Irina Akulenko
Irina Akulenko is a New York City-based performer, teacher and choreographer with a burning passion for arts of all genres. Although she discovered Middle Eastern dance purely by chance, her interest in expression started at an early age and was channeled into ballet training, in addition to piano and voice lessons as well as drawing. Since 2001, Irina explored Egyptian Cabaret and American Tribal style belly dance, Flamenco and Classical Indian dances (focusing mainly on Odissi) and now enjoys fusing these styles as well as everything in between. Today, Irina performs on various New York stages and tours nationally and internationally as a soloist and as a member of various stellar projects. She released three instructional DVDs with World Dance New York and has two instructional series of videos with the popular website “Howcast.com”. She is currently Artistic Director and Creative Advisor of Kenji William's multimedia show Bella Gaia and principal dancer and choreographer with the internationally renowned Bellyqueen Dance Theater. Furthermore, she holds a Bachelors degree in Political Science, and has strong interest in women's issues and visual arts. www.DanceIrina.com
In-Person 2024 Schedule
Dance in-person with Irina Akulenko at the Bellyqueen School Jan 2-17!
Jan 2-16 Tue 6.30-7.30pm: Open Level Elegant Technique + Combos
Join this open level class to work on long lines, strong shimmies and elegant poses. There will be a special focus on intentional transitions and expressive arms.
Jan 2-16 Tue 7.30-8.30pm: Open Level Parasol Dreams
This open level fusion belly dance series will be exploring an enchanting prop - the parasol! You will need a single parasol or umbrella, with a hook handle. Irina may have a prop to share if you don't have one - supplies extremely limited.
A parasol, just like any item you may choose to dance with, can be used to enhance the story you are sharing on stage. Elegant and unique, it instantly adds ambience and drama to the dance, however it can also be tricky and feel somewhat restrictive. In this workshop you will learn some of Irina’s favorite combinations and techniques that will make your dance harmonious and connected to this beautiful prop, helping you enhance your presentation. For further details or any questions reach out to Irina at “IrinaDances@gmail.com”
Jan 3-17 Wed 6.30-7.30pm: Basic Belly Dance
Embark on an exciting journey of belly dance discovery, guided step-by-step by our experienced instructors, alongside a supportive group of fellow absolute beginners. Embrace a nurturing environment that fosters growth and progress. Every month, we will focus on a different curriculum, building seamlessly upon the previous week's lessons. Unlock the captivating world of belly dance and master its foundational vocabulary and moves with ease. No prior dance experience required; just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to learn!
Wednesday Curriculum Schedule
January: Ma'at
Jan 3-17 Wed 7.30-8.30pm: Open Level Goddess Enters Candle Tray
In this open level workshop, we will focus on a brand new, elegant and dreamy fusion choreography with a tray. We will pay special attention to clean and fluid transitions, dramatic poses and create an aura of mystery and suspense. Although having a tray is nice, it can be easily replaced with a book, a yoga block or any other medium-sized prop. The benefit of working with balancing is that your technique and isolations will inevitably become stronger. Some trays will be available to borrow.
Jan 21 Sun 12-2pm: Open Level Odissi Belly Dance Fusion Workshop
In this open level fusion dance workshop, we will work on a series of combinations fusing Odissi dance with belly dance. Odissi is the oldest, and arguably the most elegant of the eight classical styles of dance from India. We will work on articulated hand gestures called "mudras", beautiful poses and frames, as well as learning how to incorporate your eyes in your dance. Fusing these elements with belly dance, we'll create elegant combinations that can be added into any choreography and will greatly enrich your dance vocabulary.
Masks for these classes are optional. Irina will be masked due to her extensive travel schedule just as a safety precaution and asks for anyone with any kind of symptoms to mask up as well.
INVESTMENT:
Tue and Wed drop-in classes: $25, Class cards + Unlimited Passes apply
Odissi Belly Dance Fusion Workshop: $45
Sign Up Now!
WHERE:
Instruction: Bellyqueen School @Playwrights Downtown
440 Lafayette St, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10003