People take part in a tai chi class at Buenos Island Studio in downtown Charlottetown on Nov. 1. Photo by Vivian Ulinwa /The GuardianArticle contentA new dance and movement studio in downtown Charlottetown is offering Islanders a variety of classes focused on movement, health and community connection.THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY.Subscribe now to access this story and more:Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsSUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES.Subscribe or sign in to your account to continue your reading experience.Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsRegister to unlock more articles.Create an account or sign in to continue your reading experience.Access additional stories every monthShare your thoughts and join the conversation in our commenting communityGet email updates from your favourite authorsSign In or Create an AccountorArticle contentBuenos Island Studio, located on Great George Street, has been operating since October and plans for a full launch early next year. The studio offers a range of classes from dance styles like salsa and tango to programs such as tai chi, karate and women’s self-defence.Article contentArticle contentArticle contentOwner Kathleen Wiens, an ethnomusicologist, said her global research into how people use music and movement inspired her to create the space.Article contentWiens said she felt there was room for another dance and movement space in Charlottetown and that the timing finally felt right.Article content“I assessed my own skills and talents and experiences, and I recognized that I could meet that need.”Article content Buenos Island Studio owner Kathleen Wiens says she felt there was room for another dance and movement space in Charlottetown. Photo by Vivian Ulinwa /The GuardianArticle contentThe studio has been hosting classes throughout the fall as part of a soft launch, with new programs expected to be added in January.Article contentWiens said the goal is to expand the schedule to include more options for people of all ages, especially those interested in improving their health through movement.Article contentClasses are taught by independent instructors hired on contract. One of them is Ken Huie, who teaches tai chi and has been practicing the martial art since the 1970s.Article contentHuie said tai chi is more than just a physical exercise, it helps people become more aware of their bodies and inner balance.Article contentArticle content“Tai chi is a practice that allows somebody to learn about themselves,” he said. “The practice itself is fairly simple, but there’s a lot of internal things happening in the body.”Article contentHe said anyone can take part in the class. “All ages,” he said. “Anybody who wants to learn tai chi can learn tai chi. There are benefits, probably the earlier start, the longer you have benefits.”Article content Tai chi instructor Ken Huie demonstrates a movement during class at Buenos Island Studio in Charlottetown on Nov. 1. Photo by Vivian Ulinwa /The GuardianArticle contentHe said the slow, controlled movements help improve balance, strength and composure while keeping the body grounded and relaxed. He said the practice also builds mental focus and awareness, allowing people to better understand how their body moves and responds.Article contentWiens added the response since opening the studio has been encouraging, with it already booked for most evenings and weekends.Article content“It tells me that there are instructors who are eager to share what they have to offer and that there are people looking for interesting and unique offerings,” she said. “People are interested in meeting new people and connecting after years of not connecting with other humans during COVID.”Article contentShe said she also hopes the studio will become a space for creativity and fun, offering one-time custom choreography sessions for events such as weddings or parties.Article contentArticle contentStay informed: Don’t miss the news you need to know. Sign up for our newsletter today.Article contentArticle contentVivian Ulinwa is a reporter for The Guardian in Prince Edward Island. She can be reached at vulinwa@postmedia.com and followed on X @vivian_ulinwa.Article content
New Charlottetown dance studio focuses on movement, health and community
