Classes

foundDANCE

Foundations in Contemporary Dance

Aikido Peace Education Center | 1101 N State St Bellingham, WA

Wednesdays 6:30 - 8:00 PM

foundDANCE is a beginner/all levels contemporary dance class—which means it is for: those who are new to dance, new to contemporary dance, returning to dance after a long time, and anyone looking for a class that prioritizes the joy of movement in a welcoming environment. We will cover movement fundamentals, guided improvisation, learning choreography step by step, all while being gentle with ourselves as we learn new things. At the heart of this class is the experience of moving with a group of people and the magic it brings.

foundDANCE is a 3 or 4-week series that begins again approximately every month with new material. The series format is designed for beginners to comfortably learn new skills and a movement phrase over the course of the month.

Experienced dancers may choose to drop-in to any class with awareness that new material is introduced in week 1 and built on during the following classes. Beginners to learning choreography may drop-in to week 1.

Purchase Single Class

Fall 2026 Schedule

follow the links to register early

4-Week Series October 7-28

3-Week Series November 4-18

3-Week Series December 2-16

Falling into Fall Jam

Deep Play - Contemplative Dance Practice

Saturday, September 26th 9am-12pm

Contemplative Dance Practice (CDP) is a movement meditation developed by Barbara Dilley at Naropa University in 1980. Blending sitting meditation with mindful improvisation, CDP cultivates embodied awareness, presence, and deep listening. Open to people of all abilities, the practice offers a supportive, non-judgmental container for exploring spontaneous movement and personal expression.

Soleil Chappelle studied and worked with Barbara Dilley at Naropa University and will guide a practice rooted in Barbara’s original teachings and approach.

CONTEMPORARY DANCE WITH SOLEIL

foundDANCE

Falling into Fall Jam

Soleil creates a space that is welcoming, fun and challenging in the best ways. I feel free in my body and so aware that movement is possible for everyone and dance is a conversation. Highly recommend this class to any level of mover, especially to folks who may feel they also "missed the window."

soleil's monthly newsletter for dance in bellingham