Glendale’s ‘Pop Up’ series to dance to a different tune next month

The bluesy-rock, sometimes country-infused sounds of musician Michael Quest wrapped up the outdoor-concert portion of “Pop Up” series on Wednesday. But next month, music lovers can get on their feet and twist, tap their toes or shake their hips to upbeat rhythms as the free series revamps itself.

Glendale Arts, the nonprofit that operates the Alex Theatre, will offer nine weeks of various types of dance lessons at the Glendale Galleria starting July 29.

Shoppers and passersby can fine-tune their skills in four popular music styles from Latin America — merengue, salsa, bachata and cumbia, said Nina Crowe, business development and sales manager for Glendale Arts.

The classes will last from 6 to 8 p.m. every Tuesday. The lessons will be structured with breaks, allowing dancers to come and go as they please, Crowe said. Solo and couple dancers of all ages are welcome.

This is the first time the series has offered dance lessons since starting two years ago, Crowe said.

Previously, the series exclusively featured a range of musical acts at the Galleria, located at 100 W. Broadway, and in a renovated outdoor courtyard in the 400 block of North Brand Boulevard.

Crowe said not only will the series showcase the Galleria, but it also helps Glendale Arts achieve one of its goals — bridging the gap between entertainment and businesses.

“It’s a great opportunity for people to be engaged in what we’re doing,” Crowe said. “And to bring awareness about what Glendale Arts is.”

Public response to the series has been positive, Crowe said, with several requests for more diverse talent.

“It’s all about bringing quality entertainment to the community for free,” she said.

Organization officials are still nailing down the dance series lineup. When it’s finalized, the schedule can be found at www.glendalearts.org.
--

Follow Alicia Banks on Twitter: @AliciaDotBanks.

ALSO:

Burglary suspect arrested on Barnes & Noble roof in Glendale

Glendale disconnects from countywide public safety alert system

Tropico Apartments project inspires zoning changes