Utilizing the ballet barre to “push and pull”, Garuda barre work emphasizes opening up space in the body while strengthening alignment and the core muscles that hold the body together. The movement is inspired by ballet, pilates and yoga offering a complete movement conditioning experience complimentary to various forms of dance technique.

More about Raena Waddell
Raena is a contemporary dance artist with a 25-year history of contributing to Edmonton’s vibrant arts community. Her artistry is grounded in two interwoven pursuits: a daily commitment to movement training that hones her craft, and a dedication to sharing that knowledge with dancers of all ages. Raena is inspired by modern dance icons Isadora Duncan and Merce Cunningham while taking daily inspiration from Edmonton’s dance community who continues to show up and age with dance.  Over the past two decades, Raena has premiered 18 short and full-length works presented at festivals including Expanse, Fluid Festival, and Nextfest, and in collaboration with Good Women Dance, Mile Zero Dance, Prairie Dance Circuit, and Brian Webb Dance Company. Raena’s curiosity surrounding bodywork led her to certifications in Pilates, Garuda, and other movement modalities, studying with mentors such as James D’Silva, Melanie Checknita, and Tracy Friesen.  Raena is a dedicated teacher, offering classes in contemporary dance and cross-training modalities such as Pilates, Garuda, and Barre for organizations including the City of Edmonton, Good Women Dance and Mile Zero Dance both in-person and with an ever-growing online community. Raena’s creative philosophy is rooted in a trinity of listening, considering and trying: Listening deeply to what is being shared, considering all possibilities, and embodying ideas through movement without clinging to permanence.

www.raenawaddell.ca

Photo by Armand Bladon