Hunter College Dance Department Study Abroad
Havana, Cuba
Spring 2025

Participate in our Silent Auction now through May 20th at 12:00 PM EST!

Help Hunter Dance students dance & learn with the iconic Cuban dance company, Lizt Alfonso Dance Cuba.

Introduction to Tap Dance

with Abby Loper

This 1-hour class is perfect if you are a beginning tapper or if you are a “first time tapper” wanting to give tap a try! This will be an energetic class focusing on rhythm and tap sound articulation and ending in a fun combination. If you have tap shoes, great! But if not, you can reserve a pair of tap slip on’s to turn any pair of sneakers into tap shoes.

Recommended ages: 13+

Location: Hunter College

Maximum Participants: 1-6 dancers

Starting Bid: $75.00

Actual Value: $175.00

Place your bid!

Abigail "Abby" Loper is a dance artist and educator from Austin, Texas. Growing up, she trained at a local dance studio as well as at her high school. Abigail was a member and a leader on the school dance team as well as a student in dance classes through the school's Fine Arts Academy. Dance proved to be a pivotal part of her high school experience, motivating her to pursue a career in quality dance education.

Abigail attended the University of Texas at Austin, where she received a BFA in dance with a focus in dance education. During her time at UT, Abigail was a member of Dance Repertory Theater where she performed works by Rennie Harris, Gregory Dolbashian, Gesel Mason, and Jeremy Arnold—as well as presented her first main stage choreographic work.

Upon graduating, Abigail moved to NYC and created the dance program at Dunbar Middle School. This is her fifth year at the school and the dance program continues to evolve as Abigail grows in her practice.

Alongside teaching, Abigail has continued performing and choreographing in various projects in NYC. Currently, she is pursuing her MA in Dance Education at Hunter College and is excited to apply her learnings in the classroom.

Dance Polishing

with Alexa Annese

Do you have a dance you want to perfect or get notes on for an upcoming show or competition? Miss. Alexa will guide you in maximizing your potential in a dance you are currently working on OR in a dance combination in the style of your choice choreographed by Miss. Alexa. This 1.5-hour private lesson is all about emphasizing your own “special sauce” and getting one-on-one specific feedback on how to enhance your dancing. Let’s dance and let’s live!!! R

Recommended ages: 6+

Location: Hunter College or Zoom

Maximum Participants: 1-10 dancers

Starting Bid: $75.00

Actual Value: $175.00

Place your bid!

Alexa Annese is a lively and passionate dance artist, dance educator, fitness coach, and motivator. Alexa possesses tremendous gratitude for her dance roots developed at her competition studio, Reflections In Dance, the FAME School, also known as, LaGuardia High School, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Martha Graham, and Broadway Dance Center, to name a few. Alexa graduated Graduate of Excellence in Dance at her alma mater, LaGuardia High School. After LaG, she continued dancing at Adelphi University and graduated with her masters in Dance Education at Hunter College. Alexa has extensive experience in the concert, commercial, and musical theater dance worlds as a professional dancer. She performed at several famous venues, including but not limited to, the Winter Garden Theatre, Jones Beach Theater, and the Taj Mahal. She was a backstage dancer for Judy Torres and Angelo Venuto at KTU Beatstock Concert and the Freestyle Free For All. Additionally, Alexa has film credits for Soprano star Frederico Castellucio’s movie, Lily of The Feast and soap opera, As The World Turns. Alexa is currently pursuing her dreams of acting and dancing on television.

Alexa can also be found teaching in public schools, NYC DOE performing arts schools, competition dance studios, private schools, camps, and after school programs. She is currently choreographing the musical, Spongebob: Kid’s Edition with Triple Promise Academy. Whether on stage, choreographing, or teaching, Alexa is committed to inspiring individuals to freely dance out loud as their best version of themselves. Alexa’s motto in dance is the dance room is the playground to practice how to live. Throughout her teaching, she emphasizes confidence building, self-awareness, risk-taking, collaboration, community, and personal development. Alexa is dedicated to building not only dancers, but the next generation of empowered leaders.

Get Strong and Stretch

with Alexa Annese

Let’s gain strength and flexibility in this 1.5-hour one-on-one session with Miss. Alexa. This private lesson focuses on what YOU need to further enhance your dancing. As a certified personal trainer and professional dancer, Miss. Alexa has explored the strong correlation between muscle strength and flexibility and technical potential in dance. This class will focus on strengthening major muscle groups, balance, muscle and cardiovascular endurance, and stretching. Let’s grow together!!!

Recommended ages: 13+

Location: Hunter College or Zoom

Maximum Participants: 1 dancer

Starting Bid: $100.00

Actual Value: $300.00

Place your bid!

Roaring 20’s Swing/Jazz Class

with Andrew Farella

Win a 1-hour movement experience that would prepare you for the next Roaring 20’s or Jazz Age party. Your party of up to 8 friends will learn the 8-count swing and other variations. Andrew will primarily instruct swing partnering, taking the pressure off for those in your group that might be a little shy. This is the perfect opportunity for your friends to loosen their ties or let their hair down!

Recommended ages: 21+

Location: Hunter College

Maximum Participants: 2-8 dancers

Starting Bid: $200.00

Actual Value: $800.00

Place your bid!

Andrew Farella has had the privilege of dancing in Public Schools from Kindergarten through 8th grade. As a teen, he served 2 years as Dance Captain for the Dancing Classrooms Youth Dance Company. He was in the Vocal Studio at Frank Sinatra School of the Arts, and eventually obtained a BFA in Drama from NYU Tisch's New Studio on Broadway. Andrew intends to integrate studies of Music and Dramatic Storytelling into his work as a Dance Educator.

Hatha Yoga or Cultural Diasporic Experience

with 'Khair Brown

Congratulations winner! You have a choice between a therapeutic, full 1-hour Hatha Yoga class which includes breathing exercises and a meditation session as we engage in traditional Sanskrit chanting (with English translations). Learn both the Sanskrit and English terms of each pose, the benefits, and their awareness points. This is the ideal practice to support our hectic lifestyles and the rigor of our dancing bodies. Or, feel free to choose the 1-hour Cultural Diasporic Experience dance class. Here we move and groove to lively choreography that incorporates dances from around the globe, with an emphasis on storytelling and exploring new levels of embodiment. Have fun taking what you’ve learned from the dance studio to the party!

Recommended ages: 18+

Location: NYC Dance studio (location TBA)

Maximum Participants: 1-10 dancers

Starting Bid: $75.00

Actual Value: $300.00

Place your bid!

‘Khair is a NYC native with roots further back in the south. Her love and journey for dance with an emphasis on folkloric, ceremonial, tap, and various diasporic forms began as a child dancing with Batoto Yetu, a youth African dance troupe. Through this golden opportunity, her passion for dance and performance was fully ignited, and ultimately, she continued to build on her skills by training, performing, volunteering, and working within many NYC dance companies. She later founded Bloom, and as the Artistic Director offered daily programming in the arts with an emphasis on dance and theater for inner-city youth. Bloom served close to one hundred fifty children a year for ten years and students performed fresh and innovative dances through their Passport to the World workshops in the Department of Education’s Brooklyn schools, Pratt Institute, the New York Police Department, Martial Arts USA, and several private institutions.

She then trained and was in the first BIPOC cohort of yoga instructors through Integral Yoga Institute in 2021, and embodies a rigorous daily practice in yoga including Qi Gong, body conditioning, meditation, and various somatic exercises while choreographing for creative projects. Currently, ‘Khair is a full-time dance instructor teaching daycare, elementary, middle school, high school, adults, and seniors each week in Brooklyn, NY. She, along with many other artists, is invested in doing her part to serve the world dance community through equity and social justice as a lively way to address healing, while progressing as a hungry student and a compassionate educator. This initiative is supported by her participation in the “radically diverse” and unparalleled dance program at CUNY’s Hunter College, which she joined in 2023 as an MFA scholar. Here she continues to embark on new artistic endeavors and collaborations with continuity and fervor.

Birthday Party Add-On: Dance Experience

with Maria Collins

Add this 1-hour group dance class to your young dancer’s birthday party at the location of your choice, and in the dance genre of your choice: Jazz, Ballet, Contemporary, Lyrical, Theater Jazz, or Creative Movement.

*Summers only (weekday afternoons after 4:00pm; all-day on weekends)

Recommended ages: 18 months-12 years old (at least one adult must be present)

Location: Your chosen location in NYC

Maximum Participants: 1-10 dancers

Starting Bid: $100.00

Actual Value: $400.00

Place your bid!

Maria Collins' love for dance began at the age of three; she trained, performed, and competed in a variety of dance genres throughout middle and high school in the Baltimore, Maryland area. She won regional awards for dance performance and choreography. She was given the opportunity to assist dance classes at Studio Dans, her dance training center, sparking her love for teaching early on. Maria researched choreographic processes and the administrative elements of non-profit dance companies through two internship experiences during her junior and senior years of high school. Upon graduating high school, Maria moved to New York City to attend Marymount Manhattan College. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance Teaching and earned the Gold Key award for excellence in the Teaching Dance Arts concentration. At MMC, she studied the teaching techniques involved with multiple dance genres, ages, and levels. She trained daily in ballet, modern, and jazz. Maria was the soloist in Michael Leon Thomas' piece for the 2018 Dancers At Work performance. She performed in Douglas Burkhardt's piece in 2019. Maria choreographed a piece for the 2019 Works In Progress showcase and her senior solo for the Class of 2022 Senior Solo showcase. Maria has been a member of the teaching, assisting, and administrative team at Downtown Dance Factory in Tribeca since her first year in New York City. At DDF, she primarily teaches dancers ages 18 months to 10 years old. Maria is currently pursuing her Master of Arts degree in Dance Education at Hunter College’s prestigious Arnhold Graduate Dance Education Program, where she learns research-driven dance teaching skills that help her to build curriculums that inspire children to explore and interact with the art form of dance. She also teaches adults in her community and continues to fortify her technical and artistic teaching skills.

1-on-1 Private Lesson

with Maria Collins

Win a 1-hour private lesson in the dance genre of your choice: Jazz, Ballet, Contemporary, Lyrical, or Theater Jazz. Maria will work with you to determine an individualized class structure based on your goals. Maria is highly experienced in working with all ages and across studio, competitive dance, and school environments. Maria’s lesson can highlight strengthening and stretching, technique, choreography, artistry skills, and more.

Recommended ages: 18 months+ (adult must be present with children under 14)

Location: Hunter College

Maximum Participants: 1 dancer

Starting Bid: $75.00

Actual Value: $150.00

Place your bid!

Modern Dance

with Martina Dimitrova

This 1-hour class will take you on an exhilarating journey into the world of modern dance inspired by the legendary dancer and choreographer, Paul Taylor. In this 1-hour class designed specifically for middle school students, dancers will delve into the dynamic and expressive movements characteristic of Taylor's iconic style. Student(s) will begin with a comprehensive warm-up to prepare their bodies and minds for the exploration ahead. Through a series of exercises and across-the-floor sequences, they will have the opportunity to embody the fluidity, strength, and emotional depth synonymous with Taylor's choreography. Don't miss this chance to experience the magic of Paul Taylor's legacy firsthand and unleash your inner dancer in a supportive and inclusive environment. Bid now for the opportunity to elevate your dance journey and make unforgettable memories! Recommended ages: Any!

Recommended ages: 10-15

Location: Hunter College

Maximum Participants: 1-10 dancers

Starting Bid: $40.00

Actual Value: $100.00

Place your bid!

Martina Dimitrova started her dance training at the Joffrey Ballet School when she was 12 years old. She attended Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School with a major in Drama. While in high school, she trained at the Paul Taylor School, and danced with the Taylor Teen Ensemble. She is currently double majoring in Dance and English at Hunter College, and is a scholarship student with the Paul Taylor Professional Division, where she learns, performs, and teaches Taylor repertory around NYC. With a focus on modern dance, Martina has attended intensives at Paul Taylor, Martha Graham, and Limón. She is an assistant teacher for youth classes at Paul Taylor and is very eager to bring her love for modern dance to young students. With an emphasis on athletic and rigorous Taylor movement, her class will focus on the fluidity and rigidness that exists within Mr. Taylor's style, allowing every student to personally embody the vocabulary and find a new vessel for self-expression.

Jazz Across the Floor

with Nyraena Simmons

Step into the world of jazz with Mrs. Raena, as she guides you through a dynamic 1-hour private lesson. Learn the art of commercial-style jazz, mastering jumps, turns, and leaps across the floor. Your participation not only promises an unforgettable experience but also contributes to a noble cause – supporting efforts to send teachers to study abroad in Cuba. Bid generously, dance passionately, and help make dreams come true!

Recommended ages: 7+

Location: Hunter College

Maximum Participants: 1-3 dancers

Starting Bid: $80.00

Actual Value: $250.00

Place your bid!

Nyraena Simmons, a passionate and dedicated dancer teacher, is currently embarking on her final semester at Hunter College, pursuing a major in dance through the AGDEP program. Throughout her academic journey, Nyraena has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to both her personal growth as a dancer teacher and her mission to inspire and uplift aspiring talents. One of Nyraena's most cherished roles is that of a mentor and guide for young dancers. Her journey has been marked by a fervent desire to help others enhance their dancing abilities and build robust foundations. An advocate for dreams, Nyraena finds immense joy in assisting dancers in achieving their goals, particularly by guiding them through the intricate process of audition preparation for NYCDOE performing arts high schools.

As the esteemed director of Fly Academy of Dance, Nyraena curates an environment where students are immersed in the multifaceted world of dance. From the confines of the studio to the expansive stage, her students not only refine their technical prowess but also explore the transformative power of dance through national and international travel experiences.

Nyraena extends her passion for dance education to the Brooklyn High School of the Arts, where she currently serves as a dance teacher. In this role, she relishes the opportunity to mold and shape the next generation of dancers, fostering creativity, discipline, and a deep appreciation for the art form. With a career spanning both academia and artistic leadership, Nyraena exemplifies the fusion of dedication, artistry, and mentorship in the world of dance. Her impact reaches far beyond the studio, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and aspirations of those she guides on their own dance journeys.

1-on-1 Private Lesson: Ballet or Contemporary

with Sara Perez

Win a private lesson (1-hour for dancers 10+, 30-mins for dancers under 10) in either classical ballet or contemporary dance. Sara will work with you to create an individualized class structure based on your goals. With an emphasis on strong foundations and musicality, Sara enjoys love to help anyone become a more well rounded dancer. Whether you're just starting out or want to polish a few problem areas she's here to help!

Recommended ages: 5+

Location: Zoom

Maximum Participants: 1-4 dancers

Starting Bid: $40.00

Actual Value: $65.00

Place your bid!

Hello! I am Sara! (Based in New York City) I started dancing at the age of 3. I am well versed in Ballet, Modern and Contemporary Dance. I attended Joffrey San Antonio (2004) and Paul Taylor New York (2010) intensives. Once moving to NYC, I attended the TAKE Dance intensive (2011) and the Lar Lubovitch intensive (2012). While in high school I taught Ballet, Jazz, Pre-Pointe and Pointe classes to dancers ages 3-14. In 2011 I graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ballet Pedagogy (which is the art or science of teaching). Moving to NYC 11 years ago I have been focused on performing with such dance companies as Exit 12 Dance Company (2011-2012) and Community Dance Project (2013-2014). While not dancing with companies I have choreographed and danced in music videos as well by TV on The Radio, Sunsheds, Tiny Victories and Sannhet. I can't express my love for teaching enough! To know that I could help spark the passion for dance is extremely inspiring.

Private or Group Lesson: Ballet or Jazz

with Allison O'Donnell

Ballet: Student can choose a traditional ballet class that consists of barre, center, and across the floor exercises with a focus on something specific of the student/s choice. Student/s can also opt for a "ballet conditioning" class that focuses on exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and coordination of the ballet technique.

Jazz: Student/s can choose to participate in a traditional jazz class which consists of a warm-up, center work, and across the floor for the first half of class and to learn a jazz combination the last half of class. Student/s can also choose to dedicate the entire class to either jazz exercises or a jazz combination either choreography by Allison or original Musical Theater choreography.

Both class options are 1.5-hours total. All levels are welcome!

Recommended ages: 8+

Location: Hunter College

Maximum Participants: 1-10 dancers

Starting Bid: $100.00

Actual Value: $450.00

Place your bid!

Allison is NYS certified in K-12 Dance Education and currently teaches at a NYC Public Middle School in Brooklyn, NY. She graduated from Towson University with a BFA in Dance Performance and Choreography with a Dance Education track and trained under well-known and respected professionals in the dance industry. Before Towson, Allison trained in multiple genres of dance such as ballet, modern, jazz, and tap. She was a member of the New Jersey Ballet Junior Company and trained with Carolyn Dorfman Dance Company at her NJ performing arts high school. Currently Allison is a graduate student at Hunter College's Arnold Graduate Dance Education Program and expected to graduate in May of 2024.

Classical Ballet Class

with Jacquelyn Scafidi

Jacquelyn Scafidi is excited to offer a 1 hour and 15 minute (1 hour for students 8 and under) classical Ballet classthat will strengthen barre work, foot articulation, battements, jumps, pirouettes, and overall rigor and strength that is required in any ballet class.

Recommended ages: 3 to 18 years old

Location: Flexible within the Tri-State area

Maximum Participants: 1-20 dancers

Starting Bid: $100.00

Actual Value: $200.00

Place your bid!

Jacquelyn is a native of Brooklyn NY. She has been a soloist with renowned companies such as Feld Ballets NY/Ballet Tech, Smuin Ballet SF, Metropolitan Opera Ballet, 1st National & International Tours of West Side Story, and Momix. She was also the Associate Choreographer for all the West Side Story productions in the UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Broadway's 1st National tour here in the US (under the direction of Arthur Laurents & Joey McKneely) from 2010-2020. Jacque has set pieces for Eliot Feld at the prestigious Juilliard School and was Associate Choreographer and swing for the Broadway showcase of “Shadows” a new dance musical. Jacque has done both modeling and print work. Her credits include Elle magazine, Baryshnikov Dance Wear, Revolution Dance Wear, Dance Magazine, Pointe Magazine, Dance Spirit, and Runway shows in Bryant Park & Lois Greenfield Photography.

Contemporary Dance Class

with Miriam Gabriel

Come undulate and articulate in my 1 hour and 15-minute contemporary dance class. The session will begin with breathwork and stretching that transitions into a rigorous warm-up based on foundational elements of Cunningham and Dunham Technique. The second half of the session focuses on learning a playful and dynamic choreographic phrase. Through the embrace of spontaneity and experimentation, dancers will be tasked to move between set choreography and their own improvised movement, allowing for agency and personal expression. The class concludes with a cool-down and gratitude practice to calm and give thanks to the body and mind.

Recommended ages: 5+

Location: Flexible to your needs

Maximum Participants: 1-20 dancers

Starting Bid: $50.00

Actual Value: $150.00

Place your bid!

Miriam Gabriel creates, produces, and performs in dances and films. She has co-created dance work with Carlo Antonio Villanueva since 2016 and danced professionally for many artists including Kyle Marshall, Stephanie Acosta, Susan Marshall, Maya Lee-Parritz, Kayla Farrish, GREYZONE, Stephen Petronio Company, the Merce Cunningham Trust, Zultari Gomez, and Isaac Pool. Venues include BAM, The Joyce, The Shed, BAAD!, The Kitchen, Baryshnikov Arts Center, The Chocolate Factory.

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Hunter College Dance Department Study Abroad Havana, Cuba Spring 2025

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Hunter College Dance Department Study Abroad
Havana, Cuba
Spring 2025