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
Mondays 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. |
Salsa Styling 6 Class Series
7:15pm-8:15pm with Isha, January 13 - February 17 Shine on the dance floor, express your femininity and boost self-confidence with this Salsa styling class! “Styling” represents a beautiful characteristic of salsa dancing - the freedom to present your style and can include arm, body and head movement, spins, isolations and add overall attitude to your salsa dancing. Class begins with a salsa warm up, basic footwork and technique and includes a combination to enhance memory, balance, strength, exploration of musicality and self-expression! All are welcome. $108 for full series. $25 Drop In. Pay in person via Venmo, Cash, or Check. Visit www.DanceOjai.org for more information. |
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
ZUMBA
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. $15 Drop In Pay in person via Venmo, Cash, or Check. Visit www.DanceOjai.org for more information. |
Bellydance 6 Class Series
6:30-7:30pm with Paulina Carey, January 15 - February 19 Paulina will awaken and nourish your inner Dance Goddess by delving into the colorful history of Middle Eastern and Folkloric Dance. 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. $108 for Full Class Series, $25 Drop In Pay in person via Venmo, Cash, or Check. Visit www.DanceOjai.org for more information. |
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 6 Class Series
6:30-7:45pm with Isha Ferraz, January 9 - February 13 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. $108 for Full Class Series, $25 Drop In Pay in person via Venmo, Cash, or Check. Visit www.DanceOjai.org for more information. |
Saturdays
ZUMBA
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. Pay in person via Venmo, Cash, or Check. Visit www.DanceOjai.org for more information. |