The Dance Branch is a vibrant component of the Ojai Art Center, offering a diverse range of dance classes throughout the week. From Bollywood and Contemporary to Bellydance and Flamenco, the Ojai Art Center has become a hub for numerous dance styles, fostering the growth of various dance communities in the Ojai Valley. Additionally, the Dance Branch contributes to Art Center productions and occasionally hosts events to celebrate the enriching impact of dance on the arts.
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Current Dance Classes
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Class Details
Mondays
Flamenco Dance - Kids 4-5pm, Experienced Adults 5-6pm, Beginner Adults 6-7pm
Based in the rhythms and stylization of this cultural dance form from Spain, we will focus on the intricate arm and hand movements (floreo y braceo), the signature footwork (taconeo), the rhythmic hand claps (palmas) and the musicality of the traditional steps of Flamenco. We will learn short combinations and build those into longer phrases, meeting each student where they are, with an emphasis on empowerment, self- expression, and the supportive celebration of our individuality. Appropriate shoes are required, and for females, long skirts are recommended. See Maya’s credentials on her website mayadesilvaflamenco.com. For more info, please text 917-254-9808. |
Teen Bollywood Dance 6 Class Series - 7:15pm-8:15pm, starts October 14 -November 25 (no class Nov 4)
Dive in to the colorful and exciting world of Bollywood dance! Enjoy learning a fun choreography in this series that you will have opportunities to showcase and perform in the future! All levels are welcome. No experience required. $90 for full series. $20 Drop In. |
Tuesdays
Jazz Dance - 6:30 - 8:30 pm with Kelly Carrol, 917-751-6530
Jazz Dance at the Ojai Art Center is taught by veteran Broadway dancer, singer, actor, choreographer Kelly Carrol and conducted in the classic style with a warmup, isolations, movement across the floor and combination. We dance to classic jazz, i.e. Count Basie, Duke Ellington and song stylings by Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and Tony Bennett singing duets with contemporary artists such as Lady GaGa, etc. Broadway show tunes are also a favorite along with occasional funk. The class is an open level and leans towards advanced beginners and having fun dancing. Join us on Tuesdays at 6:30 to 8:00 pm. $20.00 drop-in fee or $80 for five classes. I can be contacted by phone at 917-751-6530 or at [email protected] |
Wednesdays
Dance it Out - 9:00 - 10:00am with Paulina Carey
Immerse yourself in a lively and invigorating dance workout experience! Join our welcoming dance community for a heart-centered practice of movement and pure joy. This dynamic dance party combines a variety of easy to follow moves and global grooves to nourish your soul & make you sweat. It's an epic way to kickstart your day while getting lost in the magic of music & dance. Contact Paulina with any questions at 805-857-3812. |
Bellydance 6 Class Series with Paulina Carey 6:30-7:30pm from Oct 16- Nov 20
Paulina will awaken and nourish your inner Dance Goddess by delving into the colorful history of Middle Eastern and Folkloric Dance. Together, we'll honor the pioneers who shaped the art form that has evolved into modern-day Bellydance. This class is an invitation to celebrate the roots of your inner goddess, embrace the natural beauty and grace of your body, and let your soul shimmer and shimmy with ancient inspiration. Bellydance offer incredible physical and mental benefits through its organic, flowing movements. Suitable for all levels with multi layer options Come and experience the magic of Bellydance in a welcoming & truly heart centered dance community. 6 Class Series $100 or $20 Drop In |
Thursdays
Traditional West African Drum & Dance - 5:00 - 6:00pm with Fode Sissoko
Taught by master drummer and choreographer Fode Sissoko from Senegal. Monthly Series $15 or Drop In $20 For more information contact 213-224-4110 or [email protected] |
Bollywood Dance 5 Class Series - 6:30-7:45pm with Isha Ferraz (Starts October 10th, no class on Halloween)
Learn fun and exciting dances to popular Bollywood songs. Inspired by the high energy music from Indian films, this class combines traditional Indian folk and classical dance with contemporary movement. Steps are broken down to make for an easy and enjoyable experience every time! Class begins with a warm up of Bollywood dancing, followed by learning easy choreography that builds on itself every class, and concludes with a pleasant cool down. Suitable for beginners as well as somewhat experienced dancers. $90 for Full Class Series, $25 Drop In Pay in person via Venmo, Cash, or Check. For more information please visit www.DanceOjai.org |
Saturdays
Dance Power Hour - 10:00 - 11:00 am with Isha Ferraz
Enjoy easy to follow repetitive dance movements to today’s popular pop, hip hop, latin hits and more. This is an amazingly fun dance cardio workout! No experience required...all ages welcome! $15 Drop In. Visit www.DanceOjai.org for more information. |