Dance   

Beginning Waltz
DAN-07 (in-person)
Dates: Oct. 9, 16, 23, 30, Nov. 6, 13, 20
Fridays 12:15 - 1:30 pm
*This course starts late and runs for 7 weeks.
*This course meets at the Pioneer Park Dance Hall! 2300 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709.
*Participants should bring comfortable, no marking shoes with smooth soles, and water. 
While the class covers the basics of waltz we include more advanced tips so experienced dancers get something out of the class. We love having some ringers in the class! We find that changing partners frequently helps a lot with learning. You don’t need to sign up with a partner - we can adjust on the fly if we have a greater number of leaders or followers! Our focus is on having fun in a supportive environment.

Instructors Barb Lorz and Stan Justice have taken numerous dance classes from many different instructors. They take what works from those classes in their teaching style. They have taught for OLLI for several years.

Burlesque 101: From Idea to Performance
DAN-06 (in-person)
Session I: Sept. 17, 24, Oct. 1, 8
Thursdays 3:00 - 6:00 pm
*This course meets at The Basement; 541 3rd Ave. Fairbanks, AK 99701.
In this fun and creative introductory class, participants will build a burlesque performance from the ground up. Together, we will explore the process of developing a show concept, designing short skits, selecting music, creating simple choreography, and choosing costumes and simple props that support the performance. Students will collaborate, rehearse, and gain a behind-the-scenes look at how burlesque blends humor, storytelling, movement, and theatrical flair. The class will conclude with a playful in-class showcase in a supportive and comfortable environment.

Instructors Charlie and Rachel Blackwell (see DAN-01)

Burlesque: Behind the Curtain
DAN-01 (in-person)
Session I: Sept. 14
Monday 3:00 - 6:00 pm (one meeting)
*This course meets at The Basement; 541 3rd Ave. Fairbanks, AK 99701.
Explore the creative world of burlesque through a behind-the-scenes look at a unique cabaret-style performance in Fairbanks, Alaska. This class will introduce participants to the process of building a themed burlesque show, from auditions and choreography to costuming, scheduling, rehearsals, and final performances. We will look at how dances and skits are developed around a common theme, and how performers work together to bring a show from early ideas to opening night. Along the way, this class will highlight the creativity, confidence, humor, theatricality, and body positivity that make burlesque such a memorable performance art.

Instructors Charlie and Rachel Blackwell are a father-daughter duo who have been lighting up the local burlesque scene for the past five years. Known for their stage presence and playful creativity they’ve performed in numerous shows throughout the community—bringing joy, humor, and a touch of sparkle to every show. With Rachel’s flair for choreography and Charlie’s natural showmanship, they create a welcoming, supportive atmosphere for dancers of all ages and experience levels. Together, they’re passionate about sharing the art of burlesque as a form of self-expression, empowerment, and pure fun.

English Country Dancing For All, I
DAN-04 (in-person)
Session I: Sept. 17, 24, Oct. 1, 8, 15
Thursdays 12:15 - 1:30 pm (5 weeks)
*This course meets at the Pioneer Park Dance Hall! 2300 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709.
*Participants should bring comfortable, non-marking shoes with smooth soles, and water.
*Part II builds on concepts learned in Part I, the instructor recommends you take both if you can.
Come learn the basics of English Country Dancing! Enjoy wonderful music from the 1700s to present, and be social and physically active with others in an easy walking format. All dances will be taught step-by-step, then called as you progress through the centuries of this wonderful dance form. The most challenging thing will be remembering which is your left hand or right hand, how to walk, and then turn in a circle! Partners are not necessary.

Instructor Dennis Rogers has been dancing and playing this form of music since the 1970s.

English Country Dancing For All, II
DAN-05 (in-person)
Session II: Oct. 22, 29, Nov. 5, 12, 19
Thursdays 12:15 - 1:30 pm (5 weeks)
*This course meets at the Pioneer Park Dance Hall! 2300 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709.
*Participants should bring comfortable, non-marking shoes with smooth soles, and water.
*Part II builds on concepts learned in Part I, the instructor recommends you take both if you can.
Come learn the basics of English Country Dancing! Enjoy wonderful music from the 1700s to present, and be social and physically active with others in an easy walking format. All dances will be taught step-by-step, then called as you progress through the centuries of this wonderful dance form. The most challenging thing will be remembering which is your left hand or right hand, how to walk, and then turn in a circle! Partners are not necessary.

Instructor Dennis Rogers has been dancing and playing this form of music since the 1970s. 

Line Dancing, I
DAN-02 (in-person)
Session I: Sept. 16, 23, 30, Oct. 7
Wednesdays 12:15 - 1:30 pm
*This course meets at the Pioneer Park Dance Hall! 2300 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709.
*Participants should bring comfortable, no marking shoes with smooth soles, and water. 
*Part II builds on concepts learned in Part I, the instructor recommends you take both if you can.
Have fun learning how to do line dances. You will learn the main line dance steps and popular line dances. Dances may include but not limited to: The Electric Slide, Cupid Shuffle, Hillbilly Shoes and Wobble. More newer dances may include: The Door, Honky Tonk Highway, Boots On The Ground, and Footloose. Each class meeting will start with a warm up, followed with review and then a new dance.    

Instructor Michele Mouton has been dancing for over 35 years and has taught line dances in several venues. She loves to share her skills and get others dancing.

Line Dancing, II
DAN-03 (in-person)
Session II: Oct. 21, 28, Nov. 4, 11
Wednesdays 12:15 - 1:30 pm
*This course meets at the Pioneer Park Dance Hall! 2300 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709.
*Participants should bring comfortable, no marking shoes with smooth soles, and water. 
*Part II builds on concepts learned in Part I, the instructor recommends you take both if you can.
Have fun learning how to do line dances. You will learn the main line dance steps and popular line dances. Dances may include but not limited to: The Electric Slide, Cupid Shuffle, Hillbilly Shoes and Wobble. More newer dances may include: The Door, Honky Tonk Highway, Boots On The Ground, and Footloose. Each class meeting will start with a warm up, followed with review and then a new dance.    

Instructor Michele Mouton has been dancing for over 35 years and has taught line dances in several venues. She loves to share her skills and get others dancing.