Classes on renaissance dances from Italy, France and England. These weekly practices have something to suit all skill levels, with the evening divided into two hour-long blocks: from 7:30-8:30pm, the class is open to all comers; from 8:40 onwards, the experienced dancers rehearse more complex works or study more difficult steps.
VENUE: AVONDALE LIONS HALL
Teacher: Katherine Davies (aka Katherina Weyssin) with help from her more experienced students
Note: these are private classes run by Katherine. They're open to anyone with an interest in renaissance dance, though they're aimed primarily at re-enactors, especially SCA folk.
Although the Barony of Ildhafn advertises these classes (thank you!) they're not SCA events: Katherine books the venues, chooses the material, etc.
Open/Beginner class, 7:30-8:30pm
For the first hour I suit the dances to the experience level of all attending, usually keeping to simpler material. Everyone is welcome: no experience is needed, nor do you need a partner, special shoes or clothes, or anything but enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
We do Branles (circle dances) from 16th century France, stately Pavanes and Almains from Shakespearian England, graceful Balli from renaissance Italy, and more.
I'm happy to work within your physical contraints (e.g. to avoid high-impact dances for those with dodgy knees), and go at whatever pace is comfortable.
Advanced class, 8:40-9:30pm
During the second hour, the more experienced dancers work on a more difficult dances or steps, reconstruct something new, or rehearse for a performance.
All are welcome to watch, but you'll need a solid knowledge of renaissance dancing technique and vocabulary to participate. Sometimes, these classes will be physically challenging: high-impact, and requiring reasonably good balance, fitness and strength.
There's no extra charge for the second hour, but I do expect people to attend the first hour too, whenever possible.
For more information about what we do see Katherine's website.
Class notes are posted weekly to Katherine's website. (Older class notes, to 2014, can be found here).
Changes and cancellations are on Katherine's website. She also tries to contact regular attendees directly, where possible.
Schedule:
Classes run during school term (roughly). For 2016 that means:
- Term 1: 10 classes - first on Thursday February 4th, last on April 14th
- Term 2: 10 classes - first on May 5th, last on July 7th
- Term 3: 9 classes - first on July 28th, last on September 22nd
- Term 4: 9 classes - first on October 13th, last on December 8th
Cost:
- $10 a class when you sign up for a term of classes
- $15 a class for casual attendance (but your first class is free)
- other options by negotiation
Contact: 0272 282 977 (Katherine)