Happy New Year, Washington! So you’re two weeks into 2012 and that Dec. 31 vow to quit carbs is already starting to feel onerous. Here’s a better idea: How ’bout you actually go out and, like, learn something.
Luckily, our nation’s capital is a pretty good place to do just that. Want to learn Japanese? Become a silversmith? Cook a vegan meal? We’ve got you covered. In fact, the diversity of D.C.’s self-improvement offerings say a lot about the city—a place that boasts both global offerings (Azerbaijani!) and DIY obsessions (thread-handling!), not to mention up-to-date pedagogy for pets, low-cost physical fitness classes, and more help than you ever thought possible when it comes time to fix a bike.
Take a gander at our second annual class guide, and ditch those old-fashioned resolutions for good. Because, this year, you can do better.
Little Rascals Doggie Day Care Classes in D.C. and Rockville teach your unruly pooch manners and agility. Little Rascals also offers a two-week boot camp, with boarding, that aims to reduce bad habits like running out the door, jumping on kids or visitors, and begging and whining. Individual and in-home training available. Classes begin at $75. Little Rascals Doggie Day Care. 5913 Georgia Ave. NW. (202) 669-0170. littlerascalsdogpark.com.
Potomac Dog School Potomac Dog School offers a variety of courses that address handling, confidence building, safety, grooming, and basic training. Private consultations, group classes, and socialization are available, as well as bad behavior-breaking training courses. Call for training rates. Potomac Dog School. 7326-B Westmore Road, Rockville. (301) 217-0010.
Art League School Many classes at The Art League began Jan. 9, but there is still time to sign up for later January and February workshops, such as “Survey of Spinning Techniques,” “Silver Soldering for Jewelry,” “Fiber Reactive and Acid Dyes,” and “Felted Slippers.” Most meet one or two days in longer sessions. The Art League at Torpedo Factory. 105 N. Union St., Alexandria. $80-$195. (703) 683-2323. theartleague.org.
Arts at Glen Echo In addition to its summer camps for kids, Glen Echo Park offers year-round, adult and youth courses across the arts. Areas of coverage include dance, ceramics and pottery, theater, puppetry, social dance, music, glasswork, and much more. Glen Echo Park. 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo. (301) 634-2222. glenechopark.org.
Bits of Thread Sewing Classes The sewing studio offers classes in sewing basics, crafting handbags, working with patterns, quilting, skirtmaking, zippers, making your own dressforms, hatmaking, and beyond. Bring your own sewing machine, rent one, or use one of the available machines. Private lessons also available. Most classes $40. Bits of Thread. 1794 Columbia Road NW, Suite No. 6. (202) 642-9622. bitsofthread.com.
Build a Birdhouse Adults new to woodworking can learn how to build a charming house for birds (with local wood!). Bring design ideas. Materials included. $86 for four sessions. Begins Jan. 21 at 10 a.m. Thomas Jefferson Community Center. 3501 Second St. South, Arlington. (703) 228-5920. arlingtonva.us.
DC Threads Sewing Lounge The second Saturday of each month, the DC Threads sewing group hosts a free program for the thread-happy to swap tips, pick up new techniques, and collaborate with each other using provided sewing machines. Open to all levels. Meets at 10 a.m. Lounges fill up fast, and RSVP is required. Bits of Thread. 1794 Columbia Road NW, Suite No. 6. Free. (202) 642-9622. dcthreads.org.
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION D.C.’s parks and rec department offers dozens of arts and performance classes for kids and adults throughout the year. Most are held at community centers, and prices, for the most part, are reasonable. View a complete course catalog at dpr.dc.gov/DC/DPR.
From Paper to Sculpture: Papier-mâché Workshop Learn how to create papier-mâché sculptures in this workshop. Four Tuesday sessions meet at 10 a.m., March 6-27. $110 for nonmembers, $90 for members. Politics & Prose. 5015 Connecticut Ave. NW. (202) 364-1919. politics-prose.com.
Looped Yarn Works Looped’s classes introduce beginners to knitting and crocheting, teach tips, and provide coaching for advanced knitters. Students can also learn how to knit a sweater from the top down or make their own mittens. Looped Yarn Works. 1732 Connecticut Ave. NW, Second Floor. (202) 714-LOOP. loopedyarnworks.com.
Meditative Painting A nontraditional painting course that focuses on meditative art forms, including mandalas, art therapy, and sketchbook journaling. Six-week session begins Jan. 19. Art and Media House. 3035 15th St. NW. $150. (202) 319-2299. artmediahouse.org.
Picture This: Exploring Art at the Smithsonian This four-session Smithsonian Resident Associates lecture course includes such topics as “Rodin: Innovator of the French School,” “St. Gaudens and Sargent: Geniuses of the American Renaissance,” “Whistler, Winslow Homer, and Henry Ossawa Tanner: Masters of the American School,” and “Picasso and Other Modern Legends.” Four Thursday sessions meet at noon, Feb. 9-March 1. $60 for members, $80 for nonmembers. S. Dillon Ripley Center. 1100 Jefferson Drive SW. (202) 633-3030. residentassociates.org.
pyramid atlantic art center Year-round adult arts courses in letterpress, screenprinting, papermaking, printmaking, bookbinding, and other intriguing crafts. Classes are small, with no more than 10 students. Most courses are $70-$130. Pyramid Atlantic Art Center. 8230 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring. (301) 608-9101. pyramidatlanticartcenter.org.
Sew and Know A basic sewing class for people ages 14 and up. Meets Mondays at 7 p.m. Register in person. $115 for D.C. residents and $125 for nonresidents. Chevy Chase Community Center. 5601 Connecticut Ave. NW. (202) 282-2204. dpr.dc.gov/DC/DPR.
Sewing Classes Year round, G Street Fabrics’ Rockville, Falls Church, and Centreville locations offer a dizzying array of sewing courses from the very introductory to the very advanced. Topics include sewing basics, construction techniques, tailoring, patternmaking, accessories, knitting and crocheting, embroidery and beading, fabric painting and dyeing, and several courses for children. Most classes range from $49 to $149. gstreetfabrics.com.
Silversmithing Silversmith Blair Anderson covers entry-level to advanced silversmithing in a handful of diverse and in-depth workshops that meet Wednesdays-Saturdays. $85-$365. Glen Echo Park. 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo. (301) 634-2222. glenechopark.org.
Trash to Treasure Offered by the Latin American Youth Center’s Art and Media House, this Tuesday night (7 p.m.-9 p.m.) course focuses on creating artworks from recycled materials, found objects, and acrylics. The six-week session begins Jan. 17. Art and Media House. 3035 15th St. NW. $150. (202) 319-2299. artmediahouse.org.
Washington Studio School Courses and workshops in a range of expressions. January workshops began Jan. 4, but the regular ten-week winter term begins Jan. 30. Classes include all levels of drawing as well as beginning and intermediate painting. Also open drawing sessions with models for $18. Most regular classes $455. Washington Studio School. 2129 S St. NW. (202) 234-3030. washingtonstudioschool.com.
The Woodworkers Club The club offers more than 75 courses ranging from introductory to advanced. The basics start with the fundamentals of woodworking, and branch off into particular woodworking techniques. The advanced courses (like cabinetmaking) are designed for professional woodworkers who wish to expand their craft. Classes take place at the Woodworkers Club and at VisArts in Rockville. Most begin at $99. The Woodworkers Club. 4950 Wyaconda Road, Rockville. (301) 984-9033. woodworkersclub.com.
CITY BIKES All three City Bikes locations (Adams Morgan, Capitol Hill, and Chevy Chase) offer free basic bicycle maintenance classes Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. Register at citybikes.com.
BicycleSpace BicycleSpace offers free weekly classes: yoga for cyclists (Mondays, 7:15 p.m., with a suggested donation); basic bike maintenance (Tuesdays, 7 p.m.); and fix-a-flat classes (Thursdays, 6:30 p.m.). BicycleSpace. 459 I St. NW. (202) 962-0123. bicyclespacewdc.com.
THE Bike House The Bike House’s free Saturday morning bicycle clinics at Qualia Coffee are on hiatus until February or March. When they commence, they will be held—possibly with new hours—at the not-yet-opened Annie’s Ace Hardware in Petworth. Check facebook.com/bikehousedc or visit thebikehouse.org for updates. Annie’s Hardware. 1240 Upshur St. NW. (202) 210-0852.
THE BIKE RACK The Bike Rack offers free monthly Saturday morning bicycle maintenance classes for beginners, a six-clinic advanced maintenance training course for $240, and a 10-clinic triathlon training course. The Bike Rack. 1412 Q St. NW. (202) 387-2453. bikerackdc.com.
Washington Area Bicyclist Association WABA offers confident city cycling classes at three levels, instruction in traffic skills, group riding for competition, training seminars for those interested in hosting bike clinics, and League of American Bicyclists-certified instructor training. Motorist training can be scheduled at request. Many courses are free. (202) 518-0524. waba.org.
Cooking for Good Learn how to make hamenstashen with a variety of fillings, flavors, and fondues. In keeping with the Purim tradition of delivering food to those in need, attendees will prepare baskets of food to donate to local shelters. Feb. 28, 7 p.m. $18-$20. Sixth & I Historic Synagogue. 600 I St. NW. (202) 408-3100. sixthandi.org.
Hill’s Kitchen Hands-on instruction covering everything from kitchen basics to everyday cooking. On the schedule through late February: knife skills, introduction to sauces, homemade baby food, pierogi, and more. Classes meet every day except Monday. Most classes $35-$65. Hill’s Kitchen. 713 D St. SE. (202) 543-1997. hillskitchen.com.
Mimi Clark’s Vegan Cooking Classes Mimi Clark harnesses 20 years of expertise to teach students how to cook vegan meals. The next class, on Feb. 12, will focus on comfort foods. Demonstration classes include recipes and samples. $55 per person or $100 per pair. Email veggourmet@aol.com or call for more information. Mimi Clark’s Vegan Cooking Classes. 9302 Hallston Court, Fairfax Station. (703) 643-2713. veggourmet.wordpress.com.
Sur La Table Cooking Classes Daily single classes that cover topics including knife skills, dinner party prep, French cooking, mastering macarons, surf and turf, Thai, and homemade cheese and dairy. Most classes under $100. Sur La Table, Arlington. 1101 S. Joyce St., Suite B-20, Arlington. (703) 414-3394. surlatable.com.
Vinoteca Wine Classes Tuesday nights, the bistro hosts expert-led wine classes for small groups in its upstairs lounge. On the docket: Wine 101 (Jan. 24), Italian wines (Jan. 31), French wines (Feb. 7), wines from the Pacific Northwest (Feb. 21), and comparative tastings Feb. 28 and March 16. Five to six wines are sampled with food pairings. Reservations required; 20 spaces available per class; $5 gift card included with $35 admission. Vinoteca Bar & Bistro. 1940 11th St. NW. (202) 332-9463. vinotecadc.com.
Washington Wine Academy The nonprofit wine education center in Crystal City offers professional wine certification as well as basic classes and tastings, from an introduction to wine to specialized courses in wine regions. Beer classes also offered. Washington Wine Academy. 1201 S. Eads St., Suite 400, Arlington. (703) 971-1525. washingtonwineacademy.org.
Anal Sex 101 Sugar, the Baltimore sex shop, says “the ass is the most overlooked erogenous zone on the human body.” Those eager to explore the pleasure triggers hidden inside their butts should check out the shop’s introduction to anal sex, where instructors will discuss how to safely and satisfyingly stimulate that special area. $20. Sugar. 926 W. 36th St., Baltimore. (410) 467-2632. sugartheshop.com.
Architecture: The Age of Revivals This four-session evening course, presented by Smithsonian Resident Associates, demonstrates how archaeological explorations segued into a series of architectural revivals. George Washington University art and architectural history professor Philip Jacks will lecture on “Gothick” and Greek revivals, medievalism, the German Romanesque, and American collegiate Gothic. $84 for members, $120 for nonmembers. Four sessions meet Tuesdays at 6:45 p.m., Jan. 17-Feb 7. S. Dillon Ripley Center. 1100 Jefferson Drive SW. (202) 633-3030. residentassociates.org.
Celestial Navigation: Finding Your Way in the Sky Christopher Columbus wannabes can learn the methods behind celestial navigation in this two-session Smithsonian Resident Associates course. Attendees will use the Einstein Planetarium at the Air & Space Museum to make observations of their own. $40 for members, $50 for nonmembers. March 14 and March 21, 10 a.m. S. Dillon Ripley Center. 1100 Jefferson Drive SW. $40-$50. (202) 633-3030. residentassociates.org.
Coupling Long-term partners and married couples explore ways to introduce Jewish values and traditions—such as keeping Kosher and Shabbat practices—into their homes. This four-part series begins March 14. $120 per couple. Sixth & I Historic Synagogue. 600 I St. NW. (202) 408-3100. sixthandi.org.
Great Spies of World War II Experts and former intelligence personnel lecture and discuss World War II’s most distinguished, interesting, and famous spies in this four-week Smithsonian Resident Associates class. Figures discussed will include Juan Pujol Garcia, Josephine Baker, Jeannie de Clarens, and Ernest Hemingway. $76 for members, $112 for nonmembers. Wednesdays at 10:15 a.m., Feb. 1-22. International Spy Museum. 800 F St. NW. (202) 633-3030. residentassociates.org.
Home Improvement Workshops The superstore offers free weekly classes on Saturdays that focus on basic home improvement skills, encompassing high-efficiency lighting, kitchen redesign, bath safety, and storage and closet solutions. Kids workshops hosted the first Saturday of every month. Home Depot Brentwood. 901 Rhode Island Ave. NE. (202) 526-8760. homeimproverclub.com.
The Intimate Romantics This eight-session Smithsonian Resident Associates lecture series will address Chopin, Mendelssohn, Schumann, and Liszt. $96 for members, $128 for nonmembers. Eight sessions meet Tuesdays at noon, Feb. 7-March 27. S. Dillon Ripley Center. 1100 Jefferson Drive SW. (202) 633-3030. residentassociates.org.
Money Talk: A Financial Course For Women Weekly finance courses for women. Areas of coverage include finance basics (Jan. 25), investing basics (Feb. 1), investing for retirement (Feb. 8), insurance basics (Feb. 15), and planning for future life events (Feb. 22). Classes meet at 6:30 p.m. for two hours. $25 fee includes textbook. To register, email jabel@vt.edu or call 703-228-6417. Arlington Central Library. 1015 N. Quincy St., Arlington.
Preparing for the Ball: 19th-Century Skills and Etiquette Experience life in the 19th century by learning various era-appropriate dances, etiquette, and games in preparation for Dumbarton’s Spring Ball on March 24. Classes are $12 each and $10 for members. Tuesday series begins Feb. 28 at 7 p.m. Dumbarton House Museum. 2715 Q St. NW. (202) 337-2288. dumbartonhouse.org.
Treason and Sedition in American History Learn about treason and sedition from constitutional law experts in this two-session Smithsonian Resident Associates course, which will discuss, among others, Aaron Burr and “Tokyo Rose” Iva Toguri D’Aquino. $50 for members, $60 for nonmembers. Feb. 9 and Feb. 16 at 6:45 p.m. S. Dillon Ripley Center. 1100 Jefferson Drive SW. (202) 633-3030. residentassociates.org.
Workforce Development The Workforce Development Program at UDC Community College offers free classes to residents of District of Columbia. Courses cover health care, construction trades, office technology, careers in hospitality, and administrative technology, as well as GED preparation and training in digital literacy. Two annual terms each spring and fall. University of District of Columbia Community College, Shadd Building. 5601 E. Capitol St. NE. Free. (202) 274-5617. cc.udc.edu/wd/index.htm.
Beginning Level American Sign Language A free beginner’s class in American Sign Language. Drop-ins OK. Classes meet 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays, year round. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library. 901 G St. NW. (202) 727-0321. dclibrary.org.
German Language Courses The German cultural institute hosts a number of German language and culture courses, ranging from nine-week courses to intensive three-week sessions. All language levels offered. Each provide 36 units of instruction for $425. Culture courses (27 instruction units for $320) cover German lit and film and scholarly works in German. Registration for new students is $20. Goethe-Institut Washington. 812 Seventh St. NW. (202) 289-1200. goethe.de/washington.
Global Language Network Free foreign language classes that cover serious ground. The two-hour courses, which meet once a week for 12 weeks, teach Azerbaijani, Dutch, Igbo, Indonesian, Urdu, Polish, the expected Spanish and French, and far more. Space is always competitive. The forthcoming semester begins Jan. 30; registration opens Jan. 16. $150 refundable deposit required. A $150 donation guarantees placement. George Washington University Foggy Bottom Campus. 2121 I St. NW. thegln.org.
Japanese Language School Japanese language instruction in 15 different classes at four basic levels. Meets evenings once per week for ten weeks. The spring 2012 semester begins April 30. Tuition $255 for nonmembers. Japan-America Society of Washington. 1819 L St. NW, Level 1B. (202) 833-2210. us-japan.org/dc.
La Maison Francaise La Maison Francaise’s “Le Studio” series instructs attendees in French art de vivre. Topics include wine tasting for beginners, a culinary salon with restaurant partners, and a style salon. Classes begin at $75. La Maison Francaise. 4101 Resevoir Road NW. (202) 944-6448. la-maison-francaise.org.
Adventure Theatre Drama and performance classes for tiny tots to fifth-graders. $138-208 for eight-week sessions; $500 for workshops. Adventure Theatre. 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo. (301) 634-2270. adventuretheatre.org.
Art For Kidz An arts class for kids ages 2-3. $35 materials fee in addition to $100 course fee for D.C. residents ($110 for nonresidents). Class meets Thursdays at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. Guy Mason Center. 3600 Calvert St. NW. (202) 282-2180. dpr.dc.gov/DC/DPR.
Baby Artsplay! Through music, movement, and drama, these eight-week sessions aim to strengthen bonds between parents and their children ages 6-36 months. $200. Center for Education at Wolf Trap. 1645 Trap Road, Vienna. wolftrap.org.
CAPITOL HILL ARTS WORKSHOP The neighborhood arts center boasts a wealth of fun and creative courses for young people, from photography to ballet to visual arts. Capitol Hill Arts Workshop. 545 Seventh St. SE. (202) 547-6839. chaw.org.
Cooking With My Baby Parents and their babies (ages 2-5) learn how to make healthy snacks for the whole family. To register, email Elizabeth.Johnson@wholefoods.com. Whole Foods P Street. 1440 P St. NW. (202) 332-4300. wholefoodsmarket.com.
Djembe Drumming and Drama Kids from kindergarten to second grade learn to tell a story through traditional African performance. Drums provided. Eight-week sessions; classes meet Saturdays. $200. Center for Education at Wolf Trap. 1645 Trap Road, Vienna. wolftrap.org.
Encore Stage Young Actors Studio Young Actors Studio has provided youth theater courses for more than 30 years. Most classes meet Saturdays and are open to all grades (kindergarten through 12th). Among the offerings: “Theatre Ninjas,” a class for exploring stage choreography (Grades 3-5); “Laughing Wild,” for physical comedy (Grades 5-8); and a master class, “The Magic of Shakespeare” (Grades 8-12). Most classes $85-$135. Thomas Jefferson Middle School. 125 S. Old Glebe Road, Arlington. encorestage.org.
Imagination Stage Year-round performance courses and workshops for kids ages 1-18. Classes in Broadway, Shakespeare, musicals, dancing, narrative filmaking, and much more. Most 4-6 week courses range from the low $100s to $300s. Imagination Stage. 4908 Auburn Ave., Bethesda. (301) 280-1660. imaginationstage.org.
Just Cakes Introductory baking and cake-decorating classes for kids, teens, and parents. Learn how to ice, fill, decorate tiered cakes with buttercream, and more. Most classes $55-$90. Just Cakes. 4849 Rugby Ave., Bethesda. (301) 718-5111. justcakes.com.
Mom and Toddler Workout Moms get a workout with their toddlers in this exercise program that includes cardio, flexibility, and strength work, plus together time. BYO yoga mat. Eleven sessions for $104 (begins Jan. 17, runs Tuesdays at 10 a.m.), and nine sessions for $85 (begins Jan. 23, runs Mondays at 10 a.m.). Walter Reed Center. 2909 16th St. South, Arlington. (703) 228-0935. arlingtonva.us.
MONTPELIER ARTS CENTER The Prince George’s County arts facility offers numerous arts courses for youth. Classes cover ceramics, glass art, jewelry, painting, photography, performing arts, and much more. Many fees below $100; higher for nonresidents. View a course catalog at arts.pgparks.com. Montpelier Arts Center. 9652 Muirkirk Road, Laurel. (301) 377-7800.
Music and Motion A “music and motion jamboree” with singing, dancing, and instrument-playing for kids ages 1-5 and their parents. Meets Mondays and Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. and Thursdays at 4 p.m. $120 for D.C. residents, $130 for nonresidents. $35 materials fee additional. Register in person at the recreation center. Guy Mason Center. 3600 Calvert St. NW. (202) 282-2180. dpr.dc.gov/DC/DPR.
Paso Nuevo GALA Hispanic Theatre’s after-school performance workshop for kids ages 12-18.
Explores acting technique with a mission of building confidence, developing communication skills and
literacy, and bolstering cultural identity. Each workshop cycle concludes with a performance. Call for more information. GALA Hispanic Theatre. 3333 14th St. NW. (202) 234-7174. galatheatre.org.
Explores acting technique with a mission of building confidence, developing communication skills and
literacy, and bolstering cultural identity. Each workshop cycle concludes with a performance. Call for more information. GALA Hispanic Theatre. 3333 14th St. NW. (202) 234-7174. galatheatre.org.
Principles of Positive Discipline Parents and grandparents are invited to learn the discipline techniques of Dr. Becky Bailey, Ph.D. Learn how to direct your child to find solutions instead of assign blame, how to reduce tattling, and foster cooperation and effective communication. Educational certificates provided. $34 for one session. Jan. 28, 2 p.m. Fairlington Community Center. 3308 S. Stafford St., Arlington. (703) 228-6588. Register at arlingtonva.us.
Sitar Arts Center Sitar Arts Center offers classes in visual arts, music, drama, dance, digital arts, and creative writing for youth during the high-risk periods after school, during the summer, and on weekends. 1700 Kalorama Road NW, Suite 101. (202) 797-2145. sitarartscenter.org.
Workshops at 826DC Free, year-round, and very creative writing workshops for kids ages 6-18. Have fun with songwriting, “recipes for awesomeness,” fairy-tale do-overs, superhero mashups, and more. Free college prep, test prep, and after-school tutoring also available. 826DC. 3233 14th St. NW. (202) 525-1074. Register in person or at 826dc.org.
Youth Thespian Programs Physical theater company Synetic offers youth-geared, 10-week classes that address improvisation, dramatic techniques, visual art, and the relationship between text and movement. Appropriate for ages 10-14. Programs for kids ages 7-9 and 4-6 are also available. $200-$275. Synetic Theater Studio. 2788 S. Arlington Mill Drive, Suite 110, Arlington. (703) 824-8061. synetictheater.org.
Ballroom Dance A five-week, all-ages class that tackles a range of dance, from waltz to samba. Step lists and video of each student included. Meets Thursdays at 7 p.m. beginning Jan. 26. $70 for D.C. residents, $75 for nonresidents. Chevy Chase Community Center. 5601 Connecticut Ave. NW. (202) 282-2204. dpr.dc.gov/DC/DPR.
ComedySportz Comedy Class The improv comedy group offers a handful of multiweek courses designed to improve your confidence on stage: ComedySportz for Fun (improv games that help build a sense of play), ComedySportz for Performance (geared toward those who want to eventually join or start a troupe), and ComedySportz for Teens (a workshop for young folks). Courses are offered year-round and include free admission to ComedySportz shows and The Blue Show that take place during the class session. $150-$200. Comedy Spot. 4238 Wilson Blvd, Arlington. (703) 294-LAFF. comedyindc.com.
Dance Place Youth and adult classes are available in disciplines including modern, African, hip-hop, jazz, salsa, hoop dance, zumba, and more. Master classes with experienced performers and choreographers are available. All classes $15 to drop in or $11 to register. $12 drop-in rate for college students and senior citizens. Dance Place. 3225 8th St. NE. (202) 269-1600. danceplace.org.
DC Improv Classes The improv comedy school offers introductory and intermediate classes in improv comedy, as well as a stand-up comedy course. Many spring classes sold out. $195-$295. DC Improv. 1140 Connecticut Ave. NW. (202) 296-7008. dcimprov.com.
Joe’s Movement Emporium Learn dance
styles of all kinds—hand, hip-hop, belly, Horton Technique, modern, ballet, and salsa—or practice yoga and meditation. Adult and youth classes available. Adult classes $5-$13; youth classes $10-$15 to drop in, or $100-$325 by semester. Joe’s Movement Emporium. 3309 Bunker Hill Road, Mount Rainier. (301) 699-1819. joesmovement.org.
styles of all kinds—hand, hip-hop, belly, Horton Technique, modern, ballet, and salsa—or practice yoga and meditation. Adult and youth classes available. Adult classes $5-$13; youth classes $10-$15 to drop in, or $100-$325 by semester. Joe’s Movement Emporium. 3309 Bunker Hill Road, Mount Rainier. (301) 699-1819. joesmovement.org.
Joy of Motion Joy of Motion’s Bethesda, Friendship Heights, and Atlas Performing Arts Center locations offer adult and youth dance classes in many styles. Drop-in adult classes $17. Youth classes (by term) $357-$417 plus $17 registration fee. Joy of Motion. (202) 399.6764. joyofmotion.org.
Levine School of Music For adults and kids of all skill levels, Levine offers group courses in theory review and analysis, Apple’s GarageBand editing program, jazz, vocal performance, piano, various guitar styles, drumming, and music for beginners. Private instruction is also available. Levine School of Music. 2801 Upton St. NW. (202) 686-8000. levineschool.org.
Sahara Dance Sahara Dance offers belly-dancing instruction at all levels in Dupont Circle, Tenleytown, downtown D.C., and Silver Spring. Workshops in tribal fusion and advanced turns and spins also available. Most classes $35-$280. Saraha Dance. (202) 362-4400. saharadance.com.
So You Think You Can’t Sing This popular four-week group course uses games and activities to teach adults in-tune singing, good tone, capacity and control, and how to sing as part of a chorus. $121.50-$135. Meets Mondays at 7:30 p.m. beginning Jan. 16. Mansion at Strathmore. 10701 Rockville Pike, Rockville. (301) 581-5100. strathmore.org.
Studio Theatre Acting Conservatory The acting conservatory endeavors to train young and adult actors of all experience levels to “their fullest artistic potential.” Core acting courses are offered three semesters a year, starting in February, June, and September; students can begin during any semester. Fall and spring classes meet once per week; adult summer classes meet twice a week. Topics include actor’s process, principles of realism, character and emotion, Shakespeare, comedy, musical theatre, the Alexander Technique, improvisation, movement, voice, classical voice and movement, dialects, and stage speech. Registration is first come, first serve. Fees range from $150-$925. Training for young actors (ages 12-17) is also available, and some applicants may qualify for a scholarship. Studio Theatre. 1501 14th St. NW. (202) 232-7267. studiotheatre.org.
Theatre Lab Classes Year-round classes that teach directing, playwriting, musical theater, and drama criticism. Most courses meet once per week for six weeks. Prices vary, but most start in the $200s. Summer and winter drama camps and acting classes also available for kids beginning in the $100s for classes and $500s for camps. Theatre Lab School of the Dramatic Arts. 733 Eighth St. NE. (202) 824-0449. theatrelab.org.
Washington Improv Theater Year-round courses in improv theater, comprising foundations of improv and scenework, character, the Harold longform structure, musical improv, sketch writing, and relaxing on stage. Most classes meet one day per week for eight weeks. Before the beginning of each semester (four per year), free workshops are offered to help loosen up prospective students. Most classes $260. CentroNía. 1420 Columbia Road NW. (202) 332-4200. washingtonimprovtheater.com.
Arlington Independent Media A variety of workshops in media production, for which “Introduction to Public Access” ($20) is a prerequisite. Once students complete that class, they can move on to field production, studio production, basic editing, Final Cut Pro, and more. Most classes $80-$240. $20 membership fee required. Arlington Independent Media. 2701-C Wilson Blvd., Arlington. (703) 524-2388. arlingtonmedia.org.
Basic Computer Classes Throughout the week, DCPL hosts free, drop-in courses in basic computer literacy. Registration is not required to take any of the classes, which cover typing, PC basics, Microsoft Windows software, and using the Internet and email. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library. 901 G St. NW. (202) 727-0321. dclibrary.org.
Intro to Pro Tools Wednesday nights (6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.), learn the basics of Pro Tools music software for radio, theater, and other sound art. Six-week session begins Jan. 18. Art and Media House. 3035 15th St. NW. $150. (202) 319-2299. artmediahouse.org.
Intro to Video Editing A basic introduction to video editing with Final Cut Pro. Thursday nights (7 p.m.-9 p.m.). Six-week session begins Jan. 19. Art and Media House. 3035 15th St. NW. $150. (202) 319-2299. artmediahouse.org.
Contemporary Capoeira Learn the Brazilian martial arts/dance form through foundations classes; refine your craft with viola classes, then médio, and finally, gunga (advanced level). The Capoeira Spot also leads classes for kids as young as 3 years old, and offers instruction in Afro-Brazilian music and dance. Individual adult classes $17.51. The Capoeira Spot. 636 Florida Ave. NW. (240) 606-4446. capoeiradc.com.
Fencing Courses Fencing instruction for all ages and experience levels. Many Saturday classes available. Glove included in beginners’ classes. Most courses $145-$320. D.C. Fencers Club. 9330 Fraser Ave., Silver Spring. (301) 562-1990. dcfencing.com
Flirty Girl Fitness A sexy workout program for women ready to feel “flirty, fit, and fabulous.” Forget the standard equipment: This workout uses kitchen chairs, feather boas, and of course, poles. Boa included for only $5! Four sessions for $39. Meets Mondays at 7:35 p.m. Register at arlingtonva.us. Barcroft Sports and Fitness Center. 4200 S. Four Mile Run Drive, Arlington. (703) 228-0701.
Holistic Health Classes Professional development courses in holistic health taught by certified practitioners. Most classes take place over one or two days. Certification offered in holistic nutrition and reflexology; other coverage areas include Mahatma Reiki, acupressure and Shiatsu training, essential oils, and detoxification. $145-$295. Tulsi Holistic Living. 3327 M St. NW. (202) 333-7025. tulsiliving.com.
Jordin’s Paradise Classes at Jordin’s Paradise are fun, sexy alternatives to traditional workouts. Choose from ballet fusion, belly dancing, bikini body bootcamp, bodyweight conditioning, Bollywood dancing, breakdancing, and much more. Membership packages range from $59-$499; drop-in classes are $25. Jordin’s Paradise. 1121 Seventh St. NW. (202) 997-8211. jordinsparadise.com.
Krav Maga D.C. Learn the official hand-to-hand combat and self-defense techniques of the Israeli Defense Forces. This program is designed to take students through five levels of curriculum. KMDC also offers kickboxing classes to supplement krav maga training. Krav Maga D.C. 616 H St. NW. (202) 328-1201. kravmagadc.com.
National Diving Center This D.C. dive shop is certified by PADI and offers instruction and certification at all levels including open water, advanced open water, medic, PADI rescue diver, assistant instructor, and divemaster. See website for price details. National Diving Center. 4932 Wisconsin Ave. NW. (202) 363-6123. dcdivers.com.
Pole Pressure Pole Pressure offers three levels of pole-dancing classes in addition to “chair play,” “Coyote Ugly” (or, sexy line dancing), “firm and flexy” (pole strength conditioning), and “hot heels” (dancing with good posture). Classes available at Balance Gym (downtown D.C.), City Fitness (Cleveland Park), Results (Capitol Hill), and Leesburg Gym (Leesburg). $20 per drop-in class; $180 per 10-pack of classes; $340 per 20-pack of classes. (410) 952-8712. polepressure.com.
Primal Fitness Primal Fitness’ courses—which include crossfit, parkour, and gymnastics—are total body workouts that provide strength training and cardiovascular exercise. Personal training also available. See website for prices. Primal Fitness. 219 M St. NW. (202) 635-1941. primal-fitness.com.
Qigong For Beginners An introductory Qigong course for adults. Learn basic breathing and movements for relaxation and flexibility. Meets Tuesdays and Fridays at 9 a.m. $80 for D.C. residents, $85 for nonresidents. Register in person. Chevy Chase Community Center. 5601 Connecticut Ave. NW. (202) 282-2204. dpr.dc.gov/DC/DPR.
Sahaja Yoga Free weekly meditation classes in the sahaja style. The first 15 minutes of every class are dedicated to newcomers, and followed by regular guided meditation. Registration requested. Takes place at West End Library and regional community centers. Visit dcsahajayoga.org for venues and times.
Synetic Fitness An actor from the physical theater troupe leads a Monday night workout class that promises an exciting full-body workout. Drop in to a single class for $25, or register for the full ten-week session. Synetic Theater Studio. 2788 S. Arlington Mill Drive, Suite 110, Arlington. $25-180. (703) 824-8061. synetictheater.org.
T’ai Chi A free T’ai Chi course every Saturday at 8:30 a.m. Open to adults of all experience levels. Dance Place. 3225 Eighth St. NE. Free. (202) 269-1600. danceplace.org.
Wellness Courses Weekly courses in chakra yoga, T’ai Chi and Qigong, acupuncture, meditation, Nia dance, and more. Drop-in rate $20; passes available. The Mindfulness Center. 4963 Elm St., Suite 100, Bethesda. (301) 986-1090. themindfulnesscenter.org.
Winter Detox For Part One (Jan. 18, 6 p.m.), a Whole Foods supplement specialist discusses which Whole Body products can help you detox post-holidays; Part Two (Jan. 19, 6 p.m.) covers recipes that can produce similar results. To register, email Elizabeth.Johnson@wholefoods.com. Whole Foods P Street. 1440 P St. NW. (202) 332-4300. wholefoodsmarket.com.
POLITICS & PROSE Intriguing and unique literature and writing classes are offered all year at the uptown bookshop. Courses include “Women in Britain: Sex, Lies, Money, and Power(lessness),” “Paris: A Literary Adventure,” “Reading South Asia,” “Knit Lit,” “The Graphic Memoir,” memoir writing, and much more. Most courses $40-$130. Politics & Prose. 5015 Connecticut Ave. NW. (202) 364-1919. politics-prose.com.
WRITER’S CENTER The Writer’s Center offers a diverse slate of workshops that prepare novice and practiced writers for just about any type of written expression. Classes are taught by working authors, and encourage active feedback from attendees. Among this spring’s offerings are “Introduction to Screenwriting,” “Food Writing 101,” “How to Get Your Memoir Out in the World,” “What Sound Effects Can Do For Your Poems,” “Introduction to the Novel,” and “The Extreme Novelist.” It does not stop there. $40-$405. The Writer’s Center. 4508 Walsh St., Bethesda. (301) 654-8664.