FAQs for the PNW MicroFusion Immersion April 24–26, 2026
Who is this retreat for? This adult (18+) Immersion is designed for dancers who have established a foundational understanding of Fusion Dance or another framed partner form (Blues, Lindy Hop, Tango, Swing, Bachata, etc); it is not for beginners. We welcome participants with at least 6-12 months of consistent partner dance experience, who are ready to explore more complex concepts and creative approaches. Note: Contact Improvisation and Ecstatic Dance are not framed partner dances.
What's the covid policy? Thanks in advance for your support and understanding to help keep the community healthy. We will be together in a crowded indoor space for three days, and all acknowledge the risks of respiratory viruses (covid, RSV, and flu). Masking is very welcome at the retreat, but not required. We do require that everyone take a rapid test before arriving on Friday, though we will trust the honors system and will not be checking results. Most importantly, nobody may be at the retreat with any outward symptoms of respiratory infection: coughing, sneezing, or runny nose. Even if you believe your symptoms are benign (from allergies or a lingering cough), many folks will feel unsafe around sneezing or coughing in the dance hall, the dining hall, and the soaking pools. Unfortunately, masking or social distancing will not be acceptable ways to manage outward signs of illness. If you do suffer from seasonal allergies, be sure to bring whatever medications and tools you need to keep your symptoms at bay—antihistamine, decongestant, neti pot, herbs, etc.
Since there are no refunds for last-minute cancellations (due to illness or any other reason), we strongly encourage participants to minimize their exposure to all respiratory viruses for at least a week leading up to our event—avoiding large and/or crowded gatherings is best. If you come down with an illness close to the retreat, we suggest you cancel ASAP to maximize the possibility that your spot can be filled from the waiting list. To cancel, send an email to: [email protected].
If I am already registered, how do I add someone to my lodging? You may add someone to your lodging at any time before the retreat reaches max capacity of 80. But they must be added manually by the Breitenbush office (not through online registration). So to add someone, send an email with all of the details to [email protected], and they will work out all of the arrangements and payment.
May I come for part of the retreat at a discount? Is it okay if I arrive late to the retreat? Retreat registration is all-or-none. There are no part-time options. Everyone is required to arrive in time for the opening orientation at 7:15pm on Friday--no exceptions. That is an important session to establish the container for the retreat.
May I wear shoes in the dance hall? We encourage bare feet, socks, or dance paws! But we understand some people need shoes for medical reasons or personal preference. It's acceptable to dance in non-marking, soft-soled shoes or ballroom shoes. Please, no shoes that have been worn outdoors, and no boots or high heels.
Why aren't children permitted to attend this retreat? While it may be disappointing, our retreat is designed for adults only (18+) for a few key reasons. Our single dance room is a small space, and it's important that we prioritize the limited capacity of 80 people for adults who are there to dance — we'll already be turning away many dancers for lack of space. Additionally, this is a learning-focused retreat with many hours of instructional sessions that need to be free of distractions. It wouldn't be conducive to learning with children hanging out and playing in the dance hall. (Unfortunately, Breitenbush doesn't offer alternative indoor spaces suitable for children to hang out.) Finally, considering that Breitenbush is a clothing-optional property, the dynamics of having children there can be challenging, and that's not something we're equipped to navigate at this retreat.