soft focus | סוׂפט פוׂקוּס
is a series of choreography workshops designed by Maarika Freund to be fun, challenging, & accessible to all bodies and all levels of dance experience
Upcoming Workshops
What is soft focus?
“more than a dance class”
- Erica Binder, Artist Services & Community Engagement Coordinator @ Vancouver Fringe
soft focus is more than just a dance class; it’s a movement.
soft focus is a place where professionals, amateurs, beginners, and hobbyists alike can find a spot on the studio floor together. soft focus is an inclusive space for all bodies. And soft focus is a safe opportunity to leave a bad day behind, or or turn a great day into an excellent one. And I guarantee you’ll leave each session smiling - not just because dance provides a natural endorphin rush, but because my focus is always on the fun!
I love dance because it’s a fantastic way to mindfully connect with your body without bringing spirituality into the room. It’s also an excellent tool for healing, which is why I still run lyrical workshops (even though the cool kids may say it’s passé). Every soft focus warm-up also incorporates a barre workout, stretching, and somatic exercises to help release stress and tension. That being said, you know your own needs best, so I will never expect you to do a movement if it doesn’t feel good. It’s always my goal to have you feeling more confident and in-control of your own body at the end of every session.
I’m critically acclaimed choreographer with over two decades of professional experience behind me. My very first job was teaching dance, and I grew up dancing competitively, so the studio has always been a second home for me. So whether you’re an ex-dancer who is looking to come back to their craft, a beginner looking to diversify their workout routine, or a professional looking for a low-key movement experience, I would be so happy to see you in-studio.
- Maarika