What happens in a typical InterPlay class?

Although InterPlay classes can take different shapes, a class will generally begin with a warm-up and then move into a series of what we call InterPlay “forms,” which are simple structures for playing with movement, stories and voice. There are a few basic forms and then variations of those.

The forms are taught incrementally, and are easy-to-learn, and if there are new people in the class, we go over the basics as needed. Over the course of a class, or a series of classes, participants will learn several if not many ways to play with “what a body can do.”

Most of the forms involve interaction with at least one or a few other people, providing excellent ways to connect easily with others. You won’t be put “on the spot” and there are many ways that you get to choose what you will do or not do. In the process you learn more about how your body works, what is possible, how to find the greatest amount of ease in the process.

You get to play a lot with your own “information.” You will also learn to move through self-consciousness in easy ways. You don’t need to think of yourself as being creative in order to do InterPlay, but chances are you will find you are much more creative than you thought.

What happens in a typical InterPlay class?

Although InterPlay classes can take different shapes, a class will generally begin with a warm-up and then move into a series of what we call InterPlay “forms,” which are simple structures for playing with movement, stories and voice. There are a few basic forms and then variations of those. The forms are taught incrementally, and are easy-to-learn, and if there are new people in the class, we go over the basics as needed. Over the course of a class, or a series of classes, participants will learn several if not many ways to play with “what a body can do.”

Most of the forms involve interaction with at least one or a few other people, providing excellent ways to connect easily with others. You won’t be put “on the spot” and there are many ways that you get to choose what you will do or not do. In the process you learn more about how your body works, what is possible, how to find the greatest amount of ease in the process. You get to play a lot with your own “information.” You will also learn to move through self-consciousness in easy ways. You don’t need to think of yourself as being creative in order to do InterPlay, but chances are you will find you are much more creative than you thought.

How Does InterPlay Work?

InterPlay reconnects us with the wisdom of our bodies—what we know from paying attention to our own experience. We are often cut off from that wisdom by the expectation of others, by external authority, by fear or repression. InterPlay is rooted in creating, in looking for the good, in play. The InterPlay atmosphere is one of ease and fun, rather than struggle. We gain huge insights from the simplest of activities—learning through playing—and regain confidence in our ability to respond in the moment.

How is InterPlay used in everyday life?

InterPlay helps us reduce stress and regain balance in our lives. It gives us tools for dealing with unexpected or difficult situations. It helps us to be “lighter” and to savor the good things in our lives. It reminds us to breathe. It also creates community—a web of relationships that can support us in what we want and need.

Where and when is InterPlay happening?

InterPlay originated in the San Francisco Bay Area. The national office, InterPlayce, is located in downtown Oakland where events also occur on a regular basis. InterPlay is practiced in many parts of the United States and in other countries around the world. InterPlay is often done in retreat formats with participants coming from far and wide.

Check out the schedule of events.

More about “Untensive” retreats.

More about the Life Practice Program.

Who does InterPlay?

InterPlay is intergenerational, multicultural and interfaith. InterPlayers come in all shapes and sizes. InterPlay is being done with elders and the very young, and many people are applying InterPlay in their professional lives.

How did InterPlay start?

InterPlay was developed by Cynthia Winton-Henry and Phil Porter who have been collaborating as artists, performers, teachers, writers and philosophers for over 30 years. They have both been interested in how individuals and communities could regain a sense of integration and connectedness—how all the parts of our lives can work well together. They recognized that the process of creating in the moment has a powerful effect and is a great teaching tool. They have honed their technique over the last 20 years, and many others have contributed to the wisdom of this system. It is constantly growing and changing as the movement spreads throughout the world.