f A contemporary dance practice generating ad hoc dances: Inspired by and in conversation with Rosalind Crisp

Dance artist Rosalind Crisp has developed a practice called ‘choreographic improvisation’ and methods of working in which the sensorial body becomes the material for a dance created in the moment; i.e. ad hoc dances. This article discusses how Crisp’s approach is a fine example of the integration of somatic and artistic processes as well as the incorporation of making choreographic choices while dancing. Intrigued by the quality of the teaching and performance works by Crisp, the author describes the methodology of ‘choreographic improvisation’ that is constituent to both the practice in the studio and in performance. This method is set in context with practices from other contemporary dance artists. Crisp’s understanding of material and the process-based interactions of material within itself and the environment prompts the linking to a current philosophical thinking of New Materialism. Creating ad hoc dances is a dynamic process sustaining emerging creations.