FLUTTER: Feather Fan Dance Technique

SUNDAY 14TH JULY 11:30AM - 1:00PM

Bella has developed a holistic approach to Feather Fan technique & choreographic development which benefits every level of experience. 

Focussed on nurturing a “body to fan” connection through breath, understanding the dynamic and textures of movement possible with feather fan performance, and developing technique for both aesthetic and passionate expression, this workshop will benefit everyone from the near beginner to the advanced solo artist. Students will learn beautiful movement techniques & choreographed sequences worthy of the most magical burlesque creatures of the stage!

Experience level: Please note that if you’ve done a fan dance class before you’ve almost certainly got the skills to join this class! All students must have learnt how to tell their left and right fans apart, neo & classic grip, and a basic overhead and under sweep, or overhead “figure of 8”. These skills are essential to ensuring every student has the best workshop experience as there won’t be time to go over these basics. A pre-workshop upskill video is available for those who are unsure, and classes at Darwin Divine Dancers which will support your learning journey for this workshop are:

- Divine Open Burlesque

- Silk Veil Fans

Bring: If you have your own fans bring them, a limited number of studio sets are available to students - please enquire when booking to reserve a set if you don’t have your own. Water.

Accessibility notes: Medium intensity. Good range of movement required in hands, arms, shoulders, neck & upper back required - not suitable for those with recent injuries in these areas. Get in touch with Bella directly if you’re unsure to discuss.

Eleganza: Elegance & Grace 

SUNDAY 14TH JULY 1:15PM - 2:45PM

These two besties are absolute weapons on stage which you can use to devastating effect. But what are they and how do you harness them? 

Combining unusual effectiveness and simplicity along with smoothness of movement, Elegance & Grace create an appearance of effortless beauty and glamour that charms our audience into submission with minimal physical effort. But often this can be a mental challenge for a performer used to doing "the most" to impress. It's also a skill that can be learnt - regardless of gender, age, size, or dance ability.

This movement based workshop will look at simplicity and flow of movement for Burlesque, and how to do away with hiding behind mountains of props or flashy tricks and trust that you and your costume alone are enough to entertain an audience.

Accessibility notes: No floorwork, low to medium intensity. This workshop is open to all genders and dance abilities.

Bring: Something you can "strip" out of that you can throw over whatever you’re wearing in class and swish about with like a goddess - silky dressing gown, gown, nightie, slip, wrap dress, even a large shawl or pashmina may work. Ideally something that falls off easily.

Heels optional but preferable.

FAQ

Is there a minimum age to join these workshops? All attendees must be 18+.

What should I bring or wear to workshops? A sweat towel if needed and water. Check the workshop description for specific items required. Dance heels are optional for both classes, although recommended for anyone who is already a soloist or stage performer. Choose a heel that is appropriate for your level of ability & balance. No platforms, pole shoes or bordello’s. All warm-up & cool-down is done barefoot.

Dress in whatever makes you feel comfortable! Form-fitting exercise gear or dancewear is ideal (and if you run cold, layers you can take off as you get warm in class). Feel free to throw on some glam touches if you like or relax in your comfiest leggings. Live your best life! Just make sure you have a full range of movement. Fitted clothing (not restrictive) is most suitable so Bella can see your body line and positioning but primarily you should feel comfortable.

What level of health & fitness do I need? A base level of fitness is required for all movement workshops with Bella. Please ensure you have clearance from your doctor or physio if you’ve had any recent injury, are pregnant, or have any health concerns which impact your balance or joint mobility. Check the accessibility notes in the workshop description for detailed information and get in touch if you are unsure if a class is right for you.