Festival Master Class: Dale Ratcliff and Nikki Theroux
with Dale Ratcliff and Nikki Theroux

Our class offers an immersive window into our creative process, welcoming all bodies and movement backgrounds. Rooted in improvisation, we draw on nature as a generative force to guide participants out of the head and into embodied expression. Beginning with a somatic warm-up, we gradually build toward intuitive, dynamic movement inspired by seasonal imagery and physical textures (e.g., winter’s dense muscularity). The class then shifts into phrase work from our repertoire and introduces our concept of “solo duets”—non-synchronized partnering shaped by physical intuition and shared presence.
Drawing on years of training in Gaga, contemporary dance, yoga, and Pilates, our teaching integrates meditation, stretching, improvisation vocabulary, and play. This holistic approach nurtures creativity, connection, and safe exploration while supporting deeper intuitive listening and providing tools to expand improvisation and partnering skills—both individually and collectively.

About Wildflower Collective:

Wildflower Collective is a contemporary dance company founded by Dale Ratcliff and Nikki Theroux. The two began their collaboration in 2019, premiering their debut duet, Symbiosis, across various locations in New York City. Both Ratcliff and Theroux have received extensive training in Gaga and other contemporary dance styles, refining their craft through studies and performances in New York, Tel Aviv, Berlin, and Amsterdam. Wildflower Collective has presented their work at notable venues including Dixon Place, The Craft, Brooklyn Art Haus, and The Art Shelter. Currently, the company is in the process of developing a new duet, with support from Moulin/Belle in France for its expansion in 2026.