COURSES
Hey there! Whether you're a beginner looking to learn Urban Kiz, wanting to elevate your current Urban Kiz technique, or simply seeking to meet new people, The Kiz Lab is the perfect place for you. Our classes cater to all levels, from absolute beginners to seasoned dancers.
URBAN KIZ CLASSES
With our experienced instructors, you'll master the fundamentals and intricacies of Urban Kiz. Plus, our community is filled with friendly individuals who share a passion for dance, making it an opportunity to expand your social circle. Join us at The Kiz Lab a journey of learning, growth, and making meaningful connections.
OUR STUDENTS
FAQs
-
Kizomba is an amazing partner dance originated in Angola influenced by Semba dance. The word Kizomba comes from Kimbundu (it is the second-most-widely spoken Bantu language in Angola) meaning festival or party. Kizomba is traced to the late 1970 finding the core in the Angolan culture and music.
-
In the early stages of Urban Kiz (2008-2010), dancers like Moun, Enah, and Curtis initiated the movement, with the Africadancar festival in Lisbon marking a pivotal moment. Kizomba spread across Europe, reaching countries like Spain, France, and the UK. Between 2010 and 2013, the dance evolved, incorporating elements from various styles, leading to a new dance culture emerging in Paris. By 2014-2015, Urban Kiz gained global recognition, particularly after workshops and events in the United States and other countries. However, tensions arose between Urban Kiz and traditional Kizomba, prompting the need for a distinct identity. In 2015-2016, the name "Urban Kiz" was officially introduced, signifying a dance style influenced by urban music. The following years (2016-2018) witnessed global spread, and innovations, solidifying Urban Kiz's presence worldwide. The dance continued evolving, with influential dancers contributing unique styles and moves. Urban Kiz has become a popular and dynamic dance form, with its future prospects promising ongoing growth and innovation.
-
Please wear comfortable attire and pay attention to your shoes. We recommend shoes with suede soles to avoid sticking or slipping on the dance floor. We also recommend Latin or Jazz dance shoes if you are considering dance as a long term activity.
-
No partner is needed to attend the classes or take private lessons.
-
To become a great dancer you must practice, apply hard work, and be dedicated to growth in areas that need improvement.
-
It depends on how much time you can devote to dance and how quickly you can learn core concepts/techniques.
-
A Practicá, also known as Lab Sessions, refers to a practice session where students come together to practice their dance skills and techniques in a relaxed and non-structured environment. During a Lab session, students can work on refining their moves, experimenting with new steps, and gaining practical experience with different partners. It provides an opportunity for dancers to improve their dance abilities, build confidence, and socialize with others who share their passion for dance. During the Lab Session, facilitating Kiz Lab Instructors will be available to answer questions and provide brief but personalized feedback to individuals.
"Lab Sessions is the place where you can Experiment with Dance"
-
See the Safe Space & Code of Conduct (SSCC) section of our website.
-
We'd like to share our deep love for music with you! To provide you with a taste of what's possible, we're offering some of our favorite musical playlists completely free of charge. Our goal is to immerse you in the rich culture and distinctive flavors of Urban Kiz music. Additionally, we've included a selection of Kizomba, Tarraxinha, and Tarraxo/a. Click HERE.
-
Private lessons serve as an effective method to enhance a student's learning by offering personalized feedback. Our instructors currently have available time slots for private lessons, and these slots will be assigned or first-come, first-served basis.
If you are interested in private instruction, please visit the Private Lessons tab to check available time slots, hourly rates, and book your lesson accordingly. In case you do not find any available lessons on the calendar, feel free to reach out via email at thekizlab@gmail.com to inquire about the scheduling process for private lessons.
Dancer Reviews
LINDA (THEY/THEM)
What makes The Kiz Lab stand out to me is how much more inclusive and safe it feels compared to other kiz classes in the bay. It’s why I felt like it was worth it to drive an hour each way just to attend. As someone who is gender non-conforming, usually leads, and who uses they/them pronouns, never did I feel like I was being left out, out of place, or not welcome to just be who I am. Everyone is encouraged to learn how to follow and lead regardless of gender. We switch roles often. As a result, socials feel like a safe space to explore and are more fun because you’re in a room full of students who are comfortable switching back and forth between following and leading. In my experience, Jessica has been super receptive to feedback, and is great at thinking of creative ways to teach different concepts. If you’re thinking of giving urban kiz a try, The Kiz Lab is a great place to explore!
ARMANI (SHE/HER)
Learning core concepts is a key experience for me in The Kiz Lab! I have the opportunity to elevate without leaving my "backyard". I'm so grateful for the information, expertise, knowledge, and community that comes along with TKL. I grew so much by attending the Level 1 & 2 Series, Practica-Socials, private lessons, and Taxi Team practices.
If you're needing space to increase your awareness and subtleties of Urban Kiz, TKL is the GOAT.
BABSY (SHE/HER)
The instruction I received from Jessica all the way in Albuquerque, NM was amazing. I enjoyed the fun and culturally competent approach she takes to teaching Urban Kiz and even providing historical context to Kizomba vs Urban. I still have a long way to go… she and her team provide a solid foundation to fall in love with the dance, while learning how to be in tune with yourself and your partner.
MONICA (SHE/HER)
The Kiz Lab is where I started my Kizomba journey. They created a welcoming environment where experimentation and exploration was encouraged without judgment. I found myself learning through core concepts and techniques rather than choreographed moves, laying a strong foundation for growth. Also, Kiz Lab is a place where everyone, not matter their race, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, etc. is made to feel welcome and included. This is especially difficult to do in partner dancing but Kiz Lab has managed to do that and that's why I saw so many people keep coming back and improving their skill every time. I'm truly grateful for this space and the work that has gone into designing a syllabus and teaching program that works for all types of learners.
BRITTNEY (SHE/HER)
I've had such a positive experience with The Kiz Lab! It really has been a safe, inclusive space where we can have fun with dancing and grow our skills. Every time I've taken a class with Jessica I've found something to learn or fine tune my skills because it's more than "just following" or patterns. I'm a better dancer thanks to the Kiz Lab.
