Dynamic Diversities

All are welcome, Dance is for everyone!

At Dynamic Motion Dance Academy, we aim to provide a safe and welcoming environment for everyone to dance. Our weekly class, Dynamic Diversities, is specifically designed to provide structure, extra time, exploration, and additional support as needed for dancers with different needs. Dancers will learn to both love dance and push themselves with an appropriate challenge.

Dynamic Diversities Jr.

Starting October 1st

Tuesdays 4:15pm – 5:10pm

This class is based in ballet and basic movement patterns with use of props to inspire movement. Age range is typically 5 – 10 but flexible based on dancers’ needs.

Dress code: Ballet shoes if able. Sneakers are acceptable to accommodate bracing if needed. Leotard and tights are encouraged. Skirts optional. If sensory issues present with tight clothing, loose clothing is permitted, such as stretchy pants/short and a T shirt. If choosing a dress or skirt, please wear biker shorts or leggings under.

Dynamic Diversities Ballet/Lyrical

Starting October 7th

Monday 4:15pm-5:10pm

Based in ballet and lyrical movement styles. Dancers work at the barre, across the floor and work on choreography. We focus on self-expression, working with partners and independent learning.

Dance Buddies available for assistance to support participation.

Dress code: ballet or jazz shoes if able. Sneakers are acceptable to accommodate bracing if needed. Comfortable stretchy clothing that allows movement. Dancers may choose a leotard and tights (skirt optional) or leggings/shorts and a T-shirt. If choosing a dress or skirt, please wear biker shorts or leggings under.

Dynamic Diversities Jazz (Currently Full)

Starting October 7th

Monday 5:15pm-6:10pm

This class moves at a slightly faster pace and focuses on jazz and hip hop styles. The class is currently full. Please feel free to request to be placed on the waiting list. If we have enough interest, we may be able to open a new class in the future!

Dress code: jazz shoes preferred if able. Sneakers are acceptable to accommodate bracing if needed. Comfortable stretchy clothing that allows movement. Dancers may choose a leotard and Jazz pants or leggings and a T-shirt. If choosing a dress or skirt, please wear biker shorts or leggings under.

Inclusion

-Dancers have the opportunity to perform in the recital. Additional support is provided as needed.

-Tuition for Dynamic Diversities is eligible for ESA funds, please inquire at front desk.

-All of our teachers at DMDA embrace and support all dancers. Dancers are welcome to join any class. Please reach out to our staff or Ms. Katie with any questions or request for specific support.

More Information at:

www.allbodiesdanceaz.org

Meet the Teacher

Katie Kirwan

Katie Kirwan began her early training in Middletown, Ohio under Phyllis DeWeese and later studied under Raphael Grigorian in Corning, New York, Dayton Ballet, Pointe Park College, Milwaukee Ballet, Ballet Chicago, and North Carolina Dance Theatre. At Indiana University, she earned her Bachelor of Science in ballet and arts management under the wonderful teaching of Violette Verdy, Jasque Cesbron and Leslie Peck. In North Carolina, she began teaching at DancePlace, the official school of North Carolina Dance Theatre. However, the highlight of her career was dancing with Ballet Magnificat! under Kathy Thibodeaux from 2001 – 2008 as a soloist company member. In the fall of 2008, she taught at Dance Center Prague, a conservatory in Prague, Czech Republic. After moving to Chicago she taught and worked full time for the Joffrey Ballet Academy from 2009 – 2015, including 5 years as Joffrey Ballet’s Children’s Cast Head Ballet Master for The Nutcracker.

Katie returned to graduate school in 2012 to earn her Masters in Occupational Therapy. She currently works with children with complex medical needs, but also enjoys working with adults. With her background in OT, she has been the creator of a Parkinson’s Disease dance project in the Chicago area, and a children’s dance class through her current job, providing group therapy through the medium of dance to children with a range of abilities including those using bracing, wheelchairs and other devices for mobility. It is her passion to expand dance opportunities to all people of all backgrounds and abilities.

Contact: Kirwan.katie@yahoo.com