Tuesday: Contemporary Dance Time: 6.00pm-7.15pm Start: 14.01.25 *Change of start date to that advertised on the flyer Duration: 10 weeks (No class on 18.02.25) Fee: €110 (It is CDETB policy that refunds are only issued if a course does not form.Before booking, please see our terms and conditions page). Notes: Non-slip socks or ballet shoes. Comfortable clothes – leggings and a t-shirt are great or ballet clothing if you have it, and plenty of water. All courses are subject to a minimum number in order to proceed. In the event that a course is oversubscribed, places will be offered on a first-booked, first-served basis and a waiting list will then be created. You will be contacted in this event.
About this class
What is contemporary dance? Contemporary dance is a dynamic genre of dance that emerged in the mid-20th century, evolving from modern dance and incorporating elements from various styles, including ballet, jazz, and even martial arts. This form of dance is characterized by its emphasis on fluidity, freedom of movement, and expressive communication. If this sounds like its right up your street, thenstep into the vibrant world of movement with our Contemporary Dance course! This dynamic and expressive class is designed for individuals with little to no prior dance experience who are eager to explore their creativity through movement. You will learn the foundational techniques of contemporary dance while developing your own unique style and voice.
Course Objectives
Understand the basic principles and techniques of contemporary dance, including body alignment, rhythm, and improvisation.
Develop strength, flexibility, and coordination through targeted exercises and choreography.
Explore various movement styles and concepts that define contemporary dance.
Gain confidence in self-expression and performance through group and solo work.
Course structure:
Week 1: Introduction to Contemporary Dance
Overview of contemporary dance history and its influences
Basic warm-up techniques focusing on body awareness
Introduction to foundational movements
Week 2: Body Alignment and Core Strength
Understanding body alignment and its importance in dance
Core strengthening exercises to enhance stability
Movement sequences emphasizing alignment
Week 3: Rhythm and Musicality
Exploring the relationship between movement and music
Exercises to develop musicality and rhythm awareness
Learning a short choreography set to music
Week 4: Improvisation Techniques
Introduction to improvisation as a tool for creativity
Guided improvisational exercises to encourage free movement
Week 5: Exploring Space and Dynamics
Understanding how to use space effectively in dance
Experimenting with different dynamics (e.g., sharp vs. fluid movements)
Creating movement phrases that incorporate spatial awareness
Week 6: Choreography Basics
Introduction to choreographic concepts, including motif development and repetition
Create movement sequences
Week 7: Expressive Movement and Emotion
Exploring how to convey emotions through movement
Exercises focusing on storytelling through dance
Weeks 8-10: Integration of Styles
Introduction to various contemporary dance styles (e.g., release technique, contact improvisation)
Experimenting with blending different styles in movement phrases
About your tutor: Maria de la Paz Lopez
Born in Argentina, Maria graduated from Inchicore College of Further Education achieving Level 6 Advanced Danceaward.
With over 30 years of ballet experience as a dancer; and as a teacher, Maria holds an ISTD Level 4 Diploma in Dance Education and is passionate about sharing her love of dance with her students.
Maria started her training in Spain as a contemporary dancer with Francesc Bravo and continued dancing under his guidance with Jaime Urcioli during her time living in Madrid.
On arrival in Ireland Maria’s love, technique, and passion for contemporary dance grew at the hands of teachers like Cathy Coughlan, Catherine Young, Mariam Ribón, and Anderson de Souza.
Maria has participated as a dancer in Creations of Junk Ensemble for The Fringe Festival in 2015, and with Liz Roche Company among others.
