Untellable’s Guide to Watching Dance

There is no single way to watch.

You are invited to notice what you notice.

Whatever you find is what’s meant for you.

Dance does not require specialized knowledge, technical vocabulary, or a “correct” interpretation. Your experience is enough.

Watching Dance Is Not a Test

You are not expected to understand everything, follow a narrative, or identify specific techniques. Some moments may feel clear; others may feel abstract or unresolved. All of that is part of the experience.

You might find yourself:

• Drawn to a particular performer or image

• Noticing rhythm or breath,

• Observing repetition, or stillness

• Feeling something before you can explain it

• Losing focus and finding it again

All of these responses are valid.

Let Your Attention Be Curious

Rather than asking “What does this mean?”, you might try:

• What am I noticing right now?

• What’s repeating?

• What’s changing?

• How does this make me feel?

• What images or ideas are sticking with me?

There is no pressure to arrive at a conclusion. Dance can be something you sit with, rather than solve.

You Bring Your Own Context

Your life, your memories, your mood that day, all of it comes with you into the space. Two people can watch the same work and have entirely different experiences, and both are true.

After the Performance

You don’t need to articulate your experience perfectly. “I don’t know how I feel about it yet” is a complete and thoughtful response. So is joy, confusion, discomfort, or delight.

If you choose to talk about the work, we encourage curiosity over certainty.