Calling all Disco Queens and Kings – Creation’s Disco Heaven dance classes for adult beginners are stepping up and moving into Central London.
What started as a commercial jazz dance classes has evolved into some more fun and frivolous, and now Creation have opened another class in W2 for wannabe Disco Divas in London.
“When we came up with concept of Disco Heaven, it was hard to define the classes. For a while we mixed up club style routines, street dance and jazz and sometimes it worked and sometimes it didn’t. We found that of all the classes we ran, it was the cheesy, easy and fun routines that clients really enjoyed.”, says Creation Dance director, Elle Kealy.
“In the end Ainhoa Rey, who has been teaching Disco Heaven in Clapham for nearly 3 years, refined the classes and they now focus on fun, easy to remember disco classics. Whilst the style is more contemporary than the 70’s John Travolta everyone associates with disco, essentially it’s an hour of a good old fashioned boogie, designed to get you moving, burn some calories and feeling fabulous. We tend to get a lot of 20 and 30 something’s coming to this class, either alone or with a friend or a partner and by the end of the 12 week session everyone is relaxed and having fun. Ainhoa even brings a few 70’s style props to the final session in the term, which is always a giggle.”
Creation’s classes are now accessible to more London residents, as they’ve recently announced that they will be running new Disco Heaven dance classes in Westminster Academy Sports, W2, starting in February 2009. Classes will take place on weekday evenings and a 12 week term costs 99.00GBP. In addition, they are also offering a money back guarantee, so you don’t have to worry about booking and finding you don’t like the class.
For those who can’t wait until February, the dance classes in Clapham are starting on Monday 12th January 6pm -6.55pm in Clapham North.
Book online now at http://www.creationdance.co.uk or call 0870 140 3234 for more information.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Friday, December 5, 2008
Britney Spears brings her Wade Robson Choreographed Tour to London – Look out for fantastic jazz and street dance routines galore.
I was excited to see that Britney’s back in London for her Circus Tour in June 2009. Fans of Brit (and there are a few at Creation) will know that the tour is choreographed by her long time preferred dancer Wade Robson, who also worked on So You Think you Can Dance in the US and the Wade Robson Project on MTV.
What we’re really looking forward to is seeing some of the tight routines that influenced so much of the popular dance classes in the late nineties and early noughties. Britney Spears, love her or hate her, has been hugely influential in the world of commercial dance.
She’s launched careers of top choreographers, made grown women want to dress up as school girls and dance around at School Disco, brought slick commercial jazz dance to the masses in feisty and controversial videos and always puts on a fantastic live show with dance performances to match.
OK, so perhaps her last few years have not been her finest but at Creation I’m looking forward to the new singles and seeing what we’ll be dancing to in 2009! What do you think? Are you a fan of Britney? Do you think her dancers have inspired you to get on the dancefloor? If not then who has?
Check out Britney in rehearsal on Youtube here - is it me or does she perform so much better in the studio than on stage?:
What we’re really looking forward to is seeing some of the tight routines that influenced so much of the popular dance classes in the late nineties and early noughties. Britney Spears, love her or hate her, has been hugely influential in the world of commercial dance.
She’s launched careers of top choreographers, made grown women want to dress up as school girls and dance around at School Disco, brought slick commercial jazz dance to the masses in feisty and controversial videos and always puts on a fantastic live show with dance performances to match.
OK, so perhaps her last few years have not been her finest but at Creation I’m looking forward to the new singles and seeing what we’ll be dancing to in 2009! What do you think? Are you a fan of Britney? Do you think her dancers have inspired you to get on the dancefloor? If not then who has?
Check out Britney in rehearsal on Youtube here - is it me or does she perform so much better in the studio than on stage?:
Sunday, November 30, 2008
CREATION LAUNCHES NEW STREET DANCE CLASSES IN LONDON
Now there are two more places for adult beginners to take hip hop dancing lessons in London. Creation Dance, which already holds classes across London in 9 different venues has added a further two studios to its listings in order to cope with the growing demand for classes from new and existing clients.
For those people who are more John Seargant than John Travolta, this is great news, because Creation’s classes are designed for complete adult beginners who’ve always wanted to learn something new, but never had the chance.
Beginners street dance expert, Ainhoa Rey, says the additional of the two venues, one in Muswell Hill and one in Baker Street, will mean that residents and workers in North London now have more access to classes, and the popular central London sessions will have increased availability. “This is a very exciting time for Creation. Street dance is more popular than ever, because it’s so much fun and you don’t need to be a dancer to try it. With these two studios running new classes we hope to be able to increase the number of beginners who can come to our sessions and also offer a wider range of styles.”
Muswell Hill classes will run on Mondays at 7pm from the second week in January, and Baker Street classes will also start that week on a day to be confirmed.
Creation Dance street dance classes, ‘Urban Groove’ also happen in Tottenham Court Road, Holborn, Earls Court, Hammersmith, Shepherds Bush, Clapham and Camden, as well as in Oxford and Brighton.
To get more information or to sign up visit http://www.creationdance.co.uk or call 0870 140 3234 for more information. Email info@creationdance.co.uk for more information.
For those people who are more John Seargant than John Travolta, this is great news, because Creation’s classes are designed for complete adult beginners who’ve always wanted to learn something new, but never had the chance.
Beginners street dance expert, Ainhoa Rey, says the additional of the two venues, one in Muswell Hill and one in Baker Street, will mean that residents and workers in North London now have more access to classes, and the popular central London sessions will have increased availability. “This is a very exciting time for Creation. Street dance is more popular than ever, because it’s so much fun and you don’t need to be a dancer to try it. With these two studios running new classes we hope to be able to increase the number of beginners who can come to our sessions and also offer a wider range of styles.”
Muswell Hill classes will run on Mondays at 7pm from the second week in January, and Baker Street classes will also start that week on a day to be confirmed.
Creation Dance street dance classes, ‘Urban Groove’ also happen in Tottenham Court Road, Holborn, Earls Court, Hammersmith, Shepherds Bush, Clapham and Camden, as well as in Oxford and Brighton.
To get more information or to sign up visit http://www.creationdance.co.uk or call 0870 140 3234 for more information. Email info@creationdance.co.uk for more information.
Friday, October 31, 2008
How Web 2.0 Can Help You Learn To Dance
How Web 2.0 Can Help You Learn To Dance
Dance classes are traditionally taught in the studio, with mirrors, an instructor and some pumping music. We’re not going to suggest that classes are taught any differently at the moment, but savvy dancers are using the internet to find classes and teachers that suit them better. This in turn is putting pressure on dance schools to wise up and embrace internet marketing and technology to entice students to their classes.
Not so long ago, to find a class you had to commit to turning up in person, to a room full of more experienced dancers, and to trialling a class to find out if you liked it or not. Then there was trying to decide which style: hip hop, or street (what’s the difference?), street jazz, or jazz funk. It was all so confusing, time consuming and expensive.
Now many teachers will regularly post their classes online on YouTube for example. This not only acts as a great advert, it gives the students a chance to review the class and remember routines for the next week.
Creation Dance, a dance class provider based in London and with classes in Oxford and Brighton exclusively markets and sells its classes online for a number of reasons. Speaking of the model, founder Elle Kealy says,” This is a great platform for consumers. Not only can they access our national classes from their home or office, they can view each teacher’s class online, decide which style they like best and sign up without having to spend time and effort coming to the classes. For a company such as ours, which started out with a simple website and one class, this enables us to reach out nationally. Starting dance classes in Oxford and Brighton would not have been possible using the traditional dance school approach. Students still come along to classes each week, but they know what they are getting.
Creation Dance plans to take this evolution further. With a new website launching in November 2008, Creation hope to have online dance classes for students to follow live as well as community portals and jobsites, where dancers can subscribe to rss feeds alerting them to the latest news and views.
For now the new site is committed to providing information and booking services for enthusiastic dancers, but the hope is that by mid 2009 the dance world will have truly caught up with technology.
Dancers can visit the site at http://www.creationdance.co.uk and give their feedback and ideas.
Creation Dance is a specialist adult beginners dance school with dance classes in London, Oxford and Brighton. Contact elle.kealy@creationdance.co.uk or 0870 140 3234 for more information. www.creationdance.co.uk
Dance classes are traditionally taught in the studio, with mirrors, an instructor and some pumping music. We’re not going to suggest that classes are taught any differently at the moment, but savvy dancers are using the internet to find classes and teachers that suit them better. This in turn is putting pressure on dance schools to wise up and embrace internet marketing and technology to entice students to their classes.
Not so long ago, to find a class you had to commit to turning up in person, to a room full of more experienced dancers, and to trialling a class to find out if you liked it or not. Then there was trying to decide which style: hip hop, or street (what’s the difference?), street jazz, or jazz funk. It was all so confusing, time consuming and expensive.
Now many teachers will regularly post their classes online on YouTube for example. This not only acts as a great advert, it gives the students a chance to review the class and remember routines for the next week.
Creation Dance, a dance class provider based in London and with classes in Oxford and Brighton exclusively markets and sells its classes online for a number of reasons. Speaking of the model, founder Elle Kealy says,” This is a great platform for consumers. Not only can they access our national classes from their home or office, they can view each teacher’s class online, decide which style they like best and sign up without having to spend time and effort coming to the classes. For a company such as ours, which started out with a simple website and one class, this enables us to reach out nationally. Starting dance classes in Oxford and Brighton would not have been possible using the traditional dance school approach. Students still come along to classes each week, but they know what they are getting.
Creation Dance plans to take this evolution further. With a new website launching in November 2008, Creation hope to have online dance classes for students to follow live as well as community portals and jobsites, where dancers can subscribe to rss feeds alerting them to the latest news and views.
For now the new site is committed to providing information and booking services for enthusiastic dancers, but the hope is that by mid 2009 the dance world will have truly caught up with technology.
Dancers can visit the site at http://www.creationdance.co.uk and give their feedback and ideas.
Creation Dance is a specialist adult beginners dance school with dance classes in London, Oxford and Brighton. Contact elle.kealy@creationdance.co.uk or 0870 140 3234 for more information. www.creationdance.co.uk
Dance and Fitness Jobs
Good news this week, the jobsite linked to Creation Dance www.danceandfitnessjobs.com has been featured on the hit website abc-of-fitness.com. You can check out the site and see what you think. Any feedback is always appreciated. We've had a lot of dance teacher applications this week and I think it's a great way to source people for our classes. We always need good teachers!
And not so good news, Julie Jade, who has been taking our classes for a while now will be in panto in Edinburgh this Christmas, which means that her classes will come to an end in November. I know her students will miss her lots!
Good luck in panto Julie!
Our new website is going to be live next week, we've been waiting for a while for this one. Once it's up you'll be able to check it out again at www.creationdance.co.uk and let us know what you think!
And not so good news, Julie Jade, who has been taking our classes for a while now will be in panto in Edinburgh this Christmas, which means that her classes will come to an end in November. I know her students will miss her lots!
Good luck in panto Julie!
Our new website is going to be live next week, we've been waiting for a while for this one. Once it's up you'll be able to check it out again at www.creationdance.co.uk and let us know what you think!
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Running your own dance business - what does it take to Moonlight?
I found this article from Citeman.com and thought it was a good summary of what it took to set up Creation. At the time I was an entertainment lawyer working nights, evenings and weekends on my passion:dance classes. If you think this is something you could do, get in touch with us about a Creation Franchise. The business can be run parttime, full time or on moonlighting time, but you've got to be committed. More info is at http://www.creationdance.co.uk.
Ever heard about the doctor who occasionally dons the hat of a DJ or and actor who runs an ad agency? In today’s swift-paced world, there are many people who successfully pursue dual professions. The act of working dual or handling multiple jobs, aptly termed as moonlighting is a trend that’s surely catching up. What prompts one to moonlight and what skills are needed to pursue a second career? Let’s try to find the answers.
Many people with full time jobs and high energy are keen to follow their passion without giving up their present job. People who are in one profession but know where their deeper interest lies are usually the ones to moonlight. Most people pursue a second career, which is usually a passion or a hobby, or it may be financially driven. Besides a full time job, many people yearn to do something else. Moonlighting or working part time offers the ideal way out. Usually the first career choice in most cases is the result of academic qualification or opportunities and second is one’s hobby. It goes without saying that apart from monetary returns, pursuing two professions gives you greater job satisfaction.
For instance, MD in gynecology and obstetrics who has her private practice in Mumbai doubles up as a DJ, She states: Music has always been her passion however medicine was an ideal career choice as she was good at studies. A doctor by profession derives great pleasure in swinging different tunes for film stars parties, consulates and corporate shows. She has also played at a number of night clubs across the nation and in Dubai and London.
A Bollywood actor who successfully runs an advertising agency confesses, he loves facing the camera but knows acting is a short term career. He enjoys the career highs and lows of being an actor and also the field of advertising where he attends client meetings. A member of the board of directors juggles between his office and client meetings and with his Bollywood assignments. He has to really sweat it out. It takes a lot of multitasking and proper planning to pursue two careers.
Moonlighting requires a multi tasking time management and flawless balancing act and time management. Giving justice to both the professions is not a cakewalk. It not just about managing two careers but balancing your personal and professional life as well. And to be able to do that effectively, the biggest challenge is time management.
He is selective about the assignments he takes for DJ-ing. He doesn’t go out of station too often. He is clear about DJ-ing being secondary profession. Identifying your primary profession and allocating time for different activities is the key to success. He has to have priorities in place. Multitasking comes easy if you are passionate about something. A Doctor has discovered that both scalpel and spindle can exist side by side. What matters is your level of commitment undying enthusiasm and sincere efforts.
Knowing your priorities and effective delegation of activities surely helps. Seek to delegate where possible and cooperate with your colleagues by redistributing specialized tasks. Delegation of work and trust is necessary when you know you can’t be present at all the places at the same time. Trust your support team’s decision and avoid questioning them. One needs to look at the long term objectives and take charge of things to achieve what you plan.
It isn’t as tough as it seems though there are times when it takes its toll. But if you enjoy the thrill of managing two extremely diverse jobs, everything will fall in place. A switching mechanism is quite helpful. The key is to take everything in your stride.
Any one who wants to dabble in two fields should focus on one thing at a time. When you are doing one job you should be able to give it your hundred percent. Being focused and organized help you to run things smoothly. Make one job your priority. Decide one is more important, whether for financial or personal reasons, and don’t let the second job interfere with your performance on the first.
Pursuing a career of choice is a meditation in itself if you put sincere efforts. Planning and organizing is of utmost important.
Many individuals moonlight not just for extra money but for inner satisfaction. Doing voluntary work with NGO’s is an example. It fulfills their urge to do something that they always wanted to. —
Get in touch with us about dance classes in your area at www.creationdance.co.uk or 0870 140 3234 or info@creationdance.co.uk
Ever heard about the doctor who occasionally dons the hat of a DJ or and actor who runs an ad agency? In today’s swift-paced world, there are many people who successfully pursue dual professions. The act of working dual or handling multiple jobs, aptly termed as moonlighting is a trend that’s surely catching up. What prompts one to moonlight and what skills are needed to pursue a second career? Let’s try to find the answers.
Many people with full time jobs and high energy are keen to follow their passion without giving up their present job. People who are in one profession but know where their deeper interest lies are usually the ones to moonlight. Most people pursue a second career, which is usually a passion or a hobby, or it may be financially driven. Besides a full time job, many people yearn to do something else. Moonlighting or working part time offers the ideal way out. Usually the first career choice in most cases is the result of academic qualification or opportunities and second is one’s hobby. It goes without saying that apart from monetary returns, pursuing two professions gives you greater job satisfaction.
For instance, MD in gynecology and obstetrics who has her private practice in Mumbai doubles up as a DJ, She states: Music has always been her passion however medicine was an ideal career choice as she was good at studies. A doctor by profession derives great pleasure in swinging different tunes for film stars parties, consulates and corporate shows. She has also played at a number of night clubs across the nation and in Dubai and London.
A Bollywood actor who successfully runs an advertising agency confesses, he loves facing the camera but knows acting is a short term career. He enjoys the career highs and lows of being an actor and also the field of advertising where he attends client meetings. A member of the board of directors juggles between his office and client meetings and with his Bollywood assignments. He has to really sweat it out. It takes a lot of multitasking and proper planning to pursue two careers.
Moonlighting requires a multi tasking time management and flawless balancing act and time management. Giving justice to both the professions is not a cakewalk. It not just about managing two careers but balancing your personal and professional life as well. And to be able to do that effectively, the biggest challenge is time management.
He is selective about the assignments he takes for DJ-ing. He doesn’t go out of station too often. He is clear about DJ-ing being secondary profession. Identifying your primary profession and allocating time for different activities is the key to success. He has to have priorities in place. Multitasking comes easy if you are passionate about something. A Doctor has discovered that both scalpel and spindle can exist side by side. What matters is your level of commitment undying enthusiasm and sincere efforts.
Knowing your priorities and effective delegation of activities surely helps. Seek to delegate where possible and cooperate with your colleagues by redistributing specialized tasks. Delegation of work and trust is necessary when you know you can’t be present at all the places at the same time. Trust your support team’s decision and avoid questioning them. One needs to look at the long term objectives and take charge of things to achieve what you plan.
It isn’t as tough as it seems though there are times when it takes its toll. But if you enjoy the thrill of managing two extremely diverse jobs, everything will fall in place. A switching mechanism is quite helpful. The key is to take everything in your stride.
Any one who wants to dabble in two fields should focus on one thing at a time. When you are doing one job you should be able to give it your hundred percent. Being focused and organized help you to run things smoothly. Make one job your priority. Decide one is more important, whether for financial or personal reasons, and don’t let the second job interfere with your performance on the first.
Pursuing a career of choice is a meditation in itself if you put sincere efforts. Planning and organizing is of utmost important.
Many individuals moonlight not just for extra money but for inner satisfaction. Doing voluntary work with NGO’s is an example. It fulfills their urge to do something that they always wanted to. —
Get in touch with us about dance classes in your area at www.creationdance.co.uk or 0870 140 3234 or info@creationdance.co.uk
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Looking for a dance job?
So we're always looking for talented dance teachers, and outside of London this is especially hard. In order to try and give teachers a chance to find us, and dancers a chance to find work I've set up http://www.danceandfitnessjobs.com which is a website dedicated to the dance and fitness industry in the UK.
Check it out and then tell me what you think? It's a new site, so any ideas are helpful!
For all the details on Creation Dance you can also head to http://www.creationdance.co.uk
Check it out and then tell me what you think? It's a new site, so any ideas are helpful!
For all the details on Creation Dance you can also head to http://www.creationdance.co.uk
Sunday, October 12, 2008
New Oxford street dance classes
This month has been crazy - so many classes got off to a good start (and then we had a drama with a studio double booking, so perhaps NOT such a good start) but that's all behind us now with the new term well and truly underway.
We've got a couple of new venues having trial sessions in the second half of this term and my favourite is Oxford. I taught here last summer and the classes were great, so I'm really pleased we've managed to find a fab teacher for Oxford classes again, Gem, who's taught and danced with Dance2XS in London (Pineapple Studios) and has a great style.
Classes in Oxford start on 13th November and are on Thu nights 8.30-9.30pm in OFS. Book online at http://www.creationdance.co.uk or call 0870 140 3234 for more info.
We've got a couple of new venues having trial sessions in the second half of this term and my favourite is Oxford. I taught here last summer and the classes were great, so I'm really pleased we've managed to find a fab teacher for Oxford classes again, Gem, who's taught and danced with Dance2XS in London (Pineapple Studios) and has a great style.
Classes in Oxford start on 13th November and are on Thu nights 8.30-9.30pm in OFS. Book online at http://www.creationdance.co.uk or call 0870 140 3234 for more info.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Where can I learn Street Dance?
Where can I learn Street Dance?
Learning to dance can be a lifelong ambition, but often we're shy to try new things and worry that we'll make ourselves look foolish, or won't like the reality of learning a new skill and the effort we have to put in.
A negative experience can put you off learning a new skill like dance for life, so that's why when choosing a particular studio or method of learning to dance you must first evaluate the studio and classes, and decide whether it is a fit for you.
Why dance?
If your answer is to learn to dance for fun stay with the inexpensive ways of learning to dance and steer clear of the larger dance specialist dance schools, which offer great range of choice, but are often geared towards professional dancers. You may also find that classes which teach you a lot of technique don't give you casual approach you are looking for.
However, if your answer to this question involves elements of learning to be the best, learning the proper technique, or even competing -- your best decision would be to choose a studio in which you are pushed to train and learn more in depth aspects of dance. Perhaps going to a specialist 'popping' class, or taking private lessons in a Latin style may be more appropriate, and you'll probably want to invest some money into your new hobby as well.
How much will it cost?
Before making any decisions as to which class, you must decide for yourself what your yearly or monthly budget can afford. All classes have different price plans, and it's not always clear which is the cheapest. Joining a gym to take classes can cost you a whopping £500 per year, based on only 1 class per week, because you're paying for other services you won't use. Dance companies like Creation charge on a term basis, and offer large discounts for signing up for 12 weeks. This should encourage you to commit, but make sure that any course you sign up for can be flexible about attendance so that you don't miss out. Creation, for example, allows you to make up missed classes for free throughout the term and offers a money back guarantee, something you don't get at the regular dance schools. Then there are drop-in classes, which often appear cheaper, but if you add the cost of 'daily membership' often charged by these schools you can end up paying more in the long run, and getting less. So make sure you investigate carefully before you decide.
What about the age of the class?
If you wanting to learn something like street dance you need to think about what kind of atmosphere you want and the other people likely to be in the class. If you a bit older, you won't want to be surrounded by teenagers, and if you're only 15, you don't want to be in the kids section. Make sure that the class caters for people like you by asking the school about who comes along. You can always ask to watch a class if possible, or take a look at the video to see if it's full of super-cool street kids, or mums busting a move.
Your motivation
Ensure that you understand why you enjoy dancing or at least why you want to dance.
For example, some people dance because it gives them a "workout", some dance because they love music, some dance because they gain self-confidence, others dance to meet people, etc. These are just a few reasons -- determine yours, and enjoy it!
Creation Dance runs adult beginners street dance classes in London and the Southwest. For more information check out http://www.creationdance.co.uk or call 0870 140 3234
Elle Kealy is the founder of Creation Dance, a specialist beginners dance school in London and the South West. You can contact Elle on elle.kealy@creationdance.co.uk
Learning to dance can be a lifelong ambition, but often we're shy to try new things and worry that we'll make ourselves look foolish, or won't like the reality of learning a new skill and the effort we have to put in.
A negative experience can put you off learning a new skill like dance for life, so that's why when choosing a particular studio or method of learning to dance you must first evaluate the studio and classes, and decide whether it is a fit for you.
Why dance?
If your answer is to learn to dance for fun stay with the inexpensive ways of learning to dance and steer clear of the larger dance specialist dance schools, which offer great range of choice, but are often geared towards professional dancers. You may also find that classes which teach you a lot of technique don't give you casual approach you are looking for.
However, if your answer to this question involves elements of learning to be the best, learning the proper technique, or even competing -- your best decision would be to choose a studio in which you are pushed to train and learn more in depth aspects of dance. Perhaps going to a specialist 'popping' class, or taking private lessons in a Latin style may be more appropriate, and you'll probably want to invest some money into your new hobby as well.
How much will it cost?
Before making any decisions as to which class, you must decide for yourself what your yearly or monthly budget can afford. All classes have different price plans, and it's not always clear which is the cheapest. Joining a gym to take classes can cost you a whopping £500 per year, based on only 1 class per week, because you're paying for other services you won't use. Dance companies like Creation charge on a term basis, and offer large discounts for signing up for 12 weeks. This should encourage you to commit, but make sure that any course you sign up for can be flexible about attendance so that you don't miss out. Creation, for example, allows you to make up missed classes for free throughout the term and offers a money back guarantee, something you don't get at the regular dance schools. Then there are drop-in classes, which often appear cheaper, but if you add the cost of 'daily membership' often charged by these schools you can end up paying more in the long run, and getting less. So make sure you investigate carefully before you decide.
What about the age of the class?
If you wanting to learn something like street dance you need to think about what kind of atmosphere you want and the other people likely to be in the class. If you a bit older, you won't want to be surrounded by teenagers, and if you're only 15, you don't want to be in the kids section. Make sure that the class caters for people like you by asking the school about who comes along. You can always ask to watch a class if possible, or take a look at the video to see if it's full of super-cool street kids, or mums busting a move.
Your motivation
Ensure that you understand why you enjoy dancing or at least why you want to dance.
For example, some people dance because it gives them a "workout", some dance because they love music, some dance because they gain self-confidence, others dance to meet people, etc. These are just a few reasons -- determine yours, and enjoy it!
Creation Dance runs adult beginners street dance classes in London and the Southwest. For more information check out http://www.creationdance.co.uk or call 0870 140 3234
Elle Kealy is the founder of Creation Dance, a specialist beginners dance school in London and the South West. You can contact Elle on elle.kealy@creationdance.co.uk
Friday, September 5, 2008
Street Dance class in Oxford
An old class we did back in Oxford last year - sadly, I am no longer teaching here, but check out www.creationdance.co.uk for all our classes we are now running. More video of Ainhoa to come!
Guys guide to the dancefloor
(By Justin Becker @ www.askmen.com)
You go to your corporate party, and the DJ breaks into the latest dance tunes. Your date is pulling you onto the dance floor, but you're still traumatized from the incident at your school disco after the spotlight was on you because you had just won "The Biggest Spaz on the Dance Floor" Award. Well, not this time. You refuse to be mocked for your dancing again, but on the other hand, you don't want to be the bore of the party and be reduced to talking to the hors d'oeuvres waiters all night long, while your colleague moves in on your hot date.You don't have to be the life of the party but you at least want to join in on the festivities. So learn how to at least pretend that you can dance, and look normal on the dance floor -- without having to depend on alcohol to let loose.
Move with the musicLet the music be your guide, and just move your body along with the rhythm and beats. You don't have to do impressive steps -- just let the music take you away.
Snap your fingers or clap your hands - If you're really at a loss on how to move, then just look like you're having fun by snapping your fingers while swaying your body from side to side. Just don't clap too much -- you don't want to draw too much attention to yourself.
Go to the YMCA -In order to start small on the dance floor, join in during a dance that has traditional steps and gestures, such as "YMCA" by the Village People, "Staying Alive", by the Bee Gees, "The Time Warp", or a line dance such as Kool & the Gang's "Celebrate" or even "Macarena" (that is, if that song is still played). This way, not only will you know the moves required, but these are also songs that allow you to go crazy and look foolish -- that's part of the fun.
Grab a partner - If you're at a party with someone you feel close to or comfortable with, then let them guide you on the dance floor, by imitating their steps to a degree. It'll also be easier for you to let loose and get accustomed to the moves if you hold your partner's hands while dancing.You don't need to be doing fancy dances like salsa or swing, just take your partner's hands and move with her. Remember, there's a reason why it takes two to tango.
Talk to your partner -You don't need to actually hold your partner's hands, but talking to her while you're moving your body will at least distract you from the task at hand, so you'll be able to move minimally while randomly talking to your partner. Obviously, this is not the time for deep conversation, just random chitchat.
Sing along -By the same token, if the music is too loud or you find it difficult to actually talk to your partner while dancing, at least sing along to the music, which will help you move to the rhythm, and distract you from trying to dance perfectly.
Do less than more-If you feel very awkward or uncomfortable on the dance floor, try to do less rather than trying to show off. Just avoid drawing attention to yourself, and stick to basic moves such as swaying, moving from side to side, and moving your body more than your feet.
Flailing your arms - Again, if you don't feel comfortable on the dance floor, then don't make motions that practically beg the crowd to look in your direction -- unless you have moves that would make Michael Jackson turn white (okay, wrong choice of words).
Jumping up and down - This is something you would do if you were at a frat party or rock concert; leave it for those occasions.
Staring down at the floor - Avoid keeping your eyes glued to the floor, or you'll look too intense and as if you're concentrating too much on your moves. Instead, try to focus on the band, DJ, or the people around you -- but don't stare at the woman in the skimpy dress or your boss' wife for too long, for obvious reasons.
Getting drunk - It's perfectly okay to drink a little bit to loosen up on the dance floor, in fact, it's recommended if you feel that alcohol will help you open up, but you may want to refrain from getting on the dance floor if you feel the urge to get up on the speaker, do the funky chicken while doing the limbo, or worse yet -- dance like Seinfeld 's Elaine Benes.Screaming "Woooo!" while moving. This is probably what will happen if you dance when you're extremely drunk.
Dancing with clenched fists - If your body's stiff and your fists are in the punching position while you dance, you'll look stressed and extremely tense, which will make you look insecure.
Remember, the whole point of dancing is to have fun and enjoy yourself. Nobody expects you to break into the moonwalk, start leading the conga line, or pull a Fred Astaire. Don't think about it too much, and just let your body move to the rhythm. After a while, you'll be more accustomed to letting yourself open up, and you'll see that you can move your body in more ways than you thought possible. And if this isn't reason enough to at least try to dance, it is believed that a person's dance moves are similar to his bedroom moves. So if this means anything, then practice your moves wherever you like.
If you really want to learn how to pick up the beat and master basic steps, come along to one of our beginners dance classes. It'll take some time to get started, but after about 4 sessions you'll have improved so much - check out http://www.creationdance.co.uk/ for info on all our latest dance classes. Urban Groove and Disco Heaven are both perfect for bloke beginners, depending on how cheesy you like your music!
You go to your corporate party, and the DJ breaks into the latest dance tunes. Your date is pulling you onto the dance floor, but you're still traumatized from the incident at your school disco after the spotlight was on you because you had just won "The Biggest Spaz on the Dance Floor" Award. Well, not this time. You refuse to be mocked for your dancing again, but on the other hand, you don't want to be the bore of the party and be reduced to talking to the hors d'oeuvres waiters all night long, while your colleague moves in on your hot date.You don't have to be the life of the party but you at least want to join in on the festivities. So learn how to at least pretend that you can dance, and look normal on the dance floor -- without having to depend on alcohol to let loose.
Move with the musicLet the music be your guide, and just move your body along with the rhythm and beats. You don't have to do impressive steps -- just let the music take you away.
Snap your fingers or clap your hands - If you're really at a loss on how to move, then just look like you're having fun by snapping your fingers while swaying your body from side to side. Just don't clap too much -- you don't want to draw too much attention to yourself.
Go to the YMCA -In order to start small on the dance floor, join in during a dance that has traditional steps and gestures, such as "YMCA" by the Village People, "Staying Alive", by the Bee Gees, "The Time Warp", or a line dance such as Kool & the Gang's "Celebrate" or even "Macarena" (that is, if that song is still played). This way, not only will you know the moves required, but these are also songs that allow you to go crazy and look foolish -- that's part of the fun.
Grab a partner - If you're at a party with someone you feel close to or comfortable with, then let them guide you on the dance floor, by imitating their steps to a degree. It'll also be easier for you to let loose and get accustomed to the moves if you hold your partner's hands while dancing.You don't need to be doing fancy dances like salsa or swing, just take your partner's hands and move with her. Remember, there's a reason why it takes two to tango.
Talk to your partner -You don't need to actually hold your partner's hands, but talking to her while you're moving your body will at least distract you from the task at hand, so you'll be able to move minimally while randomly talking to your partner. Obviously, this is not the time for deep conversation, just random chitchat.
Sing along -By the same token, if the music is too loud or you find it difficult to actually talk to your partner while dancing, at least sing along to the music, which will help you move to the rhythm, and distract you from trying to dance perfectly.
Do less than more-If you feel very awkward or uncomfortable on the dance floor, try to do less rather than trying to show off. Just avoid drawing attention to yourself, and stick to basic moves such as swaying, moving from side to side, and moving your body more than your feet.
Flailing your arms - Again, if you don't feel comfortable on the dance floor, then don't make motions that practically beg the crowd to look in your direction -- unless you have moves that would make Michael Jackson turn white (okay, wrong choice of words).
Jumping up and down - This is something you would do if you were at a frat party or rock concert; leave it for those occasions.
Staring down at the floor - Avoid keeping your eyes glued to the floor, or you'll look too intense and as if you're concentrating too much on your moves. Instead, try to focus on the band, DJ, or the people around you -- but don't stare at the woman in the skimpy dress or your boss' wife for too long, for obvious reasons.
Getting drunk - It's perfectly okay to drink a little bit to loosen up on the dance floor, in fact, it's recommended if you feel that alcohol will help you open up, but you may want to refrain from getting on the dance floor if you feel the urge to get up on the speaker, do the funky chicken while doing the limbo, or worse yet -- dance like Seinfeld 's Elaine Benes.Screaming "Woooo!" while moving. This is probably what will happen if you dance when you're extremely drunk.
Dancing with clenched fists - If your body's stiff and your fists are in the punching position while you dance, you'll look stressed and extremely tense, which will make you look insecure.
Remember, the whole point of dancing is to have fun and enjoy yourself. Nobody expects you to break into the moonwalk, start leading the conga line, or pull a Fred Astaire. Don't think about it too much, and just let your body move to the rhythm. After a while, you'll be more accustomed to letting yourself open up, and you'll see that you can move your body in more ways than you thought possible. And if this isn't reason enough to at least try to dance, it is believed that a person's dance moves are similar to his bedroom moves. So if this means anything, then practice your moves wherever you like.
If you really want to learn how to pick up the beat and master basic steps, come along to one of our beginners dance classes. It'll take some time to get started, but after about 4 sessions you'll have improved so much - check out http://www.creationdance.co.uk/ for info on all our latest dance classes. Urban Groove and Disco Heaven are both perfect for bloke beginners, depending on how cheesy you like your music!
Healthy Party tips for Hens!
Healthy party tips for Hens
The pre wedding stress can really take a toll on your body, with endless planning, celebrations and preparations making it hard to find time to beat the bulge. But if you're organising a hen do, be creative with the way you plan activities and you can make sure you not only have a good time but leave feeling fabulous.
Here at Creation Dance, a specialist dance school for adult beginners, we've started tailored made dance parties which offer a healthy and active option to add to your event. Expert dance teacher, Ainhoa Rey, has been teaching hundreds of beginners at events with popular themes such as Mamma Mia, Dirty Dancing, Urban Groove, and Disco Heaven over the last 2 years, and she believes the success of the parties is down to the fun and friendly attitude and approach she takes. "These parties are an icebreaker with groups such as hens and stags, who might not know each other that well, and an opportunity for people to try something new in a relaxed environment", she says, "Most of the guests have never danced before and once they get started they find it really easy to pick up the moves, which are especially designed for all ages and abilities."
Activities such as dance not only give you a work out whilst you party, they are a novel way to break the ice, keep you away from the bar and leave you feeling guilt free about another night out on the town as you burn the calories.
Clients can request a private class in a studio, or arrange the party at another venue (such as a bar, club or even in your home). First comes a few gentle warm up exercises followed by a personalised routine to the track of your choice taught at a slow and easy pace by a qualified instructor. Party goers can stop and celebrate their new skill with a glass of bubbly at the end of the 2 hour session, knowing they will definitely have a thing or two to show off on the dance-floor later. For those who really enjoy the session Creation offers free membership and discounts on any of its regular classes and courses.
Creation Dance parties are available in London and Brighton upon request. Visit www.creationdance.co.uk for more information or call 0870 140 3234 and speak to Ainhoa about your party or event. For regular class schedules or to book a dance performance you can email bookings@creationdance.co.uk
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