Donation – $10-25
Special Workshop

Dunham Technique is a vibrant African American dance form that engages the body, mind and spirit! Created by dance pioneer Katherine Dunham, the technique is informed by the traditional dances of the African Diaspora, as well as by modern and ballet. Dunham Technique creates strong, dynamic dancers who embody rhythm and grace. Classes will offer a variety of experiences, including breathing, isolations, floor work, barre work and progressions across the floor. Dancers will explore the intersection of Dunham technique and high-spirited, folkloric-inspired movement. In this beginner class, dancers will learn the foundational movement of the Dunham Technique. Don’t miss this opportunity to study with teachers from the Institute for Dunham Technique Certification!

Jan Blunt is a native of Cincinnati, Ohio, where she began her dancing and teaching career, as a student of Jane Burkhalter, Ballet Mistress of the Cincinnati Ballet Company. She was also a founding member of Cincinnati’s African American Drum and Dance Ensemble, Espere Liturgical Dance Ensemble and Dansi Jazz Dance Ensemble. She earned her undergraduate degree at Hampton University, where she majored in Mass Communications and Broadcasting, and danced with the school's dance company, the Terpsichoreans.  She relocated to Southern California in 1986 and became a teacher in the Los Angeles Unified School District.  She has been a student of Katherine Dunham technique for more than 25 years, and is a certified Dunham Technique Instructor.  In Los Angeles, Jan has danced with Djimbe West African Drummers and Dancers, Embrasamba Afro-Brazilian Dance Company, and Grupo Afro Bahia Brazilian Dance Ensemble, Sona Sane’ African Dance Ensemble and was artistic director of Abalaye African Dance Ensemble.  She earned her Master's degree in Educational Administration at California State University, Northridge.  Close proximity to Hollywood has afforded many opportunities, and she has television, movie and music video credits, but she is most proud of her efforts and accomplishments in the education of young people, in academics as well as the arts.   Her true joy is L.A.D.D.E.: the Loyola Village African Drum and Dance Ensemble, comprised of children from Kindergarten to fifth grade at her school.  She has been able to provide many unique and exciting experiences for the young drummers and dancers for the last 15 years.