Enjoy a free Stepping class with Rondale Simpson outside in the Playhouse Square Plaza! What is Stepping? Stepping is a percussive, highly-energetic art form first developed through the song and dance rituals performed by African-American fraternities and sororities. In stepping, the body becomes an instrument, using footsteps, claps and spoken word to produce complex poly-rhythms. Stepping has been described as “one of the most exciting dance forms created in the 21st century.” Where are the origins of Stepping? In the early 1900s, African-Americans began to attend colleges in greater numbers and, once on campus, they decided to create their own Greek-letter organizations to support the students academically; socially; and to serve the surrounding community. Stepping became a way that members of these student groups (known today as the Divine Nine) expressed love and pride for their organizations. The class will explore specific techniques, vocabulary, creative processes, dynamics, and musicality of STEPPING or body percussion technique. This Includes experiencing a variety of movement styles and techniques. Warm-up exercises such as body toning and stretching. Students will learn diagonal and center step combinations leading to choreography. Rain Notice: We will be dancing rain or shine! ☔️