ART EXPLORATIONS is aimed to shake up how we see things.  This class encourages artists to be curious and playful as we explore feelings and emotions, while also promoting positive self-expression!  Class can be done individually or as a collaboration with a family member & is intended to be enjoyed by ALL ages.  

  • REQUIRED MATERIALS: This is a list of materials that are required for this session.  You might even have some or most of these supplies already lying around your house!  All materials can be purchased on Amazon, found at Target or any other craft store.  Please note this class does not require the use of scissors.

  • AMAZON SHOPPING LIST: This shopping list includes everything you need for class! Of course you are not required to purchase on Amazon, but this link also provides visuals and price points.

    https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/32YG1WJO0USIR?ref_=wl_share

  • REQUIRED MATERIALS LIST:

    • Artist / Drawing paper:  11x15 is best, but 9x12 works too!  Using an art journal is also another option.

    • Elmer's glue

    • Foam brush:  a fun & easy way to paint & glue (listed as 'ROYAL BRUSH')

    • Washable markers (and/or crayons, colored pencils, etc)

    • Dot markers (or paint markers)

    • Oil pastels: a great material that encourages color expression

    • Tissue paper -OR- you can use colored wrapping paper for/from presents, colored paper, etc. 

    • Masking tape OR painters tape

    • Magazines** 

    *Please note this class does not require the use of scissors.

    **We will use magazines for a few projects, so start saving magazines!

BALLET:  This class is a true introduction to ballet, which involves a combination of grace and strength.  Using an adapted approach that was developed to inspire a love for movement, dancers will learn the fundamentals of this classical technique through barre and center exercises - along with choreography.  Dancers will also acquire an understanding of music and rhythm, and will be introduced to basic vocabulary. 

CONTEMPORARY:  A style of dance that pulls from both jazz and ballet, and so this class begins to tap into these specific techniques.  This class explores the different dynamics of dance:  levels, tempo & quality of movement.  Improv is also a big component, as dancers are encouraged to explore the way their body moves in order to find and cultivate their own style. 

HIP HOP:  A high energy class that encourages dancers to move bigger, stronger, sharper and faster than they may be used to.  Using music that is fun and easy to dance to, this class focuses on basic hip hop technique and choreography.  Dancers are also encouraged to explore their own unique movements through freestyle and improv.

JAZZ: Jazz is a genre that stands on its own, packed with dimensional movement, tons of style & lots of dynamics. It also incorporates ballet technique and can be performed to all kinds of music. The warm-up will be a true introduction to jazz technique and the class will also include choreography and improv.

MUSICAL THEATER:  A genre of dance that incorporates dialogue, movement and music to relay emotions and tell stories.  Being that we are primarily a dance program our focus will be more on movement, but this class will also touch on storytelling and singing.

TAP:  A style of dance using foot sounds and claps to create timing and rhythm for sound-based movements. Dancers will learn fundamental steps, sound placement, rhythmic patterns through formula-blocks (repetitive A - A - B - A patterns) — all while having fun with volume & dynamics!  Class ends with dancers sharing their connection to music with improvisational tap moves.

  • RECOMMENDED ATTIRE: TAP SHOES!  These are not required but encouraged for those that are ready to commit.  For those that prefer to wait, your dancer can wear athletic tennis shoes that lace up instead.  We like to call these dancers our 'tennis shoe tappers'!

WARRIOR 21: An adaptive yoga class designed specifically for our community.  This class offers a creative space for yogis to connect to their INNER WARRIOR!  Yogis will learn to stretch in new and safe ways, expand their heart, and tune inward to find a sense of peace & calm.  

  • SUGGESTED PROPS: A yoga mat is recommended, but not required!  If a mat isn’t available to you, we suggest your yogi take this class on a carpet or rug for some added comfort.  A blanket is also recommended as a prop to sit on for the beginning of class (or a beach / bath towel works too).  We strongly urge you to stay away from fluffy blankets or pillows, as they are unstable and could lead to injury.


ages

Our regular classes are designed for ages 7 through adult.  If your student is almost 7, we are happy to consider younger students on an individual basis.  To submit a request, please email Sari Anna: sari@downfordance.org

If your student is between the ages 2-6 and you are interested in future classes for this age group, send us a quick email letting us know & we will reach out just as soon as they are back up and running! info@downfordance.org