Community & Dance Lab Dance Classes
The Dance Studies Programme offers a range of dance classes taught by our Dance Lecturers, qualified associated teachers and Dance Lab. Our classes, based at the University of Otago campus in Dunedin, are open to adults aged 16 and over. There is no maximum age limit, subject to adequate levels of fitness. Walk-ins are welcome. All our classes take place in our dance studio on 665 Cumberland Street (opposite Smithell’s Gymnasium, near Otago Museum); ground floor.
Prices are per class and for 2011. Cash only.
AfroContemporary Dance
This contemporary fusion technique class spices up modern dance with a West African flavor and style. This workshop blends contemporary, African (Guinea, Senegal), and Caribbean movement. Participants will develop basic African dance skills, alignment and releasing techniques and gradually move into high energy movement that is celebratory, and fluid.
Starts July 20th - 5 week session, Wednesdays
All levels 6-715pm
Cost:
$6/$9
Classes are taught by Dr. Ojeya Cruz Banks – Lecturer in Dance Studies in the School of Physical Education/director of Dance Lab. Ojeya performed many years with ZUZI Dance Company in Arizona and has worked as a choreographer at several U.S. Universities.
For more information: ojeya.cruzbanks@otago.ac.nz or call 479-7684
Ballet
The classes will be structured to cover all requirements of musicality, speed and stamina. Emphasis will be placed on clean technique, the presentation of movement and on musical dynamics to develop artistry and have fun!
Certificates for regular attendance will be awarded upon successful completion of the course. Minimum of 75% attendance rate required.
Walk-ins are welcome at any time.
Ballet Elementary/Low Intermediate
This class is appropriate for students who have at least 2 years’ experience, or for those who have not practised for a while and would like to pick up (slowly) from where they left off.
Time: Thursday 14 July – 22 September from 6-7.30pm Cost: $8/$5 for students with ID
Ballet Intermediate/Advanced
This open class is intended for those who have achieved at least an intermediate level in ballet.
Time: Tuesday 12 July-4 October from 6-7.30pm Cost: $8/$5 for students with ID
Classes this semester are taught by Sophia Kalogeropoulou. Sophia trained professionally at the Royal Academy of Dance in London and taught ballet for many years in Greece, Britain and New Zealand.
For more information: email alexandra.kolb@otago.ac.nz or call 479-8965.
Contemporary Dance/Movement Exploration
A 50-min movement exploration which incorporates elements from various dance vocabularies - a generous spattering of modern dance, body-mind and the odd reference to that wonderful technique "ballet". Phrases of movement are offered, and moments of inner and outer world explored. Any level of experience is welcome: none or some or lots. The main objective is to be open, to have fun, be playful and to work within your own physical abilities as you see fit.
Time: Thursdays 1-1.50pm (24 March- 23 June 2011) Cost: $5
Classes are taught by:
Kilda Northcott – choreographer, dancer and former founding member of Limbs Dance Company and Douglas Wright Dance Company; Recipient of Queen’s Birthday Honours Award for services to dance.
For more information: kilda.iha@clear.net.nz or call 4727685.
Modern Dance
This modern dance class is open to those who are interested in dancing as a medium for exercise, creativity, self-expression and technique building. It is varied in its approach to accompaniment and lesson content, with opportunities for partner and group work. It is best suited for those who already have some dance or movement-training background and enjoy lessons with a social atmosphere.
Time: Saturdays 11-12.30pm (26 February - 23 June 2011) Cost $8/$6 for students with ID
Classes are taught by:
Dr. Shona Dunlop MacTavish, MBE – former dancer and choreographer with Bodenwieser Dance Company, Vienna.
Suzanne Renner - Senior Lecturer at the College of Education and former dancer and choreographer of Ririe-Woodbury Dance Company, USA.
For more information call Shona Dunlop MacTavish on 4675642.
West African Guinea Dance
This is an all level djembe dance class will explore dance techniques, songs and culture from Guinea, West Africa. Students will learn basic dance skills while developing stamina, back strength, alignment, and musicality. This movement invokes a sense of community solidarity and joy.
Starts July 22nd - 5 week session, Fridays
All levels 5:30-7pm
Cost:
$6 /$9
New Beginner Level West African Dance from Guinea Starts July 3rd 6 week session
Sundays 12-1:10pm Taught by Aliza Yair
Cost:
$6/$9
All classes taught by Ojeya Cruz Banks. No class the week of Aug 8th.
Also starting Aug 19th classes will be accompanied by Ben Isaacs, djembe and sabar drummer from San Francisco and will go for 2 hours.
For more information: ojeya.cruzbanks@otago.ac.nz or call 479-7684.
West African Senegalese Dance
This is an all levels class will explore Sabar dance techniques, songs and culture from Senegal, West Africa. Originally a woman’s dance is now widely danced and celebrated by all. Students will learn basic dance skills while developing stamina, back strength, alignment, and musicality. The movement is sassy, energetic, and joyous.
Starts Fridays April 8
All levels 530-7p
Cost: $6/9
Classes are taught by Dr. Ojeya Cruz Banks – Lecturer in Dance Studies in the School of Physical Education/director of Dance Lab. Ojeya performed many years with ZUZI Dance Company in Arizona and has worked as a choreographer at several U.S. Universities.
For more information: ojeya.cruzbanks@otago.ac.nz or call 479-7684.
For further information on the dance courses see http://physed.otago.ac.nz/dance
