Upcoming Sessions
soft focus sessions are choreography workshops designed by Maarika Freund to be fun, challenging, & accessible to all bodies and all levels of dance experience
Please keep in mind that there are 3 “house rules” when you enter the studio space:
1. You know your body best!
This means that if a movement doesn’t feel good, you will never be expected to do it. Sometimes the biggest hurdle was just getting to the studio and that will always be respected. You know what’s best for you and listening to your body is highly encouraged (and very deserving of a high-five).
2. There is no such thing as a “stupid question”.
Really. If you’re thinking it, someone else probably is, too. So please ask!
3. Singing is HIGHLY encouraged, welcomed, and wanted.
Unleash your inner superstar. Reconnect with your inner teenager. Your voice is gorgeous and needs to be heard!
“more than a dance class”
- Erica Binder, Artist Services & Community Engagement Coordinator @ Vancouver Fringe
A message from Maarika:
photo by: @lightscameravancouver at Ballet BC, Vancouver, Canada
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 turn a great day into an excellent one.
I love dance because it’s an excellent tool for healing, and a fantastic way to mindfully connect with your body without bringing spirituality into the room. 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.
photo by: @lightscameravancouver at Ballet BC, Vancouver, Canada
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. 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-drama-free movement experience, I would be so happy to see you in-studio!
- Maarika
photo by: @lightscameravancouver at Ballet BC, Vancouver, Canada
