Community-Based Programs
Berkshire Pulse’s Community-Based Programs bring the joy of movement and creativity to people of all ages and abilities through an engaging lineup of classes, performances, and workshops. Designed to foster connection, self-expression, and cultural appreciation, these programs make dance accessible through free community events, and local partnerships. Signature offerings include the Afterschool Dance Program at the Boys & Girls Club of the Berkshires, Extra Special Teas, Moving Life Stories, and Trans Dance with Seeing Rainbows, each designed to reach diverse groups within the community. By working with skilled teaching artists, Pulse helps participants develop both technical skills and confidence, cultivating a lifelong love of the arts.
Click each accordion header below to open for more information.
Afterschool Dance Program at the Pittsfield Boys & Girls Club
Pittsfield After School Dance Program
Wednesdays/Miércoles 4-6:30pm
Thursdays/Jueves 4:20-7pm
The Berkshire Pulse Afterschool Boys and Girls Dance program offers weekly a range of different styles that are free for Pittsfield Public School students and those with a Boys & Girls Club membership. Experienced Teaching Artists help students develop strength, musicality, artistry, teamwork, and self-confidence while introducing them to the cultural contexts in which these different styles were developed.
Boys & Girls Club of the Berkshires
16 Melville St, Pittsfield, MA 01201
Trans Dance Class with Seeing Rainbows
Fourth Saturday of each month at 2:30pm
January 25, 2025
February 22, 2025
March 22, 2025
April 26, 2025
We are partnering with Seeing Rainbows, a Berkshire non-profit with a mission to produce and present liberating art and experiences by and for trans, nonbinary and gender-nonconforming people in our region, to offer a monthly Trans Dance Class to members of the community.
This movement class for trans and nonbinary folx takes a gentle somatic approach to breath, movement, and self-expression. The class will incorporate improvisation and basic dance technique to explore an all-levels approach to moving and grooving. Beginning with a guided improvisational warm-up, the class will build energy and heat through passes across the floor and opportunities to workshop movement in the center. Each class will end with a short phrase exploration or dance-making prompt. Alternatives will be provided to accommodate all levels of movers. Participants are encouraged to wear pants and long sleeves for ease of movement, and class will be taught in socks or barefoot. Class is taught by Gillian Ebersole
Moving Life Stories
Moving Life Stories (MLS) is a FREE creative-based workshop where students are offered an opportunity to share their ancestry, family stories, personal journeys, and life experiences through movement and words in a safe space. When memories, ideas, and experiences are investigated through movement and turned into art, transformation occurs, creating an increased understanding of self, community, and respect for others and their differences. At its core, MLS is interactive and fun while developing self-reflection, agency, listening skills, empathy, compassion, and the ability to exchange and appreciate different life experiences as they are shared through the universal language of movement.
Classes led by Pulse teaching artist Tom Truss
A Spanish-speaking interpreter will be present, childcare is provided, and transportation can be arranged.
This program is made possible by the generosity of Greylock ABC Fund, Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, as well as Alford-Egremont Cultural Council, Monterey Cultural Council, Otis Cultural Council, and Tyringham Cultural Council, local agencies which are supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.
To express interest or get in touch, please contact berkshire.pulse@gmail.com or call 413-274-6624.
Extra Special Teas
Tuesdays 11am-12pm
Berkshire Pulse is partnering with our neighbors at Extra Special Teas, with a joyful weekly movement class for EST staff and participants. Together we will strengthen the message that dance builds community and is for everyone!
Classes led by Pulse teaching artist Sara Kiesel
Swing and Salsa at the Stockbridge Senior Center
Salsa – Thursdays at 10:00am – March 6, 13, 20, and 27
Swing – Saturdays at 11:00am – April 5, 12, 19, and 26
Berkshire Pulse has teamed up with the Stockbridge Senior Center to offer a fun and free Salsa/Swing dance series for seniors (ages 60+) in Massachusetts. No need to be a Stockbridge resident—seniors from all around the area are welcome to join! Whether you’re an experienced dancer or a first-timer, drop-ins are encouraged, so come enjoy the music and movement with us!
Salsa with Luana Dias David – Dancers will focus on basic footwork, body lagging, spinning techniques, and partner work. Additionally, class will explore salsa choreography, timing and musicality, and performance skills. Be ready to learn fun routines that you can take to the dance floor. Footwork will include basic, side step, crossed side step, right turn, hesitation left, double cross, quarter beat steps, triplets, flare, reversed flare, suzi q, and grape vine. Partnering will include basic step, right turn, hesitation left, open connection, cross body lead, closed connection for cross body lead, left turn, creating resistance, around the world, and transitions from open to closed connection.
Swing with Brianne Szymanski – This class teaches the partnered basics of Swing with a particular emphasis on rhythm, artistry, and jazz dance history. We’ll explore movement patterns that establish the foundations of Lindy Hop as a social, vernacular jazz dance. The goal is to boost your confidence to hit the dance floor and have fun, while celebrating the music, movement, and spirit of the Harlem Renaissance and Swing Era!