Stroud Contact Improvisation Class & Jam

Movement, Creativity and Connection through Dance

with Richard Parker

A facilitated dance class for learning about Contact Improvisation. Suitable for anyone curious about embodied relational dance through close physical contact and improvisation. Perfect for introducing newcomers as well as helping more experienced dancers develop their practice.

  • Learn about the possibilities of movement within your body

  • Explore a co-creative dance practice

  • Feel an embodied human connection

Contact Improv Class & Jam

with Richard Parker

Fridays: 7pm - 9.30pm

Venue: Maypole Hall - Venue Details

Open to all levels of experience, from newcomers through to experienced dancers.

Alongside the open-level sessions, I will also offer beginner-friendly sessions, with a little more emphasis on introducing the practice, building confidence and creating a supportive space for those who are newer or feel they need more support as an introduction to Contact Improvisation. These sessions are still open to everyone, and experienced dancers are very welcome to join. The intention is simply to create some sessions where there is an especially gentle and accessible entry point into the practice.

These sessions generally include facilitated exploration followed by an open jam, giving everyone the opportunity to learn, practise and dance together.

Sessions will begin again on 18th September 2026

  • 18th September (beginner-friendly)

  • 25th September (open level)

  • 2nd October (open level)

  • 9th October (beginner-friendly)

  • 16th October (open level)

  • 23rd October (open level)

Cost: £15 (£12 concs)

Pay cash or card at the door (card payments include a small processing fee)

Kneepads available: £15 (S,M & L)

Please read my Health & Fitness Guidelines before coming for your first time.

Venue Details

Venue: Maypole Hall, Stratford Road, Paganhill, Stroud GL5 4AN Google Maps Link

Facilities: Wooden dance floor, good heating, natural and ambient lighting, toilets and changing facilities, as well as access to a kitchen.

Easy Free Parking: Outside hall and on surrounding roads

Lift Share: Please get in touch if you need a lift, and I can link you to our community WhatsApp group to help you make these arrangements.


We also have a WhatsApp group for updates, sharing lifts and staying connected, get in touch if you wish to join.

About Richard

Richard Parker is passionate about the relational and deep human experience that can be revealed through this profound practice. His workshops are a refined balance of skills, creativity & free exploration, taking participants on a journey into the co-creative wonders of Contact Improvisation, which always includes a healthy dose of safety and care for one another. With a grounded and easy-going approach, he loves sharing both his detailed and extensive understanding of the principal movement forms within Contact Improvisation alongside the subtle nuances, helping people to truly embody the fundamental aspects of the dance. Most importantly, creating a sense of relational awareness and a sense of togetherness as we co-create within the dance space.

He has been developing his skills and knowledge as a Contact Improvisation (CI) dancer since 2006. Over the years he has extensively trained with many amazing international teachers within CI including Karen Nelson, Lisa Nelson, KJ Holmes, Nita Little, Andrew Harwood, Ray Chung, Martin Keogh, Scott Wells, Benno Voorham & Joerg Hassmann. Since 2011 he has shared his teaching of CI within Professional, Educational, Festival & Community Organisations as well as organised his own CI Festivals, Retreats and Camps.

“A true love for the form and genuine investigation is at the heart of Richard's teaching. He plans and delivers material in a thoughtful, reflective and thorough way, each exercise leading on to the next fluidly. His gentle, clear and encouraging manner gives students the confidence to push their practice further and his commitment to staying true to the form ensures that others can continue to discover and enjoy the beauty of the dance."