Module #1 - Contemporary Dance & Movement Research

This module lays the foundation for contemporary dance technique while fostering a research-oriented, exploratory approach to movement. The technical component focuses on developing basic movement patterns and executing long dance phrases with precision and clarity. Complementing this, the movement research component uses improvisation as a tool to deepen understanding, enhance adaptability, and cultivate physical autonomy.

Throughout the module, students will engage with the Technical Parameters Tool Kit—an empirical system for self-analysis designed to support the recognition of habitual errors and the development of effective self-correction strategies. In parallel, the use of technical improvisation scores will introduce a problem-solving attitude and sharpen each dancer’s sense of alignment, rhythm, spatial awareness, and expressive range.

Detailed breakdown of the module:

Contemporary Dance Technique
– Unit 1 (6 hours): Floor Technique
– Unit 2 (6 hours): Vertical Traveling – Spirals and Slides
– Unit 3 (6 hours): Spinal Mechanics
– Unit 4 (6 hours): Limbs Coordination
– Unit 5 (6 hours): Turns and Spins

Movement Research
– Unit 6 (6 hours): Dynamic Alignment
– Unit 7 (6 hours): Rhythm and Musicality
– Unit 8 (6 hours): Movement Qualities

By integrating structured technique with creative exploration, this module encourages students to move with greater awareness, confidence, and expressive depth.

Module #2 – Contact Improvisation & Ensemble Practice

This module integrates the fundamentals of contact improvisation with the principles of ensemble movement practice. Through the exploration of repeatable forms, physical dialogues, and technical improvisations, students will develop a deeper sensitivity to touch, timing, and spatial relationships—both in partner work and in group settings.

The first part of the module focuses on foundational contact improvisation (CI) skills such as weight sharing, grounding, lifting, and inversions. These embodied experiences help cultivate haptic intelligence and the ability to navigate shared movement with awareness and adaptability. The second part expands into ensemble practice, where students explore how individual choices resonate within group dynamics. Improvisational scores and group tasks foster a sense of interdependence, attunement, and collaborative presence.

Theoretical frameworks such as the Kinetic Flow Compass and the concept of Holarchies (from Integral Theory) will support the experiential work by offering tools to analyze energy flow and group structure.

Detailed breakdown of the module:

Contact Improvisation
– Unit 1 (6 hours): Skin Sensitivity
– Unit 2 (6 hours): Ground Movements
– Unit 3 (6 hours): Weight Sharing
– Unit 4 (6 hours): Level Changes
– Unit 5 (6 hours): Introduction to Jamming

Ensemble Practice
– Unit 6 (6 hours): Trio Scores
– Unit 7 (6 hours): Solo and Group Awareness
– Unit 8 (6 hours): Group Compositions

This module offers a comprehensive framework for moving in relation to others—whether in duets or larger constellations—emphasizing trust, responsiveness, and the collective intelligence of the moving group.

Module #3 - 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 a personal interview with the Director of Movement Lab. 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.
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 integrate your body knowledge into your professional engagement in other fields of embodied work.
2. To participate in study group programs within the Movement Lab