Material for the Spine

About this event

A 5-day residential intensive at La Colle de Nouvé in Cabasse, Provence (August 17–22, 2026), focused on Material for the Spine (MFS) — Steve Paxton's meditative study of spinal and pelvic movement that preceded and underlies Contact Improvisation. The workshop is led by Nóra Hajós, a longtime student and collaborator of Steve Paxton, Lisa Nelson, and Simone Forti. MFS is described by Paxton as "a meditative study of the initiations of spinal and pelvic movements, combining a technical approach with an improvisation process." The programme covers floor rolls (spiral/helix roll, crescent roll), puzzles, undulations, the small dance, and other forms — always through internal sensation rather than external form. Each evening a Contact Improvisation Jam allows participants to integrate what was explored in the sessions. Nóra Hajós (HUN/USA) has been teaching dance and movement improvisation for nearly four decades, performing and teaching across Europe, the USA, Canada, and South America. She studied in depth with Steve Paxton (the originator of CI), Lisa Nelson (Tuning Scores), and Simone Forti (Logomotion), collaborating and performing with all three. La Colle de Nouvé is a choreographic exploration centre on a Provençal hilltop, 3km from the village of Cabasse (Var). The space includes a 120m² dance studio, dormitory accommodation (15 places), and outdoor areas. 5 tent/van spots also available. Meals are prepared from fresh organic produce by Elisabeth and are included in the price. Bilingual French–English. Maximum 20 participants. Arrival Monday August 17 around 2pm, departure Saturday August 22 around 5pm. Shuttle provided on arrival and departure days. Organiser: Louve (wet.improvisations@gmail.com).