TUESDAY: 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Session calendar
April 1st, 8th, 15th and 22nd with Mystique
April 29th, May 6th,13th and 20th with Ellégance
May 27th, June 3rd, 10th and 17th with Mystique or Ellégance
Prices
$25 drop-in
$115 for a 5-class card
$220 full session (12 classes)
How to register and payment methods : https://form.jotform.com/250616768513057
To confirm your spot, make sure you fill out the registration form and that your payment is completed by credit card (through the form), e-transfer at krystina.d@gmail.com or cash at the beginning of the class. All prices include taxes.
Cancellation policy: no refunds after April 1st. However, in exceptional cases (illness, injury, accident, etc.) an exchange of services may be requested, so please contact us!
CATEGORY
CONTENT
Whacking, Waacking, Punking is a club dance formed by the queer, black and latinx community that began in the 1970’s in the west coast of the United States. This dance was inspired by the pop culture at that time including the movie stars of the Golden Age of Hollywood and is heavily influenced by the DJ. It is characterized by authentic expression of self, dramatic poses, precise musicality, intricate arm movements, and story-telling.
In this one hour open levels class, we will explore the foundations of this dance through different exercises using grooves, drills, movement sequences and history. The goal is to give you tools for you to practice on your own, at the club or at the community sessions and events with confidence, in a supportive and fun environment!
Explainer videos on the history of punking, whacking, and waacking:
- The History of Waacking – Brut
- WHAT IS WAACKING? | Queer History of Punking, Whacking, Waacking 1970-2003 – Kumari Suraj
- Waacking Through Three Generations With Dallace Zeigler, Kumari Suraj and Balta Monkiki
ACCESSIBILITY
Sensory: Loud music, possible use of disco lights (colorful, flashing).
Physical: Prolonged standing, sustained dance (cardio), jumps and impacts, sharp arm movements. Exercises can be adapted.
What to bring: Comfortable dancewear (barefoot or sneakers), water bottle.
A sliding scale or service exchange is available upon request for up to three participants. Email us for inquiries: krystina.d@gmail.com
BIOGRAPHY
ELLÉGANCE Gabriela Jovian-Mazon, aka Ellégance, is a playful, character-driven theatrical movement artist. Discovery, community, authenticity and play guide her practice. Practicing since 2016, Punking has led her to participate in battles and learn in Los Angeles, Italy, Greece, and Mexico. She’s super interested in people’s artistry development and feels most free when Punking.
MYSTIQUE Krystina Dejean, aka Mystique, is a dancer who specializes in improvised street dance and club styles. She has been practicing the form of whacking since 2010, learning from teachers and battle experiences locally and internationally. She maintains her commitment to her community by producing battles and events that gather and connect the Tiohtià:ke / Montréal street dance community.
These classes are open to all levels, and advance registration is recommended for one or more sessions.
Registration is done through the instructors—contact them for more information.