Friday, 20th February 2009
Friday courses will be devoted to solo dancing – both softshoe and hardshoe. Additionally, the participants will have a choice of which teacher they would like to have the courses with.
Training with Shane McAvinchey will concentrate mainly on beginner and primary steps, and especially the technique of dancing them. The courses will be an opportunity to learn new steps, but primarily a preparation for the upcoming feis – that is why they will be most beneficial for those who have learnt from Shane previously. They will also be suitable for anyone who thinking about attending Shane's Krakow workshops on a regular basis, and those who want to work on their basic technique.
Courses with David Bellwood are recommended for those who want to try something new, and especially to those who do not intend to join Shane McAvinchey's regular classes. They will be suitable for both advanced and less experienced dancers. Depending on each individuals dancing skills the teacher will divide the participants into groups. Each group will be given separate exercises and choreographies that will match their abilities. This course will contain new material and will not be a continuation of previous courses and will not be continued or repeated after Friday.
Saturday/Sunday, 21st - 22nd February 2009
Saturday and Sunday will be devoted to show dance choreographies. We want everyone to get a taste of being part of a big dance project or a professional show, such as "Riverdance". That is why we have invited two fantastic and charismatic dance instructors to create special choreographies for this occasion.
The most important fact is that you do not have to be as good as a Riverdance dancer to experience the adventure of being a part of such a unique event. Our workshops are open to all who are willing to learn, regardless of their dance level. It is enough if you are familiar with the basic steps (skips, sevens) to give a green light for an experienced choreographer to create an extraordinary and impressive choreography. Nevertheless, there will be challenges for more advanced dancers, too.
The teacher and his dancers will have two days - 4 hours of workshops - to prepare a complete choreography. The choreography will remain a surprise for all. You should bring both pairs of your dancing shoes – soft and heavy – as you may need both of them during the workshops.
All of the participants can sign up for one or two such choreographies. Dancers attending both classes can be sure that they will be taught by both teachers.
Alongside the choreography workshops, each dancer gets 2 hours of technique training for free (Sat, 10:00-12:00). This training is obligatory for everyone who wants to participate in the workshops. Apart from thorough technique training, the teachers will use this course to gather as much information about you as possible, to divide everyone into the most appropriate group.
The goal of choreography workshops is to create 4 different, but equally impressive choreographies in two days, all of which will be performed on Sunday evening during the Open Stage Festival. By signing up to these workshops you agreeing to participate in the Open Stage Festival. Those who don't want to or won't be able to dance during the festival can only sign up for the Friday courses, which will be devoted to solo dances.