Dynamic Cloggers

Advanced Clogging

Ages 12+ to Adults

Day: Thursday
Time: 7:45-8:45
Who Should Take This Class? This is a highly progressive class for students with strong clogging background.
Class Time: 1 Hour

Objective: To challenge advanced cloggers to refine their technique, expand their repertoire of steps and choreography, and explore artistic expression and innovation in clogging.

September and October: Technique Mastery and Advanced Steps

Technique Review and Refinement

• Review foundational steps and ensure proper technique, alignment, and execution.
• Focus on precision, control, and clarity of movements.
• Provide individualized feedback to address any areas of improvement.

Advanced Clogging Steps

• Introduce challenging advanced steps such as the buffalo, paddle roll, pigeon wing, and buck time.
• Break down each step into components and practice with increased speed and complexity.
• Emphasize fluidity, agility, and musicality in executing advanced steps.

Advanced Rhythms and Timing

• Explore complex rhythms and syncopations in clogging.
• Practice intricate footwork patterns with varied accents and phrasing.
• Develop the ability to anticipate and adapt to changes in rhythm and tempo.

Advanced Choreography

• Teach advanced-level clogging routines with intricate footwork sequences and transitions.
• Challenge students to memorize longer choreography sections and execute them with precision.
• Emphasize storytelling, emotion, and musical interpretation in choreography development.

Fusion and Innovation

• Encourage students to explore the fusion of clogging with other dance styles, such as tap, jazz, and contemporary.
• Experiment with unconventional rhythms, movements, and improvisation techniques.
• Foster creativity and innovation in choreographic approaches.

Performance Dynamics and Theatricality

• Discuss advanced concepts of stage presence, character development, and theatricality in clogging performances.
• Practice nuanced expression, gesture, and body language to convey narratives and emotions.
• Experiment with props, costumes, and lighting effects to enhance performance impact.

February and March: Specialty Styles and Collaborative Projects

Specialty Styles Exploration

• Explore lesser-known regional clogging styles, such as Canadian step dancing, French-Canadian jigging, and African-American buck dancing.
• Learn about each style’s unique techniques, rhythms, and cultural influences.
• Incorporate elements of specialty styles into choreography and improvisation.

Collaborative Projects

• Collaborate with fellow dancers to create original choreographic works.
• Experiment with group dynamics, formations, and synchronization in collaborative projects.
• Foster teamwork, communication, and creativity in the choreographic process.

Guest Workshops and Master Classes

• Invite guest instructors or renowned cloggers to conduct workshops and master classes.
• Provide opportunities for students to learn from experienced professionals and gain new perspectives.
• Explore specialized topics such as improvisation, competition strategies, and career pathways in clogging.

April: Performance Preparation and Showcase

Rehearsals and Fine-Tuning

• Review choreography and polish performance skills.
• Conduct intensive rehearsals to ensure synchronization, timing, and cohesion.
• Focus on refining transitions, spacing, and staging for maximum impact.

Technical Rehearsals

• Conduct technical rehearsals in the performance space.
• Coordinate with lighting, sound, and stage crews to fine-tune technical aspects of the performance.
• Address any logistical or technical issues that arise during rehearsals.

Dress Rehearsals and Feedback

• Conduct dress rehearsals with full costumes, makeup, and props.
• Provide constructive feedback and make final adjustments to the performance.
• Build confidence and excitement for the upcoming showcase.
• Celebrate achievements and acknowledge individual growth and artistic development.
• Reflect on the experience and discuss future goals and aspirations in clogging.

May: Performance Showcase and Reflection

Performance Day Preparation

• Review performance protocols and backstage procedures.
• Warm-up exercises and mental preparation.
• Foster a supportive and encouraging atmosphere among performers.

Performance Showcase

• Showcase the culmination of the year-long advanced clogging journey to family, friends, and the community.