ResDance Series 4: Episode 5: Finding a sense of understanding beyond the movement: Reflections and considerations with Abi Mortimer In this episode, Abi shares insight into her experiences in dance thus far and draws upon her thinking as a dancer, maker and educator. Reflecting upon the questions she poses to herself in these different roles, we discuss the role of the body in her practice and the challenges of composing work to exist on her own body and those of others.  Highlighting the importance of having a sense of understanding that is beyond the movement itself, she discusses the role of collaboration and narrative in her practice, alongside her ways of making.  With this, she shares insight into the values and ethos of Lîla Dance and the environment they aspire to create for the care and growth of their dancers. Abi co-founded Lila Dance in 2006 and received arts council funding to create 9 works on the company, that have undergone national & rural tours, international performances and festivals.  Abi received choreographic mentorship from Hofesh Shechter and amongst others has danced for Yael Flexer, Charlie Morrissey and Detta Howe. She has established collaborations with a range of international artists from various disciplines including Gary Clarke, Simona Bertozzi (Italy), Jon Maya (Spain), International puppetry company Blind Summit and writer for the BBC/ Sky Nick Walker. Her commissioned work has shown at high profile venues including Sadler's Wells, The Roundhouse, The Place, U.Dance Finals, Laban, Northern School of Contemporary Dance. She has made award winning dance films and has extended her practice in delivering integrated professional work through research with Stopgap Dance Company. Abi is a senior lecturer at The University of Chichester and has a passion for extending her practice to creatively engage the community, regularly producing commissions for participants of all ages and abilities. Contact details:   Email: [email protected] Website: www.liladance.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/liladanceuk, Twitter: @LilaDanceUK Insta: @Liladanceuk Youtube: www.youtube.com/user/LilaDanceCo   See more about how Lila Dance makes work and the library of Lila from the shop: How We Do It — Lîla Dance (liladance.co.uk) Shop — Lîla Dance (liladance.co.uk)   Please share this episode with students, educators, practitioners, performers, and interdisciplinary researchers curious to learn more about dance research in action.