Gaga/people classes offer a framework for users to connect to their bodies and imaginations, experience physical sensations, improve their flexibility and stamina, exercise their agility and explosive power, and enjoy the pleasure of movement in a welcoming, accepting atmosphere.

Throughout the class, participants are guided by a series of evocative instructions deployed to increase awareness of and further amplify sensation. Rather than turning from one prompt to another, information is layered, building into a multisensory, physically challenging experience. While many instructions are imbued with rich imagery, the research of Gaga is fundamentally physical, insisting on a specific process of embodiment. Inside this shared research, the improvisational nature of the exploration enables each participant’s deeply personal connection with Gaga.

Gaga/people classes are open to people ages 16+, regardless of their background in dance or movement. Classes last approximately one hour.

Participants should wear comfortable clothes and be prepared to dance barefoot or in socks. It is advisable to bring a bottle of water and a towel for use after class.

Margarida Macieira is a Portuguese freelance dance artist, Gaga teacher, educator, and event producer. Residing in Vancouver, Canada, Margarida has cultivated a diverse career spanning multiple cities, including London (UK), Tel Aviv (Israel), Lisbon (Portugal), and Vancouver (Canada).

Margarida's artistic journey began at the Academia de Dança Contemporânea de Setúbal in Portugal, where she honed her skills in ballet, Graham technique and choreography. Seeking further growth, she moved to London in 2013 to attend London Contemporary Dance School, where she graduated with a 1st BA (Honors) in dance.

In 2018/2019, Margarida deepened her understanding of contemporary dance pedagogy by participating in the Gaga Teacher Training program in Tel Aviv, Israel. Supported by the GDA Foundation in Portugal, she had the opportunity to explore the innovative movement language developed by renowned artists such as Ohad Naharin, Bosmat Nossan, and Saar Harari.

Driven by her passion for education, Margarida pursued a Master of Education degree at Simon Fraser University. Specializing in Contemplative Enquiry and Approaches in Education under the guidance of esteemed educators Dr. Heesoon Bai, Dr. Laurie Anderson, and Dr. Charles Scott, Margarida developed a unique lens through which she approaches dance education and integrates contemplative practices within the artistic process.

As a freelance dance artist, Margarida has performed on international stages with acclaimed companies, including Gil Kerer Dance Company, Jean Abreu Dance, James Cousins Company, Company Chameleon, and Voirelia Hub. Her collaborative approach and technical versatility encompass contact improvisation, partnering work, choreography, composition, singing, voice work, theatre, and performance.

Beyond her performing career, Margarida assumes roles as rehearsal director for Lamondance Company, General Manager for EDAM Dance and Co-director of Addo Platform. Through Addo Platform, she has created opportunities for dancers to engage in workshops, regular classes, and the presentation of their work and creative processes.

Margarida's choreographic endeavours have involved collaborations with esteemed organizations such as ADCS, Dance Company Dancestreams, Healing Movement, Simon Fraser University, and Lamondance.

Margarida Macieira's career is distinguished by her dedication to dance education, community-building, and artistic exploration. She hopes to inspire communities to embrace collaboration, growth, and creative expression.

Pop-up sessions at Addo Platform are an invaluable platform for our community to come together, connect, and embark on a journey of learning and inspiration. These sessions, held on a regular basis, offer a unique opportunity to engage with a diverse selection of guest artists who bring their expertise, knowledge, experiences, and distinctive techniques to share with us.

Each month, we eagerly welcome a new artist who graces us with their presence, setting the stage for an enriching and immersive experience. This carefully curated selection ensures a constant influx of fresh perspectives and creative insights. The inclusive and welcoming environment cultivated during these sessions acts as a flourishing ground for creativity, encouraging growth and self-expression.

At Addo Platform, we recognize that true artistic development stems from a tapestry of influences and encounters with different artistic approaches. By bringing in guest artists, we facilitate a vibrant and dynamic learning environment where participants can expand their horizons and broaden their artistic palette.

We believe that creativity flourishes when nurtured by a supportive community. Through these pop-up sessions, we aim to foster a sense of belonging and connection among participants. Together, we explore new ideas, experiment with different techniques, and celebrate the beauty of self-expression.

Join us at Addo Platform for these remarkable pop-up sessions, where every month brings a fresh chapter of inspiration and growth. Together, we create an ecosystem that nourishes artistic exploration, encourages open-mindedness, and sparks connections that transcend limitations.

We look forward to welcoming you to our community and embarking on this transformative artistic journey together.

We extend a warm invitation to all who seek to re-energize their bodies and embark on a transformative experience. No matter your level or experience, everyone is welcomed.

Whether you're a seasoned dance enthusiast or someone looking to ignite their passion for movement, our classes are open to individuals aged 18 and above, regardless of their dance background.

At Addo Platform, our teachers excel at creating safe environments. As a class participant, you have the agency to adapt any exercises and adjust the intensity according to your own preferences.

Even if the class is sold out online, we always keep a few spots available for drop-ins.

However, to secure your spot as a drop-in participant, we recommend booking in advance since we can only accommodate the first 3 drop-ins.

In case the class you're interested in is sold out, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We'll be more than happy to assist you in reserving a spot online, ensuring you don't miss out on the incredible experience.

Contact Us Here

❌ Please note that our classes are non-refundable. However, we understand that unexpected circumstances may arise, and we strive to accommodate our participants to the best of our ability.

If you provide us with a minimum of 48 hours' notice before your initial intended class, we will be happy to offer an exchange for another class of your choice. We will do our utmost to find a suitable alternative date within the same season of your original purchase, which are categorized as follows: Sep - Dec, Jan - Apr, and May - Aug.

Our goal is to ensure your satisfaction and make your experience with us as enjoyable as possible. If you have any questions or need assistance with class exchanges, feel free to reach out to us. We're here to help!

Thank you for your understanding and support. We appreciate having you as part of our community.

To book your desired date, simply select it and click the "Register" button. If you'd like to add more dates to your booking, just select another date and follow the same step.

Once you have added your class(es), you can complete your booking by clicking on the Cart Icon located at the top right corner of the page.

Thank you for considering our classes. We look forward to welcoming you and providing an enjoyable experience for you.

Contact Our Directors Here

At Addo Platform, we prioritize the health and well-being of our community members. As COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted in BC, we continue to take precautions and support individual needs.

While masks are not mandatory to enter our shared Western Front common area foyer or the dance studio, we wholeheartedly welcome you to wear a mask if it brings you comfort. 🙌 To maintain a clean and safe environment, we have placed hand sanitizer dispensers throughout the facility. Additionally, please make use of the washroom facilities to wash your hands with soap and water before and after class.

🧴💦 To further ensure the cleanliness of our space, we regularly sanitize all areas. We kindly ask that all attendees also sanitize their hands prior to the start of each class. If you are experiencing any symptoms or feeling unwell, we kindly request that you contact us to reschedule your class for a later date. Your health and the well-being of our community is our top priority. 🙏✨

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work together to create a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you join us!

By purchasing classes, pre-registering online, or participating in drop-in sessions with Addo Platform, I acknowledge and accept that participating in classes or events with Addo Platform carries a certain degree of risk for physical injury. With this understanding, I willingly and voluntarily assume all responsibility and potential risks associated with any injury, illness, or accident that may occur during any of the classes or activities.

Furthermore, I hereby release, hold harmless, and indemnify Addo Platform, including its owners, volunteers, assistants, employees, guest artists, faculty members, and any audience members, from any and all liability, claims, demands, or causes of action, arising from any damage, loss, injury, or even death that may result from my participation in any activities conducted by Addo Platform.

In addition, I voluntarily waive my rights, as well as the rights of my heirs and assigns, to hold Addo Platform, its owners, volunteers, assistants, employees, guest artists, faculty members, and students legally liable for any damage, loss, injury, or death that may occur during my participation.

By participating in Addo Platform's classes or events, I do so with full understanding of the inherent risks involved. I appreciate the care and attention that Addo Platform dedicates to creating a safe environment, and I look forward to attending this event.

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Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. We look forward to providing you with a rewarding and enjoyable experience at Addo Platform.

We understand that financial situations can sometimes pose challenges, and we want to make our classes accessible to everyone. If you're facing financial difficulties but still wish to join us, please don't hesitate to reach out. You can contact us privately and directly through our email, and we'll be happy to assist you.