Jitterbug is a comprehensive movement studio, located in the heart of downtown Oakland (an Arts & Entertainment district) in Garrett County, Maryland. We offer a diverse range of movement classes, workshops and intensives, including various styles of dance, yoga and wellness classes, and movement as it relates to theatre arts. Jitterbug is open and available to all people, regardless of age, size, gender, race, or orientation.
As a lifelong lover of dance as an art form and creative physical expression, I wanted to bring something unique to Oakland’s Arts & Entertainment district.
My creative firm, CurlyRed, has been located in this area for 9 years (and in Baltimore for 9 years before that). Garrett County, MD is a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family, but it has its challenges. This is especially true in the colder months, when there are less options for physical activity. This has contributed to larger community health problems, like obesity and addiction. Jitterbug can help address these issues, while offering diverse and inclusive classes, workshops and intensives currently unavailable in this area. My desire is to promote well-being, both physically and mentally, through the artistry of dance.
Jitterbug Movement Studio Weekly Classes through the end of August
Jitterbug is a safe space for all ages & bodies. Classes can be purchased individually, or for a slight discount with a class pack.
Available classes are below:
Toning, flexibility, better posture, more efficient movement, mind/body connection are just a few benefits from practicing Pilates. Mat Pilates is a series of exercises performed without the use of equipment, to stretch and strengthen the body.
Classes will be taking place in beautiful outdoor location in Swanton, MD (precise address to be sent out once registered).
Learn the basic movements of tap, with barre and floor work, then learn a combination with the moves we’ve practiced. Wear comfortable clothes and tap shoes (flat or heeled). All levels welcome.
We hold special workshops and intensives at Moonshadow in McHenry, Our Town Theatre in Oakland and other local establishments, taught by regional talent in a variety of styles.
These workshops hold about 30 students and will be held on a first-come, first-serve basis. The best way to secure a spot for our workshops is to sign up for our mailing list.
Upcoming workshops are below:
Once again, we're bringing you our super popular Line Dancing with Jitterbug instructor Terry Novak-Whalen! This special event at Moonshadow will kick off with a line dancing lesson, followed by an open dance, We will get you laughing and your heart pumping. Boots are not required, just a willingness to have fun. While you're there, you can get a delicious meal from Moonshadow's scratch kitchen!
$15 at the door includes 1 drink ticket. No reservations needed for dancing. Please call 240-442-5542 if you'd like to reserve a table.
Release tension from your mind and body as you are led through a series of sustained postures and breathwork.
Together, we will support you as you are guided through gentle instruction followed by a grounding meditation to
close the practice. All are welcome, regardless of level! PLEASE BRING YOUR OWN MAT OR LET US KNOW IF YOU NEED ONE.
$15 at the door includes 1 drink ticket. No reservations needed for dancing. Please call 240-442-5542 if you'd like to reserve a table.
Join us for another great dance evening at Moonshadow! Kendall will teach a one hour lesson, going over the basics of swing dance, set to big band music. No experience or partner required, just a desire to have fun and learn something new!
$15 at the door includes 1 drink ticket
No reservations needed for dancing. Please call 240-442-5542 if you’d like to reserve a table.
Come explore some African dances and movements from various countries in Africa. We will have fun while allowing our bodies to be free and expressive with the sound of drums and also learn to listen to cues within the music. All levels welcome!
S15 at the door, includes 1 drink ticket.
No reservations needed for dancing. Please call 240-442-5542 if you'd like to reserve a table.
Q: What’s the cost?
A: Classes are $15, but 4-class packs are available for $56, and 8-class packs are $104 (best value). Class packs cannot be used for Workshops & Intensives. Pricing for Workshops & Intensives will be priced separately.
Q: How big are the classes?
A: Jitterbug’s classrooms can hold up to 6 dancers per class. We encourage you to register early to ensure your spot. Our Workshops & Intensives will be held at Our Town Theatre in Oakland, and can accommodate up to 30 students.
Q: What’s your wellness policy?
A: The safety of our instructors and students are extremely important to us. If you’re not feeling well, please stay home. We disinfect our studio after every class. Masking before, during, and after class is optional for both instructors and students.
Q: What sort of body type is ideal for Jitterbug’s classes?
A: Any and all body styles and types are welcome here! Please let your teacher know if you have an injury or physical limitation.
Q: What sort of attire do I need to wear to class?
A: Unless the instructor indicates otherwise, you can simply wear clothing that’s comfortable and easy to move in. Footwear depends on the style of movement, and the teacher will let you know what you need! We highly recommend Discount Dance Supply for purchasing affordable dance attire and footwear.
Q: When should I arrive for class?
A: We recommend arriving 10-15 minutes before the start of class to check-in, warm up and grab water if you need it.
Q: I’m at the CurlyRed/Jitterbug Building, how do I get inside?
A: Our entrance is the door off of the alley to the right of the front of the building.
Q: Where do I park?
A: There’s ample 2-hour street parking on 2nd and Alder Streets, and the Oakland Town Parking Lot is right across the street.
Q: What about competitions and performances?
A: At Jitterbug, our emphasis is learning the technique and artistry of dance. With that in mind, we will not be participating in dance competitions or holding performances or recitals for our dancers. That being said, there will be opportunities for parents and family members to attend Open Marley Nights to see what our students are learning, depending on the interest of the class.
The best way to stay up-to-date on what we’re doing and to learn about special events is to sign up for our Jitterbug email newsletter. We promise not to overload your inbox!
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If you have questions or concerns, or just want to learn more, please email us at info@dothejitterbug.com or fill out the following: