CONTACT DANCE AND MOVEMENT INTERACTION CREATES MOMENTS OF PAIRED ACTION AND REST IN THE WAY WE CREATE SHAPES BETWEEN US.
We may fall in towards each other, support and guide one another, give into gravity or spin into lightness in this constant rearangement. We may cross paths or walk away. Turn and reinvigorate the dance together.
It is about moving into situations and drawing on the pleasure of an immediate response.
Going where that takes us without having to know exactly how or why.
It is a place for acceptance. A play of distances and closeness.
It is suitable for anyone no matter how or why they move.
It is suitable for touch sensitive people because when touch is used as a dynamic and listening support for movement and rest it is acceptable because it is clear.
The interaction which involves moments of suspense across variable distances of space and time, become important.
It becomes capable of holding interest and of building trust.
My approach to working with Special Needs
children has been influenced by this practice of Contact Dance.
Out of it has
developed a deeper understanding of the co-involvement of people even
when they may appear separate.
This can be drawn on as part of a wide environmental sensing that we all posses and that has to do with right timing. Right timing is something that can be practised and learnt together.
By concentrating on what is tangible, only one thing is done at a time and so a certain order unfolds. There is time to experience things and to anticipate changes or make them happen. Relaxation is coupled with this ability to remain aware and ask internal questions. This is something non-verbal children often do not feel because they are straining in an environment that may seem noisy and
cluttered to them.
Through an increased sense of relaxation and spaciousness there is a chance for more flexible and creative thought.
