event descriptions
AFRICAN / AFRICAN DIASPORIC:
West African / Hip Hop / Afro-Brazilian
Our African and African Diasporic movement practices classes are rooted in African traditions and Contemporary African aesthetics. The classes offer students an embodied experience of African culture and related cultural traditions. Class material is highly physical and challenges the/our/your use of rhythm, isolation, and initiations, expands cultural knowledge, and cultivates community. All classes are informed by the specific instructor's history and experience.
BALLET
Our Ballet classes follow the typical structure of a barre warm up followed by a progression of center work ending in across the floor combinations. We offer challenging options while considering the students’ background in dance and capability. Every teacher will bring their own style into the studio.
CONTEMPORARY
Our Contemporary dance practice classes begin on the floor and develop into explosive full bodied movement. Classes cultivate individual artistry over conformity and open space for wild expressive dancing. Material will be based on the instructor's experience and draw upon postmodern and concert dance lineages.
COMPOSITION
In this composition workshop, students will engage in a collaborative dance-making process and perform their works in an informal sharing. Through playful exploration and guided improvisations, students will experiment with their artistic voice and build a small group dance. All styles and genres of movement are welcome - no previous choreographic experience necessary!
MUSICAL THEATRE:
These classes will explore techniques of musical theatre dance. Through a structured jazz class warm-up, center and across the floor, students will be encouraged to devise character and tell a story by incorporating acting into their dancing. The class will culminate with students learning and performing a musical theatre dance phrase.
DANCE IN MEDICINE WORKSHOP:
Led by the Arts in Medicine’s Dancer-in-Residence, this workshop will explore creativity and the arts through the lens of health and well-being. Students will learn about the University of Florida’s world famous Center for Arts in Medicine.
ARTIST TALK
YDW students, teachers, UF/SF faculty, and guests will come together to talk about all things dance! Discussion topics include: career paths for dancers, what dance in college looks like, professional careers, audition tips, and more! Students can have all their questions answered through an open discussion.
LIMÓN EXPERIENCE
YDW participants will take class with JLDC company members, experience classic Limón repertoire, and learn about the rich history of modern dance pioneer José Limón, PLUS witness the entire company perform at the Welcome Concert!