Programme fee

AED 185

Programme details

Music Video Repertory: Learn Styles & Moves of some of the most iconic American music videos by Ruka White.
This program emphasizes universal jazz elements that stem from Funk, Hip-Hop, and Pop dancing. These styles and forms were the bedrock for so many acclaimed artists such as Bob Fosse, Madonna, Janet Jackson, and Beyoncé. This program will teach you mastery of some iconic elements of the jazz world, but most importantly you’re gonna learn how to embody the groove!”


Day 1

● Music Video Repertory Overview - 11:00am - 1:00pm (2 hours)

In addition to learning some choreographic motifs essential to some of the most culture changing videos such as Madonna’s Vogue, Beyoncé’s Formation, and Michael Jackson’s “Remember the Time” dancers will learn sought after skill sets required to work in any music video. This class runs for 2 hours. The last quarter of class will be devoted to discussing tips on rapidly picking up movement, acquiring an agent, and what to wear! In addition, there will be some time appropriated towards the end of class for questions.



1:00pm-2:00pm Lunch break



● Retro Fosse: A Jazz Class – 2:00pm - 4:00pm (2 hours)

This class focuses on musical theatre style jazz with an emphasis on Fosse’s signature cabaret style. Dancers will learn upbeat combos that capture the spirit and virtuosity of the late great Bob Fosse, who is responsible for musicals like Chicago and Pajama Game. Dancers will learn American social dances that contributed to Fosse’s charm and appeal, while simultaneously focusing on opposing elements like subtlety and virtuosity. Students can expect an increase in their own range of motion as well as enhanced abilities to be dynamic, and persuasive in their movement quality. This class will consist of a funky warm-up, followed by some excitingly tricky progressions across the floor, culminating with a zestful combo that’ll be sure to make you sweat!



Day 2

● Music Video Repertory Overview Part 2 - 11:00am - 1:00pm (2 hours)

Dancers will learn even more choreographic motifs essential to some of the most culture changing videos such as Salt N Pepa’s Push It!, Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation, and Britney Spears “Slave 4 U”. Dancers will learn more sought after skill sets required to work in any music video. This class runs for 2 hours. The last quarter of class will be devoted to discussing tips on rapidly picking up movement, acquiring an agent, and what to wear! In addition, there will be some time appropriated towards the end of class for questions.



1:00pm - 2:00pm Lunch break



● Afro-Funk – 2:00pm - 4:00pm (2 hours)

This class focuses on Africanist rhythms utilizing both House, Caribbean, and Funk grooves. Dancers will learn how to be fierce and cool while learning to dance with intention and clarity. Classes begin with a warm-up and continue with movements that teach rhythm, using the body to express ideas. Themes of strength, prayer, and celebration are incorporated into the movement that is taught; followed by clever progressions across the floor that will require dancers to utilize athleticism and agility.



MEET RUKA WHITE:

RUKA WHITE, Assistant Professor of Dance, Boston Conservatory at Berklee
Ruka Hatua-Saar White was born in Aviano, Italy. He trained as a scholarship student with the Miami City Ballet. After graduating from the Dillard School of the Arts in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. he obtained a B.F. A and an M.F.A in dance from Florida State University and Hollins University; respectively. White, has danced professionally with Dayton Contemporary Dance Company (DCDC); Philadanco; Armitage Gone! and the Limon Dance Company. He has appeared alongside such artists as Maya Angelou, Shirley Murdock, and Missy Elliot.
He choreographed the musical, Choir Boy, by SpeakEasy Stage Company. He is also an Elliot Norton nominated choreographer.
He is currently an Assistant Professor at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee.

He is Artistic Director of RukaDance, a project-based dance troupe committed to exploring the terrain of Afro-Queer futurity through black myths, stories, and communal experiences. Rukadance is also dedicated to cultivating learning, creativity, and spreading the joy of dance, while aspiring to foster safe spaces for healing, communion, and connection.