Dirty Soft Low - One Day Workshop
Introduction
What happens when suspension stops being about getting someone into the air?
Dirty Soft Low grew directly from my work with clients and my desire to bring suspension into play without letting its mechanics become the focus. Instead of stepping away from the body to manage a technical sequence, we stay close to the floor, close to our partner and inside the experience.
This workshop is more than a collection of sequences. It proposes a new paradigm of play, with new rules of engagement. Low suspension points, pulleys and controlled lifting allow elevation to become an extension of touch rather than an interruption of it.
We will explore the space between the intuitive, nonlinear quality of floor-based rope and the structure required for suspension. By raising and lowering the body as a whole, we can create transitions that feel quieter, more responsive and less dominated by technical problem-solving.
The aim is not simply to suspend someone. It is to ask what becomes possible when suspension is reorganised around proximity, responsiveness and connection.
Class Content
Throughout the workshop, we will explore a series of sequences that begin on the ground and gradually move into low suspension using block pulleys and other lifting strategies.
Particular attention will be given to building calm, controllable systems that allow the body to be raised and lowered as a whole. This can reduce unnecessary effort and some of the physical and psychological stress that can accompany more conventional suspension sequences, while allowing both people to remain engaged with one another throughout the transition.
The technical material will include gentle semi-suspensions, low suspension transitions, lowered pulley systems, sustainable line management, safe mechanical lifting and body-aware adaptation. We will explore how structure can provide enough stability for intuition to return to the tie, preserving the tenderness, intentionality and emotional richness of floor-based rope while working under load.
The workshop is body-inclusive and designed to allow participants of different shapes, sizes, and physicalities to adapt the material to their own bodies and relationships. This class is intended for intermediate to advanced students who already have experience with suspension lines, body awareness and communication under load. We will move slowly and carefully, with space for questions, repetition and adaptation. Participants should attend with a partner they already feel comfortable tying with
Prerequisites
This workshop is suitable for intermediate to advanced practitioners. Those tying should be confident with single suspension line handling and at least one suspendable harness. Those being tied should have some experience with semi-suspension or partial suspension and feel comfortable communicating clearly while under load.
This is not suitable for absolute beginners. If you are unsure whether the workshop is appropriate for you, please get in touch before booking.
What to Bring
A full rope kit which includes some 9-10m ropes
6-8 Carabiners
Safety shears or a suitable rope cutting tool
Comfortable, movement-friendly clothing
Water, snacks and anything you need for aftercare
A notebook, if you like to process through writing.
THE TEACHERS
Conor is a full-time rope practitioner, creator, and the founder and owner of Aphilia Studio based in London. Throughout his career, he has worked with hundreds of clients, many of whom are entirely new to the practice. His extensive professional experience has deeply informed his personal style, leading him to develop an intentional and body-centric approach that prioritises accessibility and remains beginner-focused.
Sorcha’s love affair with bodies and movement has been a lifelong exploration and celebration. She is a full-time yoga teacher, having taught for over 12 years; she is highly skilled in the art of hand balance, with experience in contemporary dance, movement direction, physical theatre, aerial circus disciplines, life modelling, pole dance, and contortion.
NOTE: Rope will be provided for the workshop and is also available to buy at the studio. Please wear clothes you feel comfortable in. Jeans and tight clothing may restrict movement. The studio is located at Cable Street Studios. Ticket Holders will be given a contact phone number to gain entry into the studio complex. Tickets can be transferred or refunded up to 7 days prior to the event, after which they become non-refundable.