SPRING & SUMMER 2008
CLASSES & WORKSHOPS at THE DANCE PALACE
**Seniors ** Young People ** Preschoolers ** Yoga ** Recreation
TO REGISTER FOR CLASSES
For more information or to register for a class, contact the Dance Palace at 663-1075 or dance@horizconcable.com, or the class teacher at the listed phone number or email address.
New students are welcome to join ongoing classes at any time.
SCHOLARSHIPS
Scholarships are always available from the Dance Palace for those who would like to take a class but cannot afford the full fee. All you need to do is fill out a simple form, which you can get at the Dance Palace office or from your class teacher. For information, call 663-1075.
click here to download a scholarship application for Dance Palace classes
GENERAL CLASSES & WORKSHOPS- SPRING AND SUMMER 2008
BEGINNER’S MIND AIKIDO
Working with the premise that all things are already connected, we practice centering and grounding in order to peacefully and powerfully blend or join with the world as it is.
Taught by Melinda Leithold – 669-1614 Tuesdays 6–7 p.m. through June 10; Tuesdays 7:15-8:15 p.m.,
June 17–July 29) / sliding scale $5–10 per class
CARBON, SOILS, & YOUR RANCH: AN INTRODUCTION TO CARBON SEQUESTRATION ON RANGELANDS
Presenters will introduce online soil survey resources, explain carbon cycles in soil, describe the current state of markets, share preliminary results from recent carbon studies, and outline rangeland management that can lead to improvements in pasture condition and ranch viability.
Sponsored by U.C. Cooperative Extension and Marin Resource Conservation District
Thursday, June 5, 4:30 p.m. / free
COLLABORATIVE DANCE
A co-creative movement experience exploring individual creativity and open-ended improvisational structures. Join us for self-discovery and fun. No dance experience necessary; all welcome.
For information contact Nancy Hemmingway 669-7770 or Melinda Leithold 669-1614
Wednesdays 6–7:30 p.m. / sliding scale $5–10 per class
CONVERSATIONAL SPANISH FOR BEGINNERS
This course is intended for adults interested in Spanish for work, travel, or to better communicate with Spanish speaking people of the world. We will use a standard text and CDs to develop vocabulary, basic grammar, sentence structure, and pronunciation, but much of the class will be focused on conversational immersion. Instructor Suzanne Speh has lived and traveled extensively in the Spanish-speaking world. Maximum number of students 12. Please register in advance by contacting the Dance Palace office.
Taught by Suzanne Speh, Wednesdays 7–9 p.m., June 4–July 23 / $100 for the 8-week session (includes text and CDs); $80 continuing students
COUNTRY WESTERN DANCE LESSON
Come learn how to do the Country Western two-step and waltz in preparation for the Western Weekend Dance!
Taught by Matt and Loretta Murphy – info 663-1075 Wednesday, June 4, 7 p.m. / free
DANCE PALACE THEATER GROUP
Work with director Tina Taylor and voice instructor Laura Alderdice on weekly acting classes. We will explore a variety of techniques and genres while working on individual monologues, group scenes, and songs. Newcomers always welcome. Performances are scheduled for June 13, 14, and 15.
Taught by Tina Taylor – 669-7268 Thursdays 7:30–9 p.m., April 10–June 12; $150 for the 10-week session
ENGLISH CLASSES
The morning beginning English classes are a cooperative project of Marin Literacy Program, Marin Head Start, Marin County Free Library, and the Dance Palace Community Center.
For information, call Eileen Puppo or Ana Maria Ramirez at the Marin Literacy Program - 663-1849 Beginning class Thursdays 9–11 a.m., through june 5 / free
FELDENKRAIS METHOD
Feldenkrais is an ingenious method that uses gentle, pleasurable movement and guided touch to produce powerful changes. The Method is for anyone looking for relief from pain or desiring greater ease and pleasure in everyday activities such as walking, gardening, and driving. Each class will focus on a different area of the body and learn how function can be improved through movement and self-awareness.
Taught by Alice Brydges 383-7536 or abrydges@onebox.com Fridays 12:30-1:30 pm., May 2–30; June 6–27; July 4–25 / $40 for the 4-week series (includes materials fee), or $15 single class
HEARTSONG CIRCLE SINGING
Join our circle of laughter, friendship, and song. We sing songs from many cultures and centuries, enjoying interesting rhythms and gorgeous harmonies. We sing for encouragement, healing, strengthening intentions, and the joy of lifting our voices together again. Everyone’s voice is welcome. Each piece is carefully taught, with scores provided. Summer session TBA. Pre-registration required.
Taught by Harmony Grisman - 669-7447 Tuesdays 7:30–9 p.m., May 6–June 10 / $90 per 6-week session (new members $20 repertoire fee)
INTERNATIONAL FOLK DANCE
Folk dances from all over the world, including Serbia, Turkey, Rumania, Armenia, Bulgaria, Greece, and Israel. Beginners and newcomers are always welcome; no partner is necessary. The dances are fun, great exercise, and danced to a wonderful assortment of world music. Instructor Carol Friedman has been teaching folk dancing since 2000.
Taught by Carol Friedman - 663-9512 Wednesdays 7–8 p.m.,
April 2–May 21 (no class April 30 or May 14 / $50 for the 6-week session, or $9 drop-in
MEDITATION GROUP
Meditate with your friends and neighbors. Everyone is welcome—no prior experience or particular spiritual orientation necessary. Sitting silently together, we encourage and enrich each other’s practice. A short talk follows a 40-minute session of meditation. Carrie and Stuart Kutchins have been practicing meditation for 20 years. They were ordained in 1994 as Buddhist priests in the Soto Zen tradition of Shunryu Suzuki Roshi.
Led by Carrie and Stuart Kutchins - 669-1733, Steve McKinney – 663-8761
Wednesdays 7–8 a.m. / Donations
THE MYSTERY NOVEL
This class reads selective mystery fiction which continues to reflect our interest in mysteries set in foreign countries. We are intrigued by both the novel's plot and each different locale.
Taught by Joan Hamerman Robbins - 868-0835 Second Saturday of each month 10:30 a.m.–noon,
January 12 to June 14 /$60 for 6 meetings
OSTEOPATHIC SELF-TREATMENT WITH CONTINUUM MOVEMENT: 3-DAY DEPTHS RETREAT
In this workshop we will explore the creative potential of combining Osteopathy and Continuum. Continuum cultivates internal experience through a dynamic meditative process blending breath, sound, and subtle movement. Discover the deep inner world that is an unending resource for healing and adaptability. Engage the wisdom of the body and allow it to fully express and freely organize movement and health.
For experienced Continuum participants.
Taught by Bonnie Gintis – 831-688-4201 bonnie@bonniegintis.com Friday, August 15, 6:30–9 p.m.;
Saturday, August 16, 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sunday, August 17, 9:30–3 p.m. / $250 ($225 before 7/1)
PHOTOVOLTAIC WORKSHOP
This workshop sponsored by the Dance Palace and presented by Solar Living Institute includes: basics of electricity and PV, nuts and bolts of solar, improving energy efficiency, determining system size, and hands-on assembly of an operational non-battery grid-tied PV system.
Taught by instructors from Solar Living Institute - Friday, Saturday, Sunday, May 16, 17, 18;
advance registration required; info at 415-663-1075 / $375
TAI CHI CHU’AN
We begin each class with warm-up exercises and Qigong breathing. New students learn the Tai Chi Chu’an form at their own pace and are individually taught. Long-time students practice the set together and also learn weapon sets and shaolin. Ellen was trained by Sifu Kuo Lien Ying, who certified her to teach in 1977.
She is assisted by Celeste Woo.
Taught by Ellen Serber - 663-1662 Sundays 8:30–10 a.m. (outside if not raining) / $40 monthly
YOGA AT THE PALACE
YOGA WITH MISSY WIPF
Gentle and mindful yoga for all ages and levels, adjusted to the individual. Missy has been studying yoga in the Iyengar tradition for 7 years and has apprenticed and taught under the skilled guidance of local West Marin yoga instructor Ellen Serber for 3 years. She has been influenced by the teachings of Iyengar and Desikachar as well as Ellen's perceptive, caring, and knowledgeable style of teaching.
Taught by Missy Wipf – 307-7818 Tuesdays 6–7:30 p.m. / $40 for 4 classes a month; $15 drop-in
YOGA WITH ELIZABETH BARNET
Elizabeth’s classes are based on Iyengar yoga while offering a gentle, supportive atmosphere, emphasizing dance-like movement, breath awareness, and an attentive mind. Elizabeth attended teacher training at the Yoga Room in Berkeley and the Iyengar Yoga Institute of San Francisco, where she apprenticed with Judith Lasater. She has taught yoga for beginning to intermediate students as well as adaptive and
restorative yoga since 1991.
Taught by Elizabeth Barnet - 669-1291
Fridays 9–10:30 a.m. / $60 for 5 classes (non-consecutive), or $15 drop-in
YOGA WITH ELLEN SERBER
Ease and concentration in physical practice, observation of breath, and focus of mind. Ellen has been teaching and studying yoga for 37 years. She holds a credential to teach in the Iyengar tradition and is also influenced by the teachings of Desikachar. All level students are welcome; postures are modified to fit individual needs.
Taught by Ellen Serber - 663-1662
Mondays 10–11:30 a.m. / $40 monthly; $15 drop-in
YOGA WITH KATIE JAY
An open level class that emphasizes the linking of breath and movement with equal attention paid to finding stability and ease through alignment. This joyful practice will leave you feeling both energized and refreshed. Come and rediscover the natural spaciousness of your body, breath, and mind. Katie teaches extensively all over the Bay Area and was trained and certified by Cyndi Lee, founder and director of
OM Yoga Center in New York City.
Taught by Katie Jay -963-1281 Thursdays 5:45-7:15 p.m. / 5 classes for $60 or $15 drop-in.
SARAH MEANS YOGA
Loosen and recognize the spaciousness of your body breathing, grounding, and freeing itself of old restrictions. Widen your circle of compassion in a multi-level group of yoga practitioners (and plan on sharing some laughter too). Sarah has been teaching Iyengar inspired yoga full time since 1991 and trained intensively with Rodney Yee for 9 years. Let’s create sanctuary together! Everyone is welcome.
Taught by Sarah Means - 663-8708 Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays 9:30–11 a.m. (no class the third Thursday; no classes the week of June 8; no classes in August) /
$75 for 5 non-consecutive classes or $17 drop-in
FOR PRESCHOOLERS
BABY GYM
An informal playgroup and meeting ground for babies, toddlers, moms, dads, and caretakers. For ages birth–5. Every first and third Tuesday, Jonathan Green comes to Baby Gym to do Music Together.
Coordinated by Lourdes Romo and Avril Black - for information, contact the Dance Palace 663-1075 Tuesdays and Thursdays 9:30–11 a.m. ongoing (no Tuesday Baby Gym June 17–July 22) / free
CLAY WORKSHOP
Working with clay is a wonderful art activity for preschoolers, engaging their imaginations and facilitating developmental learning – and it’s just plain fun! We will create art that’s filled with love and delight. Techniques and project suggestions that are new and easy to follow every week - or the children can come with their own ideas. Vickisa Feinberg is a professional artist who has taught art in various schools throughout the Bay Area for more than 20 years, and is the director of Dance Palace Camp.
Taught by Vickisa Feinberg - to register, call 663-1075
Tuesdays 2–3 p.m., May 6–27 / $40 for the 4-week session
CREATIVE DANCE
This class includes movement games, storytelling through dance, sensory awareness, and more. Music, feelings, imagination, textures and smells will be used to inspire dance in this class for boys and girls ages 3 1/2–5. Instructor Taira Restar has taught children and adults for 25 years. Her dance training includes ballet, modern, and Life/Art Process. She has an M.A. in movement education, teaches at Tamalpa Institute, and performs with Anna Halprin.
Taught by Taira Restar – 663-1997 Thursdays 2:15–3 p.m., May 1–June 5 /
$48 per 6-week session or $10 drop-in
FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
AFTER-SCHOOL CLASSES FOR CHILDREN
Children at West Marin Elementary School who are enrolled in after-school classes can be walked down to the Dance Palace. Dolores Gonzalez will meet the children, walk with them, and supervise them until the arrival of their class instructor. If you would like to enroll your child in this program, call us at 663-1075.
AFTER-SCHOOL ART PROGRAM
A multicultural art program taught in both English and Spanish for children ages 5–12 by Colleen Conley, West Marin School art teacher; Toni Littlejohn, mixed-media artist; and Dolores Gonzalez, whose native language is Spanish. Artists of many cultures will be invited to participate. The children will use two- and three-dimensional media - painting, printmaking, carpentry, ceramics, jewelry, and textiles -
to develop their own unique expressions.
Taught by Toni Littlejohn, Colleen Conley, and Dolores Gonzalez - 663-1313
Wednesdays 3:15–4:45 p.m., April 2–May 28, $70 for the 7-week session
CERAMICS
Working with clay engages the imagination and facilitates developmental learning – and it’s just plain fun! We will create sculpture and practical things. For ages 5–12. Vickisa Feinberg is a professional multimedia artist, member of Gallery Route One, teacher in public and private schools, and Director of Dance Palace Camp.
Taught by Vickisa Feinberg - to register, call 663-1075
Tuesdays 3:15–4:30 p.m., May 6–27/ $40 for the 4-week session
CREATIVE DANCE
This class includes movement games, storytelling through dance, sensory awareness, and more. Music, feelings, imagination, textures and smells will be used to inspire dance in this class for boys and girls grades K–2. Instructor Taira Restar has taught children and adults for 25 years. Her dance training includes ballet, modern, and Life/Art Process. She has an M.A. in movement education, teaches at Tamalpa Institute, and performs with Anna Halprin.
Taught by Taira Restar – 663-1997 Thursdays 3:15–4 p.m.,
May 1–June 5 / $48 per 6-week session or $10 drop-in
DANCE PALACE CAMP
Dance Palace Camp (for ages 6–12) focuses on creativity and imagination with hands-on, fun activities that foster the development of friendships and social skills. With our low camper-to-staff ratio, we are able to provide caring, personal attention to all campers and their families. Activities include art, ceramics, sports, cooking, capoeira, science, games, world music and dance, theater and stories, nature studies, hikes, and special theme days.
First session June 16–26 (2 weeks, Monday–Thursday) $235; Second Session July 7–23 (3 weeks, Monday–Wednesday) $260
DANCE PALACE KIDS MUSICAL THEATER (KMT) WORKSHOP
KMT provides the opportunity for children to explore the skills of singing and acting through Musical Theater. Participants sharpen skills as soloists and ensemble players. The children work in team building, scene work, character development, improvisation and games, movement, stage presence, stage business, vocal technique, vocal ensemble, acting the song, and performance self-evaluation. For ages 6-12; maximum 12 kids in each section. Instructor Laura Alderdice is a voice teacher and former music director for theatre arts at Mt. Madonna School in Watsonville. This program is made possible in part through a
grant from the Bill Graham Foundation.
Taught by Laura Alderdice– register in advance at 663-1075 Mondays 3:15–5 p.m., March 17–May 12 (no class March 24) / $80 for the 8-week session
FOR YOUNG ADULTS
ART
Can’t get enough art? This special art class for grades 6, 7, and 8 is taught by Colleen Conley, art teacher at West Marin/Inverness Schools, and will include drawing, painting, crafts, and other media.
Taught by Colleen Conley; contact the Dance Palace 663-1075 Mondays 3:15-4:45 p.m. through May 12
$120 for the 12-week session
DANCE PALACE CAMP COUNSELOR-IN-TRAINING PROGRAM
The Counselor-in-Training Program (CITP) for boys and girls ages 13–15 offers leadership training, team building, problem solving, recreation, and supervised instruction in the skills necessary to be a super counselor and babysitter. The program includes first-aid/CPR training, art projects, and an all-day,
naturalist-led kayak excursion.
First session June 16–26 (two weeks, Monday–Thursday), $225; Second Session July 7–23 (three weeks, Monday–Wednesday), $245
DANCE PALACE SUMMER STOCK PLAYERS
The Dance Palace Summer Stock Players, a theater group for young adults ages 12 to 18 directed by Sam Fisher, will rehearse their summer production, with performances on August 1–10. Each session will include a thorough warm-up, theater improvisations, and instruction in basic acting skills. Any teen interested in acting, costumes, set-building, lighting, production, and/or house management is welcome to participate. This program is made possible in part through a grant from Autodesk, Inc.
Auditions Saturday, May 10, 11 a.m.–noon; Rehearsals Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 5–7 p.m. starting June 17 / $150 (includes T-shirt
These classes, listed elsewhere in the bulletin, welcome young adult participants: International Folk Dance, Gardening, Aikido, Theater, Ping-Pong, and Yoga.
FOR SENIORS
BINGO!
Second Thursday of each month, 1:15–2:30 p.m. / free
BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC
Free blood pressure clinic offered by the Public Health Nurse through West Marin Health
and Human Services Center.
Fourth Thursday of each month, noon–1 p.m.
CH’I GUNG: EXERCISES FOR LONGEVITY, HEALTH, AND HARMONY
This class focuses on immune circulation; acupressure points for stress and pain-relief; brain-enhancing points for improving mental function; opening and stretching exercises for joints, connective tissue, muscles, and structural alignment. As a side benefit, you’ll improve your physical balance/coordination and strength, and reduce your risk of falls. Most of the exercises can be done while seated in a chair or standing. Co-sponsored by West Marin Senior Services and the Dance Palace.
Taught by Chris Anderl, Ph.D. (ABD) – 669-9720 Wednesdays 9:45-11 A.M. through June 11,
Fridays 8:30-9:45 A.M., starting June 13 / donation
EXERCISE IS FOR LIFE – SO LET’S HAVE FUN!
This class is designed for older adults and/or people with disabilities/special needs. The exercises will include warm-ups and motion aerobics, stretching, and light resistance training. Come join us – enhance your physical performance, heighten your sense of well-being, and decrease emotional stress and anxiety. All participants must have a signed release from their doctor and a signed consent to participate. Continuing students only need a signed statement that their health condition has not changed. Instructors Mary Salmon and Theresa Elaine are both certified senior fitness instructors.
Taught by Theresa Elaine and Mary Salmon – for information call 663-1075 Mondays and Wednesdays 11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m. through June 11; Fridays 2–3 p.m., June 20-July 18 / $20–35 per month, or $3-6 drop-in
POINT REYES SENIORS
Point Reyes Seniors, a club formed in 1976 for men and women age 55 and older, has occasional field trips and an annual holiday buffet with Bolinas Whitecaps.
For information call Ruth Stahl at 663-1625 or Jackie Moritz at 663-9025.
SENIOR AWARENESS IN A
FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT (S.A.F.E.)
A supportive, safe place to explore experiences and discuss issues relating to the aging process. Pre-registration required; new members welcome. Sponsored by the Dance Palace.
For information, call Jody Farrell - 663-9416 Fridays 10 a.m.–noon / free
SENIOR DISCOUNT CARD
The Dance Palace senior “gold card” allows low-income seniors to pay half-price admission at all events at the Dance Palace (with the exception of fundraising events and classes). Gold Cards are available by request from the Dance Palace office.
SENIOR YOGA
In this gentle yoga class especially for older men and women, we move from restful, supported postures to gentle warm-up movements to classical yoga postures. Each individual builds upon his/her strength, flexibility, and balance, giving careful attention to breathing and postural alignment. Elizabeth Barnet trained at the Iyengar Yoga Institute of San Francisco and The Yoga Room in Berkeley, and has taught at the Dance Palace since 1991.
Co-sponsored by The Dance Palace and West Marin Senior Services; Taught by Elizabeth Barnet - 669-1291 Fridays 10:45 a.m.–noon / $5–8 sliding scale per class
TILE-MAKING and ceramics FOR SENIORS
In this 6-session class, you will make unique, three-dimensional tiles from molds you design yourself, as well as functional and decorative ware using traditional and innovative techniques in both construction and glazing. No previous clay experience is necessary. Bindy Durrie is a professional ceramic artist.
Taught by Bindy Durrie - for information and registration call 663-1075 Tuesdays 9 a.m.–noon, April 22–May 27 / $50–100 sliding scale for the 6-week session
WEST MARIN SENIORS LUNCHEON
A weekly meals program for seniors age 55 and older sponsored by The Dance Palace in cooperation with Catholic Charities Marin Meals, Point Reyes Seniors, and West Marin Senior Services each Thursday from 12:15–1:30 p.m.
For information and reservations, call West Marin Senior Services at 663-8148.
RECREATION
OUTDOOR RECREATION
Outdoor recreational facilities are available for your use at the Dance Palace, including a basketball half-court, volleyball net, and outdoor Ping-Pong table. Balls for basketball, soccer, and volleyball are available for public use in the holder next to the court; Ping-Pong paddles and balls are in a container attached to the table; please return them when you are finished.
PING-PONG & RIGHT BRAIN EXPLORATION
A great aerobic sport for all ages! Doubles ping pong with occasional game using "other hand." For information, contact Sandy Jacobs 663-1418.
Mondays 7:45–9:45 p.m./ free
Questions? Email us at dance@horizoncable.com
503 B Street * PO Box 217, Point Reyes, CA, 94956 * 415-663-1075