In this video tutorial, Marcea Daiter, who teaches Dunham technique at Ailey Extension, teaches a series of Pilates-inspired exercises to help students develop strength when being introduced to new weight shifts or dance styles. To read the full-length article on using weight shifts effectively, click here.
When dance students specialize in a specific style, they often become accustomed to moving in specific ways. However, in today’s ever-diversifying dance landscape, dancers should expect to be asked to move with variety, often blending styles or switching between multiple genres over the course of a single work. Learning to shift weight is key to […]
Maguette Camara prides himself on being “a really, really good beginner dance teacher.” It’s true: His high-energy, rhythm-filled West African dance classes burst with joy and community, and his patient, supportive demeanor reminds first-timers that dancing—not mastering every single step—is what’s most important. Originally from Senegal, Camara was a longtime member of the lauded Ballet […]
Marshall Davis Jr.’s introduction to tap dance began at 10 years old at African Heritage Cultural Arts Center, where his father is director, in Miami, Florida. Training began in sneakers and dress shoes that Davis Jr. did his best to get sound out of. “My father was reluctant to invest in tap shoes, because he […]
As a principal dancer with the Harkness Ballet in the 1960s, master teacher Finis Jhung refined his technique under the tutelage of legendary ballet teacher David Howard. “When we performed, he would take notes. After the show he’d give little tips like, ‘When you do your double tour, pull back a little to the left.’ […]
Seen & Heard At the Dance Teacher Summit Finis Jhung Finis Jhung teaches dancers to move using the whole body. A renowned NYC ballet teacher, Finis Jhung was the founding artistic director of Chamber Ballet USA. His students have included dancers from New York City Ballet and American Ballet Theatre as well as several of […]