Contact Improvisation Classes
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Created by Movement Specialist Nicole Byrne


DESCRIPTION: This course invites the non-dancer or novice to discover the freedom of movement and Contact Improv in a safe, structured, exploratory environment. This class provides the building stones to confidentally and safely partner and share weight with others in motion. Suitable for teens and adults 16 and over.

TIME COMMITMENT: 1 hour a week

CONTRACT HOURS: $35 per month or $10 drop-in

INSTRUCTIONAL METHOD: Demonstration/Improvisation/TV Media/Live Performance

MAJOR LEARNING OUTCOMES:
The student will:

1. Develop an appreciation the dancing self and community

2. Exhibit comprehension of weight, flow, and energy as they relate to improvisation

3. Build body awareness, self-expression, self-confidence, and listening skills

4. Increase physical parameters, flexibility, creativity, and dynamic range

5. Create solo and/or group movement

OUTLINE OF COURSE CONTENT:
A. Warm-up
B. Intro to element of the day
C. Technique/safety pointers
D. Exploration
E. Traveling

COURSE OUTLINE:
o Efficient use of our own bodies
o Improvisation
o Dancing with partners or groups
o Weight sharing
o Rolls, falls, recovery
o Lifts and beyond


More on Contact Improvisation

Description: This is a movement form derived from free-dance. Participants develop their improvisational skills to include weight sharing, creating free-flowing movement with a partner or group. Improvisers discovered various ways to lift, roll, fall, and support one another. This creative, therapeutic, and exciting dance technique can be practiced by anyone willing to participate, no dance or athletic background required, just a willingness to explore with you fellow movers.

Is this class currently being offered in the community?
No, this dance style is not offered anywhere in the community.

Does the class seem well thought out and realistic in both goals and scope?
Much planning and research has gone into building this course. The goal is to expose as many participants to the joys of completely free-flowing movement and how that feels with a partner and a community of dancers.


What type of class do you want to offer?
Contact Improvisation: safety, structure, and inventiveness

Class Description: Warm-up, introduction to element of the day, safety briefing, exploration, across the floor movement- creating traveling possibilities and bigger movement, free-dance- encourage students to add their own expression to the given material, Stretch/Cool-down

Age group(s) designed for:
Teens and adults 16 and up, or otherwise approved by instructor

How many hours will the class require to complete?
1-2 hours a week for two months.

What are your goals for the participants?
To increase body awareness, coordination, stimulate senses, spark creativity, and build self-confidence. Exhibit comprehension of a variety of dance styles and rhythms. Demonstrate general physical skills such as: strength and control, endurance, balance, timing, sense of body in space, and efficient locomotion.

What specific skills will participants learn?
Body awareness, physical expression, musicality, and physicality.
Exploring dance and movement is a life-skill that will give participants an appreciation for community and the dancing body.

What kind of facility do you need?
A clean studio with smooth floor. Mirrors are not necessary.