Exploring the Fusion of Water and Movement: Thailand's Premier CI Festival

Introduction

Thailand's 12th Water & Land Contact Festival, scheduled from March 10 to 20, 2025, stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of dance and somatic practices. This festival uniquely integrates the principles of Contact Improvisation (CI) with the natural elements of land and water, offering participants an unparalleled experience in movement exploration.

The Essence of Contact Improvisation

At its core, Contact Improvisation is a dance form that revolves around the spontaneous interaction between dancers, emphasizing trust, awareness, and the shared physical dialogue. The introduction of water into CI sessions enhances this interaction, allowing dancers to experience movement with the added dimensions of buoyancy and fluid resistance.

Detailed Festival Program

The festival's structure is meticulously crafted to cater to both newcomers and seasoned practitioners:

Introduction Phase (March 10-12):
- Introductory Intensives: Sessions aimed at familiarizing participants with CI techniques on both land and water.
- Advanced Water Labs: Specialized workshops for experienced dancers to delve deeper into water-based CI.
- Open Jams: Unstructured sessions promoting free expression and improvisation.
Deep Dive Phase (March 13-16):
- Water Intensives: Focused workshops emphasizing advanced techniques in aquatic environments.
- Land CI Classes: Continued exploration of terrestrial CI practices.
- Evening Jams: Opportunities for participants to practice and internalize learned techniques.
Creative Mix Phase (March 17-20):
- Diverse Classes and Labs: A variety of sessions encouraging creative exploration and personal expression.
- Morning and Night Jams: Regular opportunities for improvisational practice.
- Sunset Rituals: Community events designed to foster connection and collective movement experiences.

Participants are also invited to contribute by proposing their own sessions during designated times, fostering a collaborative and inclusive atmosphere.

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Post-Festival Enrichment

To further enrich the festival experience, additional programs are available:

Somatic Workshop with Annie Brook (March 22-25): An in-depth exploration of somatic practices aimed at enhancing bodily awareness and well-being.

Why Attend the Water & Land Contact Festival?

✔ Immersive Learning – Deepen your understanding of Contact Improvisation with expert-led workshops.
✔ Unique Environment – Experience movement in both land and water, expanding your body awareness and creativity.
✔ Supportive Community – Connect with a global network of dancers, movers, and somatic practitioners.
✔ Transformational Experience – Engage in a holistic approach to dance, mindfulness, and personal growth.

Conclusion

The 12th Water & Land Contact Festival in Thailand is more than just a dance event—it’s an opportunity to explore movement in a new way, to challenge physical and mental boundaries, and to build deep connections with others and with nature. Whether you’re a beginner in Contact Improvisation or a seasoned practitioner, this festival offers an unforgettable journey of discovery, creativity, and embodiment.

Mark your calendar for March 10-20, 2025, and prepare to immerse yourself in the world of movement and connection! ??✨