© Sarah De Keukelaere
Contact improvisation: basics
Location
R7
New Yorkstraat 7
9000 Gent
Language & teacher(s) Dutch/English
Location
R7
New Yorkstraat 7
9000 Gent
Language & teacher(s) Dutch/English
Contact improvisation (CI) has its roots in the early 1970s. It is a rich world, a playing field, a laboratory, a poetic universe. A basic physical principle is to play based on our movement instinct, opening our movement potential while sharing contact and weight with one or more partner(s).
No matter how small, subtle, soft or highly acrobatic the movements are, it is all about listening, being available and responding. Unlike other partner dances, we do not only remain vertical. We travel together through all levels of space, directions, upside down and all around, to and from the floor. Supporting and being supported, carrying and being carried. No fixed steps, but movement principles and active listening, being present. Before we know, we are inhabiting our unique dance in that moment.
What to imagine? Check out these videos from Tiina Jääskö & Mileen Borgonjon, Sasha Dodo and Nancy Stark Smith en Karen Nelson, (Nancy and Karen are pioneers of CI).
During this series, we take the time to explore and play with the basic principles of contact improvisation. You will be (further) introduced to some of the fundaments of contact improvisation, such as giving & carrying weight, supporting & sustaining, organising your body structure in movement while actively listening, moving smoothly through the space levels, communicating clearly.
Furthermore, we work on developing our own movement vocabulary, our creative ability, building strength and body awareness.
The goal: to enter into the dance with a partner with an available and conscious body.
