Since FCBD Style is improvisational, and many of our performance spaces are unexpected and require quick adaptation based on where the audience is, and the shape/size of the space. Get ready to work on Two-Sided Audience, In the Round, Audience in more than two sides, and maybe some surprises thrown in! Basic knowledge of Figure 8, Undulation, Torso Twist, Circle Step, Swivel Step, Rhythmic Undulation, Pivot Bump and Shimmy required.
All in the Family
with Wendy
There are 4 families of fast FCBD® style movement. -Undulations, -Shimmies, -Swivel Step -Hip Bump. Dancers’ choice; one or two of the following families*: Swivel Step and Variations: Swivel Step Basic with Half Turns Swivel Step Full Turn Triple Swivel Swivel Step Sweep-Back Swivel Step with Calibrated Spins Undulation and Variations: Rhythmic Undulation, Rhythmic Undulation Hip Twist, Half turns, Flourish Rhythmic Undulation 123 Rhythmic Undulation Orbit Rhythmic Undulation Shimmy RUSWAT Shimmy and Variations 3/4 Shimmy Reverse Shimmy Shoulder Shimmy/Hip Drop Combo Mazin-Inspired Shimmy Combo Wet Dog Hip Bump and Variations Pivot Bump Up2Down3 Double Bump Reach and Sit Single Bump Double back Arc Arms Turn *You may pick more than one family, but time and skill level will dictate how many families we cover.
Elegant Arms and Fantastic Floreos
with Wendy
I know you want to be the best FCBD style dancer you can be. How does that hap pen? We relay so much information through our hands and arms; when it comes to slow movements, it’s all about milking the gestures, learning to stretch them out to match the music. With fast music, I see three parts to that. Hands, arms and transitions. Hands: I have broken down the floreo to the most minute details. Learn how to enjoy executing a floreo to it’s fullest, most expressive potential. Arms: Learn greater awareness of the arm posture, flexion and extension of elbows, wrists and hands. Arm Transition artistry: FCBD Style dancers are always asking about cues. Often we don’t have an obvious cue, it’s more of a transition. Learn an awareness of the pathways your arms create in transition from one move to the next. With strong arm transitions you will be a strong dancer.
Let’s Get It Together
with Wendy
Tuning in more closely to your dance partners’ body language and nuance allows you, as a follower, to more accurately match your leader’s lines, creating a stunning picture for the audience. Be prepared to step out of your comfort zone, as we explore different exercises to create stronger connections among your troupe-mates. Basic knowledge of Figure 8, Undulation, Torso Twist, Circle Step, Swivel Step, Rhythmic Undulation, Pivot Bump and Shimmy required.
Work that Skirt - Formations
with Krisztina
Utilizing the steps we worked on in the Foundations class we will work in duets, trios and quartets exploring the different ways they are done in each formation.
Work That Skirt - Foundations
with Krisztina
In this class we will work with a specific set of steps and do a deep dive into the technique and variations with a skirt.
FCBD®Style Basics
with Cynthia
Whether you need to re-introduce yourself to FCBD®Style or want to reinforce your basics with dancers you might not have ever met, this is the perfect class.
Doumbek FUNdamentals
with Casey
Doumbek FUNdamentals is a great introduction to ensemble style belly dance percussion! Casey's fun, funky, super-friendly workshop is ideal for novice drummers and drum-curious dancers, as well as intermediate-level drummers looking to brush up on technique and add some depth to their performances. At this workshop, there’s a place for drummers of all levels to experience the joy of playing with others in a percussion ensemble!
For novice/beginners, let’s embrace some basic techniques: hand placement, percussion etiquette, dynamics, basic belly dance rhythms and how to switch them up, some simple drum notation, and more!
For advanced beginner/intermediate drummers, we’ll refresh handing technique, drill basic doumbek rhythms, then add simple yet challenging fills and riffs to play cooperatively with the ensemble. Many opportunities to play rhythm deconstructions, transitions and “call and response” patterns will be included!
Please bring an “ensemble friendly” percussion instrument: doumbek and bass doumbek preferred. (Bonus enthusiasm for anyone who brings an extra bass doumbek to share!) PS If you’re already proficient with frame drum, davul or riq, you’re welcome to bring these amazing instruments to the class in addition to your drum!