Spring14
LET’S GET PHYSICAL
Courses, drop-in classes & workshops for everyone 6 January – 5 April
Dance Base 14 –16 Grassmarket Edinburgh EH1 2JU
0131 225 5525 dance@dancebase.co.uk dancebase.co.uk
Patron: HRH Prince Charles Duke of Rothesay KT KG Artistic Patron: Mark Morris
Dance Base is a registered charity that encourages and celebrates the potential for dance in everyone. Dance Base gratefully acknowledges support from:
Corporate Sponsors:
If you or your company would like to support Dance Base please contact Alex Hinton, Communications & Development Manager on 0131 225 5525 Front cover: 80s Icons – Fiona Campbell, Chris Stuart-Wilson, Francesca Dymond Photography: Maria Falconer Design: Emma Quinn Print: Streamline
Contents Welcome
3
Community
4/5
Studio 1
6
Professional
7
Venue
8
How we do it
9
How to book
10 / 11
Workshops
12 / 13
Ballet
14 / 15
Celtic
16 / 17
Contemporary
18 / 19
Hip hop
20 / 21
Jazz
22 / 23
Just for Fun
24 / 25
Partner dances
26 / 27
Tap
28 / 29
Wellbeing & Workout
30 / 31
World dances
32 / 33
Young dancers
34 / 35 / 36 / 37
Day Planner
38 / 39
Welcome
Welcome
Spring is the time to refresh, and there’s plenty new at Dance Base this term. We've got a new programming team and a new look to our brochure, so where better to discover your ‘New Year new you’ than with us! There’s so much on offer for everyone new to dancing – including free dancing for anyone over 60 who hasn’t danced with us before at the new-style Golden class (p25). If you've danced with us for a while, we’ve simplified some of the programme as we want to give you easy routes to develop your dancing (see Ballet p14). Due to popular demand we've got more high-flying aerial sessions and more classes to give you a good (dance) workout. Dance is for everyone and everyone can dance so we’ve got new classes specially designed for both our babies and our baby boomers. We’ve broken our young people’s activity into clear chunks so there’s more to choose from at each stage – including new creative dance for children. We’ve got some great workshops on offer, from ballet to Bollywood (p12) and our ever popular ballroom socials, to new breakdance open weekend sessions. Although we have no Christmas Show this term there are other opportunities for our classes to show off their moves throughout 2014 as part of the exciting Get Scotland Dancing programme (p5). To give you a flavour of all the other activities, we’ve got information about our important community projects (p4) and our extensive professional programme (p7). We are excited to have been passed the baton of community dance at Dance Base and look forward to the new spring term!
Amy Noble Community Dance Manager
Helen McIntosh Programme Co-ordinator
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Community Dance Base’s Community Programme is fully inclusive, working with a diverse range of people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. We create opportunities for people to be able to see, make and take part in high-quality dance within their local community and on a national level. We take creative dance workshops and projects to schools, youth and community groups in the local area and beyond. Groups and individuals can also access classes, professional residencies and performances in our award-winning building in the Grassmarket. Having recently joined the team at Dance Base, it is my vision to provide inspiring and life-enriching dance experiences for participants and get more people dancing. By developing relationships with local and national partners, I aim to continue to build an exciting and innovative infrastructure of community dance in Edinburgh. If you’d like to help us to continue and expand our work with these community groups, simply buy a Lucky Ticket! Anyone who buys an adult course can buy a Lucky Ticket – they only cost £1 and you get the chance to win back the cost of your course. All income goes directly to support our community projects. See dancebase.co.uk/luckyticket for more details and T&Cs. To find out more or to get involved with the Community Dance Programme, please feel free to contact me at amy@dancebase.co.uk. Amy Noble Community Dance Manager I page 4
Seated Swing Dance keeps older people active and alert, both physically and mentally, and enhances their emotional and social wellbeing. For those older adults who can’t make it to us, we can take dance to them. Our 1920s-style Seated Swing classes are fun and energising and are specially designed to get toes tapping and hands clapping regardless of age or ability. We are currently working in four centres around Edinburgh but would love to get more people involved. We’re looking for continuing funding to support this project.
Early Years Dance lets children move freely and expressively. Dancing together with your child can help to build confidence and develop important motor and cognitive skills. We currently sing, dance and play with lots of Early Years groups throughout North Edinburgh and have recently started working with a group of marginalised young mums, helping them to discover the physical, emotional and social benefits of dancing with their children. We’re looking for continuing funding to support this project.
The Unusual Suspects Dance Base’s very own ‘boys only’ dance crew! This group is free and open to keen, young male dancers who want to take their dancing experience to a new level and get out there and perform. The group meets at Dance Base on Wednesday afternoons to work on varying styles of choreography from breakdance to contemporary. The group has recently performed at Dundee Rep Theatre and Y Dance Connections event in Edinburgh. Now they are working towards creating new work for Get Scotland Dancing. Supported by Get Scotland Dancing
Raising the aspirations of at-risk young people through an intensive programme of dance and education. This includes weekly classes, performances, attending professional rehearsals, attending theatre performances and learning about a healthy lifestyle. So in the next few months the group will be working with Edinburgh Community Food, Glasgow Parkour and taking part in national project, The Close, delivered by Scottish Ballet. We are delighted to announce that we have just received funding from CashBack for Communtities to continue this work for another year.
young people in dance activity – sessions are delivered by a youth worker and a dance tutor to ensure everyone gets the support they need to make the most of their chance to dance! All participants in the taster sessions will be invited to come along to weekly classes at Dance Base. At the end of the project the young people will put on a show for friends, family and the local community to demonstrate their new skills.
Community
Current Community Projects
Get Scotland Dancing: Dance Open Day Sunday 16 March Everybody Dance Now! We are excited to be continuing our work with special schools in Edinburgh, running a series of dance and movement classes for disabled children. Each term we work with four different school groups, delivering a bespoke programme of dance, movement and music tailored to the needs of the school and the participants.
Breakin’ It Down In partnership with The State CIC, a hip hop education organisation, we are visiting schools in North Edinburgh to deliver break dance taster sessions. We are taking a different approach to engaging
Get Scotland Dancing encourages more people to get active and participate in dance. Supported by the Scottish Government, Get Scotland Dancing will bring together community and professional dancers to showcase dance activities that are already happening in Edinburgh and the Lothians. It will also provide the opportunity for those who have never danced before, or those who are returning to dance, to get fit, healthy and find their inner dancer in 2014. Kicking off in March, we will be opening our doors and inviting you and your friends to come along for a day of free taster sessions taught by some of our wonderful tutors. It’s an ideal way for our existing dancers to show off what we do and encourage everyone to join the movement.
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Dance Base Development
Studio1 Dance Base is working to realise its ambition to create a much-needed, fully-equipped technical studio space for professional dancers and companies to innovate, create and develop new work. The space will develop the existing, well-established professional residency programme to the logical next stage. It will also provide opportunities for community dancers to show their work in a blacked-out, fully-lit space with accessible, raked seating. Creative Scotland is supporting this important development and we now need to raise the last portion of funding to complete the project. This new resource will greatly enhance the opportunities available to all professional and community dancers and open up possibilities for exciting special projects. If you’d like to know more about this, or find out how you can help make it happen, visit dancebase.co.uk/studio1
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Professional
Professional Programme Alongside the ever-evolving and fabulous community programme that keeps Edinburghers dancing, we host inspirational training for professional dancers that makes the building fizz with creativity and that supports the professional dance community all over Scotland and beyond. We offer regular residencies that give dancers and choreographers the space and time to develop new work. So, many great dance shows around Scotland and indeed the UK were born in our studios. On the last day of those residencies the dancers often feel the urge to share their ideas, so watch out for our weekly showings on Friday afternoons where work that’s in development is showcased free in one of our studios. See dancebase.co.uk/professional to keep an eye on what’s coming up. This term there is an extra buzz in the house as many dancers prepare for British Dance Edition 2014 (see below).
Morag Deyes MBE Artistic Director
British Dance Edition 2014 30 January – 2 February We’re delighted to be hosting British Dance Edition 2014, Britain’s biennial showcase of the best dance from around the UK. This is the first time British Dance Edition has been in Scotland and its presence starts off a great creative year for us all. Delegates from as far afield as Korea, America, Brazil and Australia will converge in Edinburgh and Glasgow over four very busy days to see some amazing dance, but also to enjoy the delights of our beautiful cities. You too can join the party – the headliners are open to everyone with three special performances at the King’s Theatre. Tickets available at edtheatres.com and on 0131 529 6000. There is also a joint ticket offer of £30 if you book for all three shows.
Akram Khan Company
Scottish Dance Theatre
iTMOi (in the mind of igor)
Winter, Again
Hofesh Shechter Company
King’s Theatre
Avant Garde Dance
Sun
The Black Album
King’s Theatre
King’s Theatre
Sun 2 Feb I 16.00 I £12
Fri 31 Jan I 18.30 I £12
Recognised as one of the UK’s most exciting contemporary artists, Shechter is both composer and choreographer for this outstanding work which features 14 world-class dancers.
Thu 30 Jan I 19.30 I £12 Image: Akram Khan, iTMOi Photo: Jean Louis Fernandez
Visit dancebase.co.uk/BDE for more information
To celebrate the centenary of Stravinsky’s legendary Rite of Spring, this highly-acclaimed new work explores the way Stravinsky transformed both classical music and dance. iTMOi is another extraordinary artistic collaboration from Khan and his talented team, creating a world where beauty and ugliness are ruptured to reveal how closely they interrelate with each other.
A contrasting double bill of hip hop and contemporary dance, starting with three effortlessly stylish hip hop choreographies woven together like a cool black concept album by Avant Garde Dance. Scottish Dance Theatre presents a dark and beautiful piece by radical Norwegian choreographer Jo Strømgren.
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Hire Dance Base Our beautiful studios, meeting room and other spaces are available to hire, offering flexible options in an amazing central-Edinburgh location. Our award-winning spaces can be used for everything from private dance tuition to meetings, and from children’s parties or hen parties to corporate events and receptions. Please contact our Venue Manager, Matt Roe, on matt@dancebase.co.uk or call 0131 225 5525. dancebase.co.uk/hires-and-events Dance Base is accessible via a lift from our entrance in the Grassmarket. Dance Base has been awarded the ADAPT Trust Access Award in recognition of our facilities for people of all abilities.
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How we do it
How we do it We’re Flexible!
Brand new for spring
C Courses
Musical Theatre Performance group
p 23
80s Icons
p 24
Aerial Skills More classes added!
p 25
Know what you want? Book in advance for the full term and save money.
D Drop-in classes Not sure what to try or need to be flexible? Drop-in is for you. Bookings open 24 hours in advance. CD
Some classes are available as both course and drop-in.
G Gentler classes
Look out for this symbol if you’re returning to dance after a long break or injury, or if you’d like a gentler session.
S Get Sweaty
Young Dancers New programme
p 34 – 37
Older Dancers Ballet Vintage
p 15
Platinum
p 19
Golden – an introduction to dance
p 25
Tap for Mature Movers
p 29
(Im)Mature Latin Movers
p 33
For more on levels (including our new Entry Level) and types of class, call us on 0131 225 5525 or visit dancebase.co.uk/howto
Get Sweaty Jazz Turn Up & Dance
p 23
Ashtanga Yoga
p 30
It’s for everyone!
Dance Workout
p 31
Dance Base is for everyone and age is no barrier. All classes are open to everyone aged 14+ unless otherwise specified. And, whether you want a buddy for your first class, have specific access needs, or just need a helping hand to guide you, we can help. Please tell your teacher about pregnancy, any health issues or medical conditions you might have. Visit dancebase.co.uk/access or ask at reception for more information.
Afro Cuban
p 33
Bollylicious
p 33
West African Dance
p 33
Contemporary ASN
p 19
To find out practical details like what to wear, where you can change and when to arrive, please see dancebase.co.uk/howto
Hip Hop ASN
p 21
Creative Movement ASN
p 25
Look out for this symbol if you want to sweat, get fit and fired up through dance.
Classes for dancers with additional support needs Ceilidh ASN p 17
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How to book Phone 0131 225 5525 In person at 14 –16 Grassmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2JU Online at dancebase.co.uk Term Dates Monday 6 January – Saturday 5 April Booking opens on Saturday 30 November 2013 at 10.00, and enrolment for 13-week courses closes on Saturday 18 January 2014. Drop-in classes can be bought from 24 hours in advance to just before class begins.
Try Before You Buy Love to dance but unsure about which style or level to go for? Try a class absolutely free before deciding if it’s the one for you. Drop in to any course in the first two weeks of term and have a go with no obligation! Courses are subject to availability and can only be booked in person at reception. Go to dancebase.co.uk/TBYB for details. Dance Points Be rewarded every time you dance! Sign up for a Dance Card and start earning points straight away. Earn 1 dance point for every £1 spent on courses, drop-in classes and workshops. Redeem points at the equivalent of 10p per point. For example, 65 points gets you a free drop-in class valued at £6.50. For terms and conditions, see dancebase.co.uk/dancepoints
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Booking Spread the cost To make things easier, courses can be paid for in three instalments, with the first payment taken on booking. Terms and conditions apply. See dancebase.co.uk/spreadthecost for details. You must pay all three instalments regardless of whether or not you complete the course, or receive a credit. A £3 card processing fee will be split between the second and third instalments. If purchasing multiple instalment plans, the fee only applies once. Feeling lucky? Win back the cost of your course for just £1! Buy your Lucky Ticket when purchasing your course. The draw will take place on 7 February. All proceeds go to the Community Programme – see page 4 for details of our projects. Lucky Ticket is available to over 16s only. Details at dancebase.co.uk/luckyticket The small print Concessionary rates are listed in brackets. To find out if you are eligible, visit dancebase.co.uk/terms-a-conditions. Proof of eligibility will be required. Refunds and Exchanges All courses are non-refundable, but credit will be issued if you notify us in the first two weeks of term that you need to cancel your course. Please note that cancellations are subject to terms and conditions. Please see dancebase.co.uk/terms-a-conditions Latecomers will not be admitted to class more than 15 minutes after it is due to start. This is both for safety and to prevent disruption to the class. I page 11
Workshops Breakdance Open Sessions Sun 12 Jan, 16 Feb and 16 Mar I 13.00 – 15.00 I All Levels The State CIC I £2
Open training space for hip hop dancers to practise skills learned in class. A chance to meet and train with other hip hop dancers on the scene in an informal session without specific tuition. All styles and ages welcome, under 16s should be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Ballroom & Latin Practice Sessions Sun 16 Feb and 16 Mar I 15.00 – 17.00 I All Levels Jane Bell and Marina Delicata I £10 (£8)
We provide the floor, the music and expert help – you bring your partner and dance! Whatever your level of competence in either some or all of the classic dances – waltz, foxtrot, tango, rumba, cha-cha-cha, samba or jive, Jane and Marina will explain, coach and correct to increase your confidence and knowledge to dance. This session is for anyone who has some ballroom experience. Single dancers attending may be partnered with others where possible.
Broadway Jazz Sun 23 Feb I Jo Richards I £14 (£11.50) Beginners 12.00 – 14.00 I Intermediate 14.00 – 16.00
They say all the world’s a stage – now’s your chance to shine! In this workshop we'll work on a classic number from one of Broadway’s timeless shows, looking at jazz-based footwork, use of character and performance. In two separate sessions, Beginners and Intermediate, Jo will break down the choreography and have you spotlight-ready in this relaxed class. Feel free to come in costume! The musical for the sessions will be chosen in a Facebook poll by participants.
Bollywood Sun 30 March I 13.00 – 15. 00 I All Levels Jayan Kumar, Dance Ihayami I £14 (£11.50)
In this fun and energetic Bollywood dance workshop you will learn a dynamic dance routine to the music from a South Indian film. Get your arms, legs and hips ready for some funky Indian dance moves as you’ll be turning into a Bollywood hero or heroine in zippy choreography. Fun, enjoyable, and a great workout too! Wear loose and comfortable clothing. You’ll be dancing barefoot. I page 12
Workshops
Northern Ballet Workshops Sun 16 Mar
Children’s Workshop (10 – 13 yrs) 10.00 –12.00 I £8
An exciting opportunity for young ballet enthusiasts to experience working with this inspirational professional company. Following a basic ballet warm up you will learn steps from the production and creatively explore the story and characters from the show.
Northern Ballet Insight 12.15 – 12.45 I Free I Open to all workshop participants
To complement your workshop, join Northern Ballet for a talk on the company and production.
Adult Workshop (age 14 +) 13.30 – 15.30 I £14 (£11.50) I All Levels
Join Northern Ballet for a workshop inspired by A Midsummer Night’s Dream. The workshop includes a short ballet class to develop technique and the opportunity to explore and learn steps from the production to create your own piece of movement. All workshop participants will be entitled to 2 x £10 tickets for A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre from 20 – 22 March 2014. For more information go to dancebase.co.uk/northernballet
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Ballet
Elegant, beautiful, and one of the best body conditionings you could ask for, ballet is as popular now as ever. Right from beginner level, ballet helps builds muscle tone and improves posture through graceful and expressive movement.
Never been to a ballet class before? Absolute Beginners is for you. If you know the difference between a plié and a tendu, head for Beginners. Wear comfortable clothing, but not too loose. And have fun!
For more information on appropriate levels, or to find out which ballet class is for you, go to dancebase.co.uk/balletfocus
Ballet Absolute Beginners
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Ballet Improvers
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Entry Level I £82 (£65.50)
Level 2 I £82 (£65.50)
Thu 9 Jan – Thu 3 Apr I 17.30 – 18.30 I Lauren Porter-Worth
Mon 6 Jan – Mon 31 Mar I 20.30 – 21.30 I Lauren Porter-Worth
This class is for those who have never been to a ballet class before. It will introduce you to the fundamentals of classical ballet technique, exploring the basic positions and steps, proper posture and alignment. You will learn simple jumping, turning and travelling sequences, all while developing your poise, style, grace and musicality.
Wed 8 Jan – Wed 2 Apr I 20.30 – 21.30 I Matthew Hawkins
Ballet Beginners
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Fri 10 Jan – Fri 4 Apr I 18.00 – 19.00 I Jonathan Burnett
For those who want to brush up on their basics, this class will continue to build and develop your movement vocabulary using the principles and techniques introduced in Ballet Beginners. Through barre work and centre-practice, you will strengthen your core, develop presentation skills and delve deeper into the world of classical ballet technique while introducing a more expressive approach to movement.
Level 1 I £82 (£65.50) Mon 6 Jan – Mon 31Mar I 19.30 – 20.30 I Lauren Porter-Worth Fri 10 Jan – Fri 4 Apr I 17.00 – 18.00 I Jonathan Burnett
This course will continue to build a vocabulary of ballet steps and movement phrases that will develop your strength, confidence and poise. Linking basic steps together, in this class you will float, fly and have fun with no stress or strain!
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Ballet Intermediate
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Level 3 I £103 (£82.50) Fri 10 Jan – Fri 4 Apr I 19.00 – 20.15 I Jonathan Burnett
Consolidate your technique, build up your confidence, explore your artistry and join the famous Friday-night class. Enhance your technique and performance while learning gems from classical ballet’s glorious repertoire.
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Level 4 I £103 (£82.50)
Essential Ballet
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Level 3 I £8.50 (£7)
Fri 10 Jan – Fri 4 Apr I 20.15 – 21.30 I Jonathan Burnett
Thu 9 Jan – Thu 3 Apr I 19.00 – 20.30 I Teacher TBC
In this advanced class, the focus will be on strengthening and refining your technique while continuing to develop artistry and musicality. Unlock and explore the wonderful and rich world of classical ballet’s repertoire by learning sequences and excerpts from well-loved classics such as Sleeping Beauty and Swan Lake.
This high-level class will consolidate your technique and enhance your interpretive skills. Building confidence and strength, the sequences will challenge both your creativity and physical stamina.
Ballet Stretch
Level 2 I £8.50 (£7)
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Morning Ballet
Ballet
Ballet Advanced
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Fri 10 Jan – Fri 4 Apr I 11.00 – 12.30 I Vincent Hantam
All Levels I £6.50 (£5.50) Mon 6 Jan – Mon 31 Mar I 08.00 – 09.00 I Charlotte Jarvis
An invigorating way to begin your day. Wake up your body and mind with a simple ballet warm-up followed by a revitalising full-body stretch. This class will leave you feeling refreshed, re-aligned and prepared for the challenges of the day ahead.
Ballet Fusion
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These classes have all the right ingredients for a fun dose of ballet. From barre work to centre practice, your muscles will be reminded to lengthen and turn out. Musicality, length of line and working to your abilities and beyond will leave you wanting more and feeling great.
Ballet Vintage
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All Levels I £60 I Lauren Porter-Worth
Level 2 I £82 (£65.50) Tue 7 Jan – Tue 1 Apr I 20.30 – 21.30 I Charlotte Jarvis
This class will use the basics of ballet and contemporary technique in a relaxed environment to improve and develop your posture, balance, flexibility, co-ordination, and strength. The class brings awareness to breath, ease and fluidity of movement, while focusing on the joy of ballet.
Ballet for Lunch
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Fri 10 Jan – Fri 4 Apr (not 31 Jan) I 10.00– 11.00
Specially designed for dancers over 60, this session will take the structure of a traditional ballet class. Emphasis will be placed on alignment and balance to produce ease of movement and develop body awareness, musicality and an understanding of your body’s own artistic possibilities. Perfect for those coming back to ballet after time away and those who have never done ballet before!
Level 2 I £6.50 (£5.50) Wed 8 Jan – Wed 2 Apr I 12.30 – 13.30 I Charlotte Jarvis
A fun weekly class that begins with traditional barre work before progressing to centre. Covering the foundations of classical ballet technique, the focus is on fun, joy and the musicality of ballet. It will leave you feeling light and invigorated for the rest of the day.
Barefoot Ballet
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Level 2 I £8.50 (£7) Thu 9 Jan – Thu 3 Apr I 10.00 – 11.30 I Charlotte Jarvis
Balance, alignment and precise legwork make up an integral part of ballet technique, but it is nothing without the use of breath and upper body. In an easy-going environment, with socks or bare feet, feel connected to the floor, your breath, and the expansive movement and fluidity of ballet, while never forgetting the expressive element and joy of dance.
C 13-WEEK COURSE
D DROP-IN
CD COURSE OR DROP-IN
G GENTLER CLASSES
S GET SWEATY
LIVE MUSIC
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Celtic Scottish dancing is alive and well! Join the revelry at our highland and ceilidh classes, then show off to your friends. With live music, and a strong social element, these dances are the original toe-tapping floor fillers. Footwear depends on the class. To find out more, visit dancebase.co.uk/celticfocus
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Celtic
Irish Dance
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All Levels I £82 (£65.50)
Ceilidh
CD
All Levels I £82 (£65.50) / £6.50 (£5.50)
Tue 7 Jan – Tue 1 Apr I 17.30 – 18.30 I Jennifer Roxburgh
Thu 9 Jan – Thu 3 Apr I 19.30 – 21.30
Learn traditional and modern Irish Dance steps as well as performance skills and have a great time getting fit! The class begins with an appropriate aerobic warm up, before moving on to soft shoe technique and choreography, where your skills will improve week by week.
Cathy and Eric Wood
Highland Beginners
CD
Level 1 I £82 (£65.50) / £6.50 (£5.50)
This class is a chance to learn those traditional Scottish dances, enjoy live music and join in the ceilidh! There will be a variety of dances taught throughout the evening with a natural progression to more complex dances by the end of the class. A great way to have fun, meet new people and experience an integral part of Scottish culture. This is a new, longer session, so you can really get into the swing.
Mon 6 Jan – Mon 31 Mar I 17.30 – 18.30 I Veronica Jackson
Enjoy the energetic, rhythmic steps of our country’s national dances. Veronica, former World Champion, will teach you the way to enjoy all the swirling sounds of not just the bagpipes, but all the great up-tempo music Scotland has to offer.
Ceilidh for dancers with D additional support needs All Levels I £5.50 Fri 10 Jan – Fri 4 Apr (not 31 Jan) I 11.00 – 12.00 Sheila McCutcheon
Highland Improvers
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Level 2 I £82 (£65.50) Mon 6 Jan – Mon 31 Mar I 18.30 – 19.30 I Veronica Jackson
The class is energetic, fast and introduces a higher standard of Highland dance steps. Enjoy an hour of fun to the sounds of Scotland, dancing our national hornpipes and jigs.
C 13-WEEK COURSE
D DROP-IN
CD COURSE OR DROP-IN
Ceilidh dancing is possibly the most social of all dances. Dance with your partner, dance with others in a group and join in the party! The pace of this class will be led by the dancers with live accordion accompaniment. Prepare for a lot of fun and a lot of laughs.
G GENTLER CLASSES
S GET SWEATY
LIVE MUSIC
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Contemporary Individuality and freedom of creativity really flourish in contemporary dance, all the while giving you a firm foundation in technique, strength and balance. Bare feet are best for contemporary, along with comfortable clothing.
Techniques and styles differ in contemporary, so to find out more about which class is for you, go to dancebase.co.uk/contemporaryfocus
Contemporary Beginners Level 1 Thu 9 Jan – Thu 3 Apr I 20.30 – 21.30 I Emma Park D £6.50 (£5.50) Fri 10 Jan – Fri 4 Apr I 17.30 – 19.00 I Alan Greig £110 (£88)
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These classes will introduce you to the fundamental elements of alignment, strength, flexibility, rhythm, momentum and expression. From centre exercises to travelling across the space, you’ll experience a mental as well as physical challenge while working up a sweat and enjoying the buzz that comes from dancing.
Level 2 Mon 6 Jan – Mon 31 Mar I 11.00 – 12.00 Steinvor Palsson I £82 (£65.50)
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Tuesday I 17.30 – 18.30 Emma Park I £6.50 (£5.50)
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Level 3 I £110 (£88) Mon 6 Jan – Mon 31 Mar I 19.00 – 20.30 I Steinvor Palsson
This technique class focuses on placement, control, breath and musicality. Emphasis is on finding a strong centre from which to explore movement with care, efficiency and fluidity. Technique exercises lead into longer travelling sequences and jumps to get you moving in the space to the rhythms of wonderful live music.
Contemporary Advanced-Pro
Contemporary Improvers
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Level 4 – Pro I £4.50 Wed 8 Jan – Wed 2 Apr I 18.00 – 19.30 I Steinvor Palsson
These classes emphasise placement, strength, breath, momentum and musicality. Enjoy a thorough technical warm-up followed by travelling sequences that combine the fundamental elements of contemporary dance to rhythmic live music. I page 18
Contemporary Intermediate
Throughout this class, emphasis is on moving with ease, efficiency and fluidity. Focusing on alignment, breath, clarity of movement and musicality, the class moves from standing exercises for technique and stability, through to movement sequences and jumps that explore space, rhythm and shifting dynamics.
Level 3 – Pro I £110 (£88) / £8.50 (£7)
Contemporary for dancers with additional support needs
Thu 9 Jan – Thu 3 Apr I 17.30 – 19.00 I Thania Acarón
All Levels I £5.50
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Tue 7 Jan – Tue 1 Apr I 11.00 – 12.00
This class draws upon contemporary-release technique, focusing on flow, dynamic movement and our connection to the floor. We will build and deconstruct technique, developing a stress-free relationship between dance, embodiment and floor work.
Platinum
Contemporary
Contemporary (Release-Based)
Emma Park and Matthew Hawkins
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All Levels I £65.50 Thu 9 Jan – Thu 3 Apr I 15.30 – 16.30 I Emma Park
We will focus on safely preparing the body to move, travelling through the space and creatively building movement patterns as well as working with rhythm, expression and fun! All movements will have a number of variations so whatever your experience or ability, you’ll be able to enjoy developing your own skills. Support workers are encouraged to participate in the session to explore recreational benefits and increase rapport.
A contemporary class designed for dancers over 60, the session will introduce you to the fundamental elements of alignment, strength, flexibility, rhythm and momentum. From centre exercises to travelling across the floor, the session will present the opportunity to challenge both the mind and body. It’s best if you have had some dance experience in the past, and a fitness level that means you are comfortable with little jumps and a spot of rolling around on the floor!
C 13-WEEK COURSE
D DROP-IN
CD COURSE OR DROP-IN
G GENTLER CLASSES
S GET SWEATY
LIVE MUSIC
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Hip hop Hip hop started on the streets. Inspired by the famous Manhattan Cotton Club, dancers expressed the hardship and grit of daily life through this innovative and spirited dance form. Nowadays, with its countless different styles – such as house, lockin’ and poppin’ – it is still as funky, energetic and fun as ever. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and indoor trainers, and be prepared to sweat! For more information on which class is for you, or to find out more about hip hop, go to dancebase.co.uk/hiphopfocus
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Commercial Hip Hop
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Level 1 I £6.50 (£5.50)
All Levels I £6.50 (£5.50)
Thu 9 Jan – Thu 3 Apr I 19.00 – 20.00 I Ashley Jack
Tue 7 Jan – Tue 1 Apr I 18.30 – 19.30 I Jo Richards
If you love music and dance, then get involved! Learn a funky new routine each week and challenge the body and mind at a relaxed pace. In this class you will go through the basic moves and rhythms to different styles within hip hop, street and social dance. This class keeps you fit and up to date on the latest styles and hottest tracks, as well as introducing you to old skool technique and classic jams.
We know Nicki Minaj, Beyoncé and Shakira can shake it, but now it’s our turn to take over! In this fast-paced, fun class, we will cover styles from music video to reggaeton to pure pop – make sure you bring all your diva attitude.
Hip Hop
Hip Hop Beginners
Mini Jackers Invite only I Age 8+ I FREE Mon 6 Jan – Mon 31 Mar I 17.00 – 18.00 I Ashley Jack
Hip Hop Mix
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Level 2 I £6.50 (£5.50) Fri 10 Jan – Fri 4 Apr I 18.00 – 19.00 I Ashley Jack
If you like trying a bit of everything within the hip hop genre, then this is the class for you! From funk styles lockin’ and poppin’, to New York’s hip hop and house … each week will be a lucky dip. There will be something for everyone.
Hip Hop Intermediate
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Level 3 I £82 (£65.50) / £6.50 (£5.50)
Edinburgh-based dance company Jackin the Box presents a new, exciting opportunity for young dancers. Artistic Director Ashley Jack aims to create an even stronger dance scene within the youth community. The group will develop performances, build skills and work together as a company. Class is by invitation/audition only.
Hip Hop for dancers with additional support needs
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All Levels I £5.50 I Allan Irvine
Thu 9 Jan – Thu 3 Apr I 18.00 – 19.00 I Ashley Jack
Fri 10 Jan – Fri 4 Apr (not 31 Jan) I 10.00 – 11.00
In this class, we will be pushing the boundaries a little further, progressing into learning more advanced technique, choreography and, most importantly, working on musicality. Come and learn a new, fresh routine each week and explore the history of hip hop culture along the way. This class will push each person to find their own style and most of all … have fun!
Do you enjoy dancing? And would you like to have a really good time with other young dancers? Then this is the class for you – hip hop with an emphasis on fun. Make Friday the funkiest day of the week.
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Jazz
The broadest of the traditional dance categories, jazz means anything from Fosse to Fame to Footloose. And with a healthy dose of high-energy drama, jazz is one of the most enjoyable and inclusive dance genres. Bring your inner diva to the party and release the attitude!
Wear indoor trainers and comfortable clothing. For more details, go to dancebase.co.uk/jazzfocus
Jazz Absolute Beginners
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Jazz Intermediate
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Entry Level I £82 (£65.50)
Level 3 I £110 (£88)
Fri 10 Jan – Fri 4 Apr I 18.00 – 19.00 I Jo Richards
Fri 10 Jan – Fri 4 Apr I 20.00 – 21.30 I Jo Richards
Taking your first steps into the wonderful, versatile style that is jazz? With a laid-back approach, Jo will guide you, covering many facets of jazz including musicals, street jazz, swing, lyrical and much more. So come along, have a giggle and have a go!
If you already have the basics down, this is the class for you. Focusing on developing technical skill and understanding of the various styles within the jazz spectrum, this class is gonna make you sweat! Covering six different routines over the term, it’ll keep your brain and body working.
Jazz Beginners
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Level 1 I £82 (£65.50)
Jazz Advanced / Pro
Fri 10 Jan – Fri 4 Apr I 19.00 – 20.00 I Jo Richards
Level 4 – Pro I £4.50
For those with a little understanding of the style and following the same basis as Absolute Beginners, we’ll develop your jazz-tastic skills even further! Bring bags of confidence – and be prepared to have a laugh or two – in a relaxed environment.
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Sat 11 Jan – Sat 5 Apr I 16.00 – 17.00 I Paul Wood
This is an energetic and dynamic class that spans a wide variety of jazz forms including Fosse, musical mainstream, and street funk soul. A challenging and fun class that will have you building up a sweat and will allow you to explore and develop dance styles used by the pros.
Jazz
Jazz Turn Up & Dance
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Musical Madness
All Levels I £6.50 (£5.50)
All Levels
Mon 6 Jan – Mon 31 Mar I 18.00 – 19.00 I Jo Richards
Wed 8 Jan – Wed 2 Apr I 19.30 – 20.30 Chris Stuart-Wilson I £82 (£65.50)
Wannabe pop idols take serious note: here’s the best high-energy jazz class for your development as a dance floor diva/dude!
Destination Jazz
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All Levels I £82 (£65.50) Sat 11 Jan – Sat 5 Apr I 14.30 – 15.30 I Chris Stuart-Wilson
Fancy a bit of everything? Here at DJ Travel we aim to provide you with a varied tour programme. Take a flap-a-tap into the 20s, or swing into the 60s. Maybe a saunter down the Carnival in Rio or some hip hop in Harlem? This fast-paced course crams every second with so many surprises and wonders, make sure you leave enough space in your case for your new-found confidence!
Wed 8 Jan – Wed 2 Apr I 20.30 – 21.30 Chris Stuart-Wilson I £82 (£65.50) / £6.50 (£5.50)
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Do you like to tango in the Cell Block? Do you shout, ‘Good Morning, Baltimore!’ everyday? Are you Defying Gravity? If you answered ‘Yes!’ or you simply want to learn fun and dynamic dance routines from your favourite shows, this is the class for you. With a diverse range of fabulous musicals per term there really is no business like show business!
Musical Theatre Performance Group
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All Levels I £110 (£88) Sat 11 Jan – Sat 5 Apr I 13.00 – 14.30 I Chris Stuart-Wilson Open audition Sat 11 Jan
For the first time, we are putting on a performance course outwith the Christmas term AND we are basing it on more than one iconic musical. This course is for anybody with a passion for musical theatre and gives the opportunity to perform at the end of the term at Dance Base. It will introduce participants to acting and other performance techniques, and result in a mini-revue of musicals and films. This course is admitted by informal audition.
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Just forFun You’re sure to find something to your taste in this eclectic section. With the emphasis very much on fun, our 80s Icons class will make you feel atomic; Aerial Skills will teach you to fly; and Burlesque is sure to release the inner show-girl.
To find out more, go to dancebase.co.uk/funfocus
Burlesque Beginners
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Burlesque Intermediate
Level 1 I £82 (£65.50) I Age 18+
Level 3 I £82 (£65.50) I Age 18+
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Tue 7 Jan – Tue 1 Apr I 19.30 – 20.30
Tue 7 Jan – Tue 1 Apr I 20.30 – 21.30
Academy of Burlesque & Cabaret
Academy of Burlesque & Cabaret
Think Dita von Teese, Gypsy Rose Lee and Bettie Page – slip on your seamed stockings and opera gloves as you are led through the glamorous world of retro burlesque-striptease. Teaching technique and incorporating it into dance routines, this class is guaranteed to make you feel confident and sassy!
Burlesque Intermediate builds on the burlesque essentials of concept, character and choreography in a class that uses advanced peeling techniques, props (including chair and fan dance) and troupe work honed in the Improvers class. A fun-filled class that concentrates on individual and group performance techniques and works on developing acting, as well as dance and peeling skills.
Burlesque Improvers
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Level 2 I £82 (£65.50) I Age 18+
80s Icons
Mon 6 Jan – Mon 31 Mar I 20.30 – 21.30
All Levels I £82 (£65.50)
Academy of Burlesque & Cabaret
Sat 11 Jan – Sat 5 Apr I 16.00 – 17.00 I Chris Stuart-Wilson
Burlesque Improvers is designed for those already initiated in the world of old-fashioned burlesque and concentrates on the ‘3 Cs’ of burlesque – concept, character and choreography – as well as advanced peeling, posing and teasing techniques! This class will challenge the individual performer as well as offer fun-filled troupe work.
They were so bad they were good! Unleash the beast that is your inner 80s wannabe and tay-tay-tay-tay take a trip back to double denim, ra ra skirts, leg warmers and more in this brand spanking new, high-energy course. Celebrate everything from Flashdance to Footloose, Madonna to MJ and even Jane Fonda. Get physical and let's put the ham in Wham!
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Aerial Skills Beginners
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Level 1 I £65.50 or FREE for new dancers
Level 1 I £135 (£108)
Tue 7 Jan – Tue 1 Apr I 15.00 – 16.30 I Dance Base teachers
Mon 6 Jan – Mon 31 Mar I 15.00 – 16.30 I All or Nothing
Golden is a taste of the wonderful dance delights on offer to the over 60s at Dance Base. This entry-level course will give those who have never danced before, and those who already enjoy dancing, the chance to learn new styles or revisit long-forgotten steps. With a sampling of ballet, jazz, contemporary and tap, whet your dance appetite and exercise both your body and mind. This course is free to dancers who have never participated in a Dance Base class before and is a great introduction to our programme for over 60s.
Mon 6 Jan – Mon 31 Mar I 17.15 – 18.45 I All or Nothing
Dance Makers
All Levels I £135 (£108)
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Just for Fun
Golden
Climb, swing, hang and suspend your way through this class. Starting with a warm-up and conditioning, the class will focus on learning the very basics of aerial skills, spending time on silks, rope and trapeze. This is suitable for complete beginners but we advise that you should have a good level of fitness and upper-body strength to get the most from the class.
Aerial Skills
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Mon 6 Jan – Mon 31 Mar I 13.30 – 15.00 I All or Nothing
All Levels I £57 (£46) I 9-week lecture series
Mon 6 Jan – Mon 31 Mar I 18.45 – 20.15 I All or Nothing
Fri 7 Feb – Fri 4 Apr I 11.30 – 13.00 I Agnes Ness
This term will continue to look at dance-makers past and present. The series will also prepare for the companies visiting Edinburgh: Northern Ballet, Matthew Bourne, Scottish Ballet and for the performances from the Bolshoi, relayed ‘live’ to the Cameo Cinema. The hope is also to entice a few of the choreographers in residence at Dance Base to come and speak about their work. An exciting term. D Creative Movement for dancers with additional support needs
Suitable for both beginners and those with more experience in the air. The beginners group will focus on learning the very basics of aerial skills, while the improvers will push their existing skill base. You’ll be learning moves and sequences on various aerial apparatus including static trapeze, silks and ropes. We advise that you should have a good level of fitness to get the most from the class.
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All Levels I £5.50 Mon 6 Jan – Mon 31 Mar I 11.00 – 12.00 Roberta Beakbane and Julie Chilvers
Join this lively and fun class for people of all abilities and ages. To music from around the world, you will explore and celebrate your own personal dance movements. Through dance you will develop awareness of your body, express yourself and make connections with others in a supportive environment.
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Partner Dances No longer a reserve of the British tea dance, these classes are a brilliant way of sharing your love of dance with a friend or partner. However, individuals are also welcome as you will be paired up in the class. With a sprinkling of transatlantic flavour, and a dose of South American spice, only the strictly fabulous need apply! For ladies, footwear with a small heel is preferable. Normal trainers should be avoided.
To find out which class is for you, visit dancebase.co.uk/partnerfocus
Ballroom Beginners
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Ballroom Intermediate
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Level 1 I £82 (£65.50)
Level 3 I £110 (£88)
Mon 6 Jan – Mon 31 Mar I 19.00 – 20.00
Wed 8 Jan – Wed 2 Apr I 20.00 – 21.30
Chris Malone and Dawn-Claire Robertson
Chris Malone and Dawn-Claire Robertson
Chris (an international coach) and Dawn-Claire (former British and World Champion) will take you through the basics of the waltz, quickstep, cha-cha-cha and jive. Whether you want to learn for a particular occasion or just for fun, this class will get you moving on any dance floor with style.
A class suitable for those with a sound knowledge of ballroom and Latin, with experience in all rhythms, who would like the challenge of higher-grade figure work and choreography. This class pays the same attention to style and technique as our other classes.
Ballroom Improvers
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Level 2 I £110 (£88) Mon 6 Jan – Mon 31 Mar I 20.00 – 21.30 Chris Malone and Dawn-Claire Robertson
If you have learnt the basics, this class will improve your technique and style. Besides adding to your step patterns in the waltz, quickstep, cha-cha-cha and jive, you can add the exciting tango, samba and pasodoble to your repertoire. I page 26
Cuban Salsa Beginners
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Level 1 I £82 (£65.50) Tue 7 Jan – Tue 1 Apr I 18.00 – 19.00 Yamil Cuedo Ferrera and Kath Bateman
Cuban Salsa is a joyous expression of life and the feel-good factor in these classes is guaranteed! Gradually learning the basic steps and turns, you will learn how to move to fabulous Cuban rhythms and will soon be dancing elementary salsa routines with confidence.
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Level 1 I £82 (£65.50)
Tango Argentino Beginners Tue 7 Jan – Tue 1 Apr I 18.30 – 19.30
Jane Bell and Marina Delicata
Willie and Louise Green and guest teachers Jenny and Ricardo Oria (Rumbos de Tango)
Strictly Social Dancing! Learn to take the floor with the confidence to lead or follow your partner through waltz, social foxtrot, cha-cha-cha, jive, rumba and more. No routines, just pure dance!
Social Ballroom Intermediate
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A course to introduce you to the wonders of Argentine tango in a fun and relaxed way. Rumbos de Tango will guide you through the foundations of the dance and help you discover how to embrace your partner and to walk and dance with elegance.
Fri 10 Jan – Fri 4 Apr I 20.00 – 21.30
Tango Argentino Improvers
Jane Bell and Marina Delicata
Level 2 I £82 (£65.50) / £6.50 (£5.50)
Level 3 I £110 (£88)
Polish, refine and define your ballroom and Latin skills. Learn to lead or follow, adding figures to your beginner-level dances and increasing your repertoire to include foxtrot, tango, samba and more.
Lindy Hop
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All Levels I £82 (£65.50) Mon 6 Jan – Mon 31 Mar I 20.30 – 21.30 Fly Right Dance Company
Called the Folk Dance of America, this social dance is the original swing dance and evolved from 20s and 30s jazz music. It is a madcap fusion of jazz, Charleston, tap and breakaway. Cool and sophisticated or wild and energetic – the emphasis is always on fun.
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Level 1 I £82 (£65.50) / £6.50 (£5.50)
Fri 10 Jan – Fri 4 Apr I 19.00 – 20.00
13-WEEK COURSE
Partner Dances
Social Ballroom Beginners
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Tue 7 Jan – Tue 1 Apr I 19.30 – 20.30 Willie and Louise Green and guest teachers Jenny and Ricardo Oria (Rumbos de Tango)
Now you’re hooked … so this is the time to start enjoying the magic of improvisation that tango offers. In this class you will be exploring connection and creativity as you master key steps and develop your dance even more.
Tango Argentino Intermediate
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Level 3 I £82 (£65.50) / £6.50 (£5.50) Tue 7 Jan – Tue 1 Apr I 20.30 – 21.30 Willie and Louise Green and guest teachers Jenny and Ricardo Oria (Rumbos de Tango)
You will be introduced to different steps and turns to enhance your social dance. The course will also cover new combinations and adaptations, focusing on variation and musicality, relaxation and enjoyment.
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Tap If you’ve ever been envious of Fred Astaire’s poise and Gene Kelly’s pizazz, tap will bring you one step closer. A fantastic way to develop your natural rhythm and inventiveness, and, with a satisfying percussive element, tap is one of the world’s most popular dance forms. Tap shoes or strong, hard-soled shoes will do. Visit dancebase.co.uk/tapfocus for more details.
Tap
Tap Absolute Beginners
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Tap Advanced
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Entry Level I £82 (£65.50)
Level 4 I £82 (£65.50)
Tue 7 Jan – Tue 1 Apr I 17.30 – 18.30 I Dawn Turner
Tue 7 Jan – Tue 1 Apr I 20.30 – 21.30 I Dawn Turner
For those who have never tapped before. This class introduces basic tap steps along with technique for rhythm and style, and builds a fun routine each week. This is a relaxed class with time to practise and chat.
Develop your vocabulary of steps and fast footwork through challenging exercises, and increase your rhythmical awareness with complicated cross-rhythm work. Then put it all into practice in a fantastic routine which we will build week-by-week. Come to this class ready for an exciting, fun challenge.
Tap Beginners
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Level 1 I £82 (£65.50)
Tap for Mature Movers
Tue 7 Jan – Tue 1 Apr I 18.30 – 19.30 I Dawn Turner
Have fun while increasing your ability. Suitable for those who have done at least one term of Absolute Beginners or equivalent. You should be able to shuffle-ball-change, tap-step-ball-change, tap-step-heel, etc. Building on previous technique, we will produce more challenging combinations.
Tap Improvers
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Level 2 I £65.50 / £5.50 Tue 7 Jan – Tue 1 Apr I 16.30 – 17.30 I Dawn Turner
This class teaches you all the lovely things about tap – steps, rhythm and fun – without the exhaustion! There is a warm-up, technique exercises and a routine which builds week-by-week. Designed for dancers aged 60 and over who have done Tap Absolute Beginners, Beginners or equivalent.
Level 2 I £82 (£65.50) Wed 8 Jan – Wed 2 Apr I 19.30 – 20.30 I Susan Harvey
For those who wish to enhance their tap skills and learn more advanced steps in a relaxed and fun way. After a warm-up combination, we will create a fun routine throughout the term using new steps and rhythms. Then you can enjoy a gentle cool down!
Tap Intermediate
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Level 3 I £82 (£65.50) Tue 7 Jan – Tue 1 Apr I 19.30 – 20.30 I Lucy Tulloh
This is a challenging class designed to tighten skill and timing. Each week, the class will work on rhythm and technique exercises that will develop the link between the brain and feet. We will also work towards routines that showcase what we learn in different combinations and across different music genres.
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Wellbeing & Workout The benefits of dance to fitness and health are many, even for those just starting out. In this section you will find classes that will help you heal, workout, lose weight, and tone up while having fun!
To find out which class will most compliment your fitness regime, go to dancebase.co.uk/workoutfocus
Ashtanga Yoga Beginners
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Alexander Technique
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All Levels I £82 (£65.50) / £6.50 (£5.50)
Level 1 I £82 (£65.50)
Wed 8 Jan – Wed 2 Apr I 18.00 – 19.00 I Robert Robertson
Tue 7 Jan – Tue 1 Apr I 19.30 – 20.30 I Polly Rewt
The Alexander Technique analyses your whole movement pattern and helps you to become aware of balance, posture and co-ordination while performing everyday actions. This brings into consciousness tensions throughout your body that have previously gone unnoticed.
Ashtanga Yoga is a physically-demanding sequence of Sun Salutations and postures that work with a powerful style of breathing. You’ll learn how to do individual postures safely, to flow through the sequence and improve your strength, energy and flexibility.
Ashtanga Yoga Improvers
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Level 3 I £82 (£65.50) / £6.50 (£5.50) Wed 8 Jan – Wed 2 Apr I 17.30 – 18.30 I Linda Douglas
Aimed at students who have completed a beginner’s Ashtanga course, this is the ideal class if you are keen to improve and learn more about the technique and benefits of this challenging style of yoga. It is essential that you have a basic knowledge of the sequence to attend this class.
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All Levels I £82 (£65.50) / £6.50 (£5.50) Mon 6 Jan – Mon 31 Mar I 18.00 – 19.00 I Paul Wood Wed 8 Jan – Wed 2 Apr I 19.00 – 20.00 I Paul Wood
A fun, dynamic, dance workout. Learn routines set to a variety of music styles – including funky soul, salsa, disco, and hip hop. Dancing is beneficial to all the main muscle groups, while building up a sweat and getting your heart rate going. The class is designed to be accessible to those who have never danced before, but it will also push more experienced movers. Tone up, lose some weight, or simply have fun.
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Pilates Early Bird
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All Levels I £82 (£65.50) / £6.50 (£5.50)
All Levels I £6.50 (£5.50)
Thu 9 Jan – Thu 3 Apr I 17.30 – 18.30 I Rebecca Palmer
Fri 10 Jan – Fri 4 Apr I 08.00 – 09.00 I Pamela Day
This class is aimed at anyone who would like to focus on rebalancing the whole body through improving posture, muscle strength, bone density, balance and flexibility. Pilates can be beneficial and fun for just about everyone, regardless of physicality, age and fitness level. This class is ideal for those recovering from most injuries, as exercises will be adapted to suit individual needs.
Pilates is a great way to maintain your physical health. It is an exercise system that focuses on stretching and strengthening the whole body. As well as improving posture, muscle tone, flexibility, core strength and joint mobility, Pilates can also relieve stress, tension and nurture wellbeing. A great way to start the day!
Pilates Beginners
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Level 2 I £6.50 (£5.50)
Level 1 I £82 (£65.50) Thu 9 Jan – Thu 3 Apr I 18.30 – 19.30 I Rebecca Palmer
For those new to Pilates. A beginners class focused on rebalancing the body by working to improve posture, strength and flexibility. Just about everyone can benefit from Pilates, regardless of physicality, age and fitness level.
Pilates Improvers
Pilates Morning
Wellbeing & Workout
Gentle Pilates
Wed 8 Jan – Wed 2 Apr I 09.30 – 10.30 I Jeanine Davies
‘Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness’ – Joseph Pilates. A wonderful mind and body form of exercise, Pilates will improve your posture, develop strong, lean muscles and increase suppleness. These exercises and breathing techniques focus and calm the mind, and enliven the whole being.
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Level 2 I £82 (£65.50) Thu 9 Jan – Thu 3 Apr I 19.30 – 20.30 I Rebecca Palmer
For those who have experience in Pilates and understand the basic principles. This class will work on strengthening and stretching the body with a focus on breath, fluidity, postural alignment, and stability.
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World Dances Our fantastic selection of world dances will transport you across continents from the comfort of Edinburgh city centre, and are a fantastic introduction to the culture of another place. Flamenco requires shoes with a small heel; for all other classes wear comfortable clothing and bare feet. For more information, visit dancebase.co.uk/worldfocus
Level 1 I £82 (£65.50)
(Im) Mature Latin Movers
Wed 8 Jan – Wed 2 Apr I 18.30 – 19.30 I Linda Skakel
All Levels I £5.50
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An introduction to basic flamenco techniques and choreography. This is an energetic, no-frills class designed to build a strong foundation in essential flamenco skills and develop understanding of the intricate compas (rhythms) and expression at the heart of undiluted flamenco.
Belly Dance Beginners
Mon 6 Jan – Mon 31 Mar I 12.00 – 13.00 Yamil Cuedo Ferrera
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Level 1 I £82 (£65.50) I Elspeth Swishandhips Wed 8 Jan – Wed 2 Apr I 18.30 – 19.30
Learn basic belly dance moves, get shimmying to Egyptian music and enjoy the energy and elegance of belly dance, modern Cairo style! We will learn basic hip work, fabulous foot patterns and rudimentary rhythms. This moderately energetic class will work your body all over.
Belly Dance Improvers
This is the perfect way to start your week. An early lunchtime class with Yamil Ferrera from Cuba, showing you how to dance salsa, cha-cha-cha and merengue to the smooth sounds of Latin music. No partner required, just a sense of fun and a ‘can-do’ approach to dance. Fun, friendly and especially for the over 60s!
West African Dance
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All Levels I £82 (£65.50) / £6.50 (£5.50) Sat 11 Jan – Sat 5 Apr I 13.00 – 14.00 I Raquel Ribes
Come and enjoy traditional, vibrant West African dance combined in a creative way. The live drumming and energetic movements will leave you uplifted and buzzing for the rest of the weekend!
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Afro Cuban
Level 2 I £82 (£65.50) I Elspeth Swishandhips Wed 8 Jan – Wed 2 Apr I 19.30 – 20.30
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All Levels I £82 (£65.50)
In this class you will learn different styles of Egyptian belly dance, as well as improve your technique, travelling, interpretation and confidence. There will be new moves and an emphasis on modern Cairo style belly dance. Later in the term you will need to bring a veil.
Bollylicious
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Flamenco Beginners
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All Levels I £82 (£65.50) Wed 8 Jan – Wed 2 Apr I 17.30 – 18.30 I Rajani Ravikumar
Thu 9 Jan – Thu 3 Apr I 18.30 – 19.30 Yamil Cuedo Ferrera
Learn to dance authentic Afro-Cuban dances such as Gagá, Vodú and Palo with Yamil Ferrera from Santiago de Cuba. In this all-level class you will learn how to dance to a number of key Afro-Cuban rhythms and work on overall body movements and technique. No previous experience or partner required, just plenty of energy! Great fun and a great workout too.
Bollylicious takes you on a dance journey, offering a unique blend of traditional Indian dance moves with a splash of hip hop, free style, jazz, belly dance and others. Come in comfortable clothing and be prepared to sample diverse rhythms, wriggle your shoulders and swing your hips to this contagious fusion!
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Young Dancers
Exploring your child’s natural physicality can not only be important to their development, but can be a great bonding experience for you. These early years classes are designed to be fun, sensory and build confidence with expressive movement. Obviously when we say mums, we mean mums, dads, and anyone lucky enough to have time to spend with a baby dancer, can join these sessions! Wear loose, comfortable clothing and bare feet. For hip hop, wear trainers. Find out more about kids classes at dancebase.co.uk/kids-classes
Baby Steps 0–1 yrs
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£52 / £4.50
Dance ’n’ Play 2–3 yrs
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£52 / £4.50
Thu 9 Jan – Thu 3 Apr I 13.00 – 13.45 I Roberta Beakbane
Wed 8 Jan – Wed 2 Apr I 10.30 – 11.15 I Gemma Williams
We’ve developed a baby dance class for both mums and babies to enjoy together. Incorporating stimulation and one-to-one interaction using sensory props, music and baby yoga. This also gives parents a chance to stretch and enjoy movement with their babies. Research now shows that the major learning period is in the first 12 months of life – what better way to learn than through an explosion of colour, sound and rhythm to stimulate your baby and aid cognitive development.
Sat 11 Jan – Sat 5 Apr I 10.00 – 10.45 I Janine Wyse
Baby Steps Café
for Baby Steps Participants Thu 13.45 – 15.00 (not 30 Jan)
Spending time with other parents and babies is important too, so we’re creating an informal baby café after each session. We’ll provide tea and coffee for parents and toys for babies. A great chance to relax together in our sensory area.
Using songs, movement and play, children will be encouraged to move freely and expressively in this fun and energetic class. Working together with your child, you will stomp, jump, wriggle and giggle together, helping young dancers to develop important motor skills such as balance and co-ordination, in a creative and imaginative way.
Creative Dance PreSchool 3–5 yrs
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£52 / £4.50 Sat 11 Jan – Sat 5 Apr I 11.00 – 11.45 I Gemma Williams
This class will offer young dancers the opportunity to hop, bound, run, dive, leap, turn, kick and stretch. Creative dance uses rhythm and movement, giving young dancers the chance to express ideas through their bodies and develop self-confidence and social skills in a relaxed and fun environment. Toddlers and preschool prices are for one adult and one child – bring an extra child or adult for £1.50 more.
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Young Dancers
Dance School with a Difference We don’t do exams or follow a syllabus – we’re all about fun, creativity and trying different dance styles so children can discover dance for themselves in an out-of-school setting. It’s about choice and challenge, encouraging every child to go on their dance journey with us. There are three age-specific stages, with choices of dance style in each, so you can progress with one style over time or try something new every term! To read more about how our dance school is different, go to dancebase.co.uk/youthfocus
Mini Dance P1–3 Mini Dance Academy
Junior Dance P4–6 C
£54 I Wed 8 Jan – Wed 2 Apr I 16.00 – 17.00 I Jennifer Bloe
It’s all here in one class! A world of dance in easy-to-learn chunks which will allow young dancers to try a variety of styles. From the basics of ballet and contemporary, to the rhythm of tap and jazz, our mini dancers will be ready for anything!
Street & Hip Hop
£54 I Sat 11 Jan – Sat 5 Apr I 12.00 – 13.00 I Janine Wyse
In this class young dancers will be introduced to the basic street and hip hop moves and techniques. During each class dancers will learn street routines to hip hop sounds old and new, while enhancing self-confidence, fitness and self-discipline. C
£54 I Sat 11 Jan – Sat 5 Apr I 14.00 – 15.00
A chance to move and dance while developing your imagination, dexterity, cognitive and physical strength. Explore the possibilities of expression through movement whilst gaining creative confidence, working with others and having fun in a relaxed and encouraging atmosphere.
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CD COURSE OR DROP-IN
Jennifer Bloe
Following on from Mini Dance Academy, this combination class allows young dancers to develop their dance styles further and explore stage performance. Covering ballet, tap, jazz and contemporary, this is a fun and fast-paced class for any budding performer.
Street & Hip Hop
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£54 I Sat 11 Jan – Sat 5 Apr I 13.00 – 14.00 I Ashley Jack
This class will focus on developing technique, musicality, co-ordination and confidence in street dance and hip hop. Young dancers will be encouraged to be creative and express themselves through movement.
Creative Dance
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£54 I Sat 11 Jan – Sat 5 Apr I 15.00 – 16.00
Gemma Williams
13-WEEK COURSE
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£54 I Wed 8 Jan – Wed 2 Apr I 17.00 – 18.00
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£54 I Sat 11 Jan – Sat 5 Apr I 14.00 – 15.00 I Janine Wyse
Creative Dance
Junior Dance Academy
Gemma Williams
Further developing their imagination, in this class young dancers will learn short pieces of choreography, and be encouraged to input their own creative ideas. Building confidence in self-awareness, movement and imagination, this class will inspire young dancers to get creative!
G GENTLER CLASSES
S GET SWEATY
LIVE MUSIC
I page 35
Dance Base Easter School Dance: Parkour: Animation
Mon 7 – Fri 11 April I 10.00 – 17.00 I Ages 7 – 9 & 10 – 12 £125 (£100 for additional children from the same family)
We’ve revved up our Easter School to include new activities that complement the great dance we’re famous for. The two age groups will work with our dance teachers and Parkour experts, and be introduced to the exciting world of free running techniques, learning how to leap and move through space safely and with confidence. Over the course of the week they will also work with an experienced animator to create, devise and star in a short film, giving them a chance to capture and show off their moves. We’ll throw in some graffiti art, games and other fun activities to make the week fly by. All this will culminate in a mini-showcase of their dance routines and the animated film on Friday afternoon. dancebase.co.uk/easter
Break Free
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£54 I Sat 11 Jan – Sat 5 Apr I 15.00 – 16.00
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£54 I Thu 9 Jan – Thu 3 Apr I 16.30 – 17.30 I B-boy Eel
B-boying or b-girling (formerly called break dancing) was one of the first styles that developed under the umbrella of hip hop dance, and it is still one of the best known today. In this class we will focus on keeping your body and mind fit and healthy, developing your musicality, creativity and your unique style, all while having fun! You will learn b-boy tricks and power moves, plus transitions and footwork, building up to full routines.
Contemporary £54 I Fri 10 Jan – Fri 4 Apr I 16.30 – 17.30 Gemma Williams
Introducing dancers to basic contemporary dance techniques to improve strength, flexibility, rhythm and momentum. Learning centre exercises, travelling sequences, choreography and performance skills, dancers can explore their own creative voice and develop their personal dance style.
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Ashley Jack
This class will help you to better understand the history of the hip hop dance style and movements. It will focus upon improving technique, co-ordination and performance skills. You will develop creativity, confidence and dance attitude while building strength and fitness in a fun environment!
RUNamuck FREE I Fri 10 Jan – Fri 4 Apr I 15.00 – 16.30 I Allan Irvine
Contact allan@dancebase.co.uk to join
Our dance performance group is for everyone between 15 and 19 looking to make good use of their time, energy and dance passion. A fun and energetic group which learns different dance styles, builds on technique and works towards performances. Free!
Mini Jackers Invite only I Age 8+ I FREE Mon 6 Jan – Mon 31 Mar I 17.00 – 18.00 I Ashley Jack Contact amy@dancebase.co.uk to join See page 21 for full details
Young Dancers
Street & Hip Hop
Youth Dance P7+
Ballet Stretch
08.00 – 09.00
p 15
Contemporary Improvers
11.00 – 12.00
p 18
Creative Movement ASN
11.00 – 12.00
p 25
(Im) Mature Latin Movers
12.00 – 13.00
p 33
Aerial Skills
13.30 – 15.00
p 25
Aerial Skills Beginners
15.00 – 16.30
p 25
Mini Jackers INVITE ONLY
17.00 – 18.00
p 21
Highland Dance Beginners
17.30 – 18.30
p 17
Aerial Skills Beginners
17.15 – 18.45
p 25
Dance Workout
18.00 – 19.00
p 30
Jazz Turn Up & Dance
18.00 – 19.00
p 23
Highland Dance Improvers Aerial Skills Ballroom Beginners
18.30 – 19.30 18.45 – 20.15 19.00 – 20.00
p 17 p 25 p 26
11.00 – 12.00
p 19
Golden
15.00 – 16.30
p 25
Tap for Mature Movers
16.30 – 17.30
p 29
Irish Dance
17.30 – 18.30
p 17
Contemporary Improvers
17.30 – 18.30
p 18
Tap Absolute Beginners
17.30 – 18.30
p 29
Cuban Salsa Beginners
18.00 – 19.00
p 27
Commercial Hip Hop
18.30 – 19.30
p 21
Tango Argentino Beginners
18.30 – 19.30
p 27
Tap Beginners
18.30 – 19.30
p 29
Burlesque Beginners
19.30 – 20.30
p 24
Tango Argentino Improvers
19.30 – 20.30
p 27
Tap Intermediate
19.30 – 20.30
p 29
19.30 – 20.30
p 30 p 15
p 26
Burlesque Intermediate
20.30 – 21.30
p 24
p 14 p 24
Tango Argentino Intermediate
20.30 – 21.30
p 27
p 27
Tap Advanced
20.30 – 21.30
p 29
Barefoot Ballet
10.00 – 11.30
p 15
Baby Steps
13.00 – 13.45
p 34
Baby Steps Café
13.45 – 15.00
p 34
Platinum
15.30 – 16.30
p 19
Break Free P7+
16.30 – 17.30
p 37
Gentle Pilates
17.00 – 18.00
p 31
Ballet Absolute Beginners
17.30 – 18.30
p 14
Contemporary (Release-Based) Level 3–Pro 17.30 – 19.00
p 19
p 14
Ballroom Improvers
20.00 – 21.30
Ballet Improvers
20.30 – 21.30
Burlesque Improvers
20.30 – 21.30
Lindy Hop
20.30 – 21.30
Pilates Morning
09.30 – 10.30
p 31
Dance ’n’ Play
10.30 – 11.15
p 34
Ballet for Lunch
12.30 – 13.30
p 15
Mini Dance Academy P1 – P3
16.00 – 17.00
p 35
Ashtanga Yoga Improvers
17.30 – 18.30
p 30
Dance Academy P4 – P6
17.00 – 18.00
p 35 p 33
Contemporary Advanced / Pro
18.00 – 19.30
p 18
Alexander Technique
18.00 – 19.00
p 30
Belly Dance Beginners
18.30 – 19.30
p 33
Flamenco Beginners
18.30 – 19.30
p 33
Dance Workout
19.00 – 20.00
p 31
Musical Madness
19.30 – 20.30
p 23
Belly Dance Improvers
19.30 – 20.30
p 33
Tap Improvers
19.30 – 20.30
p 29
20.00 – 21.30
Contemporary ASN
20.30 – 21.30
p 18
19.30 – 20.30
Ballroom Intermediate
COURSE OR DROP-IN
Ballet Fusion
19.00 – 20.30
Ballet Beginners
17.30 – 18.30
DROP-IN
Ashtanga Yoga Beginners
Contemporary Intermediate
Bollylicious
Tuesdays 7 Jan – 1 Apr
COURSE
p 26
Thursdays 9 Jan – 3 Apr
Wednesdays 8 Jan – 2 Apr
Mondays 6 Jan – 31 Mar
Day Planner
Hip Hop Intermediate
18.00 – 19.00
p 21
Pilates Beginners
18.30 – 19.30
p 31
Afro Cuban
18.30 – 19.30
p 33
Hip Hop Beginners
19.00 – 20.00
p 21
Essential Ballet
19.00 – 20.30
p 15
Pilates Improvers
19.30 – 20.30
p 31
Ballet Improvers
20.30 – 21.30
p 14
Ceilidh
19.30 – 21.30
p 17
Musical Madness
20.30 – 21.30
p 23
Contemporary Beginners
20.30 – 21.30
p 18
I page 38
p 31
10.00 – 11.00
p 15
Hip Hop ASN
10.00 – 11.00
p 21
Ceilidh ASN
11.00 – 12.00
p 17
Morning Ballet
11.00 – 12.30
p 15
Dance Makers
11.30 – 13.00
p 25
RUNamuck
15.00 – 16.30
p 37
Contemporary P7+
16.30 – 17.30
p 37
Ballet Beginners
17.00 – 18.00
p 14
Contemporary Beginners
17.30 – 19.00
p 18
Ballet Improvers
18.00 – 19.00
p 14
Jazz Absolute Beginners
18.00 – 19.00
p 22
Hip Hop Mix Jazz Beginners
18.00 – 19.00
p 21
19.00 – 20.00
p 22
Social Ballroom Beginners 19.00 – 20.00
p 26
Ballet Intermediate
19.00 – 20.15
p 14
Jazz Intermediate
20.00 – 21.30
p 22
Social Ballroom Intermediate
20.00 – 21.30
p 27
Ballet Advanced
20.15 – 21.30
p 15
Saturdays 11 Jan – 5 Apr
Fridays 10 Jan – 4 Apr
08.00 – 09.00
Ballet Vintage
Dance ’n’ Play
10.00 – 11.00
p 34
Creative Dance Pre-School
11.00 – 11.45
p 34
Street & Hip Hop P1–3
12.00 – 13.00
p 35
West African Dance
13.00 – 14.00
p 33
Street & Hip Hop P4 –6
13.00 – 14.00
p 35
Musical Performance Course 13.00 – 14.30
p 23
Street & Hip Hop P1–3
14.00 – 15.00
p 35
Creative Dance P1–3
14.00 – 15.00
p 35
Destination Jazz
14.30 – 15.30
p 23
Street & Hip Hop P7+
15.00 – 16.00
p 37
Creative Dance P4 – 6
15.00 – 16.00
p 35
80s Icons
16.00 – 17.00
p 24
Jazz Adv/Pro
16.00 – 17.00
p 22
Day Planner
Pilates Early Bird
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