Module #1 - Contemporary Dance / Movement Research

The focus of this module is establish the foundations of contemporary dance technique. The exploration of technique will be divided into three categories - basic movement patterns, long phrases of movement & technical improvisations. On the theoretical side, in this module we will explore the ‘Technical Parameters Tool Kit’ an empirical system of self analysis that aims to help each student in the process of recognising failures and building the ability to self correct technical mistakes.

Detail breakdown of module 1:

Unit 1 (21 hours): Floor technique

Unit 2 (21 hours): Vertical traveling - Spirals and slides

Unit 3 (21 hours): Spinal mechanics

Unit 4 (21 hours): Arms coordinations - exploration of the figure of 8

Unit 5 (21 hours): Ukemi practice - falling techniques

Unit 6 (21 hours): Dynamic Inversions

Unit 7 (20 hours): Turns and spins

Unit 8 (20 hours): Jumps and acrobatics

Unit 9 (20 hours): Movement Qualities

Unit 10 (20 hours ): Musicality in Dance

Module #2 - Contact Improvisation / Partner Work

In this module, the students will be exposed to foundational CI concepts through the exploration of repeatable forms and technical improvisations. We will use our technical foundation to explore the vast landscape of partner improvisation. On the theoretical side, in this module we will examine the ‘Kinetic Flow Compass’ - an empirical system to describe the manifestation of kinetic energy in relation to the environment and other moving objects/people.

Detail breakdown of module 2:

Unit 1 (16 hours): Skin sensitivity

Unit 2 (16 hours): Ground Movements

Unit 3 (16 hours): Weight Sharing

Unit 4 (16 hours): Level changes

Unit 5 (16 hours): Inversions

Unit 6 (16 hours): Big lifts and jumps

Unit 7 (16 hours) : Introduction to Jamming

Module #3 - Ensemble Work / Group Creation

In this module we will explore the basics of ensemble work and group improvisation. Using the skills we are learning in the first two modules, we will explore the relation between the individual dancer and the group. The module will be divided to two main subjects - open improvisation skills and creation of a group performance. On the theoretical side, in this module we will explore the concept of ‘Holarchies’ (Integral Theory, Ken Wilber) as a base of understanding group formations and dynamics of ensemble work.

Detail breakdown of module 3:

Unit 1 (3 hours): Performance skills

Unit 2 (3 hours): Duets scores

Unit 3 (3 hours): Trios scores

Unit 4 (3 hours): Quartets scores

Unit 5 (3 hours): Solo and Group

Unit 6 (3 hours): Group compositions

Unit 7 (54 hours): Creation process 
 

Module #4 - Rotating Workshops

This module offers participants the opportunity to expand their perspective through a series of weekly workshops led by guest teachers. Each workshop introduces a distinct approach to movement, embodiment, or performance, providing exposure to a wide range of methodologies and artistic voices. The workshops are designed to challenge and inspire, encouraging students to remain open, curious, and adaptive in their practice.

The topics covered may include—but are not limited to—somatic practices, voice and movement integration, performance studies, interdisciplinary improvisation, ritual-based movement, and experimental composition.

Module format:

– Weekly 1.5-hour workshops (27 hours in totals)
– Led by rotating guest/team teachers

Module #5 - Open Jam

(Optional Module)

This optional module serves as a bridge between guided instruction and independent exploration. Its aim is to support participants in developing autonomy and confidence in engaging with the material of the program.

The module is intentionally designed with a fluid structure, allowing each participant to choose their own level of intensity and engagement according to their personal pace and stage of development.

Each session begins with a 30-minute guided warm-up or instruction led by rotating guest teachers. This is followed by a 2.5-hour open jam, providing a space for individual or collaborative research into the themes of the program within a supportive and inspiring environment.

Registration process:

Acceptance to the program is conditioned by having some previous experience in dance or other embodied practice and a personal interview with Matan Levkowich.

A sense of commitment to the program and the group process will be evaluated and considered as the main factor for acceptance/rejection of an applicant.

Certification
 

To receive the Movement Lab Study Group certificate you need to:

1. Attendance of at least 85% for modules 1+2 and 12 hours of module 3
2. Send 2 videos for each module, documenting the materials you have learnt (solo and partner videos).
3. Form a peer group and spend a minimum of 6 hours of practice together on the material of the program.
4. Submit a final report on your experience in the program detailing what you have learnt and benefited from the program personally.

Certification outcome

The Study Group certificate would support you in the following (in accordance with your own responsibility and self engagements) :

1. To be accepted to audition for professional dance education programs such as Sozo-VIM.
2. To integrate into your professional engagement in other fields of embodied work.
3. To hold group sessions and teach private classes in the fields of contemporary dance, contact improvisation and partner work.