Dance Refuge: day-long seasonal Open Floor dance retreats

"Crossing a new threshold worthily heals the patterns of repetition that had us caught somewhere."
— John O'Donohue

This soulful daylong retreat offers a space to pause, move, and connect with yourself through dance, meditation and creative practices. Set in the tranquil bushland of Warrandyte, Dance Refuge is a chance to step out of the rush of life and into a deeper rhythm—one of presence, connection, and renewal.

The day weaves together Open Floor movement practice with ritual, writing, and art. Through movement, we listen to the wisdom of our bodies, tend to our inner worlds, and plant seeds of intention for the season ahead. Dance Refuge has been running seasonally since 2022.

No dance experience needed. No moves to follow. Newcomers welcome.

SATURDAYS - at the start of each season 
11 AM - 5 PM
North Warrandyte Family Centre

March 8th - Autumn
June 14th - Winter
Sept 20th - Spring
Nov 29th - Summer

Full Price: $150 (inc. GST)
Early Bird: $120 (inc. GST) - offered until one week before workshop.

If finances are a barrier, please reach out to discuss options, including potential work exchange.

NOTE: 20% discount is offerred if you lock in all workshops at once. Email Henry to organise at henry.fowkes@gmail.com

THE FACILITATOR

Henry Fowkes is a certified teacher of Open Floor Movement Practice, experienced group facilitator and Gestalt Psychotherapist. Henry is often described as energetic, down-to-earth, and warm. He engages groups with his relatable teachings, humour and legendary tunes. His approach is centered around what's alive in the present moment and a deep trust in people's innate resilience. Henry has been teaching Open Floor in Melbourne and Tasmania for the past decade and facilitating groups for the past 15.

WHAT IS OPEN FLOOR?

Open Floor offers a dynamic, creative toolkit to move through life, fully embodied. Through the universal language of dance and mindfulness, we explore self-discovery, connection, and healing. To be embodied—physically, emotionally, and mindfully—is to be at home in ourselves for the beautiful ride of being alive. Dance invites us to be present for it all: loving, losing, learning, creating, and connecting.

WHAT TO EXPECT?

As you enter the dance space, the teacher will be playing music to warm up to. This is a time for you to arrive and warm up your body, from the inside out. Take some time to tune into your body, through gentle movement and stretching, your senses, and allow your body to lead the way. As we move deeper into the workshop, you will be guided to move, include, and explore through dance and self-reflection.

Please turn off your phone and honour the silence on the dance floor by keeping conversations outside the space. Take personal responsibility for your own needs, and remember that this is a drug and alcohol-free event.

🔗 Learn more: www.henryfowkes.com
📩 Inquiries: henry.fowkes@gmail.com