*Oshun Dance reserves the right to change schedules and instructors at any time throughout the term. Please note Week 9 December 9th and December 12th schedule may change as a presentation we will be preparing for our end of year programming demonstration.

Meet Our Instructors

Reequal Smith- Dance Instructor

Anni-tan Ferguson- Poetrist

Chavez Edgecombe- Drummer

Joe Dames- Hip Hop Instructor

Mark Carr-Rollitt- Drummer

Petal Mahon- Mindfulness Instructor

Class Descriptions

Bahamian Folk - Bahamian Folk Dances have origins in Africa and European ballroom tradition. Dance steps are interrupted with more freedom of movement of the torso, pelvis, and loosened arm positions performed to the rhythms of the islands. The Quadrille, also known as the wedding dance, is one of the most traditional dances in the Bahamas.

West African - West African Dance is an energetic and versatile dance style with a rich history, which has influenced many dance styles worldwide. Some of the unique characteristics of West African dance include the prominent use of complex rhythms, high-energy movements, and vibrant costumes.

Drumming-  In this dynamic and empowering participants will explore the connection between movement and rhythm through hand drumming. The class introduces the fundamentals of drumming—bass, tone, and slap techniques—along with basic rudiments like single stroke rolls, double stroke rolls, flams, and paradiddles. These rhythmic patterns will serve as the foundation for movement, encouraging participants to embody the rhythms and explore their personal expressions through drumming. With 3 to 4 different rhythms or styles, this session allows participants to flow between structured beats and freeform movement. The rhythm of the drum will guide the body’s movements, offering opportunities to water down or embellish the steps, making it accessible for all levels. This class is a fusion of rhythm, sound, and movement designed to foster self-awareness, healing, and connection to community while reclaiming one’s sense of power and autonomy.

Hip hop - Hip Hop Dance is a style of movement characterized by bounces and rocks, executed to Hip Hop music. It has deep historical and social roots in African American culture, having emerged in Black communities living in 1970s New York. While frequently referred to as a singular dance style, Hip Hop dance is part of a whole culture of Hip Hop, which includes Deejaying, Graffiti, Emceeing, and Breaking.

Jazz Funk - Jazz Funk came into being as an art form when choreographers saw the movements from the new world of hip-hop and merged them with elements of style from the world of dance at large. These contributions came from tap, ballet, jazz, and swing dancing, and the posing theatrics of the Los Angeles LGBT street dance called waacking. Because of its associations with street-style dance and hip-hop, jazz dance is sometimes mistaken for hip-hop dance. But it’s a much different creature, one whose hybrids and mutations were designed with big commercial productions in mind. Think of the difference between swing dancing in a club versus a full-cast musical with sets and costumes. That’s the evolution of jazz-funk.

Poetry in Motion- A transformative journey through the power of words and movement. Poetry in Motion offers a haven for individuals who have faced gender-based violence and marginalized racialization, regardless of their dance experience. Through the art of poetry, we create a space where voices long suppressed can find expression and healing. Together, we'll explore the depths of emotion, reclaiming our narratives and empowering one another through shared experiences. Join our supportive community as we weave words into verses, crafting poetry that speaks volumes and ignites change."

Embodying Strength, Connecting Souls Movement- This inclusive class will offer dance therapy activities such as; “Body Monologuing” to name a few to individuals impacted by gender-based violence and marginalization. Through expressive movement, we externalize emotions and build unity in a supportive circle, fostering healing and empowerment. Utilizing movement to externalize characters and words, fosters a safe space for self-expression and exploration. Through collaborative exercises, such as building movement in a circle and synchronizing our motions, we cultivate a sense of unity and connection among participants. Each movement becomes a powerful tool for reclaiming agency and cultivating resilience.

Sound, Movement and Mindfulness-  This class offers a healing space for marginalized and racialized individuals to reclaim their bodies and minds through somatic movement, sound therapy, and mindfulness practices. Rooted in the understanding of the profound effects of gender-based violence, this class aims to empower participants by helping them reconnect with their inner strength and resilience. Through gentle breathwork, mindful movement, and the therapeutic use of sound, participants will learn to release trauma, regain bodily autonomy, and foster self-compassion. Each session is a blend of guided practices that center healing, self-expression, and community support. Whether you’re seeking to process past experiences, develop tools for managing stress, or simply find a safe space to move and breathe, this class invites you to explore your own rhythm, connect with your breath, and tap into the power of collective healing.

Location of the workshop: Health Within Holistics
99 Pownal Street (Legion Building)
Charlottetown, PE, C1A 3W4