LAB: Contemporary Floorwork (Beg/Int)
TIME & LOCATION
Sunday, May 3, 2026 | 1:30-4:30pm
Dorothea Laub Dance Place
Studio 200
2650 Truxtun Rd, San Diego, CA 92106
INSTRUCTOR
CLASS DESCRIPTION
This beginning/intermediate level contemporary workshop will focus on floorwork technique. We will get comfortable with pushing, pulling, rolling, sliding on the floor. We will safely build strength and ease in transitioning to and from the different vertical levels (upright, mid-level, floor). We will learn how to bear weight on body parts other than just our feet. We will discover new pathways of sequencing through the body, find new ways to initiate movement, and develop seamless transitions within phrasework.
This workshop is geared towards both beginning level dancers and more experienced dancers new to contemporary floorwork.
*Recommendation - Pants or leg coverings are highly recommended, as well as something to cover shoulders. Knee pads are optional.
LAB: Contemporary Floorwork (Int/Adv)
TIME & LOCATION
TBD
INSTRUCTOR
CLASS DESCRIPTION
This intermediate/advanced level contemporary dance class dives deeper into floorwork technique. We introduce more challenging shoulder rolls, more interesting ways of getting in and out of the floor, and more intricate phrasework.
Geared towards dancers with previous floorwork experience who are comfortable with basic shoulder rolls, the pace will move quicker than the beg/int class.
*Recommendation - Pants or leg coverings are highly recommended, as well as something to cover shoulders. Knee pads are optional.
LAB: Graham-based Modern (Beg)
TIME & LOCATION
Sunday, June 7, 2026 | 1:30-4:30pm
Dorothea Laub Dance Place
Studio 200
2650 Truxtun Rd, San Diego, CA 92106
INSTRUCTOR
CLASS DESCRIPTION
This beginning level modern dance workshop is rooted in Graham technique. We begin with a short warm-up to help lengthen and ground our bodies. We then introduce the codified Graham exercises, beginning with floor exercises - bounces, breathings, spirals in 3s & 6s, seated contractions, deep stretches, turns around the back, pleadings, etc. Transitioning to standing, we move to center work - plies, brushes, changes around the ankle, and a center combination. As time allows, we'll end with exercises and phrases across the floor - triplets, prances, jumps, etc. Through focus on technique, we'll develop strength and deeper understanding of Graham technique, which has its own unique movement language.
This class is geared towards both beginning dancers and more experienced dancers who are new to Graham technique.
*Recommendation - If you have difficulty sitting on the floor with your back straight up and legs extended out in front, we recommend that you bring a yoga mat or towel/blanket. These items may be folded and placed under the seat for floor exercise modifications.
ABOUT GRAHAM TECHNIQUE
Martha Graham is often considered the mother of American modern dance. Although there were several others before her who helped pioneer the dance genre, Graham was one of the first to codify her technique into a language that could be taught with consistency. It has been passed on through generations of dancers, allowing Graham Technique to remain strong and alive today. Built on the contraction, release, high arch, spiral, and tilt, Graham Technique not only has a distinct and recognizable aesthetic, it also has deep emotional resonance. In her works, Graham always delved into the recesses of our hearts and souls to find both the darkness and the light. Her movements bring to the surface what resides deep inside us. A consistent and thoughtful Graham practice will not only transform and strengthen the body, but it will also enliven the mind, and liberate the soul.
"Dance is a song of the body. Either of joy or pain." - Martha Graham
LAB: Taichi (Open Level)
TIME & LOCATION
Sunday, July 12, 2026 | 1:30-4:30pm
Dorothea Laub Dance Place
Studio 204
2650 Truxtun Rd, San Diego, CA 92106
INSTRUCTOR
CLASS DESCRIPTION
This is an open level class which focuses on exploring key concepts and theories of Taichi (太極). Inducted as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2020 by UNESCO, this ancient Chinese martial art dates back 2000 years and is widely practiced today as a health exercise. Students will explore foundational concepts like silk pulling/reeling(纏/抽), sinking (沉), and relaxing (松). Along with Xingyi (形意) and Bagua (八卦), Taichi is classified as one of the three main internal martial art styles. These three styles focus on power generation through proper postural alignment and strong stance work. Students will also learn about how health and medicine tie in with Taichi and the importance of Qi (氣) cultivation.
This class is tailored for dancers, movers, and anyone interested in learning more about Taichi theory, culture, and history.
Recommendation: Students should wear comfortable clothes and bring water. Shoes are optional for this class (low-soled shoes are recommended if students do decide to wear them).