” – coming in October 2026.