What to know:

Dance Church® is an all-levels movement class that offers a fun and inclusive approach to dancing. Designed for people of all shapes and sizes, backgrounds and identities, Dance Church is a communal space for people who want to move their bodies.

The teacher leads this 55ish minute class in a series of movement cues, accompanied by a curated playlist of multi-genre pop music. The format is open but guided throughout. No previous training is required, but open-mindedness is a prerequisite.

Dance Church classes are offered in dance spaces across the country. Our mission is to bring the joy and release of dance to every body, while supporting dance artists and partner organizations, and making connections between class takers and the dance world.

DANCE FLOOR TIPS:

-Arrive 5-15 minutes before class, no late entry permitted

-Teachers lead classes from the center of the space and we change our facing often

-We like our music loud, and the tempo is upbeat and energetic

-When you cannot hear or see the teacher, let other class takers be your guide

-No talking allowed, but singing is highly encouraged

-We move through various actions and coordinations throughout class, there is no learning choreography

-At times we move around the space, we go down to the floor and we hold hands briefly

-You can always modify as you need — go bigger, smaller, faster, slower as you please

-When in doubt, just dance.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING?

-Clothing that you’re comfortable moving and sweating in

-We recommend taking class barefoot or in socks

-Clean studio sneakers allowed if you have a personal need, please be mindful.

-Water bottle

-Face mask (optional)

-Earplugs (optional, available upon request)

Transportation:

METRO: CHAW is located two blocks south of the Eastern Market metro plaza, which is on the orange, blue and silver lines. After exiting the metro stop, walk two blocks down 7th Street (there’s a CVS on the corner) walking south from Pennsylvania Ave. CHAW is located at the corners of 7th and G Street SE, with the main entrance facing 7th Street.

PARKING: Street parking is available but is sometimes limited. Please read the parking signs carefully. There is ample paid parking on I street from 8th to 4th St. SE and a paid parking lot (maintained by the city) under the freeway, entrance from 8th.

Local favorites for your #postclassritual:

Call Your Mother Bagels

Eastern Market Street Vendors

Le Pain Quotidien