2025 edition
Port
Townsend
Jam
A Contact Improvisation Retreat at Fort Worden State Park December 17–21, 2025 (Wednesday–Sunday). Join dancers from across the Pacific Northwest and beyond for five days of movement, connection, and creative exploration in nature’s embrace.
the discovery of dance
Contact Improvisation Dance Retreat
What to Expect
- Daily Labs, Jams & Classes: Dive into a rich mix of participant-led labs, skill-building intensives, and open jams.
- All Levels Welcome: Whether you’re new to CI or a seasoned mover, there’s space for you to learn, play, and grow.
- Nature-Infused Dancing: Our historic venue is nestled in the wooded, ocean-side beauty of Fort Worden—steps from beaches, trails, and wildlife.
Labs
This year’s curated labs include returning favorites and new explorations:
The Blindfold Dance
CI Basics
Spontaneous Ensemble Composition
Barriers to Entry in CI
Acrobatic Principles in Weight-Sharing
Jams
Held in the USO Building (same as 2023–2024), the studio is open daily for silent jamming and evening sessions.
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Opening Jam: Wednesday, Dec. 17 at 7pm
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Evening Jams: Begin nightly around 7pm
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Daytime Access: Space available for quiet jamming during labs
All
Levels
Welcome
Pre-jam workshop: Get the most out of your jam experience
On Wednesday, December 17 from 1–4pm, Cyrus Khambatta leads a skill-building workshop, “Lift. Land. Listen.” designed to help participants enter the jam with confidence. Covering weight-sharing for diverse bodies that can be built upon during the jam, finding fluidity (at any age), and safe lift mechanics, it’s ideal for beginners, intermediates, or anyone seeking a refresh. Past attendees have found it invaluable for deepening their jam experience. It is an optional add-on; register via the main sign-up page.
lodging & food
Lodging & Food
Stay onsite at Fort Worden’s rustic yet cozy housing (bed, bath, kitchen/kitchenette included), camp in the park, or arrange your own accommodations.
Check-in: After 5pm, Wednesday, Dec. 17
Closing Circle: Sunday morning, Dec. 21
Check-out: By 11am Sunday Housing is separate from jam registration. Details on the registration page.
Testimonials
Recent Comments
...the dedication to the form of a lot of people and of the labs