As we share our “apples and onions” on Day 3 of our open-call exchange, the onions are hard to come by. Our group is divided into two smaller groups, each working with children at a separate foundation. A highlight from each group…
Equipo Danilo Perez: Due to a power outage today, we held class outside, which drew several spectators. One woman who watched almost the entire class went into her home and came back with a bag full of cold cans of Sprite for the kids. Dancing outdoors is always a wonderful community builder!
Equipo Malambo: Perhaps Movement Exchange’s most interesting challenge yet, we are working with a girl who uses a wheelchair because she lost the lower halves of her legs. Today she announced that she does not like her wheelchair and plans to perform in Friday’s show without it. She brought a fantastic energy into the room as she flipped her hair and strutted on her knees to Lady Gaga. What an unexpected and awesome surprise to be able to work with her!
Another major highlight of the exchange so far has been our classes at the Universidad de Panama. We have the very fun opportunity to teach advanced classes to the university’s dance students. Kirsten taught a jazz class yesterday, and Amanda taught a modern class this morning. Jennifer also led a 30-minute conditioning session which left all of our booties burning. We are all super excited for a two-part class tomorrow: south Indian dance taught by Rachita and Vogue taught by Lili. We will update on how those classes go.
We’re all heading to bed soon in preparation for an early morning silks class. Que adventura!
Practicing our Lady Gaga struts across the floor