CLASSES
Fusion is an amazing dance, but it is uniquely difficult to teach since mixing things requires in-depth and pre-existing knowledge of that thing. At the Academy we approach the learning of fusion in two parts— first by teaching foundational skills through baystyle, a style of dance currently emerging from the Bay Area’s fusion scene and its lineage of blues, swing, and tango. Once a solid foundation of movement is established, fusion itself can be learned.
Each class series is 4 weeks long, beginning the first week of the month, with the expectation that most students will need to take each series to progress to the next level.
CuRriculum Overview
ClassES
Level 1
Level 1 teaches the foundations of movement through the three Baystyle systems (Groove, Momentum, and Smoothstepping). These classes are designed to be taken at your own pace and in whichever order you choose (even two at a time, or an B before an A!). Classes will be taught dual-role.
This Level 1 series explores the foundational Groove system, with roots in (jukin’) Blues and Hip Hop. Groove B explores rhythm, improvisation, conversational lead/follow, and connection through moves such as Step Drag, In ‘n Out, and Invited Turns.
This series will be taught by Eleanor Chen
7pm — Wed. Apr. 3, 7, 10, 24 — Downstairs Ballroom
This Level 1 series explores the foundational Smoothstepping system, with roots in (ballroomin’) Blues and Tango. Smoothstepping A explores close embrace, contrabody movement, and balance through moves such as the Box Step, Redirects, and Stutters.
This series will be taught by Eleanor Chen.
8pm — Wed. Apr. 3, 7, 10, 24 — Downstairs Ballroom
Level 2
Level 2 explores the fundamental concept surrounding fusion. Building on the foundational systems, each track (A through C) will explore a combination of two systems in turn. Classes can be taken in whichever order you choose (even two at a time!). Classes will be taught single-role and proficiency of the Level 1 material must be shown to join.
This Level 2 series explores mode switching, frame matching, and improvisation by looking at the similarities and differences of the Momentum and Groove systems.
This Series will be taught by Mark Carpenter and Sia Brodeur.
8pm — Wed. Apr. 3, 7, 10, 24 — Upstairs Studio
Level 3
Level 3 takes students with mastery over lead and follow and can shift their mode and are ready to grow into more advanced dancers. Classes will cover a variety of topics focusing on technique, chaining moves (in different modes), and expanding our stylistic range along with fundamental dance principles and training like quality-of-movement, lead/follow connection, and proprioception. Some of these classes will be taught by guest instructors, bringing their extensive knowledge from other dances to fuse with your existing skillset.
This Level 3 series is taught by Mark Carpenter and Sia Brodeur
7pm — Wed. Apr. 3, 7, 10, 24 — Upstairs Studio