Submitting a Skill Share Workshop
As usual, not only will we hire some of the top dance instructors in the country, we will also have various skill share workshops. Skill share workshops are classes that can be offered by any of the event participants. Anyone and everyone is encouraged to show the community what they have to share and teach. Please fill out the following Google form to schedule the skill-share classes you would like to teach.
Click HERE to teach a skill share workshop
Click HERE to teach a skill share workshop
Why Have Skill Shares?
The Recess Massive uses skill share workshops to deconstruct the hierarchy that is often formed and reinforced at weekend workshops by the rigid delineation between "student" and "instructor". Every member of our community has something valuable to teach, whether it be dance technique, alternate perspectives on connection, or perhaps something not at all dance related. The Recess Massive offers a diverse workshop forum in which every participant, professional instructor or otherwise, will be able to offer classes within the same schedule. Professional instructors will not only teach, but will take classes from members of the community who have been traditionally viewed only as students. By creating an environment of mutual appreciation, where people are recognized simultaneously as instructors and students, our community can move towards a level of cohesion that transcends the typical hierarchical structure of social dancing (and non-dancing) scenes.
Example Classes from 2013
(to be updated as we confirm 2014 classes)
Natural Skin Care (Stasha Migliaccio, SLO, CA)
Kicking that Johnson & Johnson habit for good! We will be discussing using local, sustainable and natural ingredients to create custom skin care systems that can tackle the most difficult of skin problems. Examples include thyme infused honey face wash, oatmeal and clay mask and exfoliant, and rose and chamomile toner, as well as making your own 1 ingredient moisturizer!
Partner Acrobatics - Dominating Gravity (Shawn Lesniak, Oakland):
Shawn will teach techniques to safely execute acrobatic feats. They’re bringing an array of skills and the techniques required to execute them safely. Amica and Shawn have trained extensively separately and together, and are prepared to bring only the best acrobatic moves to share in this class. Welcome to acrobats and dancers of all levels!"
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - Cuddle Killing (Shawn Lesniak, Oakland):
BJJ is a martial art based on leverage and body positioning. It is a low impact fighting technique (no slamming, hitting, or kicking) that is mostly ground based and close range, and it is SO FUN! In this class, we will work on basic ground grappling techniques, weight control, positions, and some awesome submission locks and chokes and techniques to apply them safely. BJJ is an excellent way to stay in shape, engage in strategic play, and practice body awareness. Oh, and did we mention how FUN it is? Amica and Shawn have fallen in love with the sport, and they are confident that you will too. Let’s roll!"
Battle Tumbling - Combative Circus Badassery (Shawn Lesniak, Oakland):
Ready to combine the best things ever into a thing even better than that? Here it is, the world premiere of Shawn and Amica’s uniquely crafted blend of grappling and acrobatics! We will be working on more percussive, movement based partner tricks and flips in this class, with an emphasis on safe, presentational, stage fighting. Amica brings some basic, traditional slapstick techniques to the table, while Shawn shares his expertise in rolling, tucking, throwing, and flipping partner acro moves. Come kick ass with us (or at least make it look like you are)!"
Blues Recess Pub Sing! (Adam Gaya, Seattle, WA)
Think you can't sing? Sing louder! Sea Shanties, Drinking Songs, Labor Anthems, Rounds and Ballads. This workshop is a skill-share within a skill-share, bring a song or two to teach the group and everyone will learn something new. Historical, Anecdotal and Legendary footnotes encouraged and appreciated! For those interested some instruction will be given in the art of song-leading and organizing group singing. (BYOB)
Choral Singing and Body Percussion (Ashley Wright, Eugene, OR):
Let's sing together and play drums and percussion on our bodies! Within minutes we will jump right in to singing danceable pop and folk songs in three-part harmony with beats made of snaps, claps, stomps and more. This is for everyone -- you do NOT have to read music or have ANY previous music-making skills to contribute to and enjoy this experience.
So you want to throw an event? (Jose Gamero, Portland, OR):
Discussion for those who want to learn how to throw an exchange, festival, etc. This class will include organizers of other events and be discussion based.
Organizer Round-Table (Jose Gamero, Portland, OR):
Roundtable discussion for organizers of weekly events, yearly festivals, etc. This is the place to share successes and failures, learn from each other, and meet all the people that put in the sweat to make events around the country happen.
"The Language and Communication Dance: Learning New Moves and Improving Technique"" (Erika & Adam Kardos, Seattle)
We noticed that many of you sexy souls are able to express a very sensual side on the dance floor. However, once off the dance floor, intentions and desires often get lost in translation. This sometimes leads to frustrating and potentially harmful situations where one person thinks that they have the green light to pursue sexy time, and the other thinks that sensuality should remain only on the dance floor. The purpose of this workshop is to give our dance community a new way to communicate and connect. By attending this workshop you may gain greater confidence and skill in having the pre-physical intimacy conversation; deepen your ability to communicate openly and intimately with your community and those you allow to connect with your soul; and continue to create common language for understanding and connecting with one another. "
We Still Throw Stones (just smaller, faster, and more accurately) (Sam Wolanyk, San Diego)
A politically charged issue, guns are all over the media. The amount of propaganda is astounding. I want to teach a class that will help people decide for themselves not only what they believe about individuals owning weapons, but more importantly, why. Focusing on handguns, I start with the basics of firearms safety, then explain the function of revolvers and semiautomatic firearms and demonstrate proper operation of both. I take time to explode the myths and discredit the histrionics, all of which tends to dispel fear. Beyond this, I tend to let the class guide the conversation in the time allotted.
All you will need is an open mind and a willingness to learn. Even if you plan to never own a gun, having knowledge of the correct use, limits and capabilities of any tool is to your advantage. You will come away with a disdain for propagandists, a new appreciation of personal weapons as instruments of peace and hopefully will understand why the gun is civilization. "
Techniques for Tone Control (David Shackelford, San Francisco, CA):
In this class, we'll go through several exercises to help us become aware of and control our muscle tone in dance (and life). You'll walk away more sensitive to your partner's movements, able to lead and follow movement with more nuance and less effort, and with increased capacity for connection and contrast in your dance. This class is especially effective for scene-builders and male-identified folks looking to develop their following, but is also very useful for dancers at any stage of development."
Bodyweight Exercise (David Shackelford, San Francisco, CA)
Weight training is one of the most effective forms of strength, endurance, and flexibility development, but gyms are expensive. In this class, we'll work on movements that simulate Olympic lifts and other compound strength training exercises using nothing but our own bodies, the environment, and maybe a partner."
Digital Metalurgy (Milo Hayden, Portland, OR):
MrMoo approaches specific Ableton-Oriented production techniques and how they apply to making music for dancers. Everything from sampling existing songs, to editing songs, to song structure and mixing techniques to produce songs that are not only unique... but compelling and effective on the dance floor. This is a class for (but not limited to) people familiar with Ableton.
Solo Musical Improv (Milo Hayden, Portland, OR):
MrMoo's special blend of lyrical riffing on composed songs and DJ'd material is unique, and yet also completely possible for anybody with an instrument and a fearless attitude. This is a class for musicians with instruments, as well as DJs with musical instrumental training. Bring your instruments (if you have them) to class, everyone will be given the opportunity to learn in a hands-on fashion.
African Roots of Blues Movement (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
African movement is expressed in many social dances, including Blues, Lindy Hop, and Latin. We will explore rhythmic movements from West African and Congolese dance while learning about pulse, body shaping, and transitions within solo movement. Through movement, we will discover the spiritual component to understand the "feel" of African dancing to inspire and inform our dance. *Side note: This is a high-energy class, please bring comfortable clothes you can sweat in, and a spare change of clothes for after the class.
Ladies Take the Lead (Jasmine Herrick, Berkeley, CA):
A workshop for female identified persons. Connection through breath, micro blues, lifts, aerials, and dips will be taught with a feminist lens and knowledge nuggets along the ay! Some bonus experiments will be added for the joy of event he most experienced lead. It's basted (and based) in blues, with a swig of swing, a sprinkling of salsa, and a drop of hip hop. No prior experience required. I plan to teach first timers through advanced. A little something for everyone, becasue inclusiveness is really important. Bonus Content: Why learning to follow first can help your leading - or, why ladies are uniquely suited to lead!
Blues Up Close (Nicole Trissell, San Francisco; Lucas Weismann, Denver):
Let’s learn all about close embrace! Let's get up close and personal by working on our close embrace. We'll start with the basics of close embrace, really breaking down how the connection works. Then we'll play around with some fun close embrace movements like grape vines, rise and fall and contra body movement, until our dancing is so in sync with our partner we're dancing like one person.
Lyrical Styling (Nicole Trissell, San Frnacisco; Lucas Weismann, Denver):
Learn to create sweepy, lyrical aesthetic. Now that we know how to connect with our partner and the music in a lyrical dance, we’ll delve into the world of lyrical styling. Movement control and dynamics, body shaping and extension, legato and staccato movement, we’ll bring all these concepts together to create the ultimate expression of lyrical music.
Build A Lift Workshop (Nicole Trissell, San Frnacisco; Lucas Weismann, Denver):
Learn how to effortlessly create lifts from your regular dancing. In this class we’ll give you the tools to create great lifts on the fly. We’ll start with safe basing and flying techniques, give you a few ground rules to construct all the lifts you could want, then learn how to dance in and out of them to create seamless movement.
Swoop There It Is (Nicole Trissell, San Frnacisco; Lucas Weismann, Denver):
Swoops, slides and off-axis spins. Remember when you were a kid and you were on a swing set, coming down from the peak of a swing? Want to add that feeling to your dance? In this class we’ll learn how to safely add swoopyness into your dance through a variety of cool tricks that will leave your partner wanting more.
Lego your Preconceptions (Nicole Trissell, San Frnacisco; Lucas Weismann, Denver):
Learn 125 moves in one hour. Have you ever seen a workshop schedule and wondered what it would be like to learn 125 moves in one hour without being overwhelmed? Are you wondering now? Come to our class and see!
Dancing into the Masculine, Feminine and Life (Emily Webb, San Francisco):
How does your dancing represent your life and how you interact with the world? When a move goes bad, what happened in the partnership? What about when a new move feels like perfection? In this class we will let partner dance be the mirror to show us more about ourselves, our fears, and our strengths. We will also take a deep look at lead/follow roles and the masculine and feminine to see how they serve us in life and relationships. The result... better dancing, more success, more joy, and better sex (potentially). All levels
Dancing for the Blind (Emily Webb, San Francisco):
Or rather blindfolded. It's often said that there are three connections in dance: the music, your partner, and the floor. Dancing without using sight enhances all three and makes them all more exciting and juicy... Blues and Fusion dancers are often very visual and, unfortunately, that sometimes replaces clear lead and follow technique. Leads there will be no lazy or unclear leading in this class! And follows no anticipating! Both leads and follows will spend time dancing without the advantage of sight. Leads, take this opportunity to feel into your follow's body mechanics and create a strong kinesthetic connection. Follows, you will jump head first into the world of feeling and trust. Both leads and follows will find themselves more connected, more stable, and more confident when their site is returned. All levels
Walking Imagination (Emily Webb, San Francisco):
Have you ever felt limited by the basic 4 directions of walking (forward, back and to the side)? Imagine a world where you can walk in any direction and your partner can walk in any other--at the same time! Take your lead and follow technique to the next level and learn some simple sacadas (a displacement of a leg or foot by the partner’s leg or foot) moves and principles that will change your outlook on walking forever! Intermediate
An Alternate Axis (Emily Webb, San Francisco):
Create fun, dynamic moves that involve leverage and suspension! In this class we will be giving the follows some hang time off axis and possibly a little spin time too. Leads and follows will explore how to clearly and safely dance into off axis moves, adding a new dimension to your dance. Off axis movement is great for strengthening connection, stability, and balance; and increasing your fun factor exponentially! These moves are sure to make the follows giggle in delight. Intermediate/Advanced
African Movement (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
African dance warms the body, opens the mind, and frees the spirit. We will learn a broad range of grounded movements and explain some concepts of dance along the way. All movements have multiple layers of complexity, so you can push yourself at any level of ability. Be sure to come in comfortable clothes that you do not mind sweating in.
African Rhythms & Drumming (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
Discover the intricate polyrhythms that gave birth to African dance. This class clarifies the complex layers as we find common rhythms of African music. Once the interlocking rhythms are understood, we will discuss and practice movements in our body that link to the music.
Fresh Beats (No, This Is Not a Cooking Class) (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
Rhythm is a driving component of music and dance, and a source for endless play and variations. We will integrate basic and advanced steps into our dance. Then we open Pandora’s Box on polyrhythms and partnered polyrhythms. Learn how to keep your dance engaging through rhythmic play.
One Scoop or Two? (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
Limber up those legs and prepare yourself for a fun class on level changes and elastic movement. We break from the tendency to stand fully upright when dancing and see what happens when you create scooping or rocking dynamics in our dance. Along the way we will break down some useful concepts to improve your overall quality of movement.
Shapeshifters (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
When we dance, we create shapes. These shapes can open energetic pathways, express aesthetic and emotion, and instigate movement. Here we will learn how to create clean, integrated shapes in the body and understand how we can affect our partner through shaping. Come with your thinker’s cap, because there will be a lot of muscles that you probably never knew existed.
Lyrical Dance (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
Dancers typically listen to either the rhythm or the melody (and sometimes both) to inspire and drive their movement. Here we will focus solely on the melody and see what it tells us. Lyrical dance is a fluid style of movement that fits easily with smooth songs. Take this class to further expand your dynamic range of expression in this style.
Latin Blues (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
Many blues songs feature Latin rhythms, but these rhythms can be difficult to access without prior experience in the original dances. You'll learn a few basic Latin rhythms and movements, then dance and hear how they fit into blues. Think of it as old school fusion: latin and blues; a good sassy pair that have been together for a long long time.
Turns That Make You Go ‘Ooo’ (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
Let’s turn a little. This class presents a structure to understand and execute turns. A few simple body alignments will prepare you to create rotational momentum no matter where you begin and will make you confident and lookin’ good on your way there.
To the Ends and Beyond! (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
Let’s dance to the ends of our movement and find the opposite ends in our body. Here you’ll find where your body can stretch in solo and in a partnership. With stretch and lines in the body you’ll be a sure catch to dance with after you get this kind of length.
Soo’s Kitchen (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
But I want! We have so many different kinds of dances on the dance floor and we also have different needs and wants from those dances. Here we’ll be honest about what we need and want from these dances and explore what it means to have technical, emotional, or free dances. Knowing the difference is only the first part; come to class to learn why it is called “Soo’s Kitchen.”
Creative Floorcraft (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
Moving around a dance floor is like walking through an obstacle course. This class will help you navigate a floor with confidence, purpose, and style. Both leads and follows will learn how to avoid collisions by making them creative opportunities. Floorcraft will become an interactive game with your partner and the other dancers. Why stay in the same place? Let's play with each other.
I’m Not Touching You... (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
Solo or partnered‽ Let’s do both at the same time! Figure out what to do, why to do it, and how it can be done. We have some classic and some playful ways to dance with another partner while not touching.
Redirection of Movement (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
“Go this way! No, wait... THIS way!” We’ll learn fun and challenging ways to redirect movement. In the process, we’ll explore momentum and body alignments within the Lead and what to do with the continuation of movement in the Follow.
I Go, You Go (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
We move together a lot, now let’s take turns. Let the music be your guide and also your partner. We will cover some classic and uncommon versions of taking turns in a partnership. Discover call and response play that is both musical and fun.
Contact Improv Part 1 (Isaac Rosen-Purcell, Vancouver BC): Connection To The Floor and Our Movement With It.
Contact Improv Part 2 (Isaac Rosen-Purcell, Vancouver BC): Contact on a Muscular Level.
Contact Improv Part 3 (Isaac Rosen-Purcell, Vancouver BC): Contact on a Skeletal Level: working on the fluidity of movement though skeletal sequencing to find stable alignments in which one can fluidly take and give weight.
Following for Fellas (Reeva Bradley: Berkley, CA):
For leads who aspire to learn how to follow, or are simply interested in learning more about how following works in order to be better leads, in this class we will work on listening not only to our partner, but to ourselves as well. In covering some basic following techniques, we will focus on the unique challenges that come with switching from leading to following. And by learning how to follow, you’ll discover how knowing both roles informs your dancing, while increasing your ability to dance with anyone in the room.
Switch it up! (Reeva Bradley: Berkley, CA):
This is a class for you who are interested in building skills in the opposite role from your norm. Even if you’re not interested in mastering both roles, knowing more about what you’re unfamiliar with facilitates overall improvement in your dancing. In this class, we will cover the basics with an awareness of how you move in your usual role, as well as giving you techniques to switch between lead and follow. When follows are learning how to lead, and leads are learning how to follow, everyone can listen and speak with each other to create more connected and enjoyable dances.
Active listening in partner dance (Reeva Bradley: Berkley, CA):
We have two ears and one mouth for a reason, right? This class takes us from worrying so much about what we do as individuals, to paying attention to our partners’ ideas and appreciating them. In this class, we will exercise our listening skills with our bodies, and build our conversational skills with our partner. When we can listen and communicate our understanding of our partners’ movement, we increase our ability to move in harmony.
Kicking that Johnson & Johnson habit for good! We will be discussing using local, sustainable and natural ingredients to create custom skin care systems that can tackle the most difficult of skin problems. Examples include thyme infused honey face wash, oatmeal and clay mask and exfoliant, and rose and chamomile toner, as well as making your own 1 ingredient moisturizer!
Partner Acrobatics - Dominating Gravity (Shawn Lesniak, Oakland):
Shawn will teach techniques to safely execute acrobatic feats. They’re bringing an array of skills and the techniques required to execute them safely. Amica and Shawn have trained extensively separately and together, and are prepared to bring only the best acrobatic moves to share in this class. Welcome to acrobats and dancers of all levels!"
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - Cuddle Killing (Shawn Lesniak, Oakland):
BJJ is a martial art based on leverage and body positioning. It is a low impact fighting technique (no slamming, hitting, or kicking) that is mostly ground based and close range, and it is SO FUN! In this class, we will work on basic ground grappling techniques, weight control, positions, and some awesome submission locks and chokes and techniques to apply them safely. BJJ is an excellent way to stay in shape, engage in strategic play, and practice body awareness. Oh, and did we mention how FUN it is? Amica and Shawn have fallen in love with the sport, and they are confident that you will too. Let’s roll!"
Battle Tumbling - Combative Circus Badassery (Shawn Lesniak, Oakland):
Ready to combine the best things ever into a thing even better than that? Here it is, the world premiere of Shawn and Amica’s uniquely crafted blend of grappling and acrobatics! We will be working on more percussive, movement based partner tricks and flips in this class, with an emphasis on safe, presentational, stage fighting. Amica brings some basic, traditional slapstick techniques to the table, while Shawn shares his expertise in rolling, tucking, throwing, and flipping partner acro moves. Come kick ass with us (or at least make it look like you are)!"
Blues Recess Pub Sing! (Adam Gaya, Seattle, WA)
Think you can't sing? Sing louder! Sea Shanties, Drinking Songs, Labor Anthems, Rounds and Ballads. This workshop is a skill-share within a skill-share, bring a song or two to teach the group and everyone will learn something new. Historical, Anecdotal and Legendary footnotes encouraged and appreciated! For those interested some instruction will be given in the art of song-leading and organizing group singing. (BYOB)
Choral Singing and Body Percussion (Ashley Wright, Eugene, OR):
Let's sing together and play drums and percussion on our bodies! Within minutes we will jump right in to singing danceable pop and folk songs in three-part harmony with beats made of snaps, claps, stomps and more. This is for everyone -- you do NOT have to read music or have ANY previous music-making skills to contribute to and enjoy this experience.
So you want to throw an event? (Jose Gamero, Portland, OR):
Discussion for those who want to learn how to throw an exchange, festival, etc. This class will include organizers of other events and be discussion based.
Organizer Round-Table (Jose Gamero, Portland, OR):
Roundtable discussion for organizers of weekly events, yearly festivals, etc. This is the place to share successes and failures, learn from each other, and meet all the people that put in the sweat to make events around the country happen.
"The Language and Communication Dance: Learning New Moves and Improving Technique"" (Erika & Adam Kardos, Seattle)
We noticed that many of you sexy souls are able to express a very sensual side on the dance floor. However, once off the dance floor, intentions and desires often get lost in translation. This sometimes leads to frustrating and potentially harmful situations where one person thinks that they have the green light to pursue sexy time, and the other thinks that sensuality should remain only on the dance floor. The purpose of this workshop is to give our dance community a new way to communicate and connect. By attending this workshop you may gain greater confidence and skill in having the pre-physical intimacy conversation; deepen your ability to communicate openly and intimately with your community and those you allow to connect with your soul; and continue to create common language for understanding and connecting with one another. "
We Still Throw Stones (just smaller, faster, and more accurately) (Sam Wolanyk, San Diego)
A politically charged issue, guns are all over the media. The amount of propaganda is astounding. I want to teach a class that will help people decide for themselves not only what they believe about individuals owning weapons, but more importantly, why. Focusing on handguns, I start with the basics of firearms safety, then explain the function of revolvers and semiautomatic firearms and demonstrate proper operation of both. I take time to explode the myths and discredit the histrionics, all of which tends to dispel fear. Beyond this, I tend to let the class guide the conversation in the time allotted.
All you will need is an open mind and a willingness to learn. Even if you plan to never own a gun, having knowledge of the correct use, limits and capabilities of any tool is to your advantage. You will come away with a disdain for propagandists, a new appreciation of personal weapons as instruments of peace and hopefully will understand why the gun is civilization. "
Techniques for Tone Control (David Shackelford, San Francisco, CA):
In this class, we'll go through several exercises to help us become aware of and control our muscle tone in dance (and life). You'll walk away more sensitive to your partner's movements, able to lead and follow movement with more nuance and less effort, and with increased capacity for connection and contrast in your dance. This class is especially effective for scene-builders and male-identified folks looking to develop their following, but is also very useful for dancers at any stage of development."
Bodyweight Exercise (David Shackelford, San Francisco, CA)
Weight training is one of the most effective forms of strength, endurance, and flexibility development, but gyms are expensive. In this class, we'll work on movements that simulate Olympic lifts and other compound strength training exercises using nothing but our own bodies, the environment, and maybe a partner."
Digital Metalurgy (Milo Hayden, Portland, OR):
MrMoo approaches specific Ableton-Oriented production techniques and how they apply to making music for dancers. Everything from sampling existing songs, to editing songs, to song structure and mixing techniques to produce songs that are not only unique... but compelling and effective on the dance floor. This is a class for (but not limited to) people familiar with Ableton.
Solo Musical Improv (Milo Hayden, Portland, OR):
MrMoo's special blend of lyrical riffing on composed songs and DJ'd material is unique, and yet also completely possible for anybody with an instrument and a fearless attitude. This is a class for musicians with instruments, as well as DJs with musical instrumental training. Bring your instruments (if you have them) to class, everyone will be given the opportunity to learn in a hands-on fashion.
African Roots of Blues Movement (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
African movement is expressed in many social dances, including Blues, Lindy Hop, and Latin. We will explore rhythmic movements from West African and Congolese dance while learning about pulse, body shaping, and transitions within solo movement. Through movement, we will discover the spiritual component to understand the "feel" of African dancing to inspire and inform our dance. *Side note: This is a high-energy class, please bring comfortable clothes you can sweat in, and a spare change of clothes for after the class.
Ladies Take the Lead (Jasmine Herrick, Berkeley, CA):
A workshop for female identified persons. Connection through breath, micro blues, lifts, aerials, and dips will be taught with a feminist lens and knowledge nuggets along the ay! Some bonus experiments will be added for the joy of event he most experienced lead. It's basted (and based) in blues, with a swig of swing, a sprinkling of salsa, and a drop of hip hop. No prior experience required. I plan to teach first timers through advanced. A little something for everyone, becasue inclusiveness is really important. Bonus Content: Why learning to follow first can help your leading - or, why ladies are uniquely suited to lead!
Blues Up Close (Nicole Trissell, San Francisco; Lucas Weismann, Denver):
Let’s learn all about close embrace! Let's get up close and personal by working on our close embrace. We'll start with the basics of close embrace, really breaking down how the connection works. Then we'll play around with some fun close embrace movements like grape vines, rise and fall and contra body movement, until our dancing is so in sync with our partner we're dancing like one person.
Lyrical Styling (Nicole Trissell, San Frnacisco; Lucas Weismann, Denver):
Learn to create sweepy, lyrical aesthetic. Now that we know how to connect with our partner and the music in a lyrical dance, we’ll delve into the world of lyrical styling. Movement control and dynamics, body shaping and extension, legato and staccato movement, we’ll bring all these concepts together to create the ultimate expression of lyrical music.
Build A Lift Workshop (Nicole Trissell, San Frnacisco; Lucas Weismann, Denver):
Learn how to effortlessly create lifts from your regular dancing. In this class we’ll give you the tools to create great lifts on the fly. We’ll start with safe basing and flying techniques, give you a few ground rules to construct all the lifts you could want, then learn how to dance in and out of them to create seamless movement.
Swoop There It Is (Nicole Trissell, San Frnacisco; Lucas Weismann, Denver):
Swoops, slides and off-axis spins. Remember when you were a kid and you were on a swing set, coming down from the peak of a swing? Want to add that feeling to your dance? In this class we’ll learn how to safely add swoopyness into your dance through a variety of cool tricks that will leave your partner wanting more.
Lego your Preconceptions (Nicole Trissell, San Frnacisco; Lucas Weismann, Denver):
Learn 125 moves in one hour. Have you ever seen a workshop schedule and wondered what it would be like to learn 125 moves in one hour without being overwhelmed? Are you wondering now? Come to our class and see!
Dancing into the Masculine, Feminine and Life (Emily Webb, San Francisco):
How does your dancing represent your life and how you interact with the world? When a move goes bad, what happened in the partnership? What about when a new move feels like perfection? In this class we will let partner dance be the mirror to show us more about ourselves, our fears, and our strengths. We will also take a deep look at lead/follow roles and the masculine and feminine to see how they serve us in life and relationships. The result... better dancing, more success, more joy, and better sex (potentially). All levels
Dancing for the Blind (Emily Webb, San Francisco):
Or rather blindfolded. It's often said that there are three connections in dance: the music, your partner, and the floor. Dancing without using sight enhances all three and makes them all more exciting and juicy... Blues and Fusion dancers are often very visual and, unfortunately, that sometimes replaces clear lead and follow technique. Leads there will be no lazy or unclear leading in this class! And follows no anticipating! Both leads and follows will spend time dancing without the advantage of sight. Leads, take this opportunity to feel into your follow's body mechanics and create a strong kinesthetic connection. Follows, you will jump head first into the world of feeling and trust. Both leads and follows will find themselves more connected, more stable, and more confident when their site is returned. All levels
Walking Imagination (Emily Webb, San Francisco):
Have you ever felt limited by the basic 4 directions of walking (forward, back and to the side)? Imagine a world where you can walk in any direction and your partner can walk in any other--at the same time! Take your lead and follow technique to the next level and learn some simple sacadas (a displacement of a leg or foot by the partner’s leg or foot) moves and principles that will change your outlook on walking forever! Intermediate
An Alternate Axis (Emily Webb, San Francisco):
Create fun, dynamic moves that involve leverage and suspension! In this class we will be giving the follows some hang time off axis and possibly a little spin time too. Leads and follows will explore how to clearly and safely dance into off axis moves, adding a new dimension to your dance. Off axis movement is great for strengthening connection, stability, and balance; and increasing your fun factor exponentially! These moves are sure to make the follows giggle in delight. Intermediate/Advanced
African Movement (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
African dance warms the body, opens the mind, and frees the spirit. We will learn a broad range of grounded movements and explain some concepts of dance along the way. All movements have multiple layers of complexity, so you can push yourself at any level of ability. Be sure to come in comfortable clothes that you do not mind sweating in.
African Rhythms & Drumming (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
Discover the intricate polyrhythms that gave birth to African dance. This class clarifies the complex layers as we find common rhythms of African music. Once the interlocking rhythms are understood, we will discuss and practice movements in our body that link to the music.
Fresh Beats (No, This Is Not a Cooking Class) (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
Rhythm is a driving component of music and dance, and a source for endless play and variations. We will integrate basic and advanced steps into our dance. Then we open Pandora’s Box on polyrhythms and partnered polyrhythms. Learn how to keep your dance engaging through rhythmic play.
One Scoop or Two? (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
Limber up those legs and prepare yourself for a fun class on level changes and elastic movement. We break from the tendency to stand fully upright when dancing and see what happens when you create scooping or rocking dynamics in our dance. Along the way we will break down some useful concepts to improve your overall quality of movement.
Shapeshifters (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
When we dance, we create shapes. These shapes can open energetic pathways, express aesthetic and emotion, and instigate movement. Here we will learn how to create clean, integrated shapes in the body and understand how we can affect our partner through shaping. Come with your thinker’s cap, because there will be a lot of muscles that you probably never knew existed.
Lyrical Dance (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
Dancers typically listen to either the rhythm or the melody (and sometimes both) to inspire and drive their movement. Here we will focus solely on the melody and see what it tells us. Lyrical dance is a fluid style of movement that fits easily with smooth songs. Take this class to further expand your dynamic range of expression in this style.
Latin Blues (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
Many blues songs feature Latin rhythms, but these rhythms can be difficult to access without prior experience in the original dances. You'll learn a few basic Latin rhythms and movements, then dance and hear how they fit into blues. Think of it as old school fusion: latin and blues; a good sassy pair that have been together for a long long time.
Turns That Make You Go ‘Ooo’ (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
Let’s turn a little. This class presents a structure to understand and execute turns. A few simple body alignments will prepare you to create rotational momentum no matter where you begin and will make you confident and lookin’ good on your way there.
To the Ends and Beyond! (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
Let’s dance to the ends of our movement and find the opposite ends in our body. Here you’ll find where your body can stretch in solo and in a partnership. With stretch and lines in the body you’ll be a sure catch to dance with after you get this kind of length.
Soo’s Kitchen (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
But I want! We have so many different kinds of dances on the dance floor and we also have different needs and wants from those dances. Here we’ll be honest about what we need and want from these dances and explore what it means to have technical, emotional, or free dances. Knowing the difference is only the first part; come to class to learn why it is called “Soo’s Kitchen.”
Creative Floorcraft (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
Moving around a dance floor is like walking through an obstacle course. This class will help you navigate a floor with confidence, purpose, and style. Both leads and follows will learn how to avoid collisions by making them creative opportunities. Floorcraft will become an interactive game with your partner and the other dancers. Why stay in the same place? Let's play with each other.
I’m Not Touching You... (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
Solo or partnered‽ Let’s do both at the same time! Figure out what to do, why to do it, and how it can be done. We have some classic and some playful ways to dance with another partner while not touching.
Redirection of Movement (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
“Go this way! No, wait... THIS way!” We’ll learn fun and challenging ways to redirect movement. In the process, we’ll explore momentum and body alignments within the Lead and what to do with the continuation of movement in the Follow.
I Go, You Go (Andrew Smith & Jenny Sowden, New York, NY):
We move together a lot, now let’s take turns. Let the music be your guide and also your partner. We will cover some classic and uncommon versions of taking turns in a partnership. Discover call and response play that is both musical and fun.
Contact Improv Part 1 (Isaac Rosen-Purcell, Vancouver BC): Connection To The Floor and Our Movement With It.
Contact Improv Part 2 (Isaac Rosen-Purcell, Vancouver BC): Contact on a Muscular Level.
Contact Improv Part 3 (Isaac Rosen-Purcell, Vancouver BC): Contact on a Skeletal Level: working on the fluidity of movement though skeletal sequencing to find stable alignments in which one can fluidly take and give weight.
Following for Fellas (Reeva Bradley: Berkley, CA):
For leads who aspire to learn how to follow, or are simply interested in learning more about how following works in order to be better leads, in this class we will work on listening not only to our partner, but to ourselves as well. In covering some basic following techniques, we will focus on the unique challenges that come with switching from leading to following. And by learning how to follow, you’ll discover how knowing both roles informs your dancing, while increasing your ability to dance with anyone in the room.
Switch it up! (Reeva Bradley: Berkley, CA):
This is a class for you who are interested in building skills in the opposite role from your norm. Even if you’re not interested in mastering both roles, knowing more about what you’re unfamiliar with facilitates overall improvement in your dancing. In this class, we will cover the basics with an awareness of how you move in your usual role, as well as giving you techniques to switch between lead and follow. When follows are learning how to lead, and leads are learning how to follow, everyone can listen and speak with each other to create more connected and enjoyable dances.
Active listening in partner dance (Reeva Bradley: Berkley, CA):
We have two ears and one mouth for a reason, right? This class takes us from worrying so much about what we do as individuals, to paying attention to our partners’ ideas and appreciating them. In this class, we will exercise our listening skills with our bodies, and build our conversational skills with our partner. When we can listen and communicate our understanding of our partners’ movement, we increase our ability to move in harmony.
above photo by Andy Lee (LVBR 2012)