Dance/Theater

Social Dance/Ballroom Ages 12-18

This exciting dance class will be an introduction to ballroom dancing for ages 12+. We will learn various social dance styles that can be done solo, with a partner, or in a group to many types of music. Some of these dance styles may include waltz, foxtrot, tango, cha cha, rumba, salsa, bachata, merengue, swing, and line dances. We hope to perform a choreographed routine for our parents at the end of each semester. 

Participants must wear shoes that secure to their feet well (no flip flops, sandals, crocs) The shoes should have a low tread for easier spinning. Rubber sole shoes are not recommended. Suede soled, low heel ballroom practice shoes are recommended. Jazz dance shoes, character dance shoes, or well fitted dress shoes are also permitted. Participants in this class will need to wear comfortable clothing that will enable them to move freely. Please do not wear tank tops. Girls wearing skirts should be sure to wear shorts underneath. Because this is an art form that requires close contact with other dancers, it is important to observe good hygiene. Shower frequently, use deodorant, brush your teeth, avoid eating pungent foods, etc. You will be making physical contact with your classmates, touching hands, arms, shoulders, and backs. Respectful conduct is required of all students!

Intro to Theater:Storytelling (ages 8-11) 

Human beings have been storytellers since the beginning of civilization. Stories are an integral part of the way we communicate and understand others and the world around us. A skilled storyteller breathes life into what would otherwise be merely a collection of words and ideas, inducing genuine connection and curiosity in their listeners.

In this course, students will engage their fellow classmates weekly with stories from children’s picture books, well known fairy and folktales, poetry, and narratives from their own imagination. With the help of simple props and visual aids, puppets, live actors, and music, students will grow in their confidence to capture an audience’s attention, becoming performers without even realizing it. Weekly class activities will focus on different facets of effective storytelling, including vocal and facial expression, voice intonation, projection and diction. Additionally, interpersonal skills and characteristics like empathy, patience, peer encouragement and positive feedback, listening, and observation are naturally folded into the teaching activities. On the last day of classes, students will participate in the “Storytellers’ Showcase”, a full class presentation of a story of their choosing. Students will weave in and out of the story, taking turns as narrator and players, who silently act out the storyline.