The legacy of Steve Paxton: Contact Improvisation Class

In collaboration with The Glasgow Jam, Katy Dymoke offers a workshop of material taught by Steve Paxton as a basis for contact improvisation. This will include warm up exercises based in Yoga and Tai chi, material for the spine, Akido arm, forms of rolling, weight taking, low and high bridges (under and over dancers), rolling point of contact etc.

Contact Improvisation explores the possibilities for movement with a partner or a group. It uses a natural flow of weight, momentum, as well as more subtle connections through touch and the other senses. The form encourages groundedness, listening to one’s own body and other bodies, while connecting to the physical environment in relation to gravity.

Steve Paxton was an American experimental dancer. He was among the founding practitioners of contact improvisation and passed away on February 21st 2024. His legacy has shaped the practice of many movers, including many members of the Scottish contact improvisation community.

Participants assume all risks involved in participating in a session with The Glasgow Jam, and release The Glasgow Jam from any liability for their safety. In a jam, participants are responsible for themselves at all times. Children under 14 should be accompanied by an adult.

Practice rules

• respect others and yourself: do not do anything that you or others do not wish to do
  
• preserve quietness: move to adjacent room for prolonged and involved chats
  
• keep safety in mind: do not grab limbs or jump/lifts near walls or lying bystanders

Join The Glasgow Jam Facebook group here.