What to expect at Ground Swell
What is this spin-off of Ecstatic Dance like?
Ground Swell at Westside Theater PC: Julia Malich
ETHOS
Ground Swell was created to build community with shared values of embodiment, self-expression, and dancing wildly without alcohol!
We don’t call it an Ecstatic Dance because all of you is welcome. You can be ecstatic, nervous, messy, irritated, grateful, grieving: all and any of your emotions are welcome to be felt and moved with.
ARRIVAL
When you arrive you will be warmly greeted by a member of our core team. They will orient you to the space and answer any questions you may have.
People mill in and stretch, meditate, or socialize in the dimly lit space with gentle music playing. Typically anywhere from 25-50 people attend. Westside Theater is big though, and there is plenty of room for everyone to move.
OPENING CIRCLE
The opening circle lasts between about 10 minutes and introduces the theme for the night, introduces how we practice consent around connecting with other people in the space, and often includes a brief meditation or poem.
DANCE
Once the music starts, conversation ceases for the next 90 minutes while we dance and move. The music starts slow, builds into a peak, and then slows down.
You are welcome to dance by yourself the whole time. Sometimes people dance together and you are also welcome to try engaging with others with or without physical contact. We practice consent in the space and will help guide you into listening to others’ yes and no.
There is NO RIGHT WAY TO DANCE at Ground Swell. We encourage you to be curious, try different ways of moving, and allow yourself to take inspiration from others around you!
You are welcome to rest or witness at any time!
We keep it dim for ambience and also to help you feel less exposed
CLOSING CIRCLE
When the music ends, we sing a really simple, soothing song that you are welcome to join in on or to lie back and listen.
Then we have closing circle where people may opt to share about their experience and any community announcements.
READY TO COME CHECK IT OUT?
Ground Swell occurs monthly!
at Westside Theater in Missoula, MT.
Can’t wait to meet you!
JP and the Ground Swell team
contact: JP@touchandchange.me