The program is modeled, in part, on the Dance for PD program developed by the exemplary Mark Morris Dance Company based in Brooklyn, NY. In Dance for PD classes, participants are empowered to explore movement and music in ways that are refreshing, enjoyable, stimulating and creative. The Dance for PD teaching method is built on one fundamental premise; professionally-trained dancers are movement experts whose knowledge is useful to persons with Parkinson's disease. Dancers know all about stretching and strengthening muscles, and about balance and rhythm. Most importantly, dancers know how to use their thoughts, imagination, eyes, ears and touch to control movements.
The classes follow a "traditional" dance class format. They begin with seated warm-up to increase blood circulation which raises general body and the deep muscle temperatures, which in turn help to heat up the muscles, ligaments and tendons in preparation for the movement to follow. The warm-up leads into standing work, holding to a chair. the standing work provides the chance to work with balance and the connection of one movement to another aided by having something to hold onto. The last section of the class is devoted to learning movement phrases that take dancers across the floor. The work builds by incremental steps and suddenly you find that you are a dancer and your movement in the studio begins to find its ways into daily life outside the studio.
All classes require pre-registration. Register by calling (602) 406-6903. If you reach voice messaging, please leave a message with your phone number including your area code.
All exercise classes are only $5.00 per class, payable by class or by session.
Locations
Phoenix
Brick's Studio
4550 E. Indian School Rd
Mondays, 1:30- 2:45 PM; January 7- May 20, 2013
Paradise Valley
Elizabeth Keith Movement Education
16620 N. 40th St. Suite D2 (40th St south of Bell)
Fridays, 10:00- 11:15 AM; January 11- May 24, 2013
Sun Lakes
Sun Lakes Country Club- Mirror Room
25601 S. Sun Lakes Blvd
Saturdays, 1:30- 3:00 PM; January 12- April 25, 2013
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