Just Opened

CHI Movement Arts Center

by Deni Kasrel

1316 S. Ninth St., 215-922-1921, kunyanglin.org

Michael Apice

The stucco façade of CHI Movement Arts Center looks like a chocolate brownie with a contemporary glass cut-out in the middle. Inside, the soothing sound of flowing water emanates from a fountain in the foyer, where black, red and gray-green walls frame a floor of tiles rimmed by river stones. Choreographer Kun-Yang Lin, who founded the space to serve as both a home base for his eponymous dance ensemble and to host community classes, explains that he "wanted to have a certain kind of element that is consistent with my company, so it has an Asian touch." The color scheme mixes yin and yang, while the fountain and stones are intended to induce a meditative, contemplative state of mind.

Next comes a 32- by 48-foot room sporting a gorgeous white-wood laminate sprung floor, in which the company rehearses and classes will be held. Rehearsals are up and running, while the classes — including modern, ballet, jazz/hip-hop, belly dance, tai chi and yoga — ramp up in June. The center will offer sessions for adults, kids and teens on beginning through advanced levels. Says Lin, "We want to bring not just dancers to the space, but also, we want to create a connection with the community."