NEW STUDENTS
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Promotions:
For those students who have never taken class at ODC Dance Commons (home of ODC School and Rhythm & Motion),
their first class is free!
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Answers & Advice :
How do I choose a class?
What can I expect from my first Rhythm & Motion dance class?
How do I keep up in class?
Are all dance classes ongoing?
When should I arrive for class?
Do I have to check in before every class?
What should I wear?
What should I bring?
Are there showers or lockers on the premises?
Is parking available?
Do you have Work Study opportunities?
R&M Bill of Rights:
I. You have the right to observe any class.
II. You have the right to drop in on any
class in our schedule.
III. You have the right to wear whatever makes
you comfortable.
IV. You have the right to be a beginner.
V. You have the right to ask questions about our
classes.
VI. You have the right to be exuberant in class!
- Ask! Bring your questions to us by phone, email, or in person, and someone knowledgeable can help guide you. Please be aware that from 5 to 9pm on Mondays through Fridays, and from 11am to 2pm on Saturdays, our front desk is particularly busy, so they may not be able to answer all of your questions at those times.
- Watch! You can always observe any class for free. All you have to do is check in and leave your photo ID at the front desk.
- DO! Let your body tell you. There’s nothing like the actual experience of taking a class. Try dancing in different classes and with different instructors. Stick with the class(es) that inspire feelings of joyfulness and exuberance. To help you make that leap, we often have New Student Promotions that give you the opportunity to take free or discounted classes.
What can I expect from my first Rhythm & Motion dance class?
You can expect a lot of fun! At Rhythm & Motion we believe that dance is for everyone, regardless of age, body type, or experience. Whether you are a beginner or have a dance background of any type, you will find that you have a place in our dance community. As a beginner, you can also expect some initial frustration as you learn the choreography (see 'How do I keep up in class').
- Everyone at Rhythm & Motion has the right to just be a beginner. At some point, everyone here has felt a little lost in a dance class or felt like the only person who was not ‘getting’ it. Remember that muscle memory is more effective than brain power when it comes to movement. That means, just keep coming – you will “get it”. Also keep in mind that some of our students have been coming and dancing to our routines for 25 years!
- Begin by focusing just on the footwork, then add the arms. Follow the big movements: if everyone is moving to the right, move to the right. Also, listen to your body and avoid strains by gradually working up to increased levels of strength, stretch, and endurance.
- Remember: you’re doing something new! It often takes several classes to get the sense that you’re ‘keeping up’ and getting all of the choreography.
Are all dance classes ongoing?
Yes, except our seasonal workshops. That means you can drop in on any class you want to take, and that our classes are designed to enable students to join in at any time.
When should I arrive for class?
It’s best to arrive 15-20 minutes before class. This will give you time to check in, change, and stretch if you need to before class. (First time students should bring a photo ID and be prepared to fill out a new student registration form upon check-in).
Do I have to check in before every class?
Yes, no matter what! Check-in is on the first floor at ODC Dance Commonsr. For our neighborhood locations, check in with the ticket taker or instructor.
For Dance Workout and hip hop classes, wear loose fitting, stretchy, or comfortable clothes, and supportive shoes (street sneakers are fine, just as long as they’re comfortable and clean). For other classes, just call and we’ll be glad to help!
Bring a towel (be prepared to sweat!) and a water bottle (we have a water fountain for your convenience). For yoga and Pilates classes you may bring your own mat, though we have mats for your use in our studio.
Are there showers or lockers on the premises?
Yes. Remember to bring a lock for your locker.
Yes! There is a public parking lot on 17th and Shotwell in addition to limited street parking around ODC Dance Commons.
Do you have Work Study Opportunities?
Yes! Because we want everyone to be able to dance here, we offer a wide range of opportunities for work exchange, from cleaning the studio to office and special events support. We appreciate the help, and we pay you with classes! Check out our Work Exchange Page for current opportunities and applications.