The Emerging Dance
A Mindful Approach to Contact Improvisation
with Richard Parker
Join us for a unique workshop that invites you to slow down and truly feel into your dance. We’ll be embracing a mindful approach to deepen our listening skills as we focus on the sensations at the point of contact. Discover what happens when you let go of preconceived ideas and allow your movement to be guided by the body’s natural intelligence and subtle shifts—where dance emerges effortlessly, beyond thought.
Drawing inspiration from Steve Paxton’s concept of the ‘Small Dance,’ we’ll explore a heightened awareness of our own movement rhythms and responses. By tuning into each other’s body language, touch, and the exchange of weight, we’ll cultivate a new level of sensitivity to what arises in our dancing.
Whether you’re experienced in Contact Improvisation or just beginning your journey, this workshop offers an opportunity to move beyond familiar patterns and discover new ways of connecting, communicating, and creating in dance.
Venue & Travel:
St Margaret’s Institute is on the outskirts of Oxford city centre and only a 20-minute walk from Oxford Railway Station. Upon booking you’ll be sent more info about how to find us, parking and given access to a lift-share document.
The venue has a sprung wood floor, plenty of heating and natural light, with access to a kitchen.