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Open Sessions4 minutes

All Moves Hamburg: How to join the sessions

By Bernhard De LucaUpdated

In short
  • All Moves in Hamburg is an open movement session where you can try different dance styles.
  • You don’t need any prior experience; you can watch the movements first and then join in at your own pace.
  • Check the location, access, clothing, and event details beforehand, as the sessions take place at different venues.

At an open session, it’s not always immediately clear whether you should watch, follow along, or suggest a movement yourself. A simple guideline takes the pressure off having to get everything right straight away.

What you need beforehand

  • Comfortable clothing that lets you move freely
  • Shoes as specified in the event details
  • A water bottle
  • Up-to-date event details, including the location and attendance instructions

An open session isn't a course with a fixed learning plan

All Moves is a participatory format in Hamburg: the open movement sessions invite people with no prior experience to try out different styles. Unlike an ongoing course, you don't need to master a set sequence of steps first. The focus is on taking in movement prompts and figuring out how you want to respond to them.

That doesn't mean you have to join in from the very first moment. Watching, making a movement smaller, or taking a short break are all useful ways to find your bearings. Because the sessions take place at different locations, the specific conditions vary. The Ballettzentrum Hamburg, John Neumeier is listed as a venue for All Moves, but the current event details are still what matter for your visit.

If you'd like to get an idea of the kinds of dance available in the city beforehand, the overview of dance styles in Hamburg can help. For other participatory formats, you can also find an overview of dance events in Hamburg. Use this information as a guide, not as a substitute for the details about your specific session.

When a movement feels unfamiliar, make it smaller first: That way, you can go at your own pace and expand it later.
When a movement feels unfamiliar, make it smaller first: That way, you can go at your own pace and expand it later.

How to join All Moves

  1. Check the latest event details

    Check the latest information about All Moves in Hamburg and note the location, access details, and any participation requirements. The sessions take place at different locations, so don’t rely on a previous venue.

  2. Plan Your Outfit and Journey

    Choose clothing that allows you to turn and take bigger steps, and follow the event’s guidance on shoes. Allow enough time to get there so you don’t start dancing in a rush.

  3. Clarify how to get started on site

    When you arrive, ask where the session starts and whether there’s a group start. If you’d like to observe first, just say so or stand somewhere you won’t get in anyone’s way.

  4. Start by observing one movement

    Pay attention to direction, tempo and repetition, instead of trying to memorize an entire sequence right away. Notice whether the movement is guided collectively or whether participants contribute their own suggestions.

  5. Join in at your own level

    Start with a smaller or slower version if a movement still feels unfamiliar. You can skip individual parts and join back in once you have a better feel for the sequence.

  6. Share feedback after the session

    Ask questions if a movement cue or term is still unclear. Then think about which style or activity you enjoyed, so you can make a more informed choice next time.

A comfortable start

Like this

  • Start at the edge and observe the dance floor
  • Try a movement small and slow at first
  • If you're unsure, briefly ask how it works
  • Pause if you'd like to get your bearings

Not like this

  • Walk straight through the group without checking the space
  • Make an unfamiliar movement big and fast right away
  • Cover up uncertainty and simply keep guessing
  • Keep dancing out of politeness even though you need a break

Your checklist for your visit

Before the event

Preparation

Upon Arrival

Getting Oriented

After the session

Looking back

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Whether you need to register depends on the details for the event. Check there for any other participation requirements before you set off. Don’t rely on information from an earlier session, as the location and format can change.

Your next dance inspiration starts with joining in

On udansa, you can find upcoming dance events in Hamburg and search for formats that get you moving. This way, you can plan your next visit around what interests you.

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Your next dance inspiration starts with joining in

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