Wednesday Nights at the Neptune

Ecstatic Dance Dorset is based in the BCP area (Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole) and we host dances in and around picturesque landscapes, country estates and natural settings.

We are happy to be offering Ecstatic Dance Boscombe, every Wednesday evening, at the Neptune in Boscombe, overlooking the glorious ocean and Boscombe Pier. 

There will be opportunity to gather on the beach after our dance, so you are welcome to bring your musical instruments or simply enjoy socialising. 

We realise that we need more human connection and in-person experiences as possible. We would like to create a space for people to gather, to dance, to connect as a tribe, to bring all their emotions - joy, sorrow, elation, grief, happiness, despair, hope, gratitude - and connect in community, growing together and fostering a supportive community.

Ecstatic Dance is a sober, conscious dance where dancers move freely to an eclectic mix of music. There are no steps to follow, no choreography, no one to copy. Let the music and rhythm be your guide as your body spontaneously moves on waves of troughs and peaks in a dance journey.

The music usually starts with ambient sounds which transport you up and up to the peak of the wave. Flowing back down to a breathing break, before you are transported to higher heights of release and ecstatic joy.  

All ages and dance abilities are welcome. 

Dancers usually move two or more music waves, where you'll be lead through your dance journey by the DJ. Landing gently with calming, integrative tunes to enable you to process and land gently.

By moving your body in a variety of ways, one releases the habitual and the stress, allowing for new pathways to be explored through your body, mind and in your life. 

 

Origins of Ecstatic Dance 

Ecstatic Dance originated at the Kalani Honua center, in Hawaii, just a few kilometers from the Kilauea volcano. Max Phatom devised Ecstatic Dance, supported by Elisabeth Betwitx, DJ Sprocket and Justin Helton, who all assistanted at the center, continuing the movement classes of dance facilitator, Bhoditara. 

Max had previously participated in a conscious dance community in Texas and this group of dance pioneers had just returned from the Burning Man festival in the desert. They gave the dance wave structure and it has spread worldwide.

What to expect: A session begins with a warm-up as folks arrive into the space, an opening circle to explain the guidelines and agreements.  Followed by a brief eembodiment exercise or connection to oneself and the shared group dynanic. The session itself lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. There is a brief explanation of ecstatic dance, as well as a warm-up or movement class. At the end, a closing circle is created with all the participants to share any words, insights or gratitude for the dance.

 

Ecstatic Davery Agreements:

• The dancefloor is a conversation-free zone. Sounds are welcome but we do not communicate verbally. This helps you move out of your mind, chatter, thought distractions into ones body and the present moment. 
• We dance barefoot.
• Respect oneself, other dancers, the space (room, dance floor, surroundings) and the process.
• We dance sober. So arrive sober and remain so throughout the dance session. Do not take drugs or alcohol before or during the session.
• The dancefloor is a device free zone. Please refrain from scrolling or using your phone, which can be quite a distraction. 

 

Origins of Ecstatic Dance 

Ecstatic Dance originated at the Kalani Honua center, in Hawaii, just a few kilometers from the Kilauea volcano. Max Phatom devised Ecstatic Dance, supported by Elisabeth Betwitx, DJ Sprocket and Justin Helton, who all assistanted at the center, continuing the movement classes of dance facilitator, Bhoditara. 

Max had previously participated in a conscious dance community and this group of dance pioneers had just returned from the Burning Man festival in the desert. They gave the dance wave structure and it has spread worldwide.