Manchester Class and Jam

A special one off session bringing together the local community

Manchester · May 23rd 2026

“What happens when movement is shared, not owned?”

A day of Contact Improvisation, moving from guided practice to open space.

The invitation

This is an open session for movers, dancers and those curious about Contact Improvisation.

We begin with a 2 hour class, working with the fundamentals of moving together.

Using simple structures, we explore weight, timing and touch, and how movement emerges through relationship rather than effort.

We slow things down.

We stay with simple actions.

We notice what changes when attention is shared.

The focus is not on performing or getting it right, but on sensing what is already happening between us.

There is space here for both curiosity and depth.

The session is co-held by Alexander Dodgson and Lily Coombes.

The work

The day moves through a simple arc:

Arrival and tuning

Guided class exploring shared movement

Time to rest and integrate

An open jam space

In simple terms, we are working with:

• how we move with others
• how attention shifts between bodies
• how something begins to form between us

We begin with guidance.

We open into shared space.

We follow what emerges.

Who this is for

This is open to all bodies.

No prior Contact Improvisation experience is required.

If you are new, we recommend joining the class before the jam.

This space is for those curious about movement, connection and shared exploration.

Practical frame

Date: 23 May 2026

Location: St Matthews Community Hall, Stretford, Manchester

Arrivals from 11:00

Class: 11:30 to 13:30

Break: 13:30 to 14:30

Jam: 14:30 to 16:30

Group size: limited

Contribution

Class and Jam £20

Class only £15

Jam only £15

What’s included

• 2 hour guided class
• 2 hour open jam
• Shared space for practice and exploration
• Studio use

Not quite the right fit?

You can explore other offerings or read more about the approach behind the work.

Applications

Places are limited.

We are looking to gather a small group who feel ready for this kind of process.

You’ll hear from us personally.

Any Questions? Reach out…

If something calls you to us, feel free to reach out.

📧 commonbodycollective@gmail.com

‘Togethering’