Donna Mejia’s Open Summer Practice Sessions

Hello Friends, I am not teaching a regular community class at this time due to significant unpredictability in my schedule and care-taking duties. I’m excited to connect with you, and will absolutely consider invitations for workshop instruction for your group or event. Through this phase of life, I have found regular practice to be such a gift, and hope you are also finding strength and personal evolution in the discovery of your body’s wisdom.

SUMMER 2022

I will be broadcasting a select number of

drop-in, no pre-registration needed, 2-hour practices that include a substantial stretch, stength conditioning, and Transcultural Fusion Dance practice skill building in each session.

It’s my honor to offer it FREE in gratitude for a community that has supported my life-work so generously.

These classes are live broadcasts, and will not be released as recordings after completion. For recorded classes you can view anytime, I recommend my offerings on DaturaOnline.com.

These two-hour practice sessions are recommended for movers with experience in any genre of dance. The class is intended for ages 16 and up. Please note that music may frequently include adult themes and language, and may not always be suitable for younger humans. Movers of all bodily identities, abilities, gender expressions, and movement backgrounds are welcomed.  This practice involves both upper and lower body movement on the floor, and in standing positions. However, adaptions for differently-abled bodies are collaboratively work-shopped and celebrated! Confidentiality is an important part of all safe and brave learning environments. I invite you to join me in instituting best practices that minimize harm and maximize mutuality and diplomacy. In alignment with the Arab American National Museum’s (U.S.A.) commitment to creating an arts sector rooted in justice, I am committed to ensuring a space that is free of racism, transphobia, homophobia, Islamophobia, ableism, misogyny, classism or other biases. My expectation is that all visitors will honor these ethics. (https://arabamericanmuseum.org/)

DESCRIPTION

There will be a 1-hour yoga-based warm-up (no experience necessary) followed by 1-hour of techniques in Transcultural Fusion Dance: North African/Arab/American forms in a dynamic dialog. Please inform Donna through a private chat of any injuries, accommodations or medical needs that may impact or modify your participation. Please ask questions anytime!

Please prepare a 6′ X 6′ space for movement, and have a yoga mat. Athletic, elastic/stretch-based clothing and bare feet will work best. Occasionally, we may utilize a sturdy chair, a stretching strap or belt, and a tennis ball. Please bring your sense of adventure, and your sense of humor to each session. Thank you!

Dance is a physical discipline that intrinsically implies daring physicality, muscular exertions and some emotional vulnerability. You will not be coerced into doing anything beyond the safety zones of your present abilities without your informed consent of potential risks. You have the right/my encouragement to modify activities to suit the safety zones of your own body at all times. Please don’t wait for permission. All attendees will be asked to be responsible for their bodily safety since I am not physically present with you for direct and personal coaching and adjustments. Participants under the age of 18 are welcomed, but must have an adult over 21 come on camera for provide permission for them.

ZOOM LINK INFORMATION:

Donna Mejia is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. Participation limit for each session is 300 movers. If our Zoom link is ever invaded or disrupted by individuals intending harm, shock, or insult, please quit the meeting for your own self-care, or remain present to provide a witness statement afterwards (if you are willing). I will remain on the line to record the incident and report the offense to relevant authorities, media and community partners.