CI Fundamentals Intensive

About this event

CI Fundamentals Intensive is a four-day residential dive into the fundamental skills, concepts, and techniques of Contact Improvisation at Dreaming Stone Arts and Ecology Center in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, NC (September 10–13, 2026). Now in its third annual edition. A safe and welcoming space for beginners, with greater depth for those already engaged with the form. The programme centres on five 2.5-hour intensive classes led by Toni Craige and Tevyn East, supported by video screenings of important practitioners, guided discussions, and jams. There will be plenty of space for rest, reflection, informal connection, and time with the river. Toni Craige has been practising CI since 2006 and teaching in the Triangle area of North Carolina since 2012. She co-directs Living Arts Collective's CI and Somatics Program in Durham, NC (serving over 80 students/week) and holds an MFA in Choreography and Performance from Smith College (2020). Her practice draws on Nancy Stark Smith, Alicia Grayson, and the Axis Syllabus. Tevyn East is the founder and director of Dreaming Stone. She studied with Nancy Stark Smith for over 200 hours and has 25+ years of CI practice, having taught in California, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. She graduated from Hollins University in dance and has created and toured extensive work in immersive dance theatre and community cultural organising. All meals and snacks are included from Thursday dinner through Sunday lunch — abundant, locally sourced, and delicious. Camping is included in the registration fee (with access to showers and toilets); indoor rooms and additional dwellings are available at extra cost. Work-trade and partial scholarships available. Contact: info@dreamingstone.org