We first met Adam Barley on a dance floor in Oxford in 1991. He hit the floor running, whirling, bounding, with that exuberant, powerful, wild energy, and the tenderness and vulnerability alongside it, that I imagine many who knew him will recognise.
Adam had already encountered Gabrielle Roth through her writing and music and threw himself into the practice of the 5Rhythms as though there were no tomorrow, and alongside some very deep and intensive work with us, soon went on to train with her. Over the years, he offered beautiful, powerful work through the 5Rhythms and, later, through his own evolving work, ZeroOne. He became a deeply loved movement teacher to so many people across Europe and beyond.
His death is a huge loss: to those who loved him, to the communities who danced with him, and to the wider movement field.
Our own relationship with Adam held many chapters: student, colleague and after many years of honest communication, friend. There were difficult times between us, particularly around our departure from the 5Rhythms world. Over the years, those difficulties healed, and our relationship grew into one of deep friendship, mutual support and fellowship in our work. For this, we are profoundly grateful.
In recent years, Adam danced with cancer, coming close to the edge of life several times. We witnessed a softening, an opening and a growing quietness in him, alongside the fire we had known from the beginning. These years also held precious opportunities for healing and reconciliation.
Adam, we will always remember the dancing star you are. Thank you for your wildness, your tenderness, your friendship, and all that you gave through your dance. We will miss you.
Susannah & Ya'AcovDarling Khan
