Think you’ve mastered the double pirouette? What about the press leap?
Well, both of these technical dance skills are being taught at after-school workshops in the dance studio on Thursdays from 5-6 p.m., leading up to Red Rhythm tryouts the week of March 23.
The classes will be taught by Red Rhythm officers, such as Captain Mason Classe, with each workshop focusing on specific skills needed to be part of the team such as kick and split combinations, pirouettes, saut de chats, and calypsos.
“We start by introducing ourselves before we move into warmups and stretching,” Classe said. “After that, candidates can expect to work on combinations across the floor, in center, or at the barre depending on their particular workshop. Having that low-stakes environment to learn, make mistakes, and grow truly sets candidates up for success in the coming weeks.”
A student-led community atmosphere is also the goal for Red Rhythm director Nicole Nothe.
“When students are teaching and sharing their knowledge, it builds trust,” Nothe said. “The girls attending the workshop are relying on fellow students rather than a teacher at that moment, which strengthens connections within the program. They’re building relationships, especially with senior students. They exchange contact information, which helps if they have questions about tryouts.”
Some students have been regular attendees, like Isabelle Njoku, who has been going to every one of these classes since last year.
“I love going to these workshops because of how well the dance officers teach and guide you,” Njoku said. “They explain in a way that’s really easy to understand, and if you feel unsure about something, they are very approachable, and try to find a way to answer your question, in order for you to comprehend completely.”
Njoku hopes that more people will pop up every Thursday.
“I would most definitely recommend going to these workshops, even if you’re not trying out,” Njoku said. “I think it’s an amazing opportunity and experience to improve your skills and to meet new people.”
