Workshop & Community Class
Movement Classes that Draw from Histories, Impulses & Reflections
A playful, CA standards‑based approach to dance that invites students to learn about dance’s rich history, be in their bodies with confidence, and do through creative action. Designed for varied learning and movement abilities; each class explores a different theme connected to the big idea—going into the world knowing you matter.
Event Details
- Date
- 16101 Ventura Blvd
- Encino, CA
- Duration
- 45–60 minutes per class (customizable)
- Capacity
- Up to 25–30 students per session (flexible)
- What to bring
- Comfortable clothing, closed water bottle, curiosity
- Accessibility
- Seated/standing options; low‑impact variations offered
What Happens in Class
The class concept is simple: learn, be, and do.
Learn
Students are introduced to dance’s rich history and the feeling at the heart of the art form. We replace intimidation and comparison with curiosity and observation, building a foundation for relating ourselves to rhythm and performance across cultures and timelines.
“Dance is for everybody. I believe that the dance came from the people and that it should always be delivered back to the people.” — Alvin Ailey
Be
Being in dance should feel natural. With access‑minded, CA standards‑based lesson plans, we create meaningful movements as simple as crossing the arms. By connecting to natural movement around us, we practice presence, bravery, and ambition.
“When you dance, you are in control of your body.” — Dance To Be Free
Do
Doing initiates action in young minds, deepens connection, and fosters self‑actualization. Centering the collective, we celebrate diverse talents, skills, and gifts. Everyone’s movements are valuable and have a role in the framework of our lives.
“Isn’t it odd. We only see our outsides, but nearly everything happens on the inside.” — The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse
The Big Idea
Go out into the world and practice knowing that you matter. We develop inner tools to help students stay present within the tidings of our days through movement, imagination, and reflection.
Participants Will
- Build confidence and agency through accessible techniques
- Connect dance history to their own lived experiences
- Collaborate on play‑based compositions
- Explore sensory‑aware movement and visual practices
- Reflect through short writing prompts to integrate learning
About the Teaching Artist
Mara Rothbard is a movement artist and educator with experience teaching in public schools, where she developed clear, CA standards‑aligned lessons that cultivate children’s imaginative muscle. As a graduate of the LA Music Center’s Teaching Artist Training, she designs strong, access‑minded curricula. A movement artist award took her to Paris, France to devise and facilitate creative movement workshops alongside other artists. She holds a BA in Sociology with a minor in Dance and brings eight years of experience working with children PK–8th. Mara is most fulfilled in roles that center intuition, creativity, and empathy.
FAQ
What should students wear?
Comfortable clothing that allows free movement. Sneakers or bare feet are fine depending on the space.
Is the class accessible?
Yes. Lessons include seated/standing variations, low‑impact choices, and collaborative options. Please share any access needs in advance.
Do you provide educator resources?
Yes—teachers receive simple extensions and reflective prompts aligned to CA Arts Standards.
Contact
Email: [email protected]