Arts & Entertainment
'Just Dance' for Japan Disaster Relief
NYC choreographer/artist Dister Rondon taught two hip hop classes Saturday, April 9 at 426 Fitness in Warren to help with Japan relief efforts.
Many newcomers and regulars filled into 426 Fitness with their sneakers ready. The historic Parker Mills was renovated to create this expanding fitness center, including a privately owned dance studio called Just Dance. Dance Instructor and owner Sherry Winn is actively trying to expand the dance community in Rhode Island by bringing professionals to the studio.
New York City choreographer and artist Dister Rondon visited Just Dance on Saturday to teach two hip hop classes. The second class was a fundraiser to collect money to help support Japan relief efforts, with all proceeds going to the Red Cross.
“Let’s start from the top 5, 6, 7, 8,” Rondon said to the class.
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Rondon began dancing professionally about nine years ago, although he is now a hip hop dancer, he emerged in the dancing world as a salsa/mambo dancer. Dancing has taken him all around to globe including the Middle East.
“I’ve been to crazy places,” said Rondon. “[I’ll go] anywhere where people are willing to learn.”
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Children and their parents grouped up in front of the mirror and got ready to learn the moves. Rondon kept the energy high as he taught the hip hop routine step by step.
“Left, left, left, and back and step,” said Rondon.
The class was a mix of beginner to advanced dancers. Rondon broke down each step before putting them together with the music.
“Number one rule if you don’t know it or screw up?” said Rondon. "Fake it."
When Sherry Winn contacted Rondon and he was more than happy to donate his time. Winn normally teaches classes, which range from ballet to hip hop and has been trying to create local workshops so that dancers do not have to travel to conventions in order to learn master level dancing.
“We’re trying to create as much buzz as we can,” Winn said. “I’m trying to create a non competitive space where people can come and learn. We’re here for the love of the art.”
Winn is hoping to bring in dancers with a variety of styles. The next artist who will be coming to the studio is Jackie Henderson. Henderson will be teaching a street jazz class on Saturday, April 16, at 12 pm.
