On the surface: not a lot. To me contemporary dance is so abstract that, even with the show’s notes, I struggle to make much meaning out of what’s happening on stage. And in some — very bad — instances, I struggle to stay engaged in any way whatsoever. Even in a 45-minute show.

But just because I find it hard to understand what the choreographer and the dancers are trying to “say”, doesn’t mean I don’t get something out of it.

Recently I went to performances choreographed by third year dance students. I was apprehensive about going at first but a friend was playing the music (live) for it so I went along to support him. There were some amazing performers on stage (and some drop dead gorgeous ones too) and I loosely understood what they were trying to get at — identity, loss, conformity etc.

And while I could definitely appreciate the beauty and grace of the human body, the most rewarding thing I got out of the evening was the chance to let my mind wander and explore my own ideas. I don’t mean this to sound like I wasn’t paying attention, because I was, but there’s something about the combination of unusual music, beautiful movement and a lack of overt narrative that encourages the creative side of my brain to explore new story ideas.

As a result, I further developed a minor character who is going to become a major character — and this from being fascinated by the tattoos on the perfect body of a male dancer — and also fleshed out the plot for a new book. So it was a productive night, all told.

This wasn’t a one-off occurrence either. Like I say, there’s something about the abstraction in contemporary dance that is really conducive to nurturing those creative ideas. Does that mean I go as often as I can? No. But at least it’s a good reason to not turn down invitations to new performances — especially when I’m in a bit of a creative slump.

And the eye candy is always a plus.

How about you? Are there any particular experiences that help get your creative juices flowing?