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 8:30 onwards, the experienced dancers rehearse more complex works or study more difficult steps.
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 an official SCA event: Katherine books the venues, chooses the material, etc.
Open/Beginner class, 7:30-8:30pm
For the first hour I will suit the dances to the experience levels of all those attending, keeping in general 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 at whatever pace is comfortable.
Advanced class, 8:30-9:30pm
Durig the second hour, the more experienced dancers in the group 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.
NOTE: the class now runs every week in the City Centre. We no longer alternate between CityDance and Birkdale.
For more information about what we do see the Ildhafn Dancing Journal and Katherina's website.
Contacts: danceclass@ildhafn.lochac.sca.org or 0272 282 977 (Katherine).