Explore different forms of dance, improvisation, and choreography, guided by trailblazing dancer Akira Armstrong in a welcoming, all-inclusive space. Throughout the week, you experience:

• Focused body awareness exercises
• Gentle stretching, breathing, and alignment principles
• Simple, evocative dance phrases that represent different emotions
• Guided improvisation
• Exploration of partner work, weight sharing, and trust through dance
• Journaling sessions about feelings experienced during movement

Each activity is meant for you to reflect upon your relationship to your body, and get a deeper understanding of self, honor comfort levels, and reflect as a group.

Work in small groups to create a dance based upon an emotion, and perform it for the other workshop participants, who provide positive feedback and reflection.

The workshop is open to people of all sizes, capabilities, and identities. Akira fosters a non-judgmental space where everyone feels safe to express themselves.

There is a daily feedback loop where Akira can offer adapted activities based upon your needs.

• Journal
• Water bottle
• Towel
• Extra shirt
• Dance clothing where you can see the shape of your body
• Dance shoes or heels to dance in
• Sneakers

Day 1: Introduction to Movement and Self-Expression
Objective: Introduce participants to the workshop, focusing on self-awareness through movement.
Activities:

• Warm-up: Gentle stretching and breathing exercises
• Icebreaker: Participants share their dance experiences and goals
• Movement Exploration: Guided improvisation; encourage participants to move freely to different types of music
• Reflection: Journaling session about feelings experienced during movement

Day 2: Body Awareness and Alignment
Objective: Develop awareness of body mechanics and personal space.
Activities:

• Warm-up: Focused body awareness exercises (e.g., body scans)
• Alignment Techniques: Teach basic alignment principles and how they affect movement
• Partner Work: Exploring weight sharing and trust through simple dance phrases
• Group Reflection: Share insights about body awareness and comfort levels

Day 3: Emotion and Movement Connection
Objective: Understand the relationship between emotions and physical expression.
Activities:

• Warm-up: Emotional warm-up using guided imagery
• Choreography: Introduce a short piece that represents specific emotions; discuss how to convey these through movement
• Creative Expression: Small group work to create a short piece based on an emotion
• Performance and Feedback: Groups present their creations; positive feedback focus

Day 4: Confidence Building Through Performance
Objective: Enhance confidence through performance and peer support.
Activities:

• Warm-up: Energizing group exercises to boost confidence
• Solo and Group Work: Participants create a solo movement phrase; support peers by offering positive affirmations
• Showcase Preparation: Rehearse for a mini-performance; discuss stage presence and connection with the audience
• Reflection: Discuss fears and how to overcome them

Day 5: Integration and Celebration
Objective: Reflect on the week's learning and celebrate personal growth.
Activities:

• Warm-up: Group movement improvisation to music of choice
• Final Performance: Participants present their solo or group pieces
• Group Discussion: Share personal growth and newfound insights about confidence and self-awareness
• Closing Ceremony: Hand out certificates, and share final thoughts; encourage participants to continue exploring dance