Irish Step

A welcoming introduction to a classical modern dance style for all levels of adult dancers

Currently offered: Sundays, 5:30pm-6:45pm, with Chloe Hellerman

This class is open levels and will include a combination of Irish softshoe, hardshoe, and old-style sean nós dancing to traditional music. 

About Chloë
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    • Supportive warm up on the floor and at the barre

    • Simple combinations across the floor and in the center 

    • Joyful movement that originates from the heart center

    • Traditional movements set to current popular music, copying Duncan’s style of using popular music in her own era

    • Step-by-step instruction with lots of explanation and detailed demonstration

    • Modifications for all bodies, abilities, and comfort levels

    • Encouraging instructor feedback

    • A low-pressure environment where mistakes are part of the learning process

    • Historical context and foundations about Isadora Duncan and the Grecian art that inspired her choreography

    • Thematic connections of Duncan movements to and other dance styles like ballet and modern

    • Specific hand and foot positions for regular Duncan movements

    • Musicality and artistry, and expressing them through movement the Duncan way

    • True beginners who have never taken ballet or dance before

    • Adult dancers of any level – beginner, returning, intermediate, advanced

    • Anyone who feels intimidated by traditional studios and wants a welcoming community

    • Movers seeking a structured fitness option that builds strength and flexibility

    • Ballet dancers looking to try out a ballet-adjacent modern dance class

    • JMU dance students who want to study a style of dance not specifically taught in college dance classes

  • Teenagers younger than 18 may participate at the discretion of the instructor; please contact info@hburgdancecoop.org for specific requests.

    • Structured and adaptable: Challenge yourself while receiving personalized guidance

    • Build confidence: Enhance knowledge of ballet technique so you can feel ready for any ballet class

    • Strengthen your foundation: Gain skills that transfer to other dance styles

    • Consistent practice: Improve alignment, strength, balance, and musicality through regularly working on technique

  • Attire: Wear clothes you can move comfortably and confidently in. Leggings, sweatpants, t-shirts, and any workout clothes work great.

    Footwear: Bare feet or dance socks are ideal.

    Bring: Please bring water!

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