Contact Improvisation has deep roots in Aikido. Steve Paxton, CI’s founder, was immersed in Aikido practice when he dreamed of an Aikido session with continuous flying—and CI was born. Early Contact Improvisation explored falling, rolling, flying, and not knowing where you would land. Aikido, the softer martial art, teaches power rather
than forcing, redirection rather than resistance, expansion rather than contraction.
In this workshop, we’ll draw from both traditions as we work with the forces of gravity, expansion, and connection. Through partner exercises and improvisational play, we’ll explore falling, flying, blending, and effortless redirection. With our partners, we’ll move from our centers, discover a shared center, and surrender to the flow that carries us
beyond control. Class will take place on a cushioned floor—an ideal space for exploring the meeting point of martial art and dance, of discipline and freedom.