DAPpers
Building Communities - Expanding Possibilities - Igniting Joy
Dance for All People (DAPpers) is a multigenerational dance class designed for people with movement challenges and ageing bodies. DAPpers believes in the power of all people to find vitality, creativity and joy within our own bodies. DAPpers celebrates each other as we are and fosters growth through dance, music, and dialogue in a welcoming community that encourages people of all ages, abilities, and identities to flourish.
Our classes build community and understanding of the power of dance. The relationships formed are meaningful for all participants and address some of the isolation and loneliness people often feel.
WHY DAPpers?
Increase coordination and flexibility while releasing body tension
Improve balance and gait, strengthen your core, feel power and grace in your movements
Enhance awareness of your body and vitality through movement
Breathe more deeply and vocalize more fully
Experience a wide variety and range of inspiring music
Feel supported as you explore in a safe and comfortable environment
Flourish within a joyful community
About DAPpers
Program History:
Established in 2013 for individuals with PD and other movement challenges
DAPpers began as a laboratory for the course Artists and Scientists as Partners (ASaP)
Engaged with students in both dancer and musician roles, became a key component of the program
Works towards intergenerational performance opportunities throughout the year
Program Layout:
75 minute weekly class for DAPpers held throughout the year
Class begins seated and participants have the option to stand later in the class
The program includes a range of movement styles and musical genres
Woven into the class are moments of reflection and interaction with the other participants of all ages
DAPpers engage in improvisation and create their own choreography, as well as learn pieces from famous choreographers
WHY DANCE?
Explore
Explore what you can do — enhance coordination, flexibility, core strength, and balance while releasing body tension.
Create
Create a space for imagination and self-expression in an intergenerational setting through dance and storytelling.
Grow
Grow confidence and develop mastery through rigorous artistic engagement and training for performances.
Flourish
Flourish within a supportive and joyful community to find meaning and to know that you matter.
