School Residencies & Workshops

RESIDENCIES

We offer residencies, from one to four weeks in length, in the following areas:

*American Traditions*

CLOGGING: Percussive footwork, emphasizing the downbeat, set to Old Time music
SQUARE DANCING: Four couples moving through figures directed by a caller
TAP DANCING: Percussive footwork set to swing or jazz music
BODY PERCUSSION: Using the hands to create rhythms with and on the body

*English Traditions*

LONG SWORD DANCING: Six or eight dancers linked by swords, creating intricate patterns
MORRIS DANCING: Six dancers wearing bells, using sticks or hankies in vigorous dances
MAY POLE DANCING: Dancers, holding ribbons, weaving around a pole to form various designs
WALTZ CLOG: Percussive footwork set to a waltz

WORKSHOPS

Our workshops present early American dance, from square dances and contra dances to circle dances and play party games. Students will experience the joy of movement as they explore finding their center of gravity, keeping their balance, and working cooperatively with a partner. Beginning clogging steps and body percussion are integrated to emphasize the rhythmic aspects of American dance traditions.

We offer a step dance workshop (or series of workshops) in which a variety of step dance styles are presented. These may include French Canadian or Irish reel and jig steps in addition to the other forms listed. This is a great opportunity for students to learn the similarities and differences between styles, and to find the genre that most appeals to them.

All traditional dance workshops can be tailored to meet your needs. Tamara and Jamie also offer instruction in the social dances of England, Ireland, and Quebec.