Voice for Singing &       Public Speaking

Learn basic vocal techniques and present yourself with confidence when singing or speaking in front of others. We focus on having a vibrant, interesting tone and  dynamics to add color to our presentations. We release tension from our bodies so we fill completely with air, and our voice has a clear path to the listener. We work on understanding lyrics and text so we always express ourselves completely. We need to know not only WHAT we are saying, but WHY. Growth and devlopment of the voice, leads to more confidence and character in all we do. Everyone should know that their voice is important and that they deserve to be heard.  

Skills: breath control, strength, projection, resonance, diction, enunciation, dynamics, presentation

Cooking

Love becoming one with your food before it goes into your body. We work together on the tasks of set-up, preparation and clean-up, while creating simple dishes. Students are encouraged to be creative and try new things. We begin to understand how to pair flavors, and plan simple menus. We touch different textures, and learn the history and culture of each dish. We may taste different versions of the same dish. We always end with a “teach back” – expresseing something learned that resonates and can be used in the future.

Skills: science, chemical reactions, literacy, math, measuring, fractions, multiplication, problem solving, teamwork, kitchen etiquette, knife skills, culture, history.

Character Creation

Students fill out a two page questionnaire – page one defines “WHO” the character is, page two, the “STORY” they want to tell. We do acting and movement to examine how characters think, feel and move. We do writing exercises to learn the craft of creating a monologue (or scenes for more advanced groups). We end with students having an original piece that can be presented to an audience. 

Skills: character analysis, research, writing, wordsmithing, emotional intelligence, acting, memorization.

African Drumming

& Dance

Familiar stretching and movement combined with African gestures and moves. Steps are learned in sequence, and drum rhythms and calls are learned. Traditional drum sequences and joyful movement are introduced and everyone circles together showing respect and presenting what was learned. 

Skills: cultural awareness, rhythm, teamwork, muscle memory, memorization, movement, body positivity

Improv

Students learn exercises to open up their minds to possibilities, go with the flow and work with scene partners to create an entertaining and believable scene. Using different prompts and concepts, they explore characters, stories and emotions outside their lived experience.

Skills: Critical thinking skills, using context clues, adaptability.

Emotions Through Art

Discussions about how emotions can be expressed through colors, shapes and designs. Conversely, a piece of art can evoke emotions. Students are encouraged to create a piece using various mediums which expresses an emotion or experience. They are also asked to comment on the work of others and how it makes them feel.

Skills: emotional intelligence, spatial relations, drawing, painting, crafting, art appreciation.

Set Design

Using a shared story, we create a set for a scene from the story, poem or play. We research the world of the story to accurately portray the scene. We use scale to create their scene in a 3D model. Using various materials, we create the rendering. We share our designs, and a discussion ensues about the different interpretations we can have of the same story.

Skills: research, design, scale measurements and calculations, cutting, pasting, crafting, art appreciation, and interpretation.

Yoga

Gentle stretching, breathing and exercises designed to strengthen the body and mind. Students learn focus and patience with yoga poses and other movement-based work.

Skills: Stretching, breathing, focus, concentration, relaxation, strength, body positivity and poise.

Hip Hop

Get ready to move and groove in this fun and energetic class that introduces the basics of hip hop in a friendly, supportive environment. We guide you through cool moves, simple choreography, and playful dance games that build coordination, rhythm, and confidence. Designed to  help kids express themselves, stay active, and have a blast dancing to their favorite songs. Appropriate for dancers at all levels, make new friends, learn awesome dance routines, and gain skills to boost self-esteem. A fun adventure getting creative on the dance floor!

Skills: cultural awareness, rhythm, teamwork, muscle memory, gross motor skills, body positivity

Latin Dance

An introduction to the rich and diverse culture that our LatinX population brings to the world. Basic steps in NY-style salsa, merengue and bachata will aid your child in flexibility, coordination and muscle tone. Dance is known to boost your confidence while reducing stress. Latin dance is so much fun, it hardly feels like exercise, yet it has all the benefits of a cardio-workout. Both fine and gross motor skills are improved while promoting mindfulness and improving mood. A great way to make friends!

Skills: cultural awareness, rhythm, teamwork, muscle memory, gross motor skills, body positivity

Contemporary

This class is designed to introduce young dancers to the dynamic and expressive world of contemporary dance. Through a blend of modern dance techniques and creative movement, students will explore body awareness, flexibility, and emotional expression. Emphasis will be placed on fluidity, improvisation, and storytelling through dance, allowing students to discover their unique movement style. No prior dance experience is necessary—just bring your passion and creativity to the floor!

Skills: cultural awareness, rhythm, teamwork, muscle memory, gross motor skills, body positivity