2026 | iCreate Japan

■ Purpose

• People with and without disabilities deepen their learning and practice in how to create work together.
• They create and present inclusive dance works.
• The program supports people in Japan to become leaders in inclusive dance.

■ Feature 1: Choreographers and dancers work together

In this program, we invited both choreographers (those responsible for creating choreography) and dancers to take part.
First, the choreographers learned about choreography from DanceSyndrome.
Dancers then joined each team.
In total, four teams were formed.
The creative process was based on co-delivery, meaning it was developed collaboratively.

■ Feature 2: Choreography, theme, and music

Based on materials provided by DanceSyndrome, participants worked on creating inclusive dance pieces.
They learned not only how to generate individual movements, but also how to structure them into a complete work.
First, each team selected a theme for their piece.
They also chose the music through discussion.

■ Feature 3: Presenting the work

Each team showed their work on the final day.
Sharing their work with an audience helped them internalize the process deeply.
For some people, it was a big challenge.
For others, it helped build confidence.

■ Important Point 1: How to use time well

This time, the choreographers did not have enough time to prepare their work.
Choreographers need enough time before dancers join the team.
Organizers need to plan the schedule carefully in advance.

■ Important Point 2: Ways of communication

WhatsApp or email are not the best options for everyone.
In some cases, meeting in the same place helps people share more and understand each other better.
It is helpful to decide how to communicate in advance.

■ Important Point 3: Start simple and build step by step

“Choreography” or “creating a piece” can feel difficult.
You do not need to start with something difficult.
Start with simple ideas.
Then build step by step.
It is important to add one layer at a time.
DanceSyndrome shared this approach with us.