Thursdays, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

In this class, we will look at basic movement fundamentals and explore modern dance technique through the lens of traditional concepts. The focus will be on building core strength, finding balance, developing correct alignment, and discovering ways to learn basic movement patterns. We will also explore how musicality can inform and enhance movement learning. The class will begin with floor barre exercises and progress to standing exercises followed by short phrases moving through space.

Because music and its relationship to movement is such an important focus for Gerri’s approach to dance, we are delighted to say that music for these classes will be provided by our wonderful long-time ADF musician, Jonathan Markow.

$15/drop-in class

Community Outreach

The Community Outreach Program is an initiative of the Big Red Dance Project (BRDP), a modern dance company founded in 2017 by choreographer and educator Gerri Houlihan.

With dancers ranging in age from 35–70+, the group focuses on rediscovering dance at an older age. How do we, as mature adults, find the ability to sustain a dancing life? How do we honor the spirit of our dancing selves while acknowledging the limitations that come with aging?

Consisting of special community workshops and performances, the Outreach Program was developed to extend BRDP’s mission beyond professional stage performances, directly interacting within senior community settings.

Recognizing not everyone can attend a performance in a theater, BRDP provides that experience and shares our passion for dance and the joy of movement.

What is offered?

A customized, 60-minute lecture/demonstration presented by Gerri Houlihan and members of BRDP with a variety of activities including:

• Optional, adaptive audience participation

• Mini performance by the dancers

• Demonstrations of warm-up exercises, breathing techniques, coordination and balance sequences, and the role of music and rhythm in dance

• Lecture including a discussion of the development of modern dance

• Q&A session
  

Contact Susan Hartley for questions and scheduling.

Sundays, 1:00 pm–2:30 pm

These classes are offered to dancers of intermediate/advanced skill levels to bring us together in an open and supportive way and connect us all to our love for dance and community. Grounded in the fundamentals of traditional modern technique, particularly the work of José Limón, the class focuses on concepts of alignment and core strength and the use of breath for efficiency of movement. The class will begin with simple floor exercises and develop into standing warm-up combinations and a center movement phrase.

Because music and its relationship to movement is such an important focus for Gerri’s approach to dance, we are delighted to say that music for these classes will be provided by our wonderful long-time ADF musician, John Hanks.

$15/drop-in class