This workshop is designed for students with some previous experience of playing castanets and Spanish dance. It offers a rich blend of history, practical technique, musicality, and coordination, focusing on how castanets integrate with Spanish dance movement. Students will reinforce strong technical foundations, learn new rhythms, and explore fresh Spanish dance choreography. The course emphasizes musical expression and
coord...
Learning modes and locations may be different depending on the course start date. Please check the location of your chosen course and read our guide to learning modes and locations to help you choose the right course for you.
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
This is an up-beat, practical castanets class in which you will develop your technique and play a variety of rhythms combined with Spanish dance moves. You will master postural presence, sense of rhythm and coordination. The workshop will develop a short dance sequence. All students who wish to are invited to present this 'work in progress' as part of our Summer Fiesta held in the John Lyon's Theatre.
What will we cover?
Physical warm-up / cool-down Brief history of castanets A selection of finger coordinations The origins of Flamenco, its history and multi-cultural roots Co-ordination of Spanish dance moves combined with castanets Complete a short dance sequence
What will I achieve? By the end of this course you should be able to...
Demonstrate a variety of finger coordinations.
Embody Spanish dance posture and style.
Follow combinations of flamenco dance moves with castanets.
Follow and perform a short dance sequence.
(Optional) Present this ‘work in progress’ as part of the Summer Fiesta
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is suitable for students with some previous experience of playing castanets and Spanish dance, and suitable for all ages and levels of fitness.
In order to get the most from the course you will be able to: • Follow spoken instructions • Use numbers to recognise rhythms within dance. • Work within groups and pairs safely.
Please Note: We do not usually accept under 19 year olds except in special circumstances - please see Students under 19 for more information.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
This is a practical and dynamic class; you will be taught through demonstration, correction, copying, Q&A, repetition and revision. We will work as a whole group in small groups and in pairs. To consolidate learning you will be encouraged to make notes and / or record tutor demonstration to support optional home practise. You will receive hand-outs and some written material.
HEALTH CHECK: You may or may not be asked to participate in rigorous activity from time to time. Please consider whether you could do this, if you are in any doubt consult a medical practitioner.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
No additional costs however we recommend you bring a folder, notebook, pen and bottled water.
Bring your own castanets if you have a pair. Quality castanets will be provided on loan.
Women / Feminine style: character shoes, Flamenco dance shoes or strong court shoes or boots with a strong but small heel - No stilettos, sandals, platforms or trainers. Leotards / T-shirts recommended - No baggy sweatshirts etc. Comfortable trousers / leggings, Flamenco / flared skirts optional.
Men / Masculine style: Flamenco boots or boots with a Cuban heel or leather-soled shoes with slight heel. Comfortable trousers and (optional) a waistcoat..
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Flamenco: beginners and improvers or Flamenco: improver and intermediate.
VOICE & SPEECH: Having trained at LAMDA (1981-1984) and having worked in all media (radio, TV, theatre, film) for over 40 years, Danielle has taught the Voice module of ‘CL Foundation Acting’ course since 1995. She continues this with as much enthusiasm as ever, and also teaches First Folio Shakespeare, Technical Voice, Communication Skills, English Pronunciation and Vocal Anatomy. FLAMENCO: Danielle trained in Classical Ballet, Tap and Jive, and was drawn to flamenco with all itsexpressive power. She has taught Flamenco at CL since 1999, and her company Flamenco Con Gusto offers both novice and experienced dancers the chance to perform alongside her in public while supported by seasoned professional flamenco guitarists and singers. DIRECTING: Danielle has written, directed and choreographed ‘Flamenco Musical Dramas’: integrating actors’ performances with Flamenco dance, music & song. Such productions include • LA MANADA (WAF May 2019) City Lit Theatre Company’s adaptations of Lorca’s plays: • SPIRITS WITHIN (aka The House of Bernarda Alba', July 2013 and July 2023) • YERMA FLAMENCA (Spring 2020) and a project combining Shakespeare and Flamenco ROMERA Y JULIETA (June 24)
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
product
https://www.citylit.ac.uk/flamenco-castanets-workshop3018580Flamenco castanets workshophttps://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/f/l/flamenco_castanets_workshop_ds140.jpg4949GBPInStock/Courses/Courses/Performing arts/Courses/Performing arts/Dance/Courses/Performing arts/Dance/Flamenco/Courses/vm/Spanish Season/Courses/New courses228513141330133713738174312285131413301653<p>This workshop is designed for students with some previous experience of playing castanets and Spanish dance. It offers a rich blend of history, practical technique, musicality, and coordination, focusing on how castanets integrate with Spanish dance movement. Students will reinforce strong technical foundations, learn new rhythms, and explore fresh Spanish dance choreography. The course emphasizes musical expression and coordination, helping gain confidence and fluency while playing castanets in motion.</p>003018571Flamenco castanets workshop4949https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/f/l/flamenco_castanets_workshop_ds140_1.jpgInStockDaytimeSunKeeley StreetAvailable coursesOne-off onlyWeekend2026-07-26T00:00:00+00:00Some experienceJul 2026Performing artsDS1404949Flamenco castanets workshop493449Danielle Allanflamenco-castanets-workshop/ds140-2526<p>This workshop is designed for students with some previous experience of playing castanets and Spanish dance. It offers a rich blend of history, practical technique, musicality, and coordination, focusing on how castanets integrate with Spanish dance movement. Students will reinforce strong technical foundations, learn new rhythms, and explore fresh Spanish dance choreography. The course emphasizes musical expression and coordination, helping gain confidence and fluency while playing castanets in motion.</p>0000-Available|2026-07-26 00:00:00<p>This is an up-beat, practical castanets class in which you will develop your technique and play a variety of rhythms combined with Spanish dance moves. You will master postural presence, sense of rhythm and coordination. The workshop will develop a short dance sequence. All students who wish to are invited to present this 'work in progress' as part of our Summer Fiesta held in the John Lyon's Theatre.</p><p>This workshop is designed for students with some previous experience of playing castanets and Spanish dance. It offers a rich blend of history, practical technique, musicality, and coordination, focusing on how castanets integrate with Spanish dance movement. Students will reinforce strong technical foundations, learn new rhythms, and explore fresh Spanish dance choreography. The course emphasizes musical expression and coordination, helping gain confidence and fluency while playing castanets in motion.</p><p>Physical warm-up / cool-down<br/>Brief history of castanets<br/>A selection of finger coordinations<br/>The origins of Flamenco, its history and multi-cultural roots<br/>Co-ordination of Spanish dance moves combined with castanets<br/>Complete a short dance sequence</p><ul><li>Demonstrate a variety of finger coordinations.</li><li>Embody Spanish dance posture and style.</li><li>Follow combinations of flamenco dance moves with castanets.</li><li>Follow and perform a short dance sequence.</li><li>(Optional) Present this ‘work in progress’ as part of the Summer Fiesta <br/> </li></ul><p>This course is suitable for students with some previous experience of playing castanets and Spanish dance, and suitable for all ages and levels of fitness.</p><p><br/>In order to get the most from the course you will be able to:<br/>• Follow spoken instructions<br/>• Use numbers to recognise rhythms within dance.<br/>• Work within groups and pairs safely.</p><p><br/>Please Note: We do not usually accept under 19 year olds except in special circumstances - please see Students under 19 for more information.<br/> </p><p>This is a practical and dynamic class; you will be taught through demonstration, correction, copying, Q&A, repetition and revision. We will work as a whole group in small groups and in pairs. To consolidate learning you will be encouraged to make notes and / or record tutor demonstration to support optional home practise. You will receive hand-outs and some written material. </p><p><br/>HEALTH CHECK: You may or may not be asked to participate in rigorous activity from time to time. Please consider whether you could do this, if you are in any doubt consult a medical practitioner.<br/> </p><p>No additional costs however we recommend you bring a folder, notebook, pen and bottled water.</p><p>Bring your own castanets if you have a pair. Quality castanets will be provided on loan.</p><p>Women / Feminine style: character shoes, Flamenco dance shoes or strong court shoes or boots with a strong but small heel - No stilettos, sandals, platforms or trainers. Leotards / T-shirts recommended - No baggy sweatshirts etc. Comfortable trousers / leggings, Flamenco / flared skirts optional.</p><p>Men / Masculine style: Flamenco boots or boots with a Cuban heel or leather-soled shoes with slight heel. Comfortable trousers and (optional) a waistcoat..<br/> </p><p>Flamenco: beginners and improvers or Flamenco: improver and intermediate. </p>DanceFlamencovirtual494934DS140NONESun26/07/2610:30 - 13:3010:3013:301 session1One-off onlyWeekendKSKeeley StreetDanielle AllanSome experienceAvailable courses2026-07-26T00:00:00+00:00DaytimeJul 2026Performing arts4949Flamenco castanets workshopflamenco-castanets-workshop/ds140-2526<p>This workshop is designed for students with some previous experience of playing castanets and Spanish dance. It offers a rich blend of history, practical technique, musicality, and coordination, focusing on how castanets integrate with Spanish dance movement. Students will reinforce strong technical foundations, learn new rhythms, and explore fresh Spanish dance choreography. The course emphasizes musical expression and coordination, helping gain confidence and fluency while playing castanets in motion.</p>0000-Available|2026-07-26 00:00:00<p>This is an up-beat, practical castanets class in which you will develop your technique and play a variety of rhythms combined with Spanish dance moves. You will master postural presence, sense of rhythm and coordination. The workshop will develop a short dance sequence. All students who wish to are invited to present this 'work in progress' as part of our Summer Fiesta held in the John Lyon's Theatre.</p><p>This workshop is designed for students with some previous experience of playing castanets and Spanish dance. It offers a rich blend of history, practical technique, musicality, and coordination, focusing on how castanets integrate with Spanish dance movement. Students will reinforce strong technical foundations, learn new rhythms, and explore fresh Spanish dance choreography. The course emphasizes musical expression and coordination, helping gain confidence and fluency while playing castanets in motion.</p><p>Physical warm-up / cool-down<br/>Brief history of castanets<br/>A selection of finger coordinations<br/>The origins of Flamenco, its history and multi-cultural roots<br/>Co-ordination of Spanish dance moves combined with castanets<br/>Complete a short dance sequence</p><ul><li>Demonstrate a variety of finger coordinations.</li><li>Embody Spanish dance posture and style.</li><li>Follow combinations of flamenco dance moves with castanets.</li><li>Follow and perform a short dance sequence.</li><li>(Optional) Present this ‘work in progress’ as part of the Summer Fiesta <br/> </li></ul><p>This course is suitable for students with some previous experience of playing castanets and Spanish dance, and suitable for all ages and levels of fitness.</p><p><br/>In order to get the most from the course you will be able to:<br/>• Follow spoken instructions<br/>• Use numbers to recognise rhythms within dance.<br/>• Work within groups and pairs safely.</p><p><br/>Please Note: We do not usually accept under 19 year olds except in special circumstances - please see Students under 19 for more information.<br/> </p><p>This is a practical and dynamic class; you will be taught through demonstration, correction, copying, Q&amp;A, repetition and revision. We will work as a whole group in small groups and in pairs. To consolidate learning you will be encouraged to make notes and / or record tutor demonstration to support optional home practise. You will receive hand-outs and some written material. </p><p><br/>HEALTH CHECK: You may or may not be asked to participate in rigorous activity from time to time. Please consider whether you could do this, if you are in any doubt consult a medical practitioner.<br/> </p><p>No additional costs however we recommend you bring a folder, notebook, pen and bottled water.</p><p>Bring your own castanets if you have a pair. Quality castanets will be provided on loan.</p><p>Women / Feminine style: character shoes, Flamenco dance shoes or strong court shoes or boots with a strong but small heel - No stilettos, sandals, platforms or trainers. Leotards / T-shirts recommended - No baggy sweatshirts etc. Comfortable trousers / leggings, Flamenco / flared skirts optional.</p><p>Men / Masculine style: Flamenco boots or boots with a Cuban heel or leather-soled shoes with slight heel. Comfortable trousers and (optional) a waistcoat..<br/> </p><p>Flamenco: beginners and improvers or Flamenco: improver and intermediate. </p>DanceFlamencoconfigurable