Special Topics in Acting (370-0-20)

Topic

Contact Improvisation for Performance

Instructors

Chrissy Martin

Meeting Info

Wirtz 201 Performnce Black Box: Mon, Wed 3:00PM - 4:50PM

Overview of class

Contact improvisation is a form of movement that uses physical touch and weight sharing as vehicles for spontaneous communication. In this class, we will practice rolling, falling, dynamic weight sharing, going upside down, and developing a sophisticated sense of spatial awareness. We will practice embodied and verbal communication skills around consent, and as a result, develop attention, adaptability, and resilience in our bodies. We will approach our endeavors with a sense of serious play and work to cultivate joy in our moving bodies.

We will develop skills such as mind/body integration, sensory awareness, kinesthetic empathy, and internal awareness. We will discuss and practice navigating consent in the context of a largely non-verbal social dance. We will often work in groups of two or three, dancing with classmates in a variety of situations, as well as exploring solo and ensemble improvisations. There will be weekly readings and viewings to fuel our class discussions. Previous experience with movement and/or dance is required. Please email chrissy.martin@northwestern.edu with a brief paragraph of your movement history to enroll.

No fees required, though buying a pair of dance kneepads is strongly recommended.

Class Materials (Required)

Dance kneepads $1-25

Class Attributes

SoC Additional Distro