Classes

(Sign up for Beginning an Advanced Knitting for a discounted rate of $200)  Advanced knitters will choose a project to complete that may include a garment, a blanket, a shawl, socks or gloves.  Students will develop skills such as fitting a garment using shaping techniques, knitting in the round, garment construction, and advanced blocking.

This beginning ballet class will lead students weekly through classes in the Vaganova Academy technique.

Students will receive the proper training in the Vaganova Method while exploring other techniques of ballet.  Often known as the Russian Technique; The Vaganova method is known for its graceful arms, strong flexible backs, beautiful upper bodies, as well as near-perfect turnout. Vaganova dancers have high jumps, multiple turns, amazing flexibility, and superior extension. It is a system that demands precision, attention to detail, concentration, and hard work.  The method nurtures the whole child with positive encouragement, precise feedback, and high expectations. The Vaganova method develops the student in mind, body, and spirit. This technique allows the young dancer to opportunity to become a gifted artist.  Students are individually evaluated according to notated expectations of the teacher, and are given continuous positive feedback on their strengths, technical development, and artistry.

(Sign up for Beginning and Advanced Knitting for a discounted rate of $200)  Beginning knitters will learn all the common knitting stitches while creating a unique hat and scarf project.  Students will learn the skills to follow knitting patterns an develop their own skills.

Explore your creative side with this beginner’s class in acrylic painting.  Students will conduct painting “experiments” and complete three works of art, while gaining a deeper understanding of the fundamentals of art and design.

Stand-up comedy is a distinctly American art form and has expanded to the rest of the world.  This genre of artistic expression is not just a matter of telling jokes but if done correctly, combines several aspects of art, social skills and business management.  Join nationally renowned comedian Marvin Lee as he shares his knowledge of this hilarious art and learn something new about yourself.

This is a continuation of Comedy 101.  Students will gain additional skills in writing comedy material and the “business” of comedy.

Through this class, students will focus on finding, tapping, exploring and expanding on their creative and communicative skills through the art of storytelling.

We Believe that improvisation promotes self-discovery and awareness.  When students apply concepts learned in the class to their daily life, it will result in the introduction of increasingly aware, empathetic, and compassionate people to the community.

Intro to Drawing introduces students to a variety of classic drawing materials and techniques.  Projects include sketching, still life drawing, drawing from nature, portraiture and cartooning.  Full of one-on-one attention, this course offers opportunities for improvement at any skill level.

Students will learn modern dance techniques based on the teachings of Martha Graham and Lester Horton. Graham’s dance technique stresses the importance of the lower back and pelvis in generating movement, and a stylized method of breathing known as the principle of contraction and release. Horton’s complementary technique emphasizes a whole body approach including; flexibility, strength, coordination, and body awareness to allow freedom of expression.

In this more advanced class, students will continue to learn dance and technique based on Graham and Horton techniques.

This class will focus on hand sewing and creating compositions in fabric.  Students will use techniques to create a themed square for a class quilt.  Techniques for quilting, sashing and binding will be taught by hand.  No sewing machine experience is necessary.

ArtPlay is pleased to offer private instruction in a variety of instruments and artistic disciplines through partnerships with local instructors and music organizations. Lessons range from 30 – 60 minute increments depending on the age and preference of the student. Each instructor is available at varying times throughout the week.

Current Teacher Roster:

Carlos Pino, guitar

Karen Krekelberg and Patricia Billups, piano

Diane McNaron, voice

Alicia Johnson, acting

Partnership with the UAB Department of Music

Through a partnership with the UAB Department of Music, ArtPlay is able to offer additional private instruction in trumpet, trombone, clarinet, flute, saxophone, euphonium, French horn, piano, guitar, and voice. Instructors in this program are UAB students extensively trained in music education and performance in the instrument they will teach. These students will be advised and guided by UAB Department of Music faculty.

For instructional fees, teacher availability and more information please call ArtPlay.

A comprehensive 1.5 hour private lesson with William Michael Cooper, a working professional dancer, for students that are interested in improving their technique quickly in both advanced ballet and Graham-based modern dance. This is great for students who wish to become professional dancers. This class will help in improving strength and flexibility, and individual needs will be accessed. Also, resume writing, and the audition process will be examined. Class times depend on teacher/student availability.

For instructional fees, teacher availability and more information please call ArtPlay.