He is a Contact Improvisation Facilitator & Movement Researcher

“The body is a field of possibilities, a space where dance emerges from listening and presence.” — Steve Paxton

Santiago views Contact Improvisation as a path to self-knowledge and a profound language of connection. With over 12 years of experience, his practice is a synthesis of technical precision and surrender, treating movement as a living organism: something that mutates, adapts, and expands through multidimensional exploration.

Training & Influences

His pedagogical approach has been shaped by renowned practitioners such as Sasha Dodo, Kira Kirsch, Bari Kim, and Kristie Simpson, building upon a solid technical foundation established alongside Javiera Sanhueza, Sole Medina, and Poly Rodriguez. His dance is an eclectic map where the acrobatics of Capoeira, the intensity of Flamenco, and the fluidity of Latin rhythms converge with the somatic sensitivity of Thai Massage and aquatic therapy.

“Dance is not something you do, it’s something you allow.” — Nancy Stark Smith

Pedagogical Vision

In his workshops, Santiago prioritizes the creation of a safe and held environment. His goal is for students to strip movement of its conditioning, fostering an authentic connection where technique serves physical honesty and presence.

Current Projects

Currently based in Koh Phangan, Thailand, Santiago utilizes the island as a “living laboratory” (www.contactimporvkhophangan.com), for exploration, offering regular classes to a diverse international community. In addition to his weekly sessions, he organizes Silent Retreats in Contact Improvisation and has facilitated workshops across Spain, Chile, Vietnam, and Thailand, bridging the gap between physical technique and meditative depth.

“True dance is that which happens in the moment: an act of faith without established forms or expectations; pure surrender.” — Santiago Ortiz