Weekly Adult Dance Classes

Single Drop in -$20           4 Class Pass – $75          8 Class Pass – $135          12 Class Pass – $185

Adult Dance Class Descriptions

Advanced Contemporary & Floorwork

Mondays 6:30-8:00pm with Rachel Catalano

This is an athletic, well-rounded class that utilizes self-discovery and improvisation to help movers feel comfortable in class. This is an active class that involves moving in and out of the floor on a regular basis. Class begins on the floor with a long warm up which stays consistent from week to week. Following the warm up are across the floor exercises that teach pathways and directionality that supports a culminating combination. Modifications are always available and questions are a welcome part of class. All Levels are welcome, however, this class moves at an advanced pace and dancers are asked to modify and honor their bodies as needed

Intermediate Contemporary

Tuesdays 7:00-8:30pm with Rachel Catalano

This class focuses on foundational contemporary concepts and technique while incorporating elements of improvisation. We start the class with a guided improv followed by a structured warm up that changes every other month. The across the floor portion focuses specifically on movement that is later used in a longer phrase. This class aims to build consistency through clear instruction, repetition, and a “take what serves you and leave the rest” kind of approach. All levels are welcome, moves at an intermediate pace.

Open Modern

Tuesdays 10:00-11:30am with Natalia Hill

Natalia teaches a technique-based class that combines the linear, athletic movement of the Horton technique with the sustained, exploding movement quality of Ballet and Release techniques to refine a graceful, strong, and artistic dancer. By connecting with each dancer through encouragement and individualized direction we are able to evolve from being just a dancer to a community of Artists. I can’t wait to move with you and share a mutual love for art, music, and dance.

Open Company Class

Wednesdays 10:00-11:30am with Christopher K. Morgan

Malashock Dance’s Artistic Director offers a company class that prepares dancers for the array of skills needed for the company’s repertoire and creative processes. Through a warm-up that incorporates yoga, release technique, modern dance, task based improvisation, and a thoughtful build-up to full-bodied virtuosic movement, students are asked to bring their entire selves into the class and express themselves without inhibition. Physical tasks throughout the class emphasize smooth transitions in and out of the floor, clear use of the legs, grounded balance, expansive stretch, and abandoned upper bodies. These physical qualities all stand on a foundation of community values that balance listening to oneself with acutely tuning into the ensemble.

(re)Connect Rotating Class Series

Wednesdays 7:00-8:30pm with Celina Naima Speck

Contemporary

This class aims to (re)connect with how our bodies truly feel when we dance. It is about finding organic pathways and following them or consciously challenging them. We will work on moving through different dynamics and moving in and out of the floor with some elements of improvisation. It’s a space that exists in the hope of offering inclusion to all participants. I specialize in providing movement translation, especially for dancers who use manual wheelchairs.

About the (re)CONNECT Rotating Class Series:

Reconnect with your practice and artists in our San Diego dance community through a rotating monthly series of drop-in technique classes featuring current and former MD company members, choreographers, and faculty. With a drop-in schedule every Wednesday night, this series fosters meaningful ways to get to know an artist deeply over the course of a month, while providing a wide array of artists for intermediate to advanced students to study with.

Afro-Modern with Dunham Roots

Thursdays 7:00-8:30pm with Nicole Francesca

In this class, we fuse together the richness of Afro-Fusion and the precision of Dunham Technique. Afro-Fusion draws inspiration from various African diasporic movement styles, infusing them with contemporary influences. With infectious rhythms and dynamic choreography, Afro-Fusion ignites the spirit and encourages participants to connect with their inner groove.

We will also delve into the legacy of the legendary Katherine Dunham through the Dunham Technique. This technique combines elements of Caribbean, African, and modern dance, focusing on strength, flexibility, and storytelling. By incorporating Dunham’s signature isolations, polyrhythms, and organic movements, we will honor her legacy and unlock our own artistic potential.

Afro-Modern with Dunham Roots is designed to nurture body awareness, self-reflection, and body acceptance. This is a brave space where each participant can embrace their unique journey and find a sense of belonging within the supportive community we cultivate. Join us for an exhilarating dance experience that celebrates movement, diversity, and self-expression. This inter-generational dance class welcomes movers of all ages and skill levels, creating a vibrant community where everyone can explore the power of dance. 

Beginning/Intermediate Ballet

Fridays 10:00-11:30am with Alexa Fote

In beginning/intermediate ballet, we work on posture, flexibility, balance, self-discipline, and self-confidence. This class focuses on fundamentals like proper body placement, barre and center work, and conditioning exercises. Each week looks different, and dancers who have never taken a class all the way up to professionals are welcome!

Dance with thisABILITY

Fridays 4:00-5:00pm with Nicole Francesca

This is an energetic and inclusive dance class designed specifically for dancers ages 12+ with cognitive disabilities. Our class focuses on enhancing flexibility, balance, and other gross motor skills through fun and engaging movement exercises. Each session is carefully structured to accommodate all ability levels, ensuring a safe and supportive environment where everyone can thrive.

Beyond physical development, this class offers a unique opportunity to expand social skills in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Participants will have the chance to connect with others, build confidence, and express themselves through the joy of dance. Whether you’re new to dancing or have some experience, our class is a place where everyone can feel a sense of belonging, grow at their own pace, and enjoy the many benefits of movement and social interaction.

Modern Jazz Blues

Saturdays 10:30am-12:00pm with Maria Benjamin

This is an intermediate level lyrical Jazz class that’s a fusion of Horton, Graham, Limon, Afro, Gospel, Blues, and Ballet. It focuses on and builds musicality, technique, strength and expression. We start with three warmups set to contemporary music, an adagio, and then going across the floor, in order to prepare the body for choreography. The choreography will vary every one or two weeks, but will always be music driven and soulful. This class requires some prior dance training, but frequent attendance will help the dancer become stronger and improve their technique. The most important thing in this class is for students to use the space to move, express themselves through the choreography, and feel their spirits soar.