TALK-THROUGH

The Underscore is generally not led with verbal cues, so dancers learn about the elements of the Underscore with a “talk-through.” A Talk-Through includes a brief history and description and then then a talk, going through the 20+ phases, 12+ connections, and 7+ aspects with all of the Glyphs. A few movements of movement embodiment of the Underscore elements are encouraged!

Nancy Stark Smith, Underscore originator, stated that Talk-Throughs should be done in-person, because there is a “transmission” through the oral tradition. Often people might read or watch a video of the Talk-Through and then have an in-person Talk-Through after that. Nancy encouraged experienced Underscorers to do many Talk-Throughs to deepen their study and understanding.

The idea is that dancers “know” the Underscore and are coming together to share the practice at the event. Generally the only cues during the Underscore are for Assembly, Final Resolution, the Sharing, and of course the end! Though with newer or less experienced groups, some facilitators gently lead some of the phases and sprinkle in some words about the Connections or the Anytime-All-the-Time Aspects.

A Talk-Through is required for newcomers for what is called a “Full Score Practice.” We encourage facilitators to offer a Talk-Through for the Global Underscore before the Full Score Practice (one of the Options for Participation). Nancy often did the Talk-Through a day before the practice. For a Full Score Practice, 60+ minutes is best for a talk-through so as not to rush it and to allow for questions and embodied understanding. GUS In-Depth Talk-Through is 2.5 hours. Nancy Stark Smith did a 1:28 Talk-Though, called Unpacking the Underscore.

A talk-through is done before, not during the Underscore practice, for a Full Score Practice. For Modified Score Jams, you can have a shorter talk-through and can have it during the practice.