Workshop: Dr. Santo's workshops in cultural and creative dance emphasize "dance making" practices as a means of personal expression and group collaboration. Students are exposed to choreographic strategies, techniques and creative choices through performance, discussion and writing. With extensive experience in linking dance to media literacy, Santo also addresses real life issues such as representation, identity and community. Movement sessions are grounded in cultural dance forms (capoeira, maculel, samba, salsa and yoga) and also help students follow their creative impulses through action. Students may also study creative movement techniques including contact improvisation, release technique and modern dance. Dr. Santo has over 15 years experience working with grades K-12 and is an experienced leader of professional development sessions. Specific curriculum content for each series of workshops is defined in partnership with an individual school's goals and interests.

Amy Santo, Ph.D., an accomplished artist and educator, was first exposed to the joys of dance as a child in an arts education classroom. From her start as a youth dancer, she has become an accomplished and respected dance educator who uses her talents to work with and train students, young performing artists, arts educators and cultural studies scholars. A visiting assistant professor for UCLA's Department of World Arts and Culture, Dr. Santo is also a choreographic consultant supporting youth choreographers with the Los Angeles Unified School District. She has performed in both formal and informal settings, from the John F. Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. to public school cafetoriums in rural Alaska. She toured extensively with Ballet Folclorico do Brasil (1990-2002) throughout the continental United States, Hawaii and Alaska. During this time she made significant contributions to the company as a performer, choreographer and arts education specialist.

Price:
$75 per 45-minute workshop, plus possible planning fee. Minimum four workshops per day must be scheduled.

Age Group:All Ages
Capacity:1 Classroom (maximum of 35 students, plus regular teacher)
Availability:Year Round

Teacher In-Service Price: $100/hour (2-hour minimum required), plus additional planning fee.
Capacity: 40 Educators

To design an arts education program with this artist, please call (213) 250-ARTS or email education@musiccenter.org.

Prices are for services between July 1, 2008 and June 30, 2009.