Movement
2026 Movement Workshop with Noel Staples‑Freeman
African-Rooted Dance: Movement, Rhythm, and Cultural Connection
This lively and culturally rich dance class invites participants to explore the roots of African and Diaspora movement traditions through rhythm, song, and storytelling. Guided by Sister Noel, dancers will experience the joy of movement drawn from West African and Afro-Caribbean traditions—focusing on grounded movement, rhythmic patterns, and community connection. No prior dance experience is needed; all levels and abilities are welcome. Come ready to move, learn, and celebrate the power and spirit of African-rooted dance.
Noel Staples‑Freeman, affectionately known as Sister Noel, is a dedicated educator, performer, and cultural ambassador based in Pittsfield, MA. She earned a B.S. in Children’s Theatre, Performing Arts, and Dance from Emerson College, with further training at The Boston Conservatory, Elma Lewis School of Fine Arts, The Art of Black Dance and Music, and Koumpo West African Dance Company. With over 50 years of experience, her work is deeply grounded in African‑rooted traditions, emphasizing cultural preservation, healing, and community connection through movement. She is the founder of Uprising Dance Theatre and artistic director of the Berkshire African Dance and Drum Collective, with performance credits including Jacob’s Pillow and DanceAfrica. She is currently teaching at Berkshire Pulse, CATA, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, Jacob’s Pillow. Through her lifelong commitment to dance, education, and community, Noel continues to inspire and uplift across generations.
What to bring or wear: Participants should plan on wearing comfortable loose clothing to move in.
Community Solstice Class
Join Andrea in an hour-long Let Your Yoga Dance community event dedicated to the Solstice, the longest day of the year. Along with energetic dances (including a little sign language), you will experience moving modifications on the Sun Salutation, you’ll explore your inner light, and delve into sunlit songs of hope and faith, such as “May the longtime Sun shine upon you.” Joining in community, you will open the portal to deeper joy and wisdom as you let your yoga dance in community, with the sun at your back