Underscore with Chinobay – September 20th

The Underscore was described, graphically represented, and taught by Nancy Stark Smith, a co-creator and long-time Contact Improvisation teacher, who sought something beyond the “jam” that caters to individual experience, and found that collective awareness yields shimmering “states of grace”. The Underscore is a structure for group improvisation that includes CI and solo dances but expands our awareness of a shared journey and the innumerable connections that arise.

This practice doesn’t require musical accompaniment, but it is critical that when it does, it is accompanied by a sensitive and seasoned improviser. Chinobay’s mastery with the kora, kalimba, and other pan-African instruments makes him well suited to respond to the room and co-create a music and movement journey wrapped in care and collectivity. Learn more about Chinobay’s intoxicating sound and compelling story here.

Tevyn East, the Director of Dreaming Stone, is offering an optional pre-Underscore class that offers orientation to those new to CI and delicious depth to the seasoned practitioner. Tevyn had the privilege of studying with Nancy Stark Smith for over a hundred hours and has more than 25 years of practice, studying with many nationally recognized teachers, and intermittently teaching or tending Contact Improvisation “scenes” in Nevada City, CA, Charlottesville, VA, and Philadelphia, PA.

This class is an optional offering that will be followed by a catered picnic at the river. You can come for the full day, including the class, or simply join for the Underscore Talk Through that begins at 1 pm. All are welcome to stay for the potluck, if they wish.

Day’s Schedule:

• 10 am – 11:30 – Class with Tevyn East

• catered picnic at the river!

• 1pm – Talk  Through

• 2 pm – Underscore

• 5pm – closure and transition to potluck

The Talk Through is a critical part of the program, and we ask all participants to attend.

Please plan to bring a dish for the potluck at the end of the day. Be in touch if you would opt to clean rather than prepare food contributions.

Mark your calendars for our next Underscore on Dec 6th.