What is a contemporary jazz class? Who can do it and what experience do you need? We sat down with new JOMDC faculty member and professional dancer, Jocelyn Isaac, to learn about her class, teaching philosophy, and what you can expect in a contemporary jazz class.

Who is Jocelyn Isaac?

Hi all! I grew up dancing right here in DC! I moved to Philly & NYC where I trained and danced with two modern dance companies Danse4Nia and DanceTheatreX. I fell in love with musical theater along the way and went on to do more than a decade of touring with regional theater productions. My favorite productions were Chicago and Hairspray! I returned to D.C. last year, to the burgeoning DC arts scene and I love it! I just booked my first show back in town with Olney Theatre’s Guys and Dolls (show dates coming soon)!

What is contemporary dance?

I think of contemporary as any and everything that is relevant today. It’s the “now.” It’s modern dance that fits into pop culture. My class incorporates jazz, modern, ballet, and even some principles of hip hop. To me, contemporary dancers build on and share techniques we’ve learned in favor of personal expression of movement. Today’s dancer is eclectic and versatile and it’s so exciting to be a part of that movement!

What can we expect in your class?

Be ready to move! But don’t over think it. I like dancers to bring their own flair to class. I challenge myself to create unique choreography and find interesting music.

What should we wear to class?

Whatever makes you feel like dancing your hardest, whatever makes you feel amazing. Sweat pants, leggings, t-shirts, and tanks are all good choices. I like to be barefoot, but sometimes you’ll catch me in socks as well. If you have sensitive feet, there are also dance footies you can find at a dance store or online. Just don’t wear your street shoes in the studio so we keep the floors in good shape.

Any last words?

Contemporary dance is about expression. Come find your dance “voice” and move in ways you haven’t moved before! There aren’t many contemporary classes in our area! You’ll want to take this one.

Drop-in to Contemporary Jazz with Jocelyn Isaac is held Mondays from 8pm – 9:30pm at JOMDC Atlas. This is an Intermediate level class that combines ideas from modern dance, jazz, contemporary ballet, and even hip-hop to create a current, relevant dance style that will challenge you and get you moving! You’ll warm up, go across the floor, and learn amazing choreography that you’ll want to show off!

Check out the entire jazz drop-in line up for this week, and every week below.