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TUESDAYS: 7:00PM to 8:30PM

Drop-in class

 

 

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An introduction to theatre jazz for beginner adult dancers. With a focus on storytelling through movement, every class builds upon fundamental jazz technique and explores stylistic choreography from classic to contemporary musical theatre. Regardless of your technique level, this is the place to find joy on the dance floor.

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Investment: $15

 

 

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“The environment was supportive and relaxed. Other students felt comfortable to struggle, to not know, and to ask questions, so therefore I was comfortable to struggle and ask questions. Certain things were broken down for me for the first time so I could truly understand what was going on in my body when I put my foot here or there, when arms are in second, when you plié, etc. After experiencing that, I was hooked.”

— KATHRYN GRANT

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Not Your Average Dance Class:  

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• Workshop sizes are small and tailored to the needs of the specific artists present.

• Each class is always 1.5 hours (never an hour) so you can guarantee enough time for a full warm-up, technique development, and choreography assimilation.

• We will never film and post your journey to market our programs without your explicit permission.

• The learning happens both on and off the dance floor all week long.

• Our company exists solely for YOU, a "mover" in the musical theatre industry seeking guidance and training to improve your dance technique and confidence for the stage.

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Walk Away With:

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• Comprehensive Understanding of Dance Terminology

• Dedicated Attention to Theatre Dance Technique & Development

• Consistent 1-on-1 Time

• Strengthening & Stretching Exercises for at Home

• Assimilation and Retention Training

• Self-Critiquing Exercises Through Reflection, Video, & Guidance

• Industry Insight & Expertise

• Private Slack Channel

• Constant Community Support

• Unlimited Access to the Motivated Movers Team

• Option: Add Discounted Private Coachings

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“I took class at a very scary and intimidating place which I will not name (but you all secretly know), and was told within the first 15 minutes that I could go get my money back because clearly this basic class was much too hard for me. A friend of mine then recommended that if I can’t even make it in basic, I should try out this class called Motivated Movers.

With heart pounding and nerves racing, I did.  I can happily say I have never felt more at home... For the first time ever, no one was making fun of me, and after just 5 classes, I booked a job - from a dance callback!”

— JILLIAN GOTTLIEB

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MEET YOUR INSTRUCTOR ELISE MELENDEZ

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With a bachelor’s in American Dance Pedagogy from Oklahoma City University and a master’s in Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management from Columbia College Chicago, Elise has over a decade of experience in arts education and management. 

Off the dance floor Elise also serves as marketing manager for the American Marketing Association, the world’s largest community-based marketing association. Her past roles include casting director and assistant to the artistic director at Hangar Theatre; client services account executive for Prevail Strategic Marketing & Communications; strategic planning consultant for NPH USA, Chicago Woman magazine and World Future Society; and development consultant for Chicago Youth Shakespeare. Elise has also been a guest teaching artist/choreographer for arts organizations and educational institutions such as Hangar Theatre, Palace Theatre New Hampshire, Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma, Applause, St. Norbert College and Oklahoma City University.

 

 

 

FAQ

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"What if I am an absolute beginner?"

Good news!  You are why Motivated Movers was created in the first place.  Our classes are open to all varying basic, beginner, and advanced beginner levels.  We keep class sizes small so there is plenty of room for one-on-one attention.  We also adapt the classes to fit each individual artist in the room.  Our classes will always be about YOU and your unique journey.


"What if I am not a professional actor?"

Our mission is to help everyone embrace movement, including you. While our company was founded to serve professional artists, this weekly class is both incredibly beneficial and joyful for adults with all backgrounds. If you are interested in stepping onto the dance floor to learn, we welcome you with arms wide open.

 

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"What if I'm not 25 anymore?"

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Everyone in musical theatre will encounter the need to dance, learn choreography, and/or be comfortable with movement regardless of their age.  We focus on your body and what it needs at your beautiful stage of life.  We also tailor the class to fit all artists present in the room.  

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More Questions? Ask Away!