Individualized Ballet Coaching with Derek Sakakura:
Berkeley & Online (Ages 11-adult)
Former professional dancer and founder of Creative Generations, Derek Sakakura is excited to offer in-person coaching and classes in the Berkeley area, tailored for individuals and small groups. These sessions are designed around a philosophy that recognizes the profound role ballet plays in our lives, considering not only technical skill but also individual stories, mindsets, and unique approaches to the art. Ballet is as much about personal attunement to our dance as it is about technical mastery, and my focus is in finding that point of integration with every individual dancer I work with. Although I work with many aspiring and young professional dancers, I find joy in working with all levels and ages of dancers because we all share a love for ballet. I have found that I tend to my own growth as a teacher when I have a diverse range of students!
With over 20 years as a performing artist with companies including the Joffrey Ballet and Ballet Met, and many more as an instructor, I bring a dynamic and inclusive perspective shaped by my own journey in dance. In addition to classical ballet, I’ve immersed myself in styles such as salsa, fusion partnering, contact improvisation, and conscious movement styles, all of which have broadened my understanding of dance as an inclusive and transformative experience. This diversity informs my teaching, ensuring that our work together is attuned to your physical and mental well-being, as well as your individual goals!
Offerings:
• Individual Coaching: Designed to help you grow within a personalized framework that supports your goals and aspirations in ballet. We will discuss your how to use your individual strengths and challenges, from your physiology to your current mindset in your dance for a healthy and joyous way of approaching dance. Bring your growth mindset!
• Small Group Classes (2–4 participants): Collaborative sessions tailored to shared goals while respecting individual differences. Gather a small group of your fellow dancers, and we will work together on individual and group dance dynamics!
I also offer online coaching and mentoring through Creative Generations, our dance mentoring platform dedicated to supporting a dancer’s journey in a healthy community.
Pricing:
• Private Lessons: $80/hour plus studio rental fee, with financial accommodations available based on individual circumstances.
• Small Group Classes: Starting at $40/hour per participant, plus studio rental fees shared among the group.
I am committed to making these opportunities accessible and we can work to find a financial arrangement that fits your current needs.
*If you’re interested in exploring how we can work together to attune to your dance goals, please email me at cgdancementors@gmail.com. I look forward to connecting with you and would love to learn more about your dance aspirations before we begin our first session together!
Warm regards,
Derek Sakakura
Founder, Creative Generations
“My mentor, Derek, has given me a huge boost of confidence in myself both as a human being and as a dancer. To be sound with who I am and to utilize myself to the best of my ability without having to be apologetic about it. He has also given me personal breathing techniques that have especially helped with my jumps allowing for the jumps to feel less strained and tense, and allowing me to suspend them even longer in the air!”
~ Joseph Dang, Sacramento Ballet (apprentice)