Register Now for Fall + Steppin' Out August News
We think the original artwork above of Steppin' Out student Whitney taking her dance class via Zoom (captured by artist Kristen Jensen (c)2020; see below for more info) really captures the spirit of this moment. Yes, the way we are doing things has changed, but we're trying to make the best of it and find the beauty therein.
Now is the time to try something new. Now is the time to build in some movement. Now is the time to find engaging activities for our children. Now is the time to register for fall! Fall term provides an opportunity for dancers to focus on building a movement vocabulary. All spaces are first come, first served, so please register as soon as possible.
(Please note that fall classes will begin online via Zoom and move to the studio once the city clears us to do so.)
NOTES ON CLASS SELECTION
New beginning students may register for any age-appropriate class that follows the prerequisite requirements.
New students entering at the intermediate level or higher will have the opportunity to audition. To schedule an audition, please contact Angela.
Finally, any student who needs help finding the appropriate class is invited to contact Angela.
Ready? Register now.
MOVEMENTS OF THE MONTH: GRAPEVINE
Many of us are dancing in smaller spaces these days, so let's make the most of them! Encourage your dancers to grapevine all the way to the edge of their spaces--in all directions!
The grapevine is a simple but fun traveling move that helps develop balance and rhythm. Have your dancers begin with their arms stretched out to the side for balance. They'll step to the right with their right foot, then cross their left foot over their right from the back, then step again right with their right foot, then cross their left foot over their right from the front (at the studio, we chant "side, back, side, front" when we learn this movement). Try this sequence slowly to the edge of the room and back. Over time, your dancers can gradually pick up speed until it feels a bit like running, just with more style.
DANCE IN THE NEWS: PREVIEW "DANCE OF DREAMS"
We are so excited for the upcoming San Francisco Ballet release of its new dance film "Dance of Dreams" on August 13th. Watch the preview or learn more about this groundbreaking piece that connects dancers, musicians, and the city of San Francisco in a performance created while observing the practices of social distancing.
A NOTE ON ARTIST KRISTEN JENSEN
Artist Kristen Jensen, whose work introduces this newsletter, is working on a series that tries "to capture the experience we are all enduring right now." All profits will be donated to charity. To see more of Kristen's work, view her Facebook page for Kristen Jensen Studio or email her directly at kajensen@comcast.net.
QUICK TIP: DANCE WITH HAMILTON
Have your kids spent the last month singing along to Hamilton? Remind them of the dance pieces too! Try asking them what their favorite choreography was, or encourage them to learn a phrase from the show or even make up their own!