Collective Reflection offers improvisation-based dance workshops set to live music that help you find empowerment, spark mind-body connection, and reclaim your right to dance!
Monthly on Sundays | 1:30pm-3pm | Donation-based
Monthly on Sundays | 1:30pm-3pm | Donation-based
Each session starts with a guided warm-up - incorporating elements of meditation, Gyrokinesis, Feldenkrais (Awareness Through Movement), and modern/contemporary dance. After bringing awareness to our mental focus and physical alignment, participants receive prompts to explore various elements of movement (time, weight, momentum, direction, and more) in solo, duet, or group exercises. Each session concludes with a wind-down meditation and time for journaling and reflective conversation.
This space is sometimes silly, sometimes serious, and always trying something new. Workshops are open to all experience levels- whether you have never taken a dance class or are a full-time performing artist, you are welcome here!
Sessions are led alternately by Rai Barnard (founder) and guest instructors with various specialties in somatic movement practices.
Upcoming Guest Instructors:
January 11, 2026 - Cami Holman (CamiCollabs, LLC)
This programming is supported by the Office of Arts and Culture
Learn more about Collective Reflection
About the Founder:
Rai Barnard (they/them) is a queer Dallas-based choreographer, performer, instructor, and arts organizer invested in crafting experimental performances and community-focused programs. They earned degrees in Dance and Biology from UT Dallas in 2021, with additional training through Orlando Ballet School, Sidra Bell Dance New York, b12 (Berlin), Springboard Danse, and the Pina Bausch Foundation.
They have performed in immersive, site-specific, and concert settings - including works by Jennifer Mabus, Christie Bondade, Jonathan Campbell, Sarah Matzke, and kNOwBOX Dance. Rai has presented their choreography and teaching practices throughout Texas with Arts Mission Oak Cliff (2022 artist-in-residence), Agora Artists, Garage Arts Project, {254} Dance Fest, Aimed Dance, Meow Wolf, and Texas Dance Improv Fest.
They founded Collective Reflection in 2024 to expand and share their somatic-based improvisation practice. Through Collective Reflection, they aim to empower others to embrace dance as a tool for expression, connection, and empowerment.