TWO-DAY INTENSIVE IN VIENNA
SATURDAY THE 20TH OF MARCH AND SUNDAY THE 21ST OF MARCH
Tangos (Absolute beginners and those wishing to expand)
In this class students deepen their understanding of the mechanics of flamenco steps with an emphasis on the importance of mastering good transference of weight. A short choreography in the Tangos style will be learnt and each student will make decisions about what they would like to express through their dancing. They will be encouraged to think about the overall structure of the choreography and how to make it work as a whole, looking at moments of tension and release and how to bring the dance to a climax. An introduction to the style specific 'compás' (rhythms) will lead to students taking on the challenge of flamenco 'palmas' (clapping): keeping a steady rhythm and providing a strong rhythmical base to accompany each other as they dance. Skirts and heeled shoes are not necessary but recommended. Please be sure that shoes are closed, with sturdy, wide heels if you are going to wear them (character shoes are a good option).
Technique (Everyone interested)
This class takes students on an intense journey into the world of flamenco with a very different perspective. Through the use of applied somatic techniques to facilitate movement ideas and concepts that are culturally specific to flamenco, students will explore some of the movement language of this traditional form and its links to other dance styles. Breaking from the idea that flamenco is a movement language, this class will focus on some of the essential components of said system such as the ‘rebote’, ‘remate’, weight shifts, torque and ‘llamada’. Similarities between different movement vocabularies will be emphasized, making this class ideal for students of other dance styles. Skirts and heeled shoes are not necessary but recommended. Please be sure that shoes are closed, with sturdy, wide heels if you are going to wear them (character shoes are a good option).
Bata de Cola (Previous experience not necessary, bata de cola not necessary)
This class lays the foundations for the use of the Bata de Cola (train-dress), integrating both traditional techniques for its movement, as well as applied somatic techniques to ensure a healthy and safe use of the body. Ideal for dancers of other styles as well as those with previous knowledge of flamenco and Bata de Cola, the class focuses on proper alignment, control of the upper body and obtaining good balance. Students will master a few simple steps and the mechanics of propelling the skirt in an organic way, that integrates all the information provided to avoid injury. Bata de Cola skirts are recommended but not essential and skirts may be shared between students. Some technique will be executed without the skirt, so bring comfortable dance trousers. Shoes must be worn for this workshop. Please ensure that they are closed, with sturdy, wide heels (character shoes are a good option).
The Mantón and its uses in Flamenco
This class will focus on the use of the mantón in traditional flamenco. The different exercises will ensure every participant understands their own body movement with this prop as well as understanding the relationship of the mantón with the sensitive, rhythmic and aesthetic character of flamenco. Focusing on the proper alignment/use of the rib-cage, shoulders and hips, students will explore some of the movement language that can be enhanced by its addition to a dance. Some elements of the Feldenkrais Method will be utilized to facilitate movement ideas and concepts, as well as, avoiding injury. Skirts and heeled shoes are not necessary for this class though heeled shoes are recommended to start understanding how the shift in the center of gravity changes how the mantón moves. Please be sure that shoes are closed, with sturdy, wide heels if you are going to wear them (character shoes are a good option).
Private classes are also available and must be scheduled in advance. Please contact me directly if you are interested at neliemc@yahoo.com and title the message "private classes Vienna". Thank you. FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, PLEASE GO TO:
Link to the announcement of my workhsop in Vienna, March 2010
