Hawaii’s Renaissance Woman

“Dance is the ultimate exercise in humility”- Willow Chang


I'm completely devoted to this art! I'm known for my artistic and cultural integrity, elegant creativity and musical finesse. For the past 20 years, I've focused on Oriental dance, annually traveling to study and perform with master teachers, as well as sponsor their events in Hawai’i. To deepen my understanding of the art, I've studied various forms of dance classified as ‘bellydance’ and Raks Sharki, including Folkloric , Classical and Modern Egyptian, Lebanese, Turkish, Greek, Rom/Roma Gypsy, ATS (American Tribal Style), Tribal Fusion, American Cabaret Styles as well as Persian and Central Asian dance,  Saudi Arabian/Gulf Khaleegy, North African Moroccan Shikhat and dances from Algeria and Tunisia. I have also studied various dances from South East Asia such as Classical Indian Kuchipudi, Odissi, Bharatanatyam and dances from Spain, such as Flamenco.  To add to my love of dance, I also study Argentine Tango and Japanese Butoh. I've taken time to master fluency in finger cymbals (sagat/zills) as an instrument and as an accompaniment in both dance and music, has taken drumming and rhythm classes and continually walk this humble journey of learning all there is in this endless Art!


As an instructor and a continual student, I strive to create a learning environment that is positive, safe and challenging for every student, regardless of experience. Practice, enthusiasm and continuity create a strong foundation for mastery and creativity. As an instructor, I aim to share this knowledge and passion, from which any student will be able to create and perform their own dance, which is true to the art and the individual.


Given the vast array of topics relevant to the study and discipline of Middle Eastern and related  dances, I utilize a holistic approach to creating a deep and diversified appreciation of the art. Materials covered and address in class include (but are not limited to):


*Dance within a cultural context

*Safe alignment, postures and techniques

*Music and movement theories

* Movement analysis

*Performance dynamics

*Understanding of Middle Eastern and related rhythms

*Music interpretation

*Improvisational dance

*Choreography

*Stylistic differences within the dance


You don't have to know how to dance to take my class.
That's O.K.! I'm here to help you on your dance journey!  Come to class!


Class Schedule


Please check https://www.facebook.com/willowchang

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Willow-Chang-Dance/123636121023835

for additional updates on classes and events!


There are many ways to learn dance, from group classes to semi- private (2-4 students) and individual private instruction. Please contact me if you have any questions.


*Private and Semi- Private Classes by appointment

*Costuming and Choreography

*Performance Coaching- When you need a performance or creative coach, I promise you this: we'll explore far more than just moves or music. You'll be given prompts to launch your own discoveries, which lead you to your most authentic self. Herein lies the real gift of teaching and sharing- to inspire each person to discover their own gifts within! Let's journey together!

*Gift Certificates Available


Study with Willow-Updated September 2014

























Saturdays  8:15 - 9:15 am  Bellydance 101/Kapiolani Women’s Center

Ground level on Beretania Street and Artesian/Free Parking

$60 for 6 classes, $15 drop in CALL 527 -2588 ON GOING

New Session September 20th, 6 week session

https://www.kapiolani.org/women-and-children/class-sign-up.aspx/

Excellent for the brand new to belly dance! A fun and safe learning environment and a great way to start the weekend. Experience the diversity of Middle Eastern Dance. This introductory course will offer insights on traditional and contemporary styles, while placing the dance within a musical and cultural context. Increase your awareness of movement, musicality, get your heart rate up and discover your feminine yet powerful side- all through DANCE!


Saturdays    9:45 AM - 10:45 am/ BOLLYWOOD DANCE  SMC
Normal class pricing applies /$17 drop in

From Indian cinema to the disco~ Explore various global & Indian moves, step patterns & mudras (hand gestures). Fun combinations for Bollywood dance! High energy and sustained flow!


Mondays 9am & 10am   Waikiki World Dance/Waikiki Beackwalk free! donations kindly accepted

World Dance, Yoga, Veils and MORE! Lewers @ Waikiki Beachwalk Center~ Free Valet parking! Explore a world of movement and music from around the world! Conditioning and warms ups paired with combunation, technque and free form dance! Something for everyone! Under blue skies, fringed palm tres and the dancing fountain, woven with Hawaiian wisdom.


Tuesdays   4:30- 5:30 pm   Bollywood and Beyond!

Queen’s Medical Womens Center

Validated parking included/6-week session $66/ $15 for drop- ins/CALL 691- 7117

New Session starts April 1st, 2014  

http://www.queensmedicalcenter.net/wisdom-of-women

Experience the fun, upbeat high energy of Indian Bollywood Dance, with moves that will get ya feeling GREAT!  Discover the expressive nature of mudras (hand gestures), step combinations, and short choreographies!! It’s a great way to explore new movements, music and modes of expression.


Tuesdays   7 - 8 pm         Bellydance 101  SMC                                  ON Going
For the totally new to dance, belly dance/movement, we'll start at the beginning, covering posture,alignment, weight shifts, rhythms and classic traditional moves to build a solid foundation of dance! Low impact and lots of FUN!


Wednesdays 9am & 10am  Waikiki World Dance/Waikiki Beackwalk

World Dance, Yoga, Veils and MORE! Lewers @ Waikiki Beachwalk Center~ Free Valet parking! Explore a world of movement and music from around the world! Conditioning and warms ups paired with combunation, technque and free form dance! Something for everyone! Under blue skies, fringed palm tres and the dancing fountain, woven with Hawaiian wisdom.


Thursdays    4:30  - 5:30 pm     Waikiki World Dance/Waikiki Beackwalk

World Dance, Yoga, Veils and MORE! Lewers @ Waikiki Beachwalk Center~ Free Valet parking! Explore a world of movement and music from around the world! Conditioning and warms ups paired with combunation, technque and free form dance! Something for everyone! Under blue skies, fringed palm tres and the dancing fountain, woven with Hawaiian wisdom.




























Weekday Warrior- Call for location

An on going class open to all levels, with something to challenge each student. Semi-private class sizes encourage additional personal attention. A great way to spend a lunch break!

Call to RSVP


Don’t Forget the KIDS! Mommie and me- or simply time for mom while they learn the art of dance!






















Don't wanna leave the house? 

Yes, I teach dance via Skype! 
I also do costume consultations and performance coaching/feedback. Message me for details, dear friends! Payments are made via Paypal and we have the lesson in the privacy of your own home!
The distance is only physical, not of the heart or spirit!

Schedule a private class? Here are some topics/subjects offered:

ABSOLUTE BEGINNER BELLYDANCE!

Experience the fun and beauty of bellydance in this class designed for new to belly dance students. We’ll work on solid basic movements, explore cultural and musical differences and have a good workout and warm up. Returning and continuing students welcome!


ABSOLUTE TECHNIQUE-Drills and Thrills!!

Build your dance with the skills needed for belly dance: stamina, technique, musicality, drills and variety. A fast paced class.


INTERMEDIATE CHALLENGES: Stamina, Theory and Technique

Take your technique to the next level, combinations and choreography including combos, patterns, drills, shadow dancing and directed works.


CHOREOGRAPHY- I can create a dance for you, consult you on music or give feedback/analysis on your own work.


COSTUME CONSULTATION- For one a kind Couture creations, Hair and make-up consultations, brainstorming and the costume doctor to fix and make your outfit sensational!


WORKSHOPS

Willow conducts workshops that are topic and technique driven, and offered throughout the year. She is currently booking workshops and performances for 2014!

Please write for workshop topics taught and offered, and to inquire about dates and availability.





















Willow teaching at the Yasmina Ramzy’s International Conference of Belly Dance, Canada, 2012





PASSPORT PRODUCTIONS tm, sponsors the finest national and international master teachers, and provides unique and invaluable learning opportunities. Willow strongly encourages all students of dance to attend workshops and further develop their base of knowledge, as she believes there is always something to learn!



ATTIRE

Please wear ‘yoga pants’ with a close fitting T- shirt, or tank top, as these clothes allow for the greatest range of movement. A visible body line allows me to check your posture and alignment. Decorative hip scarves are a great learning tool and get you in the mood to dance.  Shoes are optional, as we usually dance barefoot.



ETIQUETTE

Please refrain from wearing shoes in the dojo/studio.


If you are running late, please enter quietly when meditation is in session.


Warm up on your own if you are late. Don’t forget to bring water.


Turn off cell phones unless you are in an emergency or on-call situation.


Communicate if you are unable to attend class, or RSVP if you haven’t attended in awhile.


Watch and tend to any loose beads or coins that fall from your hips scarves.


Please note that ANY type of abuse will not be tolerated in class.


If you choose to observe a class, please note class fees still apply.


Please bring your beautiful smile, enthusiasm and good intentions to class!




10 FABULOUS REASONS TO DANCE – NOW! By Willow Chang


10. YOU’LL COME IN TO LEARN HOW TO DANCE, BUT YOU’LL ALSO LEARN A GREAT DEAL ABOUT YOURSELF!


9. YOU’LL GAIN A NEW OHANA (Family), OR A LEAST A FEW AMAZING FRIENDS!


8. IT’S THE ULTIMATE HEALTH INSURANCE- TO MOVE AND GET THE HEART RATE UP. IT’S LOW IMPACT AND IT MAKES YOU FEEL GOOD-, ALL CONTRIBUTING TO OVERALL WELL BEING AND HEALTH!


7. YOU’LL BE MORE COMFORTABLE IN YOUR OWN SKIN.’ NUFF SAID.


6. YOU’LL LEARN MORE THAN MOVEMENTS- YOU’LL HAVE THE DANCE SET IN A CULTURAL CONTEXT, WITH REFERENCES ABOUT MUSIC, LANGUAGE, CUSTOMS, ARTS, POETRY, ARCHITECTURE, HISTORY, MYTHS, DRESS AND SPIRITUAL PRACTICE WHICH ALL CONTRIBUTE TO THE EVOLUTION OF AN ART!


5. YOU CAN BE THE MUSIC!


4. BECAUSE OUR CULTURE ALLOWS WOMEN TO DANCE OPENLY AND WITHOUT BOUNDARIES!


3. SEQUINS, GLITTER AND COINS OH MY! A LEGITIMATE REASON TO WEAR DANGLING EARRINGS AND RHINESTONES!


2. UNLIKE SOME DANCES, YOU DON’T NEED A PARTNER!


1. BECAUSE WE CAN!!!


What are you waiting for? COME JOIN THE FUN!!








 

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