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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
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Flamenco!
Starting Oct 6th - 4:00 - 7:00pm Maya de Silva, SB Native and NYC Professional Flamenco Dancer, returns to CA to teach in Ojai! 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), musicality and the traditional steps of Flamenco. We will learn short combinations and build longer phrases, meeting each student where they are, with an emphasis on empowerment, self-expression, and 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. |
Tuesdays
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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
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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. |
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Bellydance
6:30-7:30pm with Paulina Carey, Starts Jan 7, 2026 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
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Salsa Fusion
6:30-7:45pm - New 3 Class Series starts August 6, 2026 A fun, technique and choreography-based class blending salsa shines with Latin fusion movement, styling, and creative expression. This class explores various aspects of salsa “styling” which represents a beautiful characteristic of salsa dancing - the freedom to present your style. It 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! No experience needed. Salsa shoes are optional. Leggings recommended. $53 for Full Class Series, $25 Drop In Pay in person via Venmo, Cash, or Check. Visit www.DanceOjai.org for more information. |
Saturdays
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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. |