Course Description
Course Description
Coupe decale is a high-energy dance craze that emerged from Ivory Coast in the early 2000s. Its roots lie in the “Parisian” dance styles that flourished in the working-class neighborhoods of Abidjan.
In 2002, DJs like Douk Sagogo began releasing coupe decale tracks – mixing traditional logobi rhythms with rapid-fire rapping, bass beats, and funk clave rhythms. The style’s distinctive stop-start melody and driving basslines made it irresistible to dance to.
Dancers matched the music’s intensity with intricate downrocking, kick steps, and upper body isolations. Signature moves included the decale (meaning “to take off” in French) where dancers hit the floor with acrobatic movements. As the craze exploded across Ivory Coast, dance crews turned coupe decale into an electrifying performance art.
Get ready to move with the unstoppable energy and groove of coupe decale! This 10-week course will immerse students in the unique style that took Ivory Coast’s dance scenes by storm. You will be learning:
What you’ll learn?
- Foundations of coupe decale dance: downrocking, kicks, isolations, floorwork
- Rhythmic mastery to groove hard with coupe decale's driving bass and choppy patterns
- Intricate choreography fusing coupe decale's explosive moves and energy
- Performance skills to battle and wow in the coupe decale style
- Participate in a final peformance showcasing their coupe decale dance skills and choreography
Who This Course Is For
- Dancers looking to add dynamic new urban dance styles to their movement vocabulary
- Choreographers aiming to bring coupe decale's grit and groove into their works
- Hip hop/street dancers ready for an electrifying new challenge
- Generally any passionate mover prepared for coupe decale's intense rhythms and physicality!
- Those interested in an immersive experience in West African dance culture
- Drop In
Not ready to fully commit yet
$25
- Package Level 1
Package of 3 classes
$50
- Package Level 2
Package of 6 classes
$75
- Package Level 3
Package of 12 classes
$100
- Membership
Unlimited online Classes
$150
- Membership
Unlimited in-person and online Classes
$200
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Do I need any prior dance experience to join the Coupé-Décalé class?
No prior dance experience is required! Our classes are designed to accommodate beginners as well as those with some dance background.
What should I wear to a Coupé-Décalé dance class?
Wear comfortable clothing that allows for free movement and sports shoes or dance sneakers. Coupé-Décalé involves dynamic movements, so comfort is key.
How long does it take to learn the basics of Coupé-Décalé?
Most students start to feel comfortable with the basics after 4 to 6 classes. However, mastering the dance depends on individual practice and participation.
Is Coupé-Décalé a good workout?
Absolutely! Coupé-Décalé is a high-energy dance that provides an excellent cardiovascular workout, improving stamina, flexibility, and overall fitness.
Can I attend the class alone, or do I need a partner?
You can attend the class alone as Coupé-Décalé does not require a partner. It’s a solo dance that celebrates individual expression and style.