K-Culture and Dance Immersion Programme in Seoul, Korea
August 6, 2024
Eager to depart at Changi Airport
It was a dream come true for students from Crestar School of Dance. This year they had the opportunity to experience K-culture and appreciate various dance genres with dance mates of the same age in South Korea.
The Dance and Cultural Immersion programme from 13 to 19 June 2024 was the first to be organised by the School since the Covid pandemic. It was designed to give the students a rich experience in diverse dance genres there and deepen their appreciation for Korean culture.
Kpop workshop with esteemed Korean Kpop instructor in action
The students had the rare opportunity to participate in various dance workshops led by esteemed Korean instructors. The sessions exposed them to a wide array of dance styles, including ballet that allowed students to refine their techniques and explore the foundational movements of classical ballet.
Ballet workshops conducted by Ms Kang Ye-na, Former Ballet Principal in Dance American Ballet Theater.
They also had an immersive experience in the vibrant world of Hip Hop and the global phenomenon of K-pop with other Korean students. Furthermore, the students were able to explore contemporary dance techniques and creative expressions, and delve into the energetic and dynamic rhythms of jazz dance.
Hip Hop/ Kpop private class by Korean instructor – Mr Sangwook
Hip Hop & Kpop workshops with other Korean students conducted by Korean instructors – Mr Sangwook and Ms Minhee
Each workshop was tailored to challenge and inspire the students, allowing them to learn new skills and techniques while working closely with professional dancers/ instructors.
Students at Contemporary and Jazz workshops, taught by Ms Hyeji and Ms Hyomin respectively.
Beyond the dance workshops, the trip featured an exciting city tour of Seoul. The students visited iconic places such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village and the N Seoul Tower (by the Namsam Cable Car), to enjoy an insight into Seoul’s rich history and architectural marvels.
The girls exploring the city of Seoul
They also tucked into loads of delectable traditional Korean cuisine, from delicious street food to exquisite Korean BBQ.
The girls having scrumptious Korean food
Abigail Revalyn Zhang and Jessica Wang, 15 and 18 years old, said the workshop teachers were helpful and the duration of the classes were just nice for them. “We enjoyed the trip and the delicious food there,” they added
“The classes were interesting and I enjoyed them a lot. I learned to improve my dance skills in the Hip Hop workshop and I would definitely want to join the immersion programme again in the near future to experience different dance genres,” said Erin Calista Hussein Goh, 11 years old.
“The ballet classes were fun! They were very helpful in improving my dance skills. I enjoyed the trip and will recommend it to my ballet classmates,” said Shahana Selvakumar, 8 years old.
With the success of the trip, Crestar School of Dance is looking forward to offering more immersion opportunities overseas in the future to continue inspiring its young dancers.
© Crestar School of Dance |