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What is dance jam?

Under the direction of Maureen Williams, Dance Jam! is a non-competitive, innovative performance ensemble. Students, grouped by age, will work with various choreographers including the staff at Dance It Up! as well as student interns majoring in dance from local colleges. Throughout the dance session, students will learn a variety of dance pieces to perform in the Nutcracker, Our World is Dancing, the spring recital and at community events. Dance Jam! is designed to be a fun dance opportunity that challenges students’ bodies and minds. Participation fosters self-discipline, self-esteem and performance ability through the art of dance. Dance Jam! is a great venue to experience different genres and choreographers. Hip Hop, Acro, Contemporary, Jazz, Ballet, Musical Theatre and Latin Dance have all been presented at our performances. Students must be enrolled in a technique class (ballet or jazz) to participate in Dance Jam! This 45 minute class is taught in three age groups.

What is contemporary dance?

Contemporary. This modern dance form takes its roots from ballet and is highly influenced by many other styles of dance, both popular and traditional. The use of space, timing, alignment, and rhythmic sensibility will be explored through floor work, combinations and improvisation.

What is a second weekly ballet class?

A second weekly ballet class for students transitioning to pointe or considering pointe work. Class will consist of core and leg strength training, flexibility and strength exercises for turnout, a pre-pointe barre warm-up, small footwork exercises in center, and turns en diagonale.

What is hip hop dance?

Hip-hop incorporates aspects of modern dance, tap, and swing, integrating music of today and complex movements to form the artistry of street dance. It is also fused with the choreographic elements of jazz dance to create a hybrid dance form that is fun and upbeat.

How many steps are there in Irish step dancing?

The beginner starts with learning the body and foot positions, correct dance posture and the seven steps of the traditional Irish jig.

What are the styles of Latin dancing?

Students will learn the fundamentals of Latin dancing. The dance styles will include the Cha Cha, the Swing, the Mambo and the Merengue. Students will learn choreographed line dances in all four styles, so no partner necessary! The Latin Dance class participates in the annual performance of Our World Is Dancing!