Advanced Modern / Contemporary with Company Member Olivia Wang

Mark Morris Dance Center

Co-presented by BAM and Mark Morris Dance Group

Co-presented by BAM and Mark Morris Dance Group

Co-presented by BAM and Mark Morris Dance Center

mbrace the wisdom of your body and move with ease, grace, and vitality. This somatic movement class is designed to engage your whole body through gentle, mindful exercises that enhance flexibility, balance, and overall well-being. With intentional movements, breathwork, and relaxation techniques, you’ll release tension, improve mobility, and rediscover the joy of moving freely.

Class will be accompanied by affirmative, upbeat, and restorative music. We will affirm the wisdom of our bodies, foster resource sharing and build social connections. No prior experience is needed—just a willingness to explore movement in a way that feels natural and nourishing. All movements can happen seated or standing. Feel free to bring water 

Learn the fundamentals of Afro-Haitian dance and immerse yourself in drum-based movement. Through this style rooted in Haitian folklore, develop new relationships to spatial awareness, body control, human connection, polyrhythm, percussion, and pulse.

This class explores several approaches to Broadway Jazz and features combinations inspired by classic choreographers such as Jerome Robbins, Bob Fosse, and Michael Bennett, as well as contemporary choreographers like Andy Blankenbuehler and Josh Bergasse. The class begins with a long warm-up consisting of a center barre, a strength and alignment series, and a long stretch. Every week the class breaks down aspects of jazz technique and ends with a long theater dance combination.

Yoga is accessible to anyone. Beginners to Advanced yogis can benefit from this class with Teaching Artist Iris Cohen. Iris ensures you practice correct body alignment in a safe and supportive environment.  Don’t worry about class moving too fast, knowing Sanskrit, or lacking flexibility. Welcome yourself to an experience that will de-stress your body and your mind.

Mats and props are included, or feel free to bring your own.

Afro-Brazilian dance is full of spontaneous, soulful movement that energizes the body and spirit. In this class, dancers will learn sequences and exercises that prepare the body for the uplifting and exciting dances of northern Brazil, where African influences are most present. Participants will develop rhythm and coordination, stay fit, relieve stress, and learn about Brazilian culture. Styles covered include: Afro-Brazilian, Samba, Samba de Roda, Axé, Sambareggae, Afoxé, and Orixas.