Wassa Dance

For those in the Washington region seeking a truly invigorating and inspiring dance experience, Wassa Dance stands as a dynamic and welcoming hub right here in Seattle. Located at 418 N 35th St, Wassa Dance offers a unique and lively blend of traditional and contemporary poly-rhythmic styles, deeply rooted in Afro-fusion sounds. It's a place where you can move your body, free your spirit, and connect with a vibrant community, all while discovering new depths of rhythm and personal expression.

Wassa Dance is the brainchild of Lara McIntosh, an active and well-regarded member of Seattle's dance, music, public art, and drum communities. Having taught independently since 1997, Lara has cultivated a unique understanding of Afro-fusion, crafting classes and choreography that are designed not only to teach steps but also to truly inspire. Her extensive lifetime studies and travels to Brazil and Mali, West Africa, deeply inform her inclusion of dance styles and music of the African diaspora, bringing an authentic and rich cultural dimension to every class.

What makes Wassa Dance particularly special is its accessibility. Many newcomers might feel self-conscious trying a new style of dance, especially one with complex rhythms. However, as echoed by enthusiastic students, Lara's classes are known for being incredibly welcoming, dynamic, and challenging in a fun way. This approachable format invites every dancer, regardless of their prior experience or perceived skill level, to cultivate their own joyful and personal experience within roots-oriented group movement. You'll often find yourself leaving class feeling invigorated and inspired, a testament to the powerful energy and positive atmosphere cultivated here.

Wassa Dance believes in unlocking the movement potential in each person, exploring rhythm, spirit, craft, and community. This holistic approach to dance makes it more than just a workout; it's a journey of self-discovery and communal celebration. For anyone in Washington looking to infuse their routine with joy, challenge their body in new ways, and connect with a supportive artistic community, Wassa Dance offers an unparalleled experience.

Wassa Dance is strategically located at 418 N 35th St, Seattle, WA 98103, USA. This address places it within the heart of Seattle's renowned Fremont neighborhood. Fremont is famously known as the "Center of the Universe" for its quirky, artistic, and community-centric atmosphere, making it a fitting home for a vibrant dance studio like Wassa Dance.

The studio is part of Balance Studio, a facility founded by Brasil in Motion's co-founders, Daniel Nery dos Santos and Aileen Panke. Balance Studio serves as a hub for various dance, yoga, and movement classes, creating a broader community of movers and wellness enthusiasts. Its location in Fremont means it's surrounded by a network of small businesses, art walks, and the popular Fremont Sunday Market, making it an engaging area to visit.

For individuals across Seattle and the wider Washington region, accessing Wassa Dance is convenient. For those traveling by car, street parking is generally available in the Fremont neighborhood, though it's always advisable to allow a little extra time to find a spot, especially during busier periods. The neighborhood is also well-served by King County Metro bus routes, offering reliable public transportation options that connect Fremont to various parts of the city. This accessibility makes it easy for locals to consistently attend classes and become a regular part of the Wassa Dance community, integrating movement and joy into their weekly routines.

Wassa Dance, led by Lara McIntosh, offers specialized services focused on Afro-fusion and poly-rhythmic dance, designed to be both accessible and invigorating for all participants. While the core offering is Lara's unique dance style, the studio's broader association with Balance Studio means access to a range of related movement arts.

• Wassa Dance Classes with Lara McIntosh: These are the signature classes, combining traditional and contemporary poly-rhythmic styles inspired by African diaspora movements. Classes are known for being dynamic, fun, and accessible to all levels.
• Live Music Sundays (Selected): Wassa Dance occasionally offers classes accompanied by live guest musicians, enhancing the authentic experience of poly-rhythmic movement and drumming.
• Accessible for All Levels: Classes are structured to welcome novice dancers, those returning after a long break, and experienced movers, ensuring everyone can find their rhythm and challenge themselves appropriately.
• Focus on Rhythm, Spirit, Craft, and Community: Instruction goes beyond just steps, aiming to connect dancers with the deeper cultural and spiritual aspects of the music and movement.
• School Residencies and Intensive Workshops: Lara McIntosh also conducts specialized workshops and residencies in Washington State and Hawaii, extending the reach of Wassa Dance beyond the regular studio schedule.
• Connection to Brasil In Motion: Being housed within Balance Studio (home to Brasil in Motion), Wassa Dance benefits from proximity to classes in Brazilian Dance, Capoeira, Zumba, and more, offering a broader spectrum of movement options to the community.

Wassa Dance stands out in the Seattle dance scene due to several compelling features and highlights that consistently draw and retain its dedicated community members.

• Unique Afro-Fusion Style: The signature "Wassa Dance" offers a distinctive blend of traditional and contemporary poly-rhythmic styles, heavily influenced by Lara McIntosh's deep studies and travels to Brazil and Mali, West Africa. This provides a fresh and invigorating alternative to more common dance forms.
• Incredibly Welcoming and Accessible Environment: A consistent highlight from student reviews is how welcoming and non-judgmental Lara's classes are. This fosters a comfortable space for individuals of all dance backgrounds, especially those new to a particular style, to feel at ease and confident while learning.
• Dynamic and Invigorating Classes: Students frequently report leaving classes feeling "invigorated and inspired." The dynamic nature of the choreography and the infectious energy of the poly-rhythms make for a powerful and enjoyable workout that nourishes both body and spirit.
• Expert and Inspiring Instructor (Lara McIntosh): Lara McIntosh is highly praised for her teaching style. She is not only an originator of Wassa Dance with extensive experience but also possesses a unique understanding of Afro-fusion sounds. Her ability to design basic steps and choreography that truly inspire, coupled with her focus on individual cultivation of joy, sets her apart.
• Focus on Mind-Body Connection: Beyond just physical movement, Wassa Dance emphasizes connecting with rhythm, spirit, and community. This holistic approach allows dancers to experience deeper personal growth and a more profound appreciation for the art form.
• Community-Oriented Atmosphere: The "roots-oriented group movement" fosters a strong sense of community. Participants feel encouraged by both the instructor and fellow dancers, making it a supportive environment for collective and individual growth.
• Occasional Live Music: The inclusion of live music on selected Sundays adds an authentic and electric dimension to the classes, enhancing the sensory experience and deepening the connection to the African diaspora's rich musical traditions.

For those in the Washington region eager to experience the unique rhythm and energy of Wassa Dance, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 418 N 35th St, Seattle, WA 98103, USA

Phone: (206) 284-9473

Mobile Phone: +1 206-284-9473

You can also reach out via email at wassadance@gmail.com. For the most up-to-date class schedules, any special events, or to learn more about Lara McIntosh's specific offerings and philosophy, it is highly recommended to visit the official Wassa Dance website and check their schedule, which is also often integrated with the Brasil In Motion studio's calendar where many classes are held. Direct communication via phone or email is the best way to get personalized information and confirm class details.

Wassa Dance is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals in the Washington region, offering a distinct and enriching experience that perfectly aligns with a desire for engaging movement, cultural immersion, and community connection. Its unique attributes make it a valuable asset to Seattle's vibrant cultural and wellness landscape.

Firstly, for individuals in Seattle seeking a fresh and invigorating alternative to conventional fitness or dance classes, Wassa Dance provides a dynamic solution. The Afro-fusion and poly-rhythmic styles offer a challenging yet accessible workout that engages both body and mind, fostering a sense of invigoration that extends well beyond the studio walls. This unique offering caters to a growing interest in diverse and culturally rich forms of exercise and artistic expression.

Secondly, the welcoming and non-intimidating atmosphere cultivated by Lara McIntosh is a significant draw for locals. Many prospective dancers might feel hesitant to try a new style, but Wassa Dance creates a safe and supportive environment where everyone feels encouraged to explore and grow. This focus on individual joy and personal experience within a group setting ensures that beginners feel comfortable while experienced dancers can still find ample challenge, making it truly suitable for all skill levels within the Washington community.

Furthermore, Lara McIntosh's deep understanding and passion for the African diaspora's music and dance traditions bring an authentic cultural dimension to every class. For locals interested in cultural enrichment and global rhythms, Wassa Dance offers a genuine opportunity to connect with a rich artistic heritage. The occasional inclusion of live music further enhances this immersive experience, creating a truly unique and memorable atmosphere that stands out in the city.

Finally, being conveniently located in Seattle's artistic Fremont neighborhood, Wassa Dance is easily accessible for many residents, allowing for consistent participation and seamless integration into busy schedules. The strong sense of community fostered by Lara and the collective movement experience ensures that locals not only gain physical benefits but also forge meaningful connections and become part of a supportive network. For anyone in Washington seeking to move, be inspired, and feel part of something special, Wassa Dance is an undeniable local treasure.

Wassa Dance

418 N 35th St, Seattle, WA 98103, USA