Jam Etiquette
Respect individual timing
Some dancers enter contact quickly; others may take significant time warming up or moving
solo.
Enter with awareness
Before joining a dance, take time to observe and tune into what is already happening.
Prioritize duet exploration
Trios or larger group dances can emerge, but duet investigation remains central.
Share the space
Faster dances move carefully around slower ones. Slower dances maintain spatial awareness
for safety. When a dance finishes, clear space for others. (Note: stillness does not necessarily
mean a dance has ended.)
Maintain a focused environment
Keep conversations off the dance floor and voices low.
Honor autonomy
No one is obligated to dance with anyone. You may decline or leave a dance at any time.
Working With Discomfort
Jams are spaces for improvisation, discovery, and sometimes challenge. Discomfort can arise
and may be an opportunity for awareness and communication.
If you feel uncomfortable in a dance, you may:
● Acknowledge the feeling
● Change position, rhythm, proximity, or focus
● Move toward other dancers or into a group dance
● Communicate verbally if needed
● Leave the dance
If you witness something concerning:
● Joining the dance may shift the dynamic
● Speak up if something seems unsafe
● Connect with an organizer or grounded community member if you are unsure what to
do
Experienced dancers are encouraged to help support a welcoming and aware environment
for newcomers.
Sexual Energy in the Jam
Contact Improvisation involves closeness and touch, which may naturally evoke sensual
sensations. However, a jam is not a space for pursuing romantic or sexual interaction.
If sexual energy arises:
● Acknowledge the sensation without acting on it
● Shift focus back to the movement exploration
● Adjust touch, distance, or movement quality
● Step away into solo movement if needed
Participants are responsible for how their energy affects the shared space.
Community Protocol for Reports of
Misconduct
Our aim is to create a space that feels safe enough for exploration while supporting
accountability and repair.
If an incident is reported:
1. Two members of the organizing team will be appointed to review the situation
2. They will separately hear and document the accounts of both parties
3. When appropriate, a facilitated conversation will be offered to
○ Share how actions were experienced
○ Support clearer boundaries and communication
○ Facilitate repair where possible
All reports remain confidential to protect the dignity of those involved.
Participation in this process is expected from all attendees. Those unwilling to participate may
not be invited to return.
Please note that organizers are community members holding the space voluntarily. We ask for
patience and mutual respect as we navigate complex situations together.
Shared Intention
To cultivate a respectful, curious, and responsive space where movement, listening, and
community can unfold through the practice of Contact Improvisation.
