Contact Improvisation

photo by William Federking

In this class students will explore the dynamics of partnering through the practice of contact improvisation. How do you lead or follow? How do you sense and adapt to what is happening in the moment, while retaining a playful engagement with your partner? Classes will focus on the refinement of touch, balance, support, release, flight, falling, initiation, imagination and disorientation. In addition to developing physical skills emphasis will be placed upon emotional clarity, safety, joy, imagination and depth of experience. All are welcome.

Chris Aiken is a leading performer and teacher in the field of dance improvisation and contact improvisation. His work has evolved through ongoing investigations of performance, composition, movement technique and design. His work has been significantly influenced through the somatic practice of the Alexander Technique, ideokinesis, yoga and the fascia and structural integration. Chris has performed and collaborated with many renowned dance artists including Steve Paxton, Kirstie Simson, Nancy Stark Smith, Peter Bingham, Andrew Harwood, Ray Chung and Angie Hauser. He has received numerous awards for his artistic work, including a Guggenheim Fellowship, as well as commissions from the Walker Art Center, Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival, Dance Theater Workshop and the National Performance Network. Chris is an Assistant Professor of Dance at Smith College and the Five College Dance Department.