Well, SHIFT has gone through a few phases. In some we made it like an Open Space free-for-all, in others a more instructor-driven experience, in others more like a dance-off. Right now it looks like me drilling participants in what I consider basic movement skills. In some way, it does work like an Open Space every time, because I/we base it on what the people who show up want to do and learn. Thus, it looks a bit like a martial-arts club right now. That could change at any time.
Funny, Rory, how you mention aikido in reference to ‘rigid’ martial-arts…though the art as a whole does display some classicalness (especially for beginners!!!), basic aikido body skills (not technique, but ability to center, relax, connect with an opponent, and the idea of transcending the idea of ‘opponents’) have operated so centrally in what I do I almost feel like I really practice aikido, even though I haven’t studied it in years and don’t remember any of the techniques. Ha! You can ask Chuck for some feedback on this – some of the aikido centering exercises had a big impact on his balance and so on. Also Towhee, a member here, attends and he may have some insight about his experiences.
[EDIT: Also, yes, Jeet Kune Do effing rocks. I have a really good friend who grew up practically in Dan Inosanto’s lap, and he has loads and loads of great stories and martial arts insights. I can’t believe how much genius Bruce Lee possessed, for more than his movie career would imply]
[EDIT #2: Freddie Mercury? I usually get Johnny Depp, believe it or not. I did pick Freddie Mercury’s pic from the avatar list. Thus the resemblence of Freddie Mercury to…himself. ]