Philly Underscore SATURDAY October 11, 2025 2:30-5:30pm, RSVPs required
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Loren Groenendaal
Oct 8, 2025, 11:40:54 PM10/8/25
to ContactImprovPhilly
Dear Philadelphia Contact Improvisation community,
You are invited to the next Philadelphia Underscore SATURDAY, October 11, 2025 2:30-5:30pm in the Rear Studio of Headlong via Mascher Space Cooperative, 1170 S. Broad St. RSVPs are required. Participation in the Underscore requires a prior Talk Through, which also requires registration.
Email me, LorenGro...@gmail.com to register for the Underscore or the Talk Through. This Underscore will only happen if there are at least 5 positive RSVPs by 1pm on Friday 10/10/25.
This Underscore will be MASK OPTIONAL. More details and health protocol below.
UNDERSCORE TALK THROUGH INFORMATION:
WHAT: Underscore Talk Through
WHEN: TBD possible times include Fri 10/10 10am-2pm or Sat 10/11 1:15-2:15pm
WHERE: TBD, likely on Zoom if on Fri 10/10 and in person at Mascher if on Sat 10/11
WHY: A prior Talk Through is required to participate in the Underscore. The Underscore Talk Through outlines the structure of the Underscore Practice, so that participants are all practicing together and nonverbally. The Talk Through also provides a common language and glyphs (symbols) to use when reflecting on our practice in the concluding Thanksgiving and Harvest. If you have not participated in an Underscore Talk Through before, you should attend. The Talk Through introduces you to the structure, so we can nonverbally follow the dancing journey together.
COST: Sliding scale $0-15
Payments may be made via cash, check, Venmo @Loren-Groenendaal, or Paypal at the event with no one turned away due to lack of funds
REQUEST A TALK THROUGH by emailing Loren Groenendaal, lorengro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com
NOTES: Please bring something to write with and on to this meeting. This Talk Through will only happen if it is requested from the community by 9pm Th 10/9, but just 1 positive RSVP is needed.
REQUEST A TALK THROUGH by emailing Loren Groenendaal, lorengro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com
NOTES: Please bring something to write with and on to this meeting. This Talk Through will only happen if it is requested from the community by 9pm Th 10/9, but just 1 positive RSVP is needed.
UNDERSCORE BASIC INFO:
WHAT: Underscore Practice
WHEN: Saturday, October 11, 2025 2:30-5:30pm
WHERE: Rear Studio at Headlong via Mascher Space Cooperative, 1170 S. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19146
WHO: Loren Groenendaal is facilitating, up to 14 are welcome to register if they have had a prior Talk Through
COST: Sliding scale $5-20
Payments may be made via cash, check, Venmo, or Paypal at the event with no one turned away due to lack of funds
REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com
NOTE: This Underscore will only happen if at least 5 people RSVP positively by 9pm on Thursday 10/9.
WHAT IS THE UNDERSCORE?
The Underscore Practice is a simple and beautiful structure for a focused jam-like practice developed by Nancy Stark Smith. The structure is a precise, but open platform for investigation of contact improvisation and solo and group improvised composition. The score is an organic developmental nonverbal sequence that provides focus to the dancing community and opens up possibilities for movement, awareness, connection, and various physical/mental states. We (do our best to) commit to participating in the entire score (which includes resting, eating, digesting, observing, bonding with the earth).
Nancy Stark Smith, who originated the practice, describes it this way: "The Underscore is a vehicle for incorporating Contact Improvisation into a broader arena of improvisational dance practice; for developing greater ease dancing in spherical space—alone and with others; and for integrating kinesthetic and compositional concerns while improvising. It allows for a full spectrum of energetic and physical expressions, embodying a range of forms and changing states. Its practice is familiar yet unpredictable." More info: http://nancystarksmith.com/underscore
UNDERSCORE PROTOCOL:
The Underscore is a carefully held container and an intentional space. This is NOT a come and go jam. We aim to commit to the entire practice together. Those who Arrive at 2:30pm and come to the Assembly shortly thereafter should plan to stay through the conclusion by 5:30pm as it is customary to commit to the full session for an Underscore Practice. Building doors open at 2:15 for arriving.
YOU MUST REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com Capacity is 15, first come first serve. I will post on the Ci Philly listserv if we have moved into a waiting list.
A prior UNDERSCORE TALK THROUGH is required to participate in the Underscore. More about this below.
Street shoes and Food are NOT permitted in the dance studios. If you need to wear shoes to dance, they should be soft soled, clean, and not worn outside. You may snack in the lounge or outside.
I recommend bringing a water bottle, snacks, something to write on, and something to write with.
HEALTH /COMMUNITY CARE PROTOCOL:
Capacity is limited to 15 people.
I strongly encourage you to wash your hands once you arrive to the building and after the Underscore before you leave.
Masking varies between REQUIRED and OPTIONAL. Masking is OPTIONAL for 10/11/2025.
Touch with consent is permitted.
I am prepared to do contact tracing. If a participant discovers within 7 days after the Underscore that they are positive for covid, monkeypox or another infectious disease that could have transmission in the Underscore setting, please email lorengro...@gmail.com and we will let the rest of the group know about their possible exposure.
Since September 2022, Covid-19 Vaccination is encouraged, but not required.
Generally, I strongly encourage all participants to wear clean garments with long sleeves and pants for minimal skin exposure. However, it is summer, so dress as you need to feel comfortable for your dancing. Please know there is air conditioning in the space.
Do NOT attend the Underscore if you have symptoms of COVID, have tested positive for COVID or have a known or possible COVID exposure in the last 10 days, UNLESS you have tested negative at least 5 days after exposure.
Do NOT attend the jam if you have symptoms of Monkeypox Virus (flu, fever, swollen lymph nodes, new skin rash), a current case of MPV, or a known exposure to MonkeyPox in the past 2 weeks.
FACILITATOR BIO:
Underscore facilitator Loren Groenendaal (they/she) is a dancer, improviser, choreographer, curator, creative and somatic movement educator, and has been active in Philadelphia since 2003. She has been facilitating the Underscore in Philadelphia since 2013 and has studied with Underscore developer Nancy Stark Smith several times including a 3-week course investigating specifically the Underscore. She is most interested in creating structures that allow for freedom. They desire more connection and adaptation between people and build opportunities for people to collaborate and create. She particularly values dance and music improvisation because they highlight the liveness of humans and the fleetingness of everything. They have co-founded many organizations and events in support of improvisation in Philadelphia including: the Mascher Space Cooperative in 2005, the Thursday Contact Improvisation Jam in 2011, the H-O-T Series of Philadelphia in 2013, the Impermanent Society of Philadelphia in 2015, the Dissolving Doors Festival in 2019, and Free Float by Free Fleet starting in 2023. She holds a CMA in Laban Movement Analysis and Bartenieff Fundamentals from the Laban/Bartenieff Institute of Movement Studies, an MFA in Choreography from University of North Carolina at Greensboro and a BA in Dance and Visual Art from Oberlin College. She is the artistic director for Vervet Dance.
QUESTIONS: LorenGro...@gmail.com or lorenteach...@gmail.com
WHAT IS THE UNDERSCORE?
The Underscore Practice is a simple and beautiful structure for a focused jam-like practice developed by Nancy Stark Smith. The structure is a precise, but open platform for investigation of contact improvisation and solo and group improvised composition. The score is an organic developmental nonverbal sequence that provides focus to the dancing community and opens up possibilities for movement, awareness, connection, and various physical/mental states. We (do our best to) commit to participating in the entire score (which includes resting, eating, digesting, observing, bonding with the earth).
Nancy Stark Smith, who originated the practice, describes it this way: "The Underscore is a vehicle for incorporating Contact Improvisation into a broader arena of improvisational dance practice; for developing greater ease dancing in spherical space—alone and with others; and for integrating kinesthetic and compositional concerns while improvising. It allows for a full spectrum of energetic and physical expressions, embodying a range of forms and changing states. Its practice is familiar yet unpredictable." More info: http://nancystarksmith.com/underscore
UNDERSCORE PROTOCOL:
The Underscore is a carefully held container and an intentional space. This is NOT a come and go jam. We aim to commit to the entire practice together. Those who Arrive at 2:30pm and come to the Assembly shortly thereafter should plan to stay through the conclusion by 5:30pm as it is customary to commit to the full session for an Underscore Practice. Building doors open at 2:15 for arriving.
YOU MUST REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com Capacity is 15, first come first serve. I will post on the Ci Philly listserv if we have moved into a waiting list.
A prior UNDERSCORE TALK THROUGH is required to participate in the Underscore. More about this below.
Street shoes and Food are NOT permitted in the dance studios. If you need to wear shoes to dance, they should be soft soled, clean, and not worn outside. You may snack in the lounge or outside.
I recommend bringing a water bottle, snacks, something to write on, and something to write with.
HEALTH /COMMUNITY CARE PROTOCOL:
Capacity is limited to 15 people.
I strongly encourage you to wash your hands once you arrive to the building and after the Underscore before you leave.
Masking varies between REQUIRED and OPTIONAL. Masking is OPTIONAL for 10/11/2025.
Touch with consent is permitted.
I am prepared to do contact tracing. If a participant discovers within 7 days after the Underscore that they are positive for covid, monkeypox or another infectious disease that could have transmission in the Underscore setting, please email lorengro...@gmail.com and we will let the rest of the group know about their possible exposure.
Since September 2022, Covid-19 Vaccination is encouraged, but not required.
Generally, I strongly encourage all participants to wear clean garments with long sleeves and pants for minimal skin exposure. However, it is summer, so dress as you need to feel comfortable for your dancing. Please know there is air conditioning in the space.
Do NOT attend the Underscore if you have symptoms of COVID, have tested positive for COVID or have a known or possible COVID exposure in the last 10 days, UNLESS you have tested negative at least 5 days after exposure.
Do NOT attend the jam if you have symptoms of Monkeypox Virus (flu, fever, swollen lymph nodes, new skin rash), a current case of MPV, or a known exposure to MonkeyPox in the past 2 weeks.
FACILITATOR BIO:
Underscore facilitator Loren Groenendaal (they/she) is a dancer, improviser, choreographer, curator, creative and somatic movement educator, and has been active in Philadelphia since 2003. She has been facilitating the Underscore in Philadelphia since 2013 and has studied with Underscore developer Nancy Stark Smith several times including a 3-week course investigating specifically the Underscore. She is most interested in creating structures that allow for freedom. They desire more connection and adaptation between people and build opportunities for people to collaborate and create. She particularly values dance and music improvisation because they highlight the liveness of humans and the fleetingness of everything. They have co-founded many organizations and events in support of improvisation in Philadelphia including: the Mascher Space Cooperative in 2005, the Thursday Contact Improvisation Jam in 2011, the H-O-T Series of Philadelphia in 2013, the Impermanent Society of Philadelphia in 2015, the Dissolving Doors Festival in 2019, and Free Float by Free Fleet starting in 2023. She holds a CMA in Laban Movement Analysis and Bartenieff Fundamentals from the Laban/Bartenieff Institute of Movement Studies, an MFA in Choreography from University of North Carolina at Greensboro and a BA in Dance and Visual Art from Oberlin College. She is the artistic director for Vervet Dance.
QUESTIONS: LorenGro...@gmail.com or lorenteach...@gmail.com
Streamingly,
Loren
Loren
Loren Groenendaal
Oct 10, 2025, 2:32:27 PM10/10/25
to ContactImprovPhilly
Dear Philadelphia Contact Improvisation community,
The next Philadelphia Underscore is SATURDAY, October 11, 2025 2:30-5:30pm in the Rear Studio of Headlong via Mascher Space Cooperative, 1170 S. Broad St.
We are a smaller ensemble, but the Underscore Practice ON! If you would like to join us, it's not too late, just email me your RSVP to LorenGro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com, so I can expect you.
RSVPs and a prior Talk Through are required.
Masks are optional for 10/11/25. More details and health protocol below.
UNDERSCORE BASIC INFO:
WHAT: Underscore Practice
WHEN: Saturday, October 11, 2025 2:30-5:30pm
WHERE: Rear Studio at Headlong via Mascher Space Cooperative, 1170 S. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19146
WHO: Loren Groenendaal is facilitating, up to 14 are welcome to register if they have had a prior Talk Through
COST: Sliding scale $5-20
Payments may be made via cash, check, Venmo, or Paypal at the event with no one turned away due to lack of funds
REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com
WHAT IS THE UNDERSCORE?
The Underscore Practice is a simple and beautiful structure for a focused jam-like practice developed by Nancy Stark Smith. The structure is a precise, but open platform for investigation of contact improvisation and solo and group improvised composition. The score is an organic developmental nonverbal sequence that provides focus to the dancing community and opens up possibilities for movement, awareness, connection, and various physical/mental states. We (do our best to) commit to participating in the entire score (which includes resting, eating, digesting, observing, bonding with the earth).
Nancy Stark Smith, who originated the practice, describes it this way: "The Underscore is a vehicle for incorporating Contact Improvisation into a broader arena of improvisational dance practice; for developing greater ease dancing in spherical space—alone and with others; and for integrating kinesthetic and compositional concerns while improvising. It allows for a full spectrum of energetic and physical expressions, embodying a range of forms and changing states. Its practice is familiar yet unpredictable." More info: http://nancystarksmith.com/underscore
UNDERSCORE PROTOCOL:
The Underscore is a carefully held container and an intentional space. This is NOT a come and go jam. We aim to commit to the entire practice together. Those who Arrive at 2:30pm and come to the Assembly shortly thereafter should plan to stay through the conclusion by 5:30pm as it is customary to commit to the full session for an Underscore Practice. Building doors open at 2:15 for arriving.
YOU MUST REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com Capacity is 15, first come first serve. I will post on the Ci Philly listserv if we have moved into a waiting list.
A prior UNDERSCORE TALK THROUGH is required to participate in the Underscore. More about this below.
Street shoes and Food are NOT permitted in the dance studios. If you need to wear shoes to dance, they should be soft soled, clean, and not worn outside. You may snack in the lounge or outside.
I recommend bringing a water bottle, snacks, something to write on, and something to write with.
HEALTH /COMMUNITY CARE PROTOCOL:
Capacity is limited to 15 people.
I strongly encourage you to wash your hands once you arrive to the building and after the Underscore before you leave.
Masking varies between REQUIRED and OPTIONAL. Masking is OPTIONAL for 10/11/2025.
Touch with consent is permitted.
I am prepared to do contact tracing. If a participant discovers within 7 days after the Underscore that they are positive for covid, monkeypox or another infectious disease that could have transmission in the Underscore setting, please email lorengro...@gmail.com and we will let the rest of the group know about their possible exposure.
Since September 2022, Covid-19 Vaccination is encouraged, but not required.
Generally, I strongly encourage all participants to wear clean garments with long sleeves and pants for minimal skin exposure. However, it is summer, so dress as you need to feel comfortable for your dancing. Please know there is air conditioning in the space.
Do NOT attend the Underscore if you have symptoms of COVID, have tested positive for COVID or have a known or possible COVID exposure in the last 10 days, UNLESS you have tested negative at least 5 days after exposure.
Do NOT attend the jam if you have symptoms of Monkeypox Virus (flu, fever, swollen lymph nodes, new skin rash), a current case of MPV, or a known exposure to MonkeyPox in the past 2 weeks.
FACILITATOR BIO:
Underscore facilitator Loren Groenendaal (they/she) is a dancer, improviser, choreographer, curator, creative and somatic movement educator, and has been active in Philadelphia since 2003. She has been facilitating the Underscore in Philadelphia since 2013 and has studied with Underscore developer Nancy Stark Smith several times including a 3-week course investigating specifically the Underscore. She is most interested in creating structures that allow for freedom. They desire more connection and adaptation between people and build opportunities for people to collaborate and create. She particularly values dance and music improvisation because they highlight the liveness of humans and the fleetingness of everything. They have co-founded many organizations and events in support of improvisation in Philadelphia including: the Mascher Space Cooperative in 2005, the Thursday Contact Improvisation Jam in 2011, the H-O-T Series of Philadelphia in 2013, the Impermanent Society of Philadelphia in 2015, the Dissolving Doors Festival in 2019, and Free Float by Free Fleet starting in 2023. She holds a CMA in Laban Movement Analysis and Bartenieff Fundamentals from the Laban/Bartenieff Institute of Movement Studies, an MFA in Choreography from University of North Carolina at Greensboro and a BA in Dance and Visual Art from Oberlin College. She is the artistic director for Vervet Dance.
QUESTIONS: LorenGro...@gmail.com or lorenteach...@gmail.com
Streamingly,
Loren
Loren
Loren Groenendaal
Nov 16, 2025, 4:57:47 PM11/16/25
to ContactImprovPhilly
Dear Philadelphia Contact Improvisation community,
You are invited to the next Philadelphia Underscore SATURDAY, November 22, 2025 4:00-6:00pm in the Rear Studio of Headlong via Mascher Space Cooperative, 1170 S. Broad St. RSVPs are required. Following this Underscore, I am excited to announce that I will be hosting a community potluck, starting at 6:30, at a location near the Underscore. RSVPs are also required for the potluck. Location announced after RSVP.
Participation in the Underscore requires a prior Talk Through, which also requires registration.
Email me, LorenGro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com to register for the Underscore or the Talk Through and/or RSVP for the potluck. This Underscore will only happen if there are at least 5 positive RSVPs by NOON on Friday 11/21/25.
This Underscore will be MASK OPTIONAL. More details and health protocol below.
UNDERSCORE TALK THROUGH INFORMATION:
WHAT: Underscore Talk Through
WHEN: Sat 11/22 2:45-3:45pm
WHERE: TBD, likely in person at Mascher
WHERE: TBD, likely in person at Mascher
NOTE: This Talk Through will only happen if it is requested from the community by 9pm Th 11/20, but just 1 positive RSVP is needed.
WHY: A prior Talk Through is required to participate in the Underscore. The Underscore Talk Through outlines the structure of the Underscore Practice, so that participants are all practicing together and nonverbally. The Talk Through also provides a common language and glyphs (symbols) to use when reflecting on our practice in the concluding Thanksgiving and Harvest. If you have not participated in an Underscore Talk Through before, you should attend. The Talk Through introduces you to the structure, so we can nonverbally follow the dancing journey together.
COST: Sliding scale $0-15
Payments may be made via cash, check, Venmo @Loren-Groenendaal, or Paypal at the event with no one turned away due to lack of funds
REQUEST THIS TALK THROUGH (or an alternate time) by emailing Loren Groenendaal, lorengro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com
NOTE: Please bring something to write with and on to this meeting.
NOTE: Please bring something to write with and on to this meeting.
UNDERSCORE BASIC INFO:
WHAT: Underscore Practice
WHEN: Saturday, November 22, 2025 4:00-6:00pm
WHERE: Rear Studio at Headlong via Mascher Space Cooperative, 1170 S. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19146
WHO: Loren Groenendaal is facilitating, up to 14 are welcome to register if they have had a prior Talk Through
COST: Sliding scale $5-20
Payments may be made via cash, check, Venmo, or Paypal at the event with no one turned away due to lack of funds
REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com
NOTE: This Underscore will only happen if at least 5 people RSVP positively by NOON on FRIDAY 11/21.
COMMUNITY POTLUCK BASIC INFO:
COMMUNITY POTLUCK BASIC INFO:
WHAT: CI Philly/Underscore Community Gathering/Potluck
WHEN: Saturday, November 22, 2025 6:30-10pm
WHERE: South Philly Location TBA after RSVP
If you want to announce what you are bringing, your dietary restrictions, or see others, please fill out/check out this form:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/124DiANkn10QLV_9YoxJVTKRmhdT1jMUTO6wbzghBv04/edit?usp=sharing
WHAT IS THE UNDERSCORE?
The Underscore Practice is a simple and beautiful structure for a focused jam-like practice developed by Nancy Stark Smith. The structure is a precise, but open platform for investigation of contact improvisation and solo and group improvised composition. The score is an organic developmental nonverbal sequence that provides focus to the dancing community and opens up possibilities for movement, awareness, connection, and various physical/mental states. We (do our best to) commit to participating in the entire score (which includes resting, eating, digesting, observing, bonding with the earth).
Nancy Stark Smith, who originated the practice, describes it this way: "The Underscore is a vehicle for incorporating Contact Improvisation into a broader arena of improvisational dance practice; for developing greater ease dancing in spherical space—alone and with others; and for integrating kinesthetic and compositional concerns while improvising. It allows for a full spectrum of energetic and physical expressions, embodying a range of forms and changing states. Its practice is familiar yet unpredictable." More info: http://nancystarksmith.com/underscore
UNDERSCORE PROTOCOL:
The Underscore Practice is a simple and beautiful structure for a focused jam-like practice developed by Nancy Stark Smith. The structure is a precise, but open platform for investigation of contact improvisation and solo and group improvised composition. The score is an organic developmental nonverbal sequence that provides focus to the dancing community and opens up possibilities for movement, awareness, connection, and various physical/mental states. We (do our best to) commit to participating in the entire score (which includes resting, eating, digesting, observing, bonding with the earth).
Nancy Stark Smith, who originated the practice, describes it this way: "The Underscore is a vehicle for incorporating Contact Improvisation into a broader arena of improvisational dance practice; for developing greater ease dancing in spherical space—alone and with others; and for integrating kinesthetic and compositional concerns while improvising. It allows for a full spectrum of energetic and physical expressions, embodying a range of forms and changing states. Its practice is familiar yet unpredictable." More info: http://nancystarksmith.com/underscore
UNDERSCORE PROTOCOL:
The Underscore is a carefully held container and an intentional space. This is NOT a come and go jam. We aim to commit to the entire practice together. Those who Arrive at 4:00pm and come to the Assembly shortly thereafter should plan to stay through the conclusion by 6:00pm as it is customary to commit to the full session for an Underscore Practice. Building doors open at 3:45 for arriving.
YOU MUST REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com Capacity is 15, first come first serve. I will post on the Ci Philly listserv if we have moved into a waiting list.
A prior UNDERSCORE TALK THROUGH is required to participate in the Underscore. More about this below.
Street shoes and Food are NOT permitted in the dance studios. If you need to wear shoes to dance, they should be soft soled, clean, and not worn outside. You may snack in the lounge or outside.
I recommend bringing a water bottle, snacks, something to write on, and something to write with.
HEALTH /COMMUNITY CARE PROTOCOL:
Capacity is limited to 15 people.
I strongly encourage you to wash your hands once you arrive to the building and after the Underscore before you leave.
Masking varies between REQUIRED and OPTIONAL. Masking is OPTIONAL for 10/22/2025.
Touch with consent is permitted.
I am prepared to do contact tracing. If a participant discovers within 7 days after the Underscore that they are positive for covid, monkeypox or another infectious disease that could have transmission in the Underscore setting, please email lorengro...@gmail.com and we will let the rest of the group know about their possible exposure.
Since September 2022, Covid-19 Vaccination is encouraged, but not required.
Generally, I strongly encourage all participants to wear clean garments with long sleeves and pants for minimal skin exposure. However, it is summer, so dress as you need to feel comfortable for your dancing. Please know there is air conditioning in the space.
Do NOT attend the Underscore if you have symptoms of COVID, have tested positive for COVID or have a known or possible COVID exposure in the last 10 days, UNLESS you have tested negative at least 5 days after exposure.
Do NOT attend the jam if you have symptoms of Monkeypox Virus (flu, fever, swollen lymph nodes, new skin rash), a current case of MPV, or a known exposure to MonkeyPox in the past 2 weeks.
FACILITATOR BIO:
Underscore facilitator Loren Groenendaal (they/she) is a dancer, improviser, choreographer, curator, creative and somatic movement educator, and has been active in Philadelphia since 2003. She has been facilitating the Underscore in Philadelphia since 2013 and has studied with Underscore developer Nancy Stark Smith several times including a 3-week course investigating specifically the Underscore. She is most interested in creating structures that allow for freedom. They desire more connection and adaptation between people and build opportunities for people to collaborate and create. She particularly values dance and music improvisation because they highlight the liveness of humans and the fleetingness of everything. They have co-founded many organizations and events in support of improvisation in Philadelphia including: the Mascher Space Cooperative in 2005, the Thursday Contact Improvisation Jam in 2011, the H-O-T Series of Philadelphia in 2013, the Impermanent Society of Philadelphia in 2015, the Dissolving Doors Festival in 2019, and Free Float by Free Fleet starting in 2023. She holds a CMA in Laban Movement Analysis and Bartenieff Fundamentals from the Laban/Bartenieff Institute of Movement Studies, an MFA in Choreography from University of North Carolina at Greensboro and a BA in Dance and Visual Art from Oberlin College. She is the artistic director for Vervet Dance.
QUESTIONS: LorenGro...@gmail.com or lorenteach...@gmail.com
Streamingly,
Loren
Loren
Loren Groenendaal
Nov 19, 2025, 10:21:34 PM11/19/25
to ContactImprovPhilly
Hi folks,
Great news: Quorum has been met and the Underscore on 11/22 is ON as well as the Talk Through before and the Community Potluck after.
All events still require RSVPs as the Underscore has limited capacity.
More details below.
-Loren
---
You are invited to the next Philadelphia Underscore SATURDAY, November 22, 2025 4:00-6:00pm in the Rear Studio of Headlong via Mascher Space Cooperative, 1170 S. Broad St. RSVPs are required. Following this Underscore, I am excited to announce that I will be hosting a community potluck, starting at 6:30, at a location near the Underscore. RSVPs are also required for the potluck. Location announced after RSVP.
Participation in the Underscore requires a prior Talk Through, which also requires registration.
Email me, LorenGro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com to register for the Underscore or the Talk Through and/or RSVP for the potluck.
This Underscore will be MASK OPTIONAL. More details and health protocol below.
UNDERSCORE TALK THROUGH INFORMATION:
WHAT: Underscore Talk Through
WHEN: Sat 11/22 2:45-3:45pm
WHERE: in person at Mascher/Headlong, 1170 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19146
NOTE: This Talk Through will only happen if it is requested from the community by 9pm Th 11/20, but just 1 positive RSVP is needed.
WHY: A prior Talk Through is required to participate in the Underscore. The Underscore Talk Through outlines the structure of the Underscore Practice, so that participants are all practicing together and nonverbally. The Talk Through also provides a common language and glyphs (symbols) to use when reflecting on our practice in the concluding Thanksgiving and Harvest. If you have not participated in an Underscore Talk Through before, you should attend. The Talk Through introduces you to the structure, so we can nonverbally follow the dancing journey together.
COST: Sliding scale $0-15
UNDERSCORE BASIC INFO:
WHAT: Underscore Practice
WHEN: Saturday, November 22, 2025 4:00-6:00pm
WHERE: Rear Studio at Headlong via Mascher Space Cooperative, 1170 S. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19146
WHO: Loren Groenendaal is facilitating, up to 14 are welcome to register if they have had a prior Talk Through
COST: Sliding scale $5-20
Payments may be made via cash, check, Venmo, or Paypal at the event with no one turned away due to lack of funds
REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com
WHY: A prior Talk Through is required to participate in the Underscore. The Underscore Talk Through outlines the structure of the Underscore Practice, so that participants are all practicing together and nonverbally. The Talk Through also provides a common language and glyphs (symbols) to use when reflecting on our practice in the concluding Thanksgiving and Harvest. If you have not participated in an Underscore Talk Through before, you should attend. The Talk Through introduces you to the structure, so we can nonverbally follow the dancing journey together.
COST: Sliding scale $0-15
Payments may be made via cash, check, Venmo @Loren-Groenendaal, or Paypal at the event with no one turned away due to lack of funds
REQUEST THIS TALK THROUGH (or an alternate time) by emailing Loren Groenendaal, lorengro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com
NOTE: Please bring something to write with and on to this meeting.
REQUEST THIS TALK THROUGH (or an alternate time) by emailing Loren Groenendaal, lorengro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com
NOTE: Please bring something to write with and on to this meeting.
UNDERSCORE BASIC INFO:
WHAT: Underscore Practice
WHEN: Saturday, November 22, 2025 4:00-6:00pm
WHERE: Rear Studio at Headlong via Mascher Space Cooperative, 1170 S. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19146
WHO: Loren Groenendaal is facilitating, up to 14 are welcome to register if they have had a prior Talk Through
COST: Sliding scale $5-20
Payments may be made via cash, check, Venmo, or Paypal at the event with no one turned away due to lack of funds
REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com
COMMUNITY POTLUCK BASIC INFO:
WHAT: CI Philly/Underscore Community Gathering/Potluck
WHEN: Saturday, November 22, 2025 6:30-10pm
WHERE: South Philly Location TBA after RSVP
If you want to announce what you are bringing, your dietary restrictions, or see others, please fill out/check out this form:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/124DiANkn10QLV_9YoxJVTKRmhdT1jMUTO6wbzghBv04/edit?usp=sharing
WHAT IS THE UNDERSCORE?
The Underscore Practice is a simple and beautiful structure for a focused jam-like practice developed by Nancy Stark Smith. The structure is a precise, but open platform for investigation of contact improvisation and solo and group improvised composition. The score is an organic developmental nonverbal sequence that provides focus to the dancing community and opens up possibilities for movement, awareness, connection, and various physical/mental states. We (do our best to) commit to participating in the entire score (which includes resting, eating, digesting, observing, bonding with the earth).
Nancy Stark Smith, who originated the practice, describes it this way: "The Underscore is a vehicle for incorporating Contact Improvisation into a broader arena of improvisational dance practice; for developing greater ease dancing in spherical space—alone and with others; and for integrating kinesthetic and compositional concerns while improvising. It allows for a full spectrum of energetic and physical expressions, embodying a range of forms and changing states. Its practice is familiar yet unpredictable." More info: http://nancystarksmith.com/underscore
UNDERSCORE PROTOCOL:
The Underscore is a carefully held container and an intentional space. This is NOT a come and go jam. We aim to commit to the entire practice together. Those who Arrive at 4:00pm and come to the Assembly shortly thereafter should plan to stay through the conclusion by 6:00pm as it is customary to commit to the full session for an Underscore Practice. Building doors open at 3:45 for arriving.
YOU MUST REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com Capacity is 15, first come first serve. I will post on the Ci Philly listserv if we have moved into a waiting list.
A prior UNDERSCORE TALK THROUGH is required to participate in the Underscore. More about this below.
Street shoes and Food are NOT permitted in the dance studios. If you need to wear shoes to dance, they should be soft soled, clean, and not worn outside. You may snack in the lounge or outside.
I recommend bringing a water bottle, snacks, something to write on, and something to write with.
HEALTH /COMMUNITY CARE PROTOCOL:
Capacity is limited to 15 people.
I strongly encourage you to wash your hands once you arrive to the building and after the Underscore before you leave.
The Underscore Practice is a simple and beautiful structure for a focused jam-like practice developed by Nancy Stark Smith. The structure is a precise, but open platform for investigation of contact improvisation and solo and group improvised composition. The score is an organic developmental nonverbal sequence that provides focus to the dancing community and opens up possibilities for movement, awareness, connection, and various physical/mental states. We (do our best to) commit to participating in the entire score (which includes resting, eating, digesting, observing, bonding with the earth).
Nancy Stark Smith, who originated the practice, describes it this way: "The Underscore is a vehicle for incorporating Contact Improvisation into a broader arena of improvisational dance practice; for developing greater ease dancing in spherical space—alone and with others; and for integrating kinesthetic and compositional concerns while improvising. It allows for a full spectrum of energetic and physical expressions, embodying a range of forms and changing states. Its practice is familiar yet unpredictable." More info: http://nancystarksmith.com/underscore
UNDERSCORE PROTOCOL:
The Underscore is a carefully held container and an intentional space. This is NOT a come and go jam. We aim to commit to the entire practice together. Those who Arrive at 4:00pm and come to the Assembly shortly thereafter should plan to stay through the conclusion by 6:00pm as it is customary to commit to the full session for an Underscore Practice. Building doors open at 3:45 for arriving.
YOU MUST REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com Capacity is 15, first come first serve. I will post on the Ci Philly listserv if we have moved into a waiting list.
A prior UNDERSCORE TALK THROUGH is required to participate in the Underscore. More about this below.
Street shoes and Food are NOT permitted in the dance studios. If you need to wear shoes to dance, they should be soft soled, clean, and not worn outside. You may snack in the lounge or outside.
I recommend bringing a water bottle, snacks, something to write on, and something to write with.
HEALTH /COMMUNITY CARE PROTOCOL:
Capacity is limited to 15 people.
I strongly encourage you to wash your hands once you arrive to the building and after the Underscore before you leave.
Masking varies between REQUIRED and OPTIONAL. Masking is OPTIONAL for 11/22/2025.
Touch with consent is permitted.
I am prepared to do contact tracing. If a participant discovers within 7 days after the Underscore that they are positive for covid, monkeypox or another infectious disease that could have transmission in the Underscore setting, please email lorengro...@gmail.com and we will let the rest of the group know about their possible exposure.
Since September 2022, Covid-19 Vaccination is encouraged, but not required.
Generally, I strongly encourage all participants to wear clean garments with long sleeves and pants for minimal skin exposure. However, it is summer, so dress as you need to feel comfortable for your dancing. Please know there is air conditioning in the space.
Do NOT attend the Underscore if you have symptoms of COVID, have tested positive for COVID or have a known or possible COVID exposure in the last 10 days, UNLESS you have tested negative at least 5 days after exposure.
Do NOT attend the jam if you have symptoms of Monkeypox Virus (flu, fever, swollen lymph nodes, new skin rash), a current case of MPV, or a known exposure to MonkeyPox in the past 2 weeks.
FACILITATOR BIO:
Underscore facilitator Loren Groenendaal (they/she) is a dancer, improviser, choreographer, curator, creative and somatic movement educator, and has been active in Philadelphia since 2003. She has been facilitating the Underscore in Philadelphia since 2013 and has studied with Underscore developer Nancy Stark Smith several times including a 3-week course investigating specifically the Underscore. She is most interested in creating structures that allow for freedom. They desire more connection and adaptation between people and build opportunities for people to collaborate and create. She particularly values dance and music improvisation because they highlight the liveness of humans and the fleetingness of everything. They have co-founded many organizations and events in support of improvisation in Philadelphia including: the Mascher Space Cooperative in 2005, the Thursday Contact Improvisation Jam in 2011, the H-O-T Series of Philadelphia in 2013, the Impermanent Society of Philadelphia in 2015, the Dissolving Doors Festival in 2019, and Free Float by Free Fleet starting in 2023. She holds a CMA in Laban Movement Analysis and Bartenieff Fundamentals from the Laban/Bartenieff Institute of Movement Studies, an MFA in Choreography from University of North Carolina at Greensboro and a BA in Dance and Visual Art from Oberlin College. She is the artistic director for Vervet Dance.
QUESTIONS: LorenGro...@gmail.com or lorenteach...@gmail.com
Streamingly,
Loren
Loren
Loren Groenendaal
Nov 30, 2025, 3:03:04 PM11/30/25
to ContactImprovPhilly
Dear Philadelphia Contact Improvisation community,
It's already that time again! You are invited to the next Philadelphia Underscore SATURDAY, December 6, 2025 4:00-6:00pm in the Rear Studio of Headlong via Mascher Space Cooperative, 1170 S. Broad St. RSVPs are required.
Participation in the Underscore requires a prior Talk Through, which also requires registration.
Email me, LorenGro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com to register for the Underscore or the Talk Through. This Underscore will only happen if there are at least 5 positive RSVPs by NOON on Friday 12/5/25.
This Underscore will be MASK OPTIONAL. More details and health protocol below.
UNDERSCORE TALK THROUGH INFORMATION:
WHAT: Underscore Talk Through
WHEN: Sat 12/6 2:45-3:45pm
WHERE: in person at Mascher, 117 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA
WHERE: in person at Mascher, 117 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA
WHY: A prior Talk Through is required to participate in the Underscore. The Underscore Talk Through outlines the structure of the Underscore Practice, so that participants are all practicing together and nonverbally. The Talk Through also provides a common language and glyphs (symbols) to use when reflecting on our practice in the concluding Thanksgiving and Harvest. If you have not participated in an Underscore Talk Through before, you should attend. The Talk Through introduces you to the structure, so we can nonverbally follow the dancing journey together.
COST: Sliding scale $0-15
Payments may be made via cash, check, Venmo @Loren-Groenendaal, or Paypal at the event with no one turned away due to lack of funds
REQUEST THIS TALK THROUGH (or an alternate time) by emailing Loren Groenendaal, lorengro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com
NOTE: Please bring something to write with and on to this meeting.
REQUEST THIS TALK THROUGH (or an alternate time) by emailing Loren Groenendaal, lorengro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com
NOTE: Please bring something to write with and on to this meeting.
UNDERSCORE BASIC INFO:
WHAT: Underscore Practice
WHEN: Saturday, December 6, 2025 4:00-6:00pm
WHERE: Rear Studio at Headlong via Mascher Space Cooperative, 1170 S. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19146
WHO: Loren Groenendaal is facilitating, up to 14 are welcome to register if they have had a prior Talk Through
COST: Sliding scale $5-20
Payments may be made via cash, check, Venmo, or Paypal at the event with no one turned away due to lack of funds
REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com
NOTE: This Underscore will only happen if at least 5 people RSVP positively by NOON on FRIDAY 12/5.
WHAT IS THE UNDERSCORE?
The Underscore Practice is a simple and beautiful structure for a focused jam-like practice developed by Nancy Stark Smith. The structure is a precise, but open platform for investigation of contact improvisation and solo and group improvised composition. The score is an organic developmental nonverbal sequence that provides focus to the dancing community and opens up possibilities for movement, awareness, connection, and various physical/mental states. We (do our best to) commit to participating in the entire score (which includes resting, eating, digesting, observing, bonding with the earth).
Nancy Stark Smith, who originated the practice, describes it this way: "The Underscore is a vehicle for incorporating Contact Improvisation into a broader arena of improvisational dance practice; for developing greater ease dancing in spherical space—alone and with others; and for integrating kinesthetic and compositional concerns while improvising. It allows for a full spectrum of energetic and physical expressions, embodying a range of forms and changing states. Its practice is familiar yet unpredictable." More info: http://nancystarksmith.com/underscore
UNDERSCORE PROTOCOL:
The Underscore is a carefully held container and an intentional space. This is NOT a come and go jam. We aim to commit to the entire practice together. Those who Arrive at 4:00pm and come to the Assembly shortly thereafter should plan to stay through the conclusion by 6:00pm as it is customary to commit to the full session for an Underscore Practice. Building doors open at 3:45 for arriving.
YOU MUST REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com Capacity is 15, first come first serve. I will post on the Ci Philly listserv if we have moved into a waiting list.
A prior UNDERSCORE TALK THROUGH is required to participate in the Underscore. More about this below.
Street shoes and Food are NOT permitted in the dance studios. If you need to wear shoes to dance, they should be soft soled, clean, and not worn outside. You may snack in the lounge or outside.
I recommend bringing a water bottle, snacks, something to write on, and something to write with.
HEALTH /COMMUNITY CARE PROTOCOL:
Capacity is limited to 15 people.
I strongly encourage you to wash your hands once you arrive to the building and after the Underscore before you leave.
The Underscore Practice is a simple and beautiful structure for a focused jam-like practice developed by Nancy Stark Smith. The structure is a precise, but open platform for investigation of contact improvisation and solo and group improvised composition. The score is an organic developmental nonverbal sequence that provides focus to the dancing community and opens up possibilities for movement, awareness, connection, and various physical/mental states. We (do our best to) commit to participating in the entire score (which includes resting, eating, digesting, observing, bonding with the earth).
Nancy Stark Smith, who originated the practice, describes it this way: "The Underscore is a vehicle for incorporating Contact Improvisation into a broader arena of improvisational dance practice; for developing greater ease dancing in spherical space—alone and with others; and for integrating kinesthetic and compositional concerns while improvising. It allows for a full spectrum of energetic and physical expressions, embodying a range of forms and changing states. Its practice is familiar yet unpredictable." More info: http://nancystarksmith.com/underscore
UNDERSCORE PROTOCOL:
The Underscore is a carefully held container and an intentional space. This is NOT a come and go jam. We aim to commit to the entire practice together. Those who Arrive at 4:00pm and come to the Assembly shortly thereafter should plan to stay through the conclusion by 6:00pm as it is customary to commit to the full session for an Underscore Practice. Building doors open at 3:45 for arriving.
YOU MUST REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com Capacity is 15, first come first serve. I will post on the Ci Philly listserv if we have moved into a waiting list.
A prior UNDERSCORE TALK THROUGH is required to participate in the Underscore. More about this below.
Street shoes and Food are NOT permitted in the dance studios. If you need to wear shoes to dance, they should be soft soled, clean, and not worn outside. You may snack in the lounge or outside.
I recommend bringing a water bottle, snacks, something to write on, and something to write with.
HEALTH /COMMUNITY CARE PROTOCOL:
Capacity is limited to 15 people.
I strongly encourage you to wash your hands once you arrive to the building and after the Underscore before you leave.
Masking varies between REQUIRED and OPTIONAL. Masking is OPTIONAL for 12/6/2025.
Touch with consent is permitted.
I am prepared to do contact tracing. If a participant discovers within 7 days after the Underscore that they are positive for covid, monkeypox or another infectious disease that could have transmission in the Underscore setting, please email lorengro...@gmail.com and we will let the rest of the group know about their possible exposure.
Since September 2022, Covid-19 Vaccination is encouraged, but not required.
Generally, I strongly encourage all participants to wear clean garments with long sleeves and pants for minimal skin exposure. However, it is summer, so dress as you need to feel comfortable for your dancing. Please know there is air conditioning in the space.
Do NOT attend the Underscore if you have symptoms of COVID, have tested positive for COVID or have a known or possible COVID exposure in the last 10 days, UNLESS you have tested negative at least 5 days after exposure.
Do NOT attend the jam if you have symptoms of Monkeypox Virus (flu, fever, swollen lymph nodes, new skin rash), a current case of MPV, or a known exposure to MonkeyPox in the past 2 weeks.
FACILITATOR BIO:
Underscore facilitator Loren Groenendaal (they/she) is a dancer, improviser, choreographer, curator, creative and somatic movement educator, and has been active in Philadelphia since 2003. She has been facilitating the Underscore in Philadelphia since 2013 and has studied with Underscore developer Nancy Stark Smith several times including a 3-week course investigating specifically the Underscore. She is most interested in creating structures that allow for freedom. They desire more connection and adaptation between people and build opportunities for people to collaborate and create. She particularly values dance and music improvisation because they highlight the liveness of humans and the fleetingness of everything. They have co-founded many organizations and events in support of improvisation in Philadelphia including: the Mascher Space Cooperative in 2005, the Thursday Contact Improvisation Jam in 2011, the H-O-T Series of Philadelphia in 2013, the Impermanent Society of Philadelphia in 2015, the Dissolving Doors Festival in 2019, and Free Float by Free Fleet starting in 2023. She holds a CMA in Laban Movement Analysis and Bartenieff Fundamentals from the Laban/Bartenieff Institute of Movement Studies, an MFA in Choreography from University of North Carolina at Greensboro and a BA in Dance and Visual Art from Oberlin College. She is the artistic director for Vervet Dance.
QUESTIONS: LorenGro...@gmail.com or lorenteach...@gmail.com
Streamingly,
Loren
Loren
Loren Groenendaal
Dec 5, 2025, 4:10:55 PM12/5/25
to ContactImprovPhilly
Hi folks,
We have achieved quorum for tomorrow's Underscore. If you would like to join for the Talk Through or the actual Underscore, email me your RSVP.
More details below.
-Loren
Loren Groenendaal
MFA in Choreography, BA in Dance and Visual Arts, Certified Movement Analyst
Accepting tax deductible donations via Fractured Atlas
Loren Groenendaal
Jan 17, 2026, 11:37:20 AMJan 17
to ContactImprovPhilly
Dear Philadelphia Contact Improvisation community,
You are invited to the next Philadelphia Underscore SATURDAY, January 24, 2026 4:00-6:00pm in the Rear Studio of Headlong via Mascher Space Cooperative, 1170 S. Broad St. RSVPs are required.
Participation in the Underscore requires a prior Talk Through, which also requires registration.
Email me, LorenGro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com to register for the Underscore or the Talk Through. This Underscore will only happen if there are at least 5 positive RSVPs by NOON on Friday 1/23/26.
This Underscore will be MASK OPTIONAL. More details and health protocol below.
UNDERSCORE TALK THROUGH INFORMATION:
WHAT: Underscore Talk Through
WHEN: Sat 1/24/26 2:45-3:45pm
WHERE: in person at Mascher, 117 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA
WHY: A prior Talk Through is required to participate in the Underscore. The Underscore Talk Through outlines the structure of the Underscore Practice, so that participants are all practicing together and nonverbally. The Talk Through also provides a common language and glyphs (symbols) to use when reflecting on our practice in the concluding Thanksgiving and Harvest. If you have not participated in an Underscore Talk Through before, you should attend. The Talk Through introduces you to the structure, so we can nonverbally follow the dancing journey together.
COST: Sliding scale $0-15
Payments may be made via cash, check, Venmo @Loren-Groenendaal, or Paypal at the event with no one turned away due to lack of funds
REQUEST THIS TALK THROUGH by emailing Loren Groenendaal, lorengro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com
This Talk through will only happen if there is at least 1 positive RSVP by 5pm on Fri 1/23/26.
NOTE: Please bring something to write with and on to this meeting.
UNDERSCORE BASIC INFO:
WHAT: Underscore Practice
WHEN: Saturday, January 24, 2026 4:00-6:00pm
WHERE: Rear Studio at Headlong via Mascher Space Cooperative, 1170 S. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19146
WHO: Loren Groenendaal is facilitating, up to 14 are welcome to register if they have had a prior Talk Through
COST: Sliding scale $5-20
Payments may be made via cash, check, Venmo, or Paypal at the event with no one turned away due to lack of funds
REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com
NOTE: This Underscore will only happen if at least 5 people RSVP positively by NOON on FRIDAY 1/23/26.
WHAT IS THE UNDERSCORE?
The Underscore Practice is a simple and beautiful structure for a focused jam-like practice developed by Nancy Stark Smith. The structure is a precise, but open platform for investigation of contact improvisation and solo and group improvised composition. The score is an organic developmental nonverbal sequence that provides focus to the dancing community and opens up possibilities for movement, awareness, connection, and various physical/mental states. We (do our best to) commit to participating in the entire score (which includes resting, eating, digesting, observing, bonding with the earth).
Nancy Stark Smith, who originated the practice, describes it this way: "The Underscore is a vehicle for incorporating Contact Improvisation into a broader arena of improvisational dance practice; for developing greater ease dancing in spherical space—alone and with others; and for integrating kinesthetic and compositional concerns while improvising. It allows for a full spectrum of energetic and physical expressions, embodying a range of forms and changing states. Its practice is familiar yet unpredictable." More info: http://nancystarksmith.com/underscore
UNDERSCORE PROTOCOL:
The Underscore is a carefully held container and an intentional space. This is NOT a come and go jam. We aim to commit to the entire practice together. Those who Arrive at 4:00pm and come to the Assembly shortly thereafter should plan to stay through the conclusion by 6:00pm as it is customary to commit to the full session for an Underscore Practice. Building doors open at 3:45 for arriving.
YOU MUST REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com Capacity is 15, first come first serve. I will post on the Ci Philly listserv if we have moved into a waiting list.
A prior UNDERSCORE TALK THROUGH is required to participate in the Underscore. More about this below.
Street shoes and Food are NOT permitted in the dance studios. If you need to wear shoes to dance, they should be soft soled, clean, and not worn outside. You may snack in the lounge or outside.
I recommend bringing a water bottle, snacks, something to write on, and something to write with.
HEALTH /COMMUNITY CARE PROTOCOL:
Capacity is limited to 15 people.
I strongly encourage you to wash your hands once you arrive to the building and after the Underscore before you leave.
The Underscore Practice is a simple and beautiful structure for a focused jam-like practice developed by Nancy Stark Smith. The structure is a precise, but open platform for investigation of contact improvisation and solo and group improvised composition. The score is an organic developmental nonverbal sequence that provides focus to the dancing community and opens up possibilities for movement, awareness, connection, and various physical/mental states. We (do our best to) commit to participating in the entire score (which includes resting, eating, digesting, observing, bonding with the earth).
Nancy Stark Smith, who originated the practice, describes it this way: "The Underscore is a vehicle for incorporating Contact Improvisation into a broader arena of improvisational dance practice; for developing greater ease dancing in spherical space—alone and with others; and for integrating kinesthetic and compositional concerns while improvising. It allows for a full spectrum of energetic and physical expressions, embodying a range of forms and changing states. Its practice is familiar yet unpredictable." More info: http://nancystarksmith.com/underscore
UNDERSCORE PROTOCOL:
The Underscore is a carefully held container and an intentional space. This is NOT a come and go jam. We aim to commit to the entire practice together. Those who Arrive at 4:00pm and come to the Assembly shortly thereafter should plan to stay through the conclusion by 6:00pm as it is customary to commit to the full session for an Underscore Practice. Building doors open at 3:45 for arriving.
YOU MUST REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com Capacity is 15, first come first serve. I will post on the Ci Philly listserv if we have moved into a waiting list.
A prior UNDERSCORE TALK THROUGH is required to participate in the Underscore. More about this below.
Street shoes and Food are NOT permitted in the dance studios. If you need to wear shoes to dance, they should be soft soled, clean, and not worn outside. You may snack in the lounge or outside.
I recommend bringing a water bottle, snacks, something to write on, and something to write with.
HEALTH /COMMUNITY CARE PROTOCOL:
Capacity is limited to 15 people.
I strongly encourage you to wash your hands once you arrive to the building and after the Underscore before you leave.
Masking varies between REQUIRED and OPTIONAL. Masking is OPTIONAL for 1/24/2026.
Touch with consent is permitted.
I am prepared to do contact tracing. If a participant discovers within 7 days after the Underscore that they are positive for covid, monkeypox or another infectious disease that could have transmission in the Underscore setting, please email lorengro...@gmail.com and we will let the rest of the group know about their possible exposure.
Since September 2022, Covid-19 Vaccination is encouraged, but not required.
Generally, I strongly encourage all participants to wear clean garments with long sleeves and pants for minimal skin exposure. However, it is summer, so dress as you need to feel comfortable for your dancing. Please know there is air conditioning in the space.
Do NOT attend the Underscore if you have symptoms of COVID, have tested positive for COVID or have a known or possible COVID exposure in the last 10 days, UNLESS you have tested negative at least 5 days after exposure.
Do NOT attend the jam if you have symptoms of Monkeypox Virus (flu, fever, swollen lymph nodes, new skin rash), a current case of MPV, or a known exposure to MonkeyPox in the past 2 weeks.
FACILITATOR BIO:
Underscore facilitator Loren Groenendaal (they/she) is a dancer, improviser, choreographer, curator, creative and somatic movement educator, and has been active in Philadelphia since 2003. She has been facilitating the Underscore in Philadelphia since 2013 and has studied with Underscore developer Nancy Stark Smith several times including a 3-week course investigating specifically the Underscore. She is most interested in creating structures that allow for freedom. They desire more connection and adaptation between people and build opportunities for people to collaborate and create. She particularly values dance and music improvisation because they highlight the liveness of humans and the fleetingness of everything. They have co-founded many organizations and events in support of improvisation in Philadelphia including: the Mascher Space Cooperative in 2005, the Thursday Contact Improvisation Jam in 2011, the H-O-T Series of Philadelphia in 2013, the Impermanent Society of Philadelphia in 2015, the Dissolving Doors Festival in 2019, and Free Float by Free Fleet starting in 2023. She holds a CMA in Laban Movement Analysis and Bartenieff Fundamentals from the Laban/Bartenieff Institute of Movement Studies, an MFA in Choreography from University of North Carolina at Greensboro and a BA in Dance and Visual Art from Oberlin College. She is the artistic director for Vervet Dance.
SAVE-THE-DATE: Next Philadelphia Underscore is Saturday, February 21, 2026 4-6pm. Feel free to email me your RSVP early.
QUESTIONS: LorenGro...@gmail.com or lorenteach...@gmail.com
QUESTIONS: LorenGro...@gmail.com or lorenteach...@gmail.com
Streamingly,
Loren
Loren
Loren Groenendaal
Jan 22, 2026, 11:22:02 PMJan 22
to ContactImprovPhilly
Hello again dear Philadelphia Contact Improvisation community,
You are invited to the next Philadelphia Underscore THIS SATURDAY, January 24, 2026 4:00-6:00pm in the Rear Studio of Headlong via Mascher Space Cooperative, 1170 S. Broad St. We have sufficient registration to run this event. There is some extreme weather coming, but the cold won't stop me from getting to the studio and the snow is coming later. There are still some spots available, so get your RSVP in, so you can dance, connect, compose in community before the SNOW day.
Participation in the Underscore requires a prior Talk Through, which also requires registration. I have changed the time for the Talk Through. It is now 1:30pm on Friday over zoom, not on Saturday just before the Underscore. Zoom link just below.
Email me, LorenGro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com to register for the Underscore or the Talk Through.
RSVPs are required fro both the Underscore Talk Through and the Underscore itself.
UNDERSCORE TALK THROUGH INFORMATION:
WHAT: Underscore Talk Through
WHEN: Fri 1/22/26 1:30-2:30pm
WHERE: ZOOM = https://rowan.zoom.us/j/86237823030?pwd=o7IjlAwKwN02yxjaVHNO5vLYT7KJbI.1
WHERE: ZOOM = https://rowan.zoom.us/j/86237823030?pwd=o7IjlAwKwN02yxjaVHNO5vLYT7KJbI.1
Meeting ID: 862 3782 3030
Passcode: 107342
Passcode: 107342
WHY: A prior Talk Through is required to participate in the Underscore. The Underscore Talk Through outlines the structure of the Underscore Practice, so that participants are all practicing together and nonverbally. The Talk Through also provides a common language and glyphs (symbols) to use when reflecting on our practice in the concluding Thanksgiving and Harvest. If you have not participated in an Underscore Talk Through before, you should attend. The Talk Through introduces you to the structure, so we can nonverbally follow the dancing journey together.
COST: Sliding scale $0-15
Payments may be made via cash, check, Venmo @Loren-Groenendaal, or Paypal at the event with no one turned away due to lack of funds
NOTE: Please bring something to write with and on to this meeting.
UNDERSCORE BASIC INFO:
WHAT: Underscore Practice
WHEN: Saturday, January 24, 2026 4:00-6:00pm
WHERE: Rear Studio at Headlong via Mascher Space Cooperative, 1170 S. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19146
WHO: Loren Groenendaal is facilitating, up to 14 are welcome to register if they have had a prior Talk Through
COST: Sliding scale $5-20
Payments may be made via cash, check, Venmo, or Paypal at the event with no one turned away due to lack of funds
REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com
This Underscore will be MASK OPTIONAL. More details and health protocol below.
WHAT IS THE UNDERSCORE?
The Underscore Practice is a simple and beautiful structure for a focused jam-like practice developed by Nancy Stark Smith. The structure is a precise, but open platform for investigation of contact improvisation and solo and group improvised composition. The score is an organic developmental nonverbal sequence that provides focus to the dancing community and opens up possibilities for movement, awareness, connection, and various physical/mental states. We (do our best to) commit to participating in the entire score (which includes resting, eating, digesting, observing, bonding with the earth).
Nancy Stark Smith, who originated the practice, describes it this way: "The Underscore is a vehicle for incorporating Contact Improvisation into a broader arena of improvisational dance practice; for developing greater ease dancing in spherical space—alone and with others; and for integrating kinesthetic and compositional concerns while improvising. It allows for a full spectrum of energetic and physical expressions, embodying a range of forms and changing states. Its practice is familiar yet unpredictable." More info: http://nancystarksmith.com/underscore
UNDERSCORE PROTOCOL:
The Underscore is a carefully held container and an intentional space. This is NOT a come and go jam. We aim to commit to the entire practice together. Those who Arrive at 4:00pm and come to the Assembly shortly thereafter should plan to stay through the conclusion by 6:00pm as it is customary to commit to the full session for an Underscore Practice. Building doors open at 3:45 for arriving.
YOU MUST REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com Capacity is 15, first come first serve. I will post on the Ci Philly listserv if we have moved into a waiting list.
A prior UNDERSCORE TALK THROUGH is required to participate in the Underscore. More about this below.
Street shoes and Food are NOT permitted in the dance studios. If you need to wear shoes to dance, they should be soft soled, clean, and not worn outside. You may snack in the lounge or outside.
I recommend bringing a water bottle, snacks, something to write on, and something to write with.
HEALTH /COMMUNITY CARE PROTOCOL:
Capacity is limited to 15 people.
I strongly encourage you to wash your hands once you arrive to the building and after the Underscore before you leave.
Masking varies between REQUIRED and OPTIONAL. Masking is OPTIONAL for 1/24/2026.
Touch with consent is permitted.
I am prepared to do contact tracing. If a participant discovers within 7 days after the Underscore that they are positive for covid, monkeypox or another infectious disease that could have transmission in the Underscore setting, please email lorengro...@gmail.com and we will let the rest of the group know about their possible exposure.
Since September 2022, Covid-19 Vaccination is encouraged, but not required.
Generally, I strongly encourage all participants to wear clean garments with long sleeves and pants for minimal skin exposure. However, it is summer, so dress as you need to feel comfortable for your dancing. Please know there is air conditioning in the space.
Do NOT attend the Underscore if you have symptoms of COVID, have tested positive for COVID or have a known or possible COVID exposure in the last 10 days, UNLESS you have tested negative at least 5 days after exposure.
Do NOT attend the jam if you have symptoms of Monkeypox Virus (flu, fever, swollen lymph nodes, new skin rash), a current case of MPV, or a known exposure to MonkeyPox in the past 2 weeks.
FACILITATOR BIO:
Underscore facilitator Loren Groenendaal (they/she) is a dancer, improviser, choreographer, curator, creative and somatic movement educator, and has been active in Philadelphia since 2003. She has been facilitating the Underscore in Philadelphia since 2013 and has studied with Underscore developer Nancy Stark Smith several times including a 3-week course investigating specifically the Underscore. She is most interested in creating structures that allow for freedom. They desire more connection and adaptation between people and build opportunities for people to collaborate and create. She particularly values dance and music improvisation because they highlight the liveness of humans and the fleetingness of everything. They have co-founded many organizations and events in support of improvisation in Philadelphia including: the Mascher Space Cooperative in 2005, the Thursday Contact Improvisation Jam in 2011, the H-O-T Series of Philadelphia in 2013, the Impermanent Society of Philadelphia in 2015, the Dissolving Doors Festival in 2019, and Free Float by Free Fleet starting in 2023. She holds a CMA in Laban Movement Analysis and Bartenieff Fundamentals from the Laban/Bartenieff Institute of Movement Studies, an MFA in Choreography from University of North Carolina at Greensboro and a BA in Dance and Visual Art from Oberlin College. She is the artistic director for Vervet Dance.
The Underscore Practice is a simple and beautiful structure for a focused jam-like practice developed by Nancy Stark Smith. The structure is a precise, but open platform for investigation of contact improvisation and solo and group improvised composition. The score is an organic developmental nonverbal sequence that provides focus to the dancing community and opens up possibilities for movement, awareness, connection, and various physical/mental states. We (do our best to) commit to participating in the entire score (which includes resting, eating, digesting, observing, bonding with the earth).
Nancy Stark Smith, who originated the practice, describes it this way: "The Underscore is a vehicle for incorporating Contact Improvisation into a broader arena of improvisational dance practice; for developing greater ease dancing in spherical space—alone and with others; and for integrating kinesthetic and compositional concerns while improvising. It allows for a full spectrum of energetic and physical expressions, embodying a range of forms and changing states. Its practice is familiar yet unpredictable." More info: http://nancystarksmith.com/underscore
UNDERSCORE PROTOCOL:
The Underscore is a carefully held container and an intentional space. This is NOT a come and go jam. We aim to commit to the entire practice together. Those who Arrive at 4:00pm and come to the Assembly shortly thereafter should plan to stay through the conclusion by 6:00pm as it is customary to commit to the full session for an Underscore Practice. Building doors open at 3:45 for arriving.
YOU MUST REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com Capacity is 15, first come first serve. I will post on the Ci Philly listserv if we have moved into a waiting list.
A prior UNDERSCORE TALK THROUGH is required to participate in the Underscore. More about this below.
Street shoes and Food are NOT permitted in the dance studios. If you need to wear shoes to dance, they should be soft soled, clean, and not worn outside. You may snack in the lounge or outside.
I recommend bringing a water bottle, snacks, something to write on, and something to write with.
HEALTH /COMMUNITY CARE PROTOCOL:
Capacity is limited to 15 people.
I strongly encourage you to wash your hands once you arrive to the building and after the Underscore before you leave.
Masking varies between REQUIRED and OPTIONAL. Masking is OPTIONAL for 1/24/2026.
Touch with consent is permitted.
I am prepared to do contact tracing. If a participant discovers within 7 days after the Underscore that they are positive for covid, monkeypox or another infectious disease that could have transmission in the Underscore setting, please email lorengro...@gmail.com and we will let the rest of the group know about their possible exposure.
Since September 2022, Covid-19 Vaccination is encouraged, but not required.
Generally, I strongly encourage all participants to wear clean garments with long sleeves and pants for minimal skin exposure. However, it is summer, so dress as you need to feel comfortable for your dancing. Please know there is air conditioning in the space.
Do NOT attend the Underscore if you have symptoms of COVID, have tested positive for COVID or have a known or possible COVID exposure in the last 10 days, UNLESS you have tested negative at least 5 days after exposure.
Do NOT attend the jam if you have symptoms of Monkeypox Virus (flu, fever, swollen lymph nodes, new skin rash), a current case of MPV, or a known exposure to MonkeyPox in the past 2 weeks.
FACILITATOR BIO:
Underscore facilitator Loren Groenendaal (they/she) is a dancer, improviser, choreographer, curator, creative and somatic movement educator, and has been active in Philadelphia since 2003. She has been facilitating the Underscore in Philadelphia since 2013 and has studied with Underscore developer Nancy Stark Smith several times including a 3-week course investigating specifically the Underscore. She is most interested in creating structures that allow for freedom. They desire more connection and adaptation between people and build opportunities for people to collaborate and create. She particularly values dance and music improvisation because they highlight the liveness of humans and the fleetingness of everything. They have co-founded many organizations and events in support of improvisation in Philadelphia including: the Mascher Space Cooperative in 2005, the Thursday Contact Improvisation Jam in 2011, the H-O-T Series of Philadelphia in 2013, the Impermanent Society of Philadelphia in 2015, the Dissolving Doors Festival in 2019, and Free Float by Free Fleet starting in 2023. She holds a CMA in Laban Movement Analysis and Bartenieff Fundamentals from the Laban/Bartenieff Institute of Movement Studies, an MFA in Choreography from University of North Carolina at Greensboro and a BA in Dance and Visual Art from Oberlin College. She is the artistic director for Vervet Dance.
Loren Groenendaal
Feb 21, 2026, 2:20:24 PMFeb 21
to ContactImprovPhilly
Dear Philadelphia Contact Improvisation community,
You are invited to the next Philadelphia Underscore SATURDAY, February 28, 2026 1:00-3:00pm at Cardell Dance Studio at 1713 Melon St. Philadelphia, PA 19130.
RSVPs are required. Participation in the Underscore requires a prior Talk Through, which also requires registration.
Email me, LorenGro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com to register for the Underscore or the Talk Through. This Underscore will only happen if there are at least 5 positive RSVPs by NOON on Friday 2/27/26.
This Underscore will be MASK OPTIONAL. More details and health protocol below.
UNDERSCORE TALK THROUGH INFORMATION:
WHAT: Underscore Talk Through
WHEN: Sat 2/28/26 11:30am-12:30pm
WHERE: in person in Fairmount Neighborhood, in or near Cardell Dance Studio
WHERE: in person in Fairmount Neighborhood, in or near Cardell Dance Studio
WHY: A prior Talk Through is required to participate in the Underscore. The Underscore Talk Through outlines the structure of the Underscore Practice, so that participants are all practicing together and nonverbally. The Talk Through also provides a common language and glyphs (symbols) to use when reflecting on our practice in the concluding Thanksgiving and Harvest. If you have not participated in an Underscore Talk Through before, you should attend. The Talk Through introduces you to the structure, so we can nonverbally follow the dancing journey together.
COST: Sliding scale $0-15
Payments may be made via cash, check, Venmo @Loren-Groenendaal, or Paypal at the event with no one turned away due to lack of funds
REQUEST THIS TALK THROUGH by emailing Loren Groenendaal, lorengro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com
REQUEST THIS TALK THROUGH by emailing Loren Groenendaal, lorengro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com
This Talk through already has 1 positive RSVP and will happen as long as the Underscore also meets quorum for RSVPs.
NOTE: Please bring something to write with and on to this meeting.
UNDERSCORE BASIC INFO:
WHAT: Underscore Practice
WHEN: Saturday, February 28, 2026 1:00-3:00pm
WHERE: Rear Studio at Headlong via Mascher Space Cooperative, 1170 S. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19146
WHO: Loren Groenendaal is facilitating, up to 14 are welcome to register if they have had a prior Talk Through
COST: Sliding scale $5-20
Payments may be made via cash, check, Venmo, or Paypal at the event with no one turned away due to lack of funds
REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com
NOTE: This Underscore will only happen if at least 5 people RSVP positively by NOON on FRIDAY 2/28/26.
WHAT IS THE UNDERSCORE?
The Underscore Practice is a simple and beautiful structure for a focused jam-like practice developed by Nancy Stark Smith. The structure is a precise, but open platform for investigation of contact improvisation and solo and group improvised composition. The score is an organic developmental nonverbal sequence that provides focus to the dancing community and opens up possibilities for movement, awareness, connection, and various physical/mental states. We (do our best to) commit to participating in the entire score (which includes resting, eating, digesting, observing, bonding with the earth).
Nancy Stark Smith, who originated the practice, describes it this way: "The Underscore is a vehicle for incorporating Contact Improvisation into a broader arena of improvisational dance practice; for developing greater ease dancing in spherical space—alone and with others; and for integrating kinesthetic and compositional concerns while improvising. It allows for a full spectrum of energetic and physical expressions, embodying a range of forms and changing states. Its practice is familiar yet unpredictable." More info: http://nancystarksmith.com/underscore
The Underscore Practice is a simple and beautiful structure for a focused jam-like practice developed by Nancy Stark Smith. The structure is a precise, but open platform for investigation of contact improvisation and solo and group improvised composition. The score is an organic developmental nonverbal sequence that provides focus to the dancing community and opens up possibilities for movement, awareness, connection, and various physical/mental states. We (do our best to) commit to participating in the entire score (which includes resting, eating, digesting, observing, bonding with the earth).
Nancy Stark Smith, who originated the practice, describes it this way: "The Underscore is a vehicle for incorporating Contact Improvisation into a broader arena of improvisational dance practice; for developing greater ease dancing in spherical space—alone and with others; and for integrating kinesthetic and compositional concerns while improvising. It allows for a full spectrum of energetic and physical expressions, embodying a range of forms and changing states. Its practice is familiar yet unpredictable." More info: http://nancystarksmith.com/underscore
UNDERSCORE PROTOCOL/ACCESSIBILITY NOTES:
This space is up a flight of stairs.
The Underscore is a carefully held container and an intentional space. This is NOT a come and go jam. We aim to commit to the entire practice together. Those who Arrive at 1:00pm and come to the Assembly shortly thereafter should plan to stay through the conclusion by 3:00pm as it is customary to commit to the full session for an Underscore Practice. Building doors open at 3:45 for arriving.
YOU MUST REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com Capacity is 25, first come first serve. I will post on the Ci Philly listserv if we have moved into a waiting list.
The Underscore is a carefully held container and an intentional space. This is NOT a come and go jam. We aim to commit to the entire practice together. Those who Arrive at 1:00pm and come to the Assembly shortly thereafter should plan to stay through the conclusion by 3:00pm as it is customary to commit to the full session for an Underscore Practice. Building doors open at 3:45 for arriving.
YOU MUST REGISTER by emailing LorenGro...@gmail.com Capacity is 25, first come first serve. I will post on the Ci Philly listserv if we have moved into a waiting list.
A prior UNDERSCORE TALK THROUGH is required to participate in the Underscore. More about this below.
Street shoes are permitted in the dance studio. If you need to wear shoes to dance, they should be soft soled, clean, and not worn outside. You may snack in the lounge area, but all food trash must be taken out of the building upon your exit.
I recommend bringing a water bottle, snacks, something to write on, and something to write with.
HEALTH /COMMUNITY CARE PROTOCOL:
Capacity is limited to 25 people. (higher this month than usual, due to a bigger space)
I strongly encourage you to wash your hands once you arrive to the building and after the Underscore before you leave.
Masking varies between REQUIRED and OPTIONAL. Masking is OPTIONAL for 2/28/2026.
Touch with consent is permitted.
I am prepared to do contact tracing. If a participant discovers within 7 days after the Underscore that they are positive for covid, monkeypox or another infectious disease that could have transmission in the Underscore setting, please email lorengro...@gmail.com and we will let the rest of the group know about their possible exposure.
Since September 2022, Covid-19 Vaccination is encouraged, but not required.
Generally, I strongly encourage all participants to wear clean garments with long sleeves and pants for minimal skin exposure. However, it is summer, so dress as you need to feel comfortable for your dancing. Please know there is air conditioning in the space.
Do NOT attend the Underscore if you have symptoms of COVID, have tested positive for COVID or have a known or possible COVID exposure in the last 10 days, UNLESS you have tested negative at least 5 days after exposure.
Do NOT attend the jam if you have symptoms of Monkeypox Virus (flu, fever, swollen lymph nodes, new skin rash), a current case of MPV, or a known exposure to MonkeyPox in the past 2 weeks.
FACILITATOR BIO:
Underscore facilitator Loren Groenendaal (they/she) is a dancer, improviser, choreographer, curator, creative and somatic movement educator, and has been active in Philadelphia since 2003. She has been facilitating the Underscore in Philadelphia since 2013 and has studied with Underscore developer Nancy Stark Smith several times including a 3-week course investigating specifically the Underscore. She is most interested in creating structures that allow for freedom. They desire more connection and adaptation between people and build opportunities for people to collaborate and create. She particularly values dance and music improvisation because they highlight the liveness of humans and the fleetingness of everything. They have co-founded many organizations and events in support of improvisation in Philadelphia including: the Mascher Space Cooperative in 2005, the Thursday Contact Improvisation Jam in 2011, the H-O-T Series of Philadelphia in 2013, the Impermanent Society of Philadelphia in 2015, the Dissolving Doors Festival in 2019, and Free Float by Free Fleet starting in 2023. She holds a CMA in Laban Movement Analysis and Bartenieff Fundamentals from the Laban/Bartenieff Institute of Movement Studies, an MFA in Choreography from University of North Carolina at Greensboro and a BA in Dance and Visual Art from Oberlin College. She is the artistic director for Vervet Dance.
SAVE-THE-DATES: Next Philadelphia Underscores are Saturday, March 21, 2026 4-6:30pm & Saturday, April 11, 2026 11:30am-2pm, both at Mascher Space Rear/Headlong. Feel free to email me your RSVP early.
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: On Saturday, March 14, I will also be leading and Underscore Talk Through (4:30-5:30pm) and Underscore with live musicians (7-10pm) at the Big Oberlin Contact Jam Fri 3/13- Sun 3/15.
Schedule, more info and registration here: https://forms.gle/9h3DiiSQsKZMB77y7
Streamingly,
Loren
Loren
Loren Groenendaal
Feb 21, 2026, 3:21:01 PMFeb 21
to ContactImprovPhilly
Hi again,
I didn't update the location for this coming Underscore on 2/28 in all places in this message. Please be aware it is indeed at Cardell Dance Studio at 1713 Melon St. Philadelphia, PA 19130, not at Mascher/ Headlong at 1170 S. Broad St. Apologies for my copy/paste/lack of update error.
Thank you for your grace,
-Loren
Loren Groenendaal
MFA in Choreography, BA in Dance and Visual Arts, Certified Movement Analyst
Accepting tax deductible donations via Fractured Atlas
MFA in Choreography, BA in Dance and Visual Arts, Certified Movement Analyst
Accepting tax deductible donations via Fractured Atlas
On Sat, Feb 21, 2026, 2:20 PM Loren Groenendaal <lorengro...@gmail.com> wrote:
Dear Philadelphia Contact Improvisation community,
You are invited to the next Philadelphia Underscore SATURDAY, February 28, 2026 1:00-3:00pm at Cardell Dance Studio at 1713 Melon St. Philadelphia, PA 19130.RSVPs are required. Participation in the Underscore requires a prior Talk Through, which also requires registration.
Email me, LorenGro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.com to register for the Underscore or the Talk Through. This Underscore will only happen if there are at least 5 positive RSVPs by NOON on Friday 2/27/26.
This Underscore will be MASK OPTIONAL. More details and health protocol below.
UNDERSCORE TALK THROUGH INFORMATION:
WHAT: Underscore Talk Through
WHEN: Sat 2/28/26 11:30am-12:30pm
WHERE: in person in Fairmount Neighborhood, in or near Cardell Dance Studio
WHY: A prior Talk Through is required to participate in the Underscore. The Underscore Talk Through outlines the structure of the Underscore Practice, so that participants are all practicing together and nonverbally. The Talk Through also provides a common language and glyphs (symbols) to use when reflecting on our practice in the concluding Thanksgiving and Harvest. If you have not participated in an Underscore Talk Through before, you should attend. The Talk Through introduces you to the structure, so we can nonverbally follow the dancing journey together.
COST: Sliding scale $0-15Payments may be made via cash, check, Venmo @Loren-Groenendaal, or Paypal at the event with no one turned away due to lack of funds
REQUEST THIS TALK THROUGH by emailing Loren Groenendaal, lorengro...@gmail.com or LorenTeach...@gmail.comThis Talk through already has 1 positive RSVP and will happen as long as the Underscore also meets quorum for RSVPs.
NOTE: Please bring something to write with and on to this meeting.
UNDERSCORE BASIC INFO:
WHAT: Underscore Practice
WHEN: Saturday, February 28, 2026 1:00-3:00pm
Loren Groenendaal
Feb 26, 2026, 10:48:35 AMFeb 26
to ContactImprovPhilly
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