The Evening Arts Program extends the artistic and creative possibilities by providing a wide range of arts-based classes after dinner. It is an opportunity for students to try something entirely new or to delve more deeply into an art form for which they have already developed a passion. While active participation is required, these classes are ungraded. The classes meet from 7:30-9 PM either once or twice per week, and students are required to participate at least two evenings per week. The Evening Arts program operates in two sessions: Fall and Winter/Spring. Unless otherwise noted, classes run during both sessions.
Fusion Belly Dance
This dance class draws inspiration from the nomadic and Romani groups of northern India, North Africa, the Middle East, and Spain. Music ranging from traditional Middle Eastern to Arab-American-Balkan Electronica drives each class. The movement is funky and strong utilizing torso isolations and a literal interpretation of rhythm and melody. All are welcome!
Dance Ensemble
Dance Ensemble offers experienced and dedicated dancers the opportunity to grow deeper as dancers and artists while being a part of a performing ensemble. We will work together on Wednesday afternoons to create and rehearse new or revived works for our Spring Gala Dance performance and potentially perform at other local venues. The season's repertoire will include at least one featured Guest Choreographer who will create a work on Dance Ensemble dancers, as well as opportunities for student choreography. Commitment, diligence, and tenacity are needed, as we only meet for three hours per week and ask everyone to bring their best energy to the group. Dancers need permission from the Director of Dance, and must be in at least one other technique class for their afternoons. Full year commitment is preferred.
Hip Hop Dance
Hip-Hop is a dance class designed to increase rhythmic awareness and timing while exploring a full range of body mechanics. The class incorporates break dancing, pop-locking, freezes, power moves and a touch of jazz. No previous experience necessary.
Latin Dance
Students will learn some basic footwork, dance positions, and connections between partners. This is an evening activity that explores more than just the stereotypical approach of Latin Dance. Conversations about identity, interculturality, and intersectionality, alongside some decolonizing of gendered roles in dancing, are also part of an activity that will have lots of music, fun, and a safe space where all identities are welcomed and affirmed.
Meditation
This aim of this activity is to cultivate mindfulness, which is defined as present-moment awareness. We will learn how to pay attention, in the present moment, to whatever arises, in a non-judgmental way. The awareness that comes out of paying attention in this way allows us to center ourselves and to develop clarity of mind and stability. We will cultivate mindfulness through practices such as gentle stretching, eating, sitting and walking meditation. We will also learn ways in which we can bring mindfulness into our daily lives. We will reflect on these practices through discussion.
Theater
"To be or not to be"...in the fall play. All students are welcome to join our production of William Shakespeare's "Hamlet." No experience needed. Auditions will take place during the first week of school. Rehearsals are both intense and playful and ask everyone to bring their best energy to the group. There will be additional rehearsals on weekends as needed. Working on "Hamlet" will also be your project for Project Week in the Fall.