I stumbled across BUTOH after seeing, what I believed to be, captivating imagery of Kazuo Ôno. Having Dwayne Lawler teach the form locally was not an opportunity I was prepared to miss. It was something I needed to experience. I would confidently say that by the end of the session, I achieved degrees of presence, vulnerability and artistic liberation incomparable to any form of teaching I have ever experienced, as if I had touched a void. I felt utterly open, mind now body, body now mind. It resonated within me for days to come. If you are prepared to lean in and see within yourself, Dwayne is the exemplary facilitator. He is honest, open, challenging and incredibly well versed in the form. I have used the process in every rehearsal, exercise and performance since. I cannot recommend it highly enough, not just for the performance sphere, but for life itself, and I thank Dwayne Lawler for the experience.

Recently I took a BUTOH acting class with Dwayne Lawler, and it was a fantastic experience. Dwayne was not only kind but instantly created a safe and welcoming environment where everyone felt heard and supported. He was also incredibly knowledgeable on BUTOH and its history and clearly cared about the art. Through this class, I was able to discover a whole new level of connection with my own body, inner power, movement, and connection to others, whilst also learning about the history of BUTOH and its forms. I’ve been searching for ways to better connect with my body for acting, and this class exceeded my expectations in every way. I could not recommend Dwayne’s classes enough! 

Dwayne’s BUTOH masterclass was like a glimpse into my soul. I feel like I discovered so much about myself, my instincts and my craft within the course of a day. I felt free, like I could finally express myself through the exercises we practised. What a fulfilling experience to be a part of! Would recommend to anyone who wants to connect with themselves and take their craft to the next level.

I joined Dwayne’s workshop because I was looking for a physical way to use the whole of my body in acting (not just my intellect and feelings). The workshop was structured so that each exercise built on the last to the extent that by the last exercise I felt prepared to jump into a realm of presence I’ve never experienced before. BUTOH gives you enormous focus in a relaxed, quiet, and fast way. Dwayne is an astute and experienced teacher who radiates his passion for butoh. He encouraged us all to move to a place where we trusted ourselves to surrender to the present moment and to not overthink our destination. I have highly recommended his course to all my acting colleagues and friends as it is a unique tool, a highly personal way for actors to connect, through their body, to their presence.

I joined Dwayne’s BUTOH Masterclass out of a sense of curiosity to try something a bit different – and I was particularly drawn to the idea BUTOH could help develop presence: Like many actors I’m constantly getting stuck in my head and need to re-integrate with the body. This class was just what I was looking for. The exercises to develop presence have helped enhance being in the moment and also an increased stillness has carried over into my acting work. I would highly recommend this class to all actors. Dwayne is a very caring and thoughtful instructor and creates a welcoming and safe atmosphere to explore BUTOH.

I saw the information about the master class at our acting school Sydney Acting Studio and became very curious what BUTOH is about. I booked a spot and came in. I was excited to explore my mind, imagination and body through very unique movements I have never thought about before. The Japanese walking style, picture movement improvisation, were just brilliant and my favourite part of the class. At the end of the day I felt in peace, my body said thank you for participating and I am saying thank you, Dwayne, for such a wonderful experience. I would love to come again and definitely recommend this master class, not only for actors but anyone who wants to explore the magic of being.

Dwayne Lawler’s BUTOH For Actors masterclass imparted useful techniques on how to get out of my head and connect to my body during performance. The physical exercises are simple yet unlocked new awareness of my inner world and showed me how to translate this understanding physically. An extremely useful addition to the arsenal of skills used in performing. I have even found myself applying these lessons in daily life. Dwayne is warm and personable. His passion and knowledge shines through. I look forward to attending future masterclasses and would recommend his masterclasses to anyone wanting to skill up in their craft of performance.

I joined the class because of my interest in BUTOH, believing it could enhance my artistic performance. Although it was my first time, the class was interesting and inspiring. While I haven’t yet had a performance, I anticipate its impact will become clearer with more lessons and actual performances. The workshop has helped me in learning to “be present” and cultivate a powerful stage presence by encouraging me to let go of myself and embrace the moment. I would definitely recommend the workshop to fellow artists. As for Dwayne, the BUTOH instructor, your passion and energy greatly contribute to the positive experience, and I’m grateful!

I recently attended a 5-week BUTOH Series with Dwayne from SHINBUTOH. Dwayne creates a safe and exploratory space to explore some of the fundamental concepts of BUTOH. He is very passionate and knowledgeable about the practice, and has developed his own process and formula for the development of presence, that he is very generous in sharing. It opened up new ways of being and moving in me that I found inspiring, powerful and uplifting. I would definitely recommend his classes to anyone who is wanting to bring more presence into their lives, and connect more deeply to their body.

 I’ve participated at two BUTOH series with Dwayne in different sites, and the two experiences truly opened a door for me into the world of performance art. Starting with engaging and playful activities, I gradually came into contact with the nature of BUTOH, and more importantly, with my own presence/BUTOH. These sessions sparked a deep interest in continuing to explore BUTOH and other forms of performance. Although I come from an architectural background, this kind of interdisciplinary experience has allowed me to feel the profound importance of the human body and other living bodies in both artistic and spatial practices.

 I have not left the ANKOKU BUTOH workshop the way I entered it. I have discovered and learnt about it a while ago only to then not have the opportunity to have it taught to me. To say that this Japanese art form and discipline brings you to another realm of presence, being, vulnerability, rawness and artistry is an understatement. The approach is simple, yet the embodiment so grande and capable of unleashing so much genuine emotion, presence, and commitment. It was an honour to share the space with everyone and Dwayne Lawler. Thank you for making something accessible that too few know about. This radically changes our understanding and portrayal of art, self and the world. Thank you for something I will forever take with me.

I absolutely loved Dwayne’s BUTOH workshop. It was deeply moving and incredibly practical. It encouraged me to connect with my body and explore expression and de-domestication in a way I hadn’t before. The space felt safe and supportive, allowing everyone to be present and authentic. I wish I could attend a weekly class, it was that good.

Over the years, I have been to hundreds of seminars and workshops within the business, martial arts and educational spheres. Of these events, I can count on one hand which ones have been memorable or useful. Two of these are workshops run by Dwayne Lawler. In a positive manner, BUTOH encompasses a disruptive, challenging, liberating and unique experience. Your basic assumptions of how your own body movement projects and interacts with the world will never be quite the same again. Moving meditation, great workout, and confidence building fall far too short of describing it. What I am sure of is it must be experienced to be fully appreciated and Dwayne Lawler can share his expertise with anyone.

The BUTOH class was extraordinary – it really expanded my ideas of movement and body awareness. Very kinaesthetically challenging.

Dwayne Lawler offers actionable insights into the practical utility of BUTOH, that extends well beyond the performing arts, and into everyday application. His delivery is both confronting and rewarding. Highly recommended!

Dwayne Lawler’s BUTOH seminar was inspirational. It opened another way of not only seeing yourself but sensing your surroundings by opening your mind to different fields of thinking. This training is deep and is not usually spoken about in many martial arts until higher up in belts.