DC Dance Collective's Resident Companies
DC Dance Collective strives to allow its artists an unprecedented amount of freedom in which to explore the creative process. As part of this continuing goal, we are proud to have several professional performance companies and movement education programs in residence at the studio.
Each program approaches the creative and educational process in their own fashion. Below are brief descriptions of the ideologies of each, as well as links to obtain additional detailed information.
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Ancient Rhythms Dance Troupe
The word "dance" comes from the sanskrit word "tanha", which means "the joy of life". In the Middle East, "dance" is derived from Arabic "raks" and the Turkish "rakkash" meaning "to celebrate". It is this joyful collective energy that Ancient Rhythms Dance Troupe share in their performances, reflecting dance as an expression of human beauty. Ancient Rhythms Artistic Director, Karen McLane (Najwah) began studying the art of Middle Eastern Belly Dance over twenty years ago and performed as a soloist in hundreds of shows the world over. Through her long years of teaching, several of her students excelled in the art and thus, Ancient Rhythms Dance Troupe evolved. They boast a wonderfully diverse group of performers from ages 17 to 54. The members of Ancient Rhythms believe that the movements of Middle Eastern Belly Dance are so deeply rich and inherently natural to a woman's body that they can move you to transcend and transform.
More Information: www.najwah.com
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Drago Chi Budo Kai Karate-do Dojo
Karate ni sente nashi. There is no first attack in karate. This phrase, inscribed on a monument in a Zen monastery in Kamakura City, embodies the essence of Okinawan Karate. Karate is a martial art, developed by the Okinawans as a method of self defense.
The traditional "pine forest" (Matsubayashi) system of Shorin-ryu Karate stresses working with a partner as opposed to competing against an opponent. What is important is the development of better human beings, not just fighters.
More Information: www.dcbudokai.8k.com
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Young at Heart
Young at Heart is an adult tap dance performance company. YAH is a non-profit Performing Company comprised of an inspired group of amateur tap dancers who perform for the benefit of the community. YAH is formed through the NIH Recreation and Welfare Association to provide entertainment to social service organizations in the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan area.
Young At Heart represents people from various walks of life. Membership in the company is open to tap dancers of all ages. Several members are actively pursuing their careers and a few are retirees. Ages range from 25 to 62. Some of the company members danced as children, others began dancing after they raised their families. All share a love of the dance and the desire to give something back to the community. The Young At Heart dancers share their enthusiasm for tap wherever they perform.