Greetings from the Virtual Studio + Steppin' Out April News
Each month when we write the newsletter, we use the the previous month's version as a template. This month when we did, last month's newsletter felt like it was written for a different world. While of course no one wanted to be in this world that we find ourselves in, we are so grateful to our families for joining us where we can be together right now, on zoom. We had a successful first week--and we also learned a lot. While some aspects of last week were imperfect, what was perfect was getting to "see" each other. And please know that we are continuously experimenting, testing, and refining, so that next week will be even better. Please keep coming to class!
Just a quick reminder to make sure class goes even more smoothly: Please ask your dancers to refrain from using the chat box for anything other than to let the teacher know if there is a problem. We think socializing as a group is important and we'll assign some time to that at the start of class, but chatting back and forth becomes a distraction to the class' focus and pulls the teacher out of teaching. Thank you for your support with this!
Finally, thank you to Adelia and her family for letting us share this wonderful image of what dance instruction looks like in April of 2020.
MOVEMENT OF THE MONTH: IRONING BOARD RELEVÉ
Relevé, which literally means "raised," refers to lifting our bodies so we are up on the balls of our feet or our toes. In ballet class, we often practice relevé at the barre, which can be a helpful tool for balance, especially for younger dancers. Since we may not have a barre at home, why not grab an ironing board or a chair to practice relevé? To begin, hold the chair or board lightly with both hands, then bring the feet into first position and lift your center. Push into the toes and begin to lift your heels off the floor. Slowly remove your hands off of the support to find full balance, engaging your core. For an added challenge, consider bringing the arms to a high fifth (round both arms over your head). Then practice from other foot positions (second, third, fourth, etc.). Once you've finished for the day, keep that chair handy so you can use it again at dance class time!
FEATURED VIRTUAL ACTIVITY OF THE MONTH
Stream Andrew Lloyd Webber musicals for free! The first release is "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" next Friday. Learn more or subscribe to the YouTube channel.
DANCE PERFORMANCE IN THE TIME OF SOCIAL DISTANCING
As we all learn how best to respond to our current reality, it's great to be inspired by others. Please enjoy this amazing video of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater performing Rennie Harris' "Lazarus" (Together While Apart).
QUICK TIP: SET REMINDERS FOR CLASS!
As we shelter in place, it's become cliché to suggest we often lose track of what day it is--yet at the same time, it can feel somewhat true. Avoid missing dance class by setting recurring reminders in your calendar so we can be together for each and every class meeting.