About the 8-Week Workshop for Beginners

This workshop is designed to give you a thorough and gradual introduction to the fundamental movements of Japanese traditional dance (Nihon Buyo), allowing your body to learn and absorb the basics through repeated practice.
You will develop awareness of your entire body, from the top of your head to the tips of your toes. With focused concentration, you will slowly learn and understand the forms and movements. By repeatedly practicing the same movements in silence, you will gradually become familiar with the unique way of using the body that is characteristic of Nihon Buyo.
Once you become more comfortable with the basic movements, you will begin moving to traditional Nihon Buyo music. Learning the choreography while listening to the music and moving with its rhythm will help you deepen your understanding of the distinctive movements and qualities of Japanese dance.
Another important aspect of Nihon Buyo is its unique use of muscular energy. Rather than releasing energy outward, the dancer learns to “hold” or “contain” the energy within the body. This sensation of gathering and containing energy, known as tame, is one of the fundamental physical qualities of Nihon Buyo. Developing an understanding of this concept and learning how to embody it will be one of the main goals of this workshop.
NOTES
What to wear:
Because this class focuses on developing awareness of how your body moves, please wear comfortable, lightweight clothing that allows you to move freely. You will not be wearing a kimono or yukata. The focus is on carefully observing and learning how the body moves.
Knees:
Many of the movements are performed with the knees continuously bent, which can help develop strength in the legs and lower body. However, if you have knee problems, please take extra care during the class. If you experience pain, we do not recommend continuing the workshop.
Photography & Video:
Photography and video recording are strictly prohibited during class.
Make-up Classes & Refunds:
There are no make-up classes for missed sessions, and tuition is non-refundable.


