Hula:
Students will learn basic hula movements, utilizing them in learning ancient style hulas (Kahiko) and modern style hulas ('Auana). The class will also learn sitting (noho) hulas and hulas using hula implements. . Some implements that will be used are the ipu (gourd), pu'ili (a split bamboo rod) and the 'uli 'uli (feathered gourd with canna seeds inside to produce sound). Students will be able to purchase these implements. In keeping with hula's story telling nature, the meanings of the dances will be explained and translations of the songs will be provided.

Tahitian:
Basic Tahitian dance movements will be taught. An Otea (medley of rhythmic line dances) will be taught ranging from simple to complicated rhythms, and movements. Aparimas (Tahitian story telling dances) will also be taught.

Class Times and Locations:

Beginning Hula and Tahitian

When: Tuesdays
Time: 6:15 - 7:30 pm
Where: Deborah Mason School of Dance, Cambridge, 32 Cottage Park Ave., Cambridge (Please see directions to Mason studio listed further down page)
Note: If you have never taken a class with Marta please email her at polynesiandancearts@yahoo.com or call her at (781) 729-2252.

Beginning hula:
Students will learn basic hula movements, utilizing them in learning 'auana (modern) style hulas.  The class will also introduce choreography using hula implements such as pu’ilis (split bamboo rods), 'uli 'uli (feathered gourd with canna seeds inside to produce sound), and ipu heke’ole (single gourd).  Information will be given on where to purchase hula implements.  In keeping with hula's story telling nature, the meanings of the dances will be explained and translations of the songs will be provided. 

Beginning Tahitian:
Basic Tahitian dance movements will be taught.  An Otea (a dance of fast paced rhythms of the hips) will be taught ranging from simple to complicated rhythms, and movements, varying in tempo.  Aparimas (Tahitian story telling dances) will also be taught.

Beginning Intermediate and Intermediate sections:
This class builds on the basic hula movements learned in the beginning hula class.  Students who have completed 10-12 months of beginning hula and Tahitian and want to continue may take this next level of instruction.  The Monday night classes follow a format that helps those students who have decided to continue instruction an opportunity to perfect their technique and learn additional repertoire.

Segments are as follows:
When: Mondays
Time:
5:30pm - 6:15pm - intermediate hulas, implement hulas
6:15pm - 7:15pm - drill on hula technique, continuation of hula repertoire
7:15 - 7:45pm - Tahitian technique and continuation of repertoire
Where: Deborah Mason School of Dance, 32 Cottage Park Ave., Cambridge

All Monday night classes are held at the Deborah Mason School of Dance, 32 Cottage Park Ave. in North Cambridge (behind 2500 Mass. Ave.Marino Health Center).  Classes are held in the 2nd floor studio.  Public transportation: from Harvard Square #77 bus, get off at Marino's Restaurant, cross Mass. Ave. (Dunkin Donuts is on corner), take Edmunds St. keep walking to your right through parking lot, studio is on your right.  Plenty of free parking in front of the studio.  See www.deborahmasonschoolofdance.com/ for map.

Advanced Hula & Tahitian
This class is by invitation of the instructor. A certain level of perfection of these dance styles and commitment must be demonstrated.  Attendance at rehearsals is a must. This is not a drop-in class.

When: Wednesdays
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 pm.
Where: Green Street Studios, Cambridge


Fees:
Single classes are $15.00, 5 class card $60.00, 10 class card $100.00
Payable by cash or check.

Class Card Policy:
Please be aware that class cards carry an expiration date.  For example if student purchases a 10 class card, the card will expire 10 weeks from date of purchase.  Exceptions are holidays that fall on a class day or class cancellation by Marta.

Class Attire:
Pareau/Sarong (knee length) with or without leggings is preferred with tank top/t-shirt. No baggy sweatpants or attire that hides your knees.

Student Performances:
Polynesian Dance Arts occasionally gives students the opportunity to participate in class performances (for example Winchester Town Day, Ballet Theatre of Boston Fall Festival, Green Street Studios Fundraiser). Students are not required to participate in these performances. However, if you would like to participate you will be required to purchase a performance pareau/matching top and lei/hairclip (pareau fabric is chosen by instructor). These items are a minimal cost and will be yours to keep. Attendance at rehearsals is mandatory.

Please click on the following link to see photos from some of our student performances: Student Performances

 

If you would like to view a class please contact Marta.
Phone: (781) 729-2252
Email: polynesiandancearts@yahoo.com


 

 

Copyright 2006 Polynesian Dance Arts
Designed by Lesley Lam and Bridget Vellucci