Classes at Primrose

Whether teaching novices or skilled performers, dancers, musicians, or actors, I approach my work with an overarching commitment to raising awareness, building community, and empowering with compassion and respect.

Unless otherwise stated, all classes are hosted at Primrose Retreat,
1260 County Rd. U, Verona, WI 53593

She tiptoes, skids and brushes, gently paring away at the floor, coaxing out the sounds through terrifically seasoned technique... We happily remember, thanks to Katherine Kramer, that jazz dance (which today lies in the realm of the body) and tap dance (in the feet) all used to be one, big happy family.
— Constance Valis Hill, Albany Times Union

Fundamentals of Tap Dance

Tuesdays, 4:00 - 5:15pm
8-week session, July 14 - Sept 1

$20 single class
$120 for 8 classes

Barters Welcome!

Starting from Scratch!! How does your WHOLE body organize itself to play a musical instrument that you wear on your feet and play on the floor? We’ll explore the joy of being both a musician and a dancer, learning the fundamentals and roots of this uniquely American art form

Intermediate Tap Class

Tuesdays, 5:30 - 6:45pm
8-week session July 14 - Sept 1

$20 single class
$120 for 8 classes
Barters Welcome!!

A multi-level Intermediate class exploring the “Art of Finding Your Sound.” From the basics of brush and spank to the nuance of musical scales, the class will learn phrases, classic dances, develop technique and explore improvisation.

Advanced Tap Session

Pop Up Class - Sunday August 9, 1 - 3 pm

$25 per class
Barters Welcome!!

An advanced tap session for experienced movers and dancers.

Rather than a set fee, participants are warmly invited to share in the ways that feel most natural to them. You might offer your hands and skills for a single afternoon task or a longer project that helps keep Primrose Retreat beautiful and running. Perhaps you have something to contribute from your home or your harvest: an item that would make the space more welcoming, a pot of soup still warm from the stove, a loaf of bread, a basket of apples. If you have a lasting gift for the space in mind, we have a small wish list of items that would be most useful — just ask. And of course, donations are always a heartfelt and very practical gift. They help keep the lights on, the space maintained, and this little community thriving. Contributions in the range of $5–$15 per class are a wonderful way to show your support. Whatever you bring —your time, talent, or treasure — it is received with gratitude.

Serious Fun – a Community Movement Class

Session Two
Thursdays, July 9 - August 27,  4 – 5:15pm

Awareness, Balance, Strength, Mobility, Connection
Led by Katherine Kramer. We live in miraculous bodies, on a spinning planet, during unpredictable times. Let’s be sure our bodies and minds are prepared – for the moment, the day, the times. Now in it’s seventh year, this class addresses all of these things with a serious intent and playful spirit.  Join us!!!

Classes are on Thursdays. You are welcome to any or all. There will be sessions throughout the summer and into fall, with occasional breaks..

  • Master Classes & Workshops

    Master classes (1 - 2 hours long) or lengthier workshops (3 - 6 hours) can be focused on a single dance form or be designed to address a topic or performative aspect of dance.

    Katherine offers Tap Master Classes, Workshops, and Teacher Training Sessions. She can share the work and influences of her early mentors, Honi Coles, Brenda Bufalino, Copasetics, as well as her own choreography and whole body technical work.

  • Community Classes

    At Primrose Retreat, Katherine hosts a variety of events, classes, lectures, and workshops open to the community.

    Examples include “Intermediate Tap,” “Serious Fun,” and “The Ralph Brown Project.” Stay tuned to this page for upcoming and ongoing classes!

  • Residencies

    Residencies can be designed to include classes, choreography and performance, and can range from 2 days to 2 weeks long.

    Examples include Residency at Western Kentucky University, Dance and Social Justice Residency at the University of Rochester, and Sitka Jazz Festival School Residency in Tap.

  • Retreats & Creative Exchanges

    Katherine is available to design and facilitate a variety of unique creative exchanges. These can be designed for dance companies, faculty, multi-disciplinary arts groups, corporate or community entities.