range of ci expertise at jams

• generally, the range goes from completely inexperienced to many years
• there usually is at least one or two beginner's classes provided by experienced jammers, and many people are always happy to answer questions and help discover the practice
• if you are inexperienced but game to find your way with the casual support of others (and you like improvised dance!), you will probably enjoy this event. if you're completely unacquainted with contact improv, it's a good idea to read a little about it to see whether it appeals.

pointers to info about Contact Improvisation

• there's some stuff collected at http://eastcoastjam.com/CILinks
• ken's own description: http://myriadicity.net/Sundry/FosteringContactImprov

accommodations to expect at the jam

[this is an opportunity to prime people with all that mundane housekeeping business that's usually conveyed in the opening circle, and package it up so it can be passed out on a sheet at the circle instead of recited in an unfortunate use of everyone's time.]

• housing (shared rooms, with option to pitch a tent)
  • first-come, first-served
  • doubles preferred for couples, but by no means assured
  • bedding
  • snoring
• food
• dance facilities
• other recreational facilities
• privacy and courtesy

things to bring to the jam

• dance gear (loose, buck-less pants and shirts)
• rain gear
• sun protection
• recreational equipment - musical instruments, art supplies, sports stuff, candy:-)

personal guidance to expect at the jam

• very friendly prevailing environment - we're in it together, and people generally want to be helpful and kind, and generally are able to do so.

• very free-for-all prevailing environment - everyone gets wrapped up in their stuff, at one point or another, and sometimes there may be less attention available than you want or need for yours. not completely different than the dance form - we're all flowing and sometimes struggling with our own balance, while sharing it with others.

• the organizers have a commitment to take up the slack, when some help is needed that's not otherwise available. they probably can answer most mundane questions and many not-so-mundane ones, as well as lend a sympathetic ear if you're feeling lost and don't know how to otherwise find one. keep in mind, though, that the organizers are not necessarily trained in such matters, not there as paid professionals in any case, and may be limited in how they can help.

  as with the dance practice itself, the more everyone is able to take responsibility for themselves and also provide some attention to look out for others, the more safe and fun our dances/time can be.

• in this vein, adolescents and children must have designated guardian's (permission or?) presence to attend. we welcome all, and realize that there are limitations in our resources for looking out for everyone. this is an event attended and conducted by volunteers, which depends on decency, maturity, and personal responsibility of the attendees for safety.