Somatics herstories: Tracing Elsa Gindler’s educational antecedents Hade Kallmeyer and Genevieve Stebbins

Abstract

Abstract This article explores origin stories within the field of Somatics and attempts to dispel some myths about the early work of the German somatic pioneer Elsa Gindler while also paying homage to teachers who preceded her. Based on my translations of German literature, new information about the Harmonic Gymnastics system that Elsa Gindler was certified to teach is provided. Developed by the American dancer and movement educator Genevieve Stebbins, Harmonic Gymnastics had a large impact on Gindler when her teacher Hade Kallmeyer brought the work to Germany. There is little commonly known about the heritage of Harmonic Gymnastics; therefore, this article hopes to illuminate Stebbins’ work. Genevieve Stebbins also acted as an inspiration to the American dance pioneers Ruth St. Denis and Isadora Duncan, hence, this article also touches upon Stebbins’ influence within the advent of American modern dance.