Frequently-asked Questions

How did Touch Compass begin?

In 1995 Catherine Chappell returned from studying Contact Improvisation in America and took a DanceAbility introductory class by Alito Alessi. Excited by these possibilities she then went on to do an ‘All Wheels’ workshop in New York where all participants were either in a wheelchair or on rollerblades. As Catherine hadn't rollerbladed before she felt rather awkward but totally engaged in the process. She returned to NZ all fired up, bought a pair of rollerblades and began teaching mixed ability classes. Initially it was difficult to enroll people in the idea and Catherine ended up giving lecture demonstrations to some disability organisations. From these sessions she gained enough people to create regular classes. These grew and after a year Catherine went back to America to do the first International DanceAbility Teachers Training for three weeks in Eugene, Oregon. With more grounding in the work she was able to develop her own methods and formed a group to present the first Touch Compass season in 1997.

Who does the Company work with?

We work with wide range of people those with and without a physical and/or intellectual disability. In all our performance projects we aim to have a mix disabled and non-disabled and also encourage this in training/education classes and workshops where possible. We also work with children and mature adults in our projects.

How do you work with a mixed group of dancers?

We work with people’s abilities focusing initially with what they ‘can do’ rather than focusing on their limitations. After a period of time we begin to stretch what is possible with each individual. Being open to new approaches is important and communication is the key. The Company’s choreographic process focuses on giving equal level of engagement, for both disabled and non-disabled performers working with each individual’s strengths and unique abilities.

Do you encourage new choreographers?

Sometimes the process of encouraging and engaging new dancers and choreographers can be compromised when rehearsal periods are too short. As this is an ongoing problem for dance in NZ we have set up an biannual choreographic LAB Project that focuses on ‘process’ rather than ‘product’ enabling new choreographers to find their way with the Company before creating a public performance piece. These Lab workshops then go on to be performed as part of the Acquisitions seasons.

What is Contact Improvisation (CI)?

CI is a movement form based on the spontaneous interaction between two people playing with mass, momentum and gravity. The dance is mutual, cultivating sensitivity and strength. Contact Improvisation has been called an artsport, with the effect of a moving meditation as the dance lives in the moment, lets go then moves on to the next possibility.

Art versus therapy?

Often we get asked is the work we do therapy. Touch Compass focuses on the artistic side working towards creating excellent professional performance events. In our training and education initiatives we give participants an opportunity to gain the necessary skills enabling them to work with a wide range of abilities. We feel the by-product of all dance is therapeutic by nature.

As a dancer with Touch Compass I can safely say that the therapeutic side of working with the company is a definite bonus for me, but not only for myself. I see the lives of other dancers flower when we work together and believe that this is all attributed to the work we do, honouring ourselves for it when normally we may not.

What is it like working with Touch Compass?

To be a part of Touch Compass is like belonging to a wonderful supportive and talented community something which is sometimes lost in this day and age. The Company encourages a sense of place and connection to others. It is very entertaining when developing movement and rehearsing as the Company members have a great sense of humour and play.

What are Touch Compass' future plans?

Immediate plans are to find a home for Touch Compass, a studio that will house our rehearsals, workshops, trainings and performance showings. To develop our education programme ‘Encompass’ so that more people can become involved in integrated dance work and to perform and tour nationally and internationally more often.

Do you work with professional dancers, amateurs, or both?

The Company works with professional dancers, but our workshop and class programmes are open to all level of ability.

How do I get to be a member of Touch Compass?

Touch Compass is always looking for new members but we can’t always accommodate new comers straight away or for all programmes. The best way to get involved is to try and make it to our open classes or workshops which could lead to being invited to join the Company in a performance or training opportunity.

Where does the Company perform and do you tour?

The Company performs major season in a theatre and sometimes does site specific work in a variety of spaces. Touch Compass is often invited to perform at special events which could be anywhere from a theatre foyer, art gallery or an outdoor space. The Company enjoys the opportunity to tour to other centres and countries given the venues and accommodation have suitable disabled access and facilities. Also the ability to rig ropes for our aerial work is required. We can put together a short works programme that doesn’t require rigging if there is not a suitable venue for this. For more information on how to book the Company go to Link for how ‘to book’ Touch Compass

What range of abilities does the Company work with?

We work with wide range of abilities including people with a physical and/or intellectual disability. Also, we also work with children, young and mature adults in our projects.