As we approach our 100th Open Movement workshop, we continue our tradition of providing an open platform for movement exploration and artistic expression. Curated and organized by Monica Mirabile, Open Movement is a free program open to all ages, abilities, and levels of experience that offers both space for self-guided movement practice and artist-led workshops.

Every Sunday from noon to 4pm, we welcome you to the Performance Space New York theaters where Open Movement is held. Here, participants are invited to move in whatever way feels comfortable to them—stretching, drawing, dancing, rehearsing, and observing if they don’t feel called to move. Many in the Open Movement community describe this environment as a sacred space for self-discovery, connection, and feeling present in their bodies.

At 4pm, our program shifts to feature workshops guided by artists and practitioners. Each week, these sessions offer a unique opportunity for participants to engage in two hours of participatory practice, exploring a range of themes from movement techniques, to performance philosophies, wellness practices and beyond. Open Movement workshop facilitators are a part of our extended Performance Space network: many of these artists have been regular participants in Open Movement and have created or hosted programs in our theaters. This season will feature workshops by Elliot Reed (who presented a performance commission, You can hear footsteps, as a part of our 2023-2024 season), BE HEINTZMAN HOPE, Alexandra Tatarsky, Joni, Samer Ghadry, Zion the 83rd Lion, Morgan Bobrown-Williams, Reed Rushes, Danyela Brown, and Whitney Mallett who will also participate in this season’s performance program.

As part of our commitment to process-focused initiatives, throughout the year we also host WIP Feedback Front, a showcase of works in progress from emerging artists, many of whom are part of the Open Movement community. Artists present their projects in a casual, supportive atmosphere to get feedback while the works are still being developed. Audience members are invited to share their responses anonymously, creating open exchange between creators and observers.

At Open Movement, performance is for everyone, whether you’re experienced or a newcomer. Our mission is to provide a welcoming space for curious-minds to reconnect, ground themselves, and expand their perspectives, wherever they may be on their journey.