YOUTH INITIATIVE HIGH SCHOOL
Waldorf Initiative in Viroqua, Wisconsin, USA
COURSES AND CLASSES
Creative/Partner Dance Phys Ed
Teachers: AnnaJo Doerr & Shawn Lavoie
"Dance first. Think later. It's the natural order." -Samuel Beckett
Long before we're talking, we're moving and learning through movement. Whether it's babies' wiggling or celebrities' waltzing, dancing is fundamental to a fully lived life. In this phys ed course we will bring dance back to its core in creative movement and explore some formal partner dance styles. Each week one class will be dedicated to individual and group improvisational dance exercises. In these progressions the students will explore their individual movement potential and basic elements of dance including rhythm, balance, space, and force. In the second weekly class students will learn basic steps of various ballroom dance styles (swing, salsa, cha-cha, waltz, tango, and foxtrot) as both leaders and followers.
In this class, we are not aiming for a highly polished final product, but rather a broad exposure to movement as a creative art activity. No prior dance experience or training is necessary. Students should have a desire to move in new and creative ways, and a capacity to move responsibly with others. Danceable clothing a must!
Tuesdays 10:30 am – 11:20 am and Thursdays 2:05 pm – 2:55 pm, January 9th to February 22°d
Instructor dance biographies:
Shawn Michael Lavoie: Shawn has very early memories of dancing, but began formal
dance training in ballroom in high school. He has since studied modem, tap, folk and creative dance. Shawn has taught circus arts and ballroom dance.