Spontaneous Self
Connect • Collaborate • Create
An Dance Improvisation Workshop for Experienced Dancers
January 31, 2025 - 9:00am - 4:30pm
Pink House Studio
Join me for a Spontaneous Self workshop in dance improvisation. We will be exploring the four core practices of Spontaneous Self throughout the day, culminating in exploring approaches to improvisational performance. This workshop is for experience dancers who have a dedicated interest in dance improvisation as a collaborative and creative practice.
The Spontaneous Self is a comprehensive framework for dance improvisation training & performance.
The Spontaneous Self offers structured training for dancers working in improvisation across solo, duet, and ensemble formats. Rooted in post-modern, contemporary, and somatic practices, this framework develops the technical and compositional skills needed to create coherent, compelling performances with minimal predetermined structure.
This approach values spontaneity, collaborative intelligence, somatic awareness, and compositional rigor—preparing artists to generate work that engages both performer and audience.
Workshop Structure
The day progresses through four core practices:
Integral Technique — Physical and mental preparation specific to improvisational performance. Develops the neuro-muscular readiness and decision-making capacity required for spontaneous work.
Authentic Contact — Partner-based practice integrating reflective listening and physical commitment. Builds responsive partnership skills and kinesthetic dialogue.
Unmapping — Application of Feldenkrais Method® principles to identify and expand beyond habitual movement patterns, opening new possibilities for improvised material.
Collaborative Composition — Ensemble structures and performance frameworks. Explores methods for creating improvised work with clarity, coherence, and dramatic shape.
Logistics
The workshop includes periodic breaks throughout the day and a 30-minute lunch break.
Prerequisites: This workshop is designed for dancers with established improvisation experience.
Location: Pink House Studio 601 E Wright St, MKE, WI 53212
Schedule
9:00 Arrive
9:15. Welcome and Intros
9:30. Integral Technique
10:45. Break
11:00. Authentic Contact
12:15. Lunch
12:45. Unmapping
1:45. Break
2:00. Collaborative Creation
4:00. Wrap Up & Discussion
The Spontaneous Self curriculum is informed, influenced, and inspired by a wide range of artists and improvisational practices, including: Andrea Burkholder, KJ Holmes, Sharon Mansur, Nancy Stark Smith, Carol Swann, Jess Curtis, Contact Improvisation, Jerry Pearson, Chris Aiken, Integral Theory, Laban Movement Analysis, The Feldenkrais Method, Mindfulness Practices, and all the improvisational artists I’ve had the privilege of performing with over the last 30 years.
Spontaneous Self Workshop Form
Please fill out the form to the right and submit it to reserve your spot in our January 31st workshop. Once you fill out the form, and submit payment, you’ll receive an email confirming your place in the workshop.
Please reach out with any questions to daniel@danielburkholder.com
Cost
General: $100
UWM Alumni/Current Students: $75
Payment
Paypal: @DBurkholder21
Venmo: @Daniel-Burkholder
If you are unable to pay with Paypal or Venmo, please contact me at the above email address to make alternative payment.