Costume Workshops

Ever  wonder how to make that new costume fit you comfortably and securely?   Have you received a costume in the mail and wondered who could wear it as  is?  Then this is the class for you.  Bring your costume and we will  walk through the alteration process together.  Tips and tricks to  creating a great fit will be covered. Some hand sewing skills are a  must.  Limited to 4 people.  Participants will have a virtual fitting with to sign up will have an actual fitting with  Rukshana.  Cost is based on the number of  participants.

This is a hands on class that will include costume design basics, useful ready to wear alteration techniques and assorted tricks of the trade used to create a stunning custom fit bra.  The technique works equally well for all styles of  costumes.  Students will receive a materials list upon registering.   A detailed hand out will be provided by the  instructor.   Limited to 6 participants.  Class meets 2 times for a  total of 6 hours of instruction.  Homework will be given.  Cost is  based on the number of participants in the session.  This workshop is currently being reworked to include supplementary video modules and will be available as a virtual (Zoom) offering!

 *Some hand sewing skills required and a sewing machine is very helpful*

Low water immersion dyeing is a  fast and fun way to create brilliant colors on silk veils.  The results  are unlimited variations of color and value.  Students will work  with Procion MX dyes and leave the workshop with a veil that they  created.  Please wear old clothing and be prepared to get messy.  No dye  experience required.   Class size is dependent upon available  facilities (access to water is required).  Cost is based on the cost of  materials and number or participants.

Ever  wanted to learn how to keep a sword or tray on your head without  looking like you’re working too hard?  How about some cool moves to do  while performing with these items?  Performing with swords and trays  cross the tribal/cabaret divide.  This class will introduce the novice  to the techniques and tricks used by dancers performing with balance  props and provide challenging combos for the more experienced dancer.  Requirements:  sword or tray (if new to this, look for a tray with a 14 to 16”  diameter that has some weight to it). Hair with product in it works  better than sparkly clean hair. Hair combs help to level your head under  the tray, as do headbands and some flat flowers. 
 

This workshop will focus on floor work while using the sword as an integral part of the dance.  The ups, downs and some gooey moves in the middle that leave the audience wanting more will be covered.  Extra attention will be paid to smooth transitions, movement flow, use of negative space and musicality as it relates to the dance.  Working costume ‘choreography’ into the dance will also be addressed (yes you can wear a skirt and do floor work!).  Participants should wear pants and bring a cabaret style circle skirt as well as their swords.  This class is for those comfortable with a sword on their head and who are able to get up and down easily.  If you do not own a sword bean bags will be provided to ‘balance’ on your head—this will increase the awareness of balance and position within the move.  KNEEPADS or a YOGA MAT are HIGHLY recommended!
 

This class will explore balance technique through the use of exercises and games to improve concentration, coordination, special awareness and over all dexterity in the dance.  Students will be provided with a variety of tools designed to build their confidence with their prop of choice in performance while encouraging them to think outside the box.  This workshop will benefit beginners to professionals with its innovative theatrical approach to technique/teaching.