Earthdance Creative Living
Movement, art, and community in nature.
Earthdance Creative Living in Plainfield, MA, offers a unique blend of arts, dance, and movement within a beautifully renovated 1812 farmhouse. This center is a vibrant hub for embodied practice, Contact Improvisation, and collaborative art-making, welcoming guests from around the globe. Set on 125 acres of wooded land with two small streams, it provides a serene backdrop for exploration and creative expression. The facility itself is a work of art, adorned with handcrafted stained glass, tiles, and wall art, reflecting decades of community care. Earthdance is deeply committed to interdisciplinary collaboration, improvisational community building, and fostering equity and access, making it more than just a retreat center but a dynamic community space.
Highlights
- Renovated 1812 farmhouse with handcrafted art
- Focus on Contact Improvisation and embodied practice
- 125 acres of wooded land with streams
- Commitment to equity, access, and community building
- Interdisciplinary collaboration in arts and movement
Good for
Setting
set on 125 acres of wooded land, Earthdance features two small streams, creating a vivid and serene landscape for guests to explore and camp. The main facility is a charming 1812 farmhouse, thoroughly renovated and adorned with handcrafted stained glass, tiles, and wall art, giving it a unique, artful character.
The practice
Earthdance focuses on embodied practice, particularly Contact Improvisation and collaborative art-making. While not tied to a specific meditation tradition, the emphasis is on mindful movement and creative expression as pathways to deeper connection and self-awareness. Beginners can expect to engage in workshops and sessions that encourage physical exploration and communal interaction.
A typical day
Daily structure varies by retreat, as Earthdance hosts diverse events centered around movement and art. Guests can expect a schedule that includes facilitated movement sessions, collaborative art-making, and opportunities for personal exploration within the natural surroundings. It is best to confirm the specific schedule for your chosen event.
Accommodation
The main facility is an 1812 farmhouse renovated to provide a spacious home for large groups. Specific room types are not detailed, but the setting suggests a communal and comfortable environment.
What to bring
Pack comfortable clothing suitable for movement and outdoor exploration. Given the varied climate, layers are a good idea. Don't forget personal toiletries and any specific gear for workshops or the sauna/hot tub.
How to get there
Earthdance is located at 252 Prospect St in Plainfield, MA. If driving, use GPS. If arriving by bus, head to Northampton or Pittsfield, MA, then arrange for a ride to the center. There is no public transportation directly to Earthdance.
Nearest airport: Bradley International Airport (BDL) (66 km)
The closest airport is Bradley International Airport (BDL) near Hartford, approximately 66 km away. Options from BDL to Northampton include Seemo Shuttle or Valley Transporter, and taxis are also available. Valley Transporter offers direct service to Earthdance for a higher fare.
Nearest city: Hartford
Public transport: Public transportation options are limited to bus services to nearby cities like Northampton or Pittsfield, requiring a subsequent car ride to the center.
Pricing starts from USD140. Specific retreat costs may vary, so check individual event listings for details.
Interested in this center? Check availability and upcoming retreats on their official site.
Visit Earthdance Creative Living websiteClimate
Climate Zone: Temperate
Best Months: Jan, Aug, Nov
Avoid: May, Oct, Apr
Plainfield, MA, experiences an annual average temperature of 6.9°C. The warmest months are July, August, and June, while the coolest are January, February, and December. January, August, and November tend to be the driest, with May, October, and April being the wettest. Be prepared for seasonal variations, especially if exploring the wooded land.
Location
Frequently asked questions
What kind of food is served at Earthdance?
Earthdance aims to source local, organic food as much as possible. Menus vary, and they can accommodate various dietary needs including vegan, vegetarian, pescetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free options, as well as meals that include meat.
How do I get to Earthdance using public transportation?
You can take Peter Pan or Greyhound buses to Northampton, MA, or Pittsfield, MA. From there, you will need to arrange a ride, possibly by sharing a Lyft/Uber with other attendees or finding a carpool, as there are no direct public transportation options to Earthdance.
Are there amenities available at the center?
Yes, Earthdance offers several amenities including A/C in rooms, free Wifi, a sauna, towels, free parking, a kitchen, tour assistance, a hot tub, coffee/tea, and a yoga studio.
What should I bring for my stay?
Given the focus on movement and the wooded setting, comfortable clothing suitable for activity and exploring nature is advisable. The climate in Plainfield, MA, can vary, so layers are recommended, especially if visiting during cooler months. Don't forget any personal items for the sauna or hot tub.
Is Earthdance suitable for beginners in dance or movement practices?
Earthdance welcomes guests from around the world to engage in events that center movement and embodied practice. While specific retreat details vary, the inclusive nature of Contact Improvisation and collaborative art-making often makes it accessible for those new to these forms. It is best to check the specific event description for suitability.
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