Contact Improvisation (CI) is very hard to describe in words as it draws from many inspiring practices, has a wide scope of movement possibilities and is used in many different contexts from social jams to performance. Even though it has its own unique style and is often practiced as a socially interactive dance by people from all walks of life, it is very much left to the individual to interpret its possibilities and context. Formally it is described as a dance practice in which points of physical contact combined with a sharing of weight between two or more people provide the starting point for an exploration in movement improvisation, however there are many more subtleties that one may also explore and experience. For me its all about connectivity, co-creation, trust, awareness, presence and committing to the moment and how through this practice we can embody these principles into our lives. It can be playful, sensitive, quiet or energetic, where giving and taking weight, rolling, suspending, flying and falling are all possible ingredients within the spontaneity of the dance. Here is a short video to show you what it looks like: https://youtu.be/mptyZmxaYvE and below are some words from members of our local community who have written about their experiences. I hope these words inspire you to come along and join us whenever you feel ready.
“CI leads me into the present moment very directly. When I’m dancing with another and if I’m really in-tune and fully there, then there is no space for thoughts and analysis. This is freedom - expansive, open and timeless. And because there is another whom I’m in contact with, it is a shared experience where connection flows and infuses the dance. And because its dance, my whole body listens and responds and moves and is moved - fully embodied.”
“I love the intuitive, responsive, intimate nature of this dance, and the way it inspires, challenges and delights me.”
“Having spent 15 years being a team-sport person in my younger days, my body and mind longed to engage in an exercise that requires my body, mind and soul to act together simultaneously to challenge and develop myself whilst connecting with others. I found that exercise in CI.”
“It has taught me the language of the body, both mine and of others.”
“CI allows me to drop into myself, listen to my deepest instincts and urges, and over time I have learnt to trust and follow them. Through regular practice, both technical and creative, and through group and solo reflection I learnt to appreciate my authentic movement and that of others, and to apply this somatic knowledge in my daily life.”
About Me
Richard Parker began dancing Contact Improvisation in 2006. Since then, he has extensively explored this form with many inspiring teachers from around the world, including Nita Little, Andrew Harwood, Ray Chung, Martin Keogh, Scott Wells, Benno Voorham, Joerg Hassmann & Daniel Werner and has been teaching himself for over 5 years. His focus is on developing effortless movement without force that brings both energy and listening into the dance. Using a grounded and relaxed approach he enjoys sharing his understanding of the principle movements within CI as a way into finding a deep and real connection within ourselves. Richard has also spent over 15 years practicing and inquiring into Yoga and has been teaching for over 10 years. He works with the natural and somatic body principles inspired by the teachings of Vanda Scaravelli, which has also supported him in developing a modern, unique and embodied approach to his teaching.
“A true love for the form and genuine investigation is at the heart of Richard's teaching. He plans and delivers material in a thoughtful, reflective and thorough way, each exercise leading on to the next fluidly. His gentle, clear and encouraging manner gives students the confidence to push their practice further and his commitment to staying true to the form ensures that others can continue to discover and enjoy the beauty of the dance.”
