Classes on renaissance dances from Italy, France and England. These weekly practices have something to suit all skill levels: from 7:30-8:30pm, the class is open to all comers and I welcome beginners; from 8:40 onwards, I try to challenge the experienced dancers.
VENUE: AVONDALE LIONS HALL,
1630 Great North Road
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, try something new, or rehearse for a performance.
All are welcome to watch, but you'll need often a solid knowledge of renaissance dancing technique and vocabulary to participate. Sometimes, these classes will be physically challenging.
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 contacts regular attendees directly.
Schedule:
Classes run during school term (roughly). For 2018 that means:
- Term 1, 2018: Feb 8 - April 12 (10 classes)
- Term 2: May 3 - July 5 (10 classes)
- Term 3: July 26 - Sept 27 (10 classes)
- Term 4: Oct 18 - Dec 13 (9 classes)
Cost:
- $10 a class when you sign up and pay for a block of classes (usually a term at a time)
- casual attendance is $10 for the first class in a term, and $15 thereafter
- other options by negotiation
Contact: 0272 282 977 (Katherine)