Courses
Arts
Beginning Cross-Stitching
Saturday, October 11th
1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Rebekah Sigman
Registration fee: NU $39, Public $49
Students will be introduced to the principles of cross-stitching (supplies, technique, and pattern reading) as well as the endless ways this craft can be customized. This workshop will focus on students reading a cross-stitch pattern and completing a cross-stitch project from beginning to end. We will begin the workshop with an overview of cross-stitching and viewing completed projects and end the workshop by introducing students to the process of creating their own patterns.
*Supplies are included.
Wheel Throwing One Day Workshop
Section A: Saturday, October 11th
3:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Registration fee: NU $49, Public $59
Section B: Saturday, October 25th - Date Night Special
3:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Registration fee: NU $99, Public $109 (for 2 people)
3:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Registration fee: NU $49, Public $59
Instructor: Sylvia Tan
Want to dip your hands in a little clay? Come join us for a two-hour workshop where you'll learn the fundamental steps of throwing. Participants will get to throw as much as they can, but will only be choosing one piece to keep. Participants will get to choose from 4 different glaze colors to match their perfect creation. Projects will be available for pick up two weeks from the workshop's completion. No experience is required!*Supplies are included.
Special Interest
Dining Etiquette Workshop
Saturday, October 25th1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Instructor: Krystal Williams, Etiquette Consultant -
Registration fee: NU $59, Public $69
Elevate your dining skills and make a lasting impression at any business meal, social gathering, or formal event! This engaging and hands-on workshop is designed to take the mystery out of dining etiquette while keeping the experience fun, interactive, and practical.
Through live demonstrations, group activities, and real-world scenarios, you'll gain the confidence to navigate multi-course meals, handle tricky dining situations, and engage in polished table conversations. Whether you're attending a corporate dinner, networking over lunch, or simply want to refine your table manners, this workshop will ensure you dine with grace and confidence.
Holiday Food and Wine Tasting
Monday, November 10th6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Instructor: Lexi McKean
Registration fee: NU $49, Public $59
Get ready for the holiday season with a food and wine pairing experience. Come sample reds and whites perfectly paired with holiday-inspired nuts, cookies, cheeses, and chocolates. Please do let us know in advance if you have any food allergies.*You must be 21 and over to enroll in this course.
A Creative Approach to Watercolor
Mondays, September 29th – November 3rd (6 Sessions)6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Instructor: Ingrid Albrecht
Early Registration fee: NU $129, Public $139
Regular registration fee: NU $139, Public $149
Have you ever wanted to create a dramatic painting in watercolor? Then this is the course for you! For 6 weeks, Ingrid will guide participants through basic learning steps of brush control, various washes, color theory, the importance of value (those light and dark shapes), and creating exciting shapes, not boring ones. Added to this list are some special tips that Ingrid will share to bring excitement to watercolor painting. There will be no fear of the blank paper, and students will wish that the course were longer. At the end of each session, participants learn from one another during a class critique.
*Supplies are included.
Beginning Drawing
Tuesdays, September 30th – November 4th (6 sessions)
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Instructor: Robert Apolinar
Early registration fee: NU $79, Public $89
Regular registration fee: NU $89, Public $99
In this course, you'll experiment with various drawing media and papers, honing your ability to "see" and develop the skills needed to achieve your creative aspirations. Through both group and individual instruction, you'll learn about proportion, value, line, blending, visual texture, and composition.
*Supplies are included.
Introduction to Knitting
Saturdays, October 11th and 25th (2 Sessions)1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Anne Howard
Early Registration fee: NU $59, Public $69
Regular registration fee: NU $69, Public $79
Knitting is a calming, creative, and portable art that lets you design things in just the right color and size. If you'd like to make useful handmade items while you watch tv, ride the bus, or listen to a lecture; if you need a creative outlet; or if you're looking for a meditative daily activity, then knitting is for you. In this two-session class, students will learn the four basic elements of knitting (plus a few extras) and will learn how to choose a pattern and yarn for their first project.
*Supplies are included.
All supplies included
Introduction to Ceramics Jewelry
Mondays, September 29th – November 3rd (6 Sessions)6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Instructor: Patty Marfise-Patt
Early Registration fee: NU $129, Public $139Regular registration fee: NU $139, Public $149
Interested in creating your own one of a kind jewelry? Come spend six weeks learning the basics of working with porcelain to create earrings and pendants! Create your individualized plan and see your plan come to life!
Wheel Throwing I (Beginner)
Section A: Mondays, September 22nd – October 27th (6 Sessions)
3:00 -5:30 p.m.
Instructor: Chantal Chuba
Section B: Tuesdays, September 30th– November 4th (6 Sessions)
6:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Instructor: Patty Marfise-Patt
Section C: Wednesdays, September 24th – October 29th (6 Sessions)
3:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Instructor: Elizabeth Fowler
Section D: Thursdays, September 25th – October 30th (6 Sessions)
3:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Instructor: Tomoyasu Nakano
Early Registration fee: NU $129, Public $139
Regular registration fee: NU $139, Public $149
Students will be introduced to the basic principles of making functional ceramic art. In this course, students will begin with the process of wheel throwing with detailed instruction on how to throw a cylinder, bowl, and much more. The kinesthetic process of pottery will be explored through developing technical skills on the wheel as well as understanding the function of various forms developed throughout the history of ceramics. Learn how to make functional work that you can use at home as foodware for yourself, friends, or family. This course is for students who have never worked with clay before and is the perfect introduction to wheel throwing.
Wheel Throwing II (Intermediate)
6:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Instructor: Elizabeth Fowler
Section B: Thursdays, September 25th – November 6th (7 Sessions)
3:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Instructor: Tomoyasu Nakano
Section C: Fridays, September 26th – November 7th (7 Sessions)
3:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Instructor: Chantal Chuba
Regular registration fee: NU $149, Public $159
Wheel Throwing II is for students who have completed at least one wheel throwing course in the past. In this course, Students will learn how to throw a large range of functional work and explore complex ways of decorating and glazing. From mugs and bowls, to large vases, plates, and coffee pour-overs, this course is perfect for those who are looking to improve their throwing techniques and aesthetics. This course aims to improve the student's confidence in their abilities and to connect the larger community within the studio.
*Prerequisites: have taken a beginner’s wheel throwing class
A Brief History of Liquor & Spirits
Mondays, September 29th - November 3rd (5 Sessions, no class on October 27th )
6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Instructor: Lexi McKean
Early Registration: NU $129, Public $139
Regular registration: NU $139, Public $149
Ever wonder how tequila, whiskey, or absinthe became cultural icons? This Mini Course dives into the fascinating world of liqueurs, liquors, and spirits from around the globe. Through tastings and presentations, we will explore the history, traditions, and stories behind your favorite drinks. Perfect for curious beginners and casual cocktail fans who want to learn more about what’s in their glass—and why it matters. Each session will feature 3-4 samples for tasting. Participants must be 21+.
*You must be 21 and over to enroll in this course.
Fall Wines*
Thursdays, October 2nd - November 6th (5 Sessions, no class on October 16th)
6:00 – 7:30 p.m.7:45pm
Instructor: Mark Gruber
Early Registration: NU $129, Public $139
Regular registration: NU $139, Public $149
A smaller class which will concentrate on wines for enjoyment in the autumn and during the holidays. Students will learn about wines by tasting and discussing grape varieties, vintages, wine storage, and wine and food complements. The course comes with a complimentary sampling of the wines.
*Bring two (2) wine glasses to each class. We do not provide or store your wine glasses.
**You must be 21 and over to enroll in this course.
Wine Appreciation*
Thursdays, October 2nd - November 6th (5 Sessions, no class on October 16th)
7:45 – 9:15 p.m.
Instructor: Mark Gruber
Early Registration: NU $129, Public $139
Regular registration: NU $139, Public $149
*You must be 21 and over to enroll in this course.
American Sign Language I (Beginner) - online course
Mondays, September 22nd – November 10th (8 Sessions)
6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Instructor: Peter Wujcik
Early Registration: NU $89, Public $99
Regular registration: NU $99, Public $109
This course introduces the basics of American Sign Language. American Sign Language (ASL) is quickly becoming one of the most widely used languages in the United States. This class will explore basic sign vocabulary and basic grammatical structures, such as English to ASL and ASL to English. This class will cover basic Sign Language and a basic introduction to the world of Deaf Cultures.
Creative Writing
Tuesdays, October 7th – November 11th (6 Sessions)6:00 - 7.30 p.m.
Instructor: Steven Fischer
Early Registration: NU $69, Public $79
Regular registration: NU $79, Public $89
In Creative Writing, participants create their own original and personal stories. This course is ideal for anyone interested in the basics of narrative writing, improving communication skills, storytelling, and taking their writing to the next level. Along the way, we’ll explore the philosophy, metaphysics, and psychology of inspiration and creativity. We will look at how creative writing benefits mental health by using exercises that access hidden feelings and memories in ways that help us process trauma.
Beginning Swing Dancing
Wednesdays, October 1st – November 5th (6 Sessions)
7:00 - 7:50 p.m.
Instructor: Cate Curtis
Early Registration: NU $49, Public $59
Regular registration: NU $59, Public $69
Since its earliest beginnings in 1920s Harlem, swing has been a popular social dance known for its energetic movement and upbeat tempos. This class will introduce you to the history and basic movements of swing dance. We will focus on both solo and partner dancing, with an emphasis on the social aspects of the dance. By the end of the course you will be able to identify swing music, execute swing’s rhythmic steps, and dance with a partner. All levels are welcome and no dance experience is required.
Salsa Dancing
Wednesdays, October 1st – November 5th (6 Sessions)
6:00 - 6:50 p.m.
Instructor: Cate Curtis
Early Registration: NU $49, Public $59
Regular registration: NU $59, Public $69
Known for its energetic and sensual movements, salsa is one of the most popular dances in the world. This class will introduce you to the history and basic movements of salsa dance. We will focus on both solo and partner dancing, with an emphasis on the social aspects of the dance. By the end of the course, you will be able to recognize the rhythms of salsa music, execute salsa’s basic steps, and dance with a partner. All levels are welcome, and no dance experience is required.
Tai Chi
Wednesdays, October 1st– November 5th (6 Sessions)
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Instructor: Inna Melnikov
Early Registration: NU $69, Public $79
Regular registration: NU $79, Public $89
Come learn Tai Chi, is a non-combat martial art, that helps cultivate mental focus and builds protective energy. This course will introduce the skills and philosophy of ancient Chinese martial arts. This traditional spiritual and physical practice cultivates spirit, energy, physical and mental strength, focus, and memory. Great ideas have an opportunity to emerge during the calm meditative state it provides. Join the Tai Qi class conducted by the Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Inna Melnikov, who has taught Tai Qi at Norris for over 15 years.
Women Self Defense
Wednesday, October 22nd & 29th (2 Sessions)
6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Instructor: Margaret Lo
Early Registration: NU $29, Public $39
Regular registration: NU $39, Public $49
Students will learn basic self-defense techniques in an encouraging environment. Instructor Margaret Lo is a Shotokan karate instructor with many years of experience who is also certified to teach self-defense by RAD Systems, http://rad-systems.com/. The classes will address the psychological underpinnings of self-defense as well as basic escapes and strikes.
Financial Literacy
Mondays, September 29th – November 10th (6 Sessions, no class on October 27th)
6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Instructor: Andy Pasternak
Early Registration: NU $59, Public $69
Regular registration: NU $69, Public $79
Back by popular demand! Understanding how to manage your personal finances is critical for achieving your life goals, attaining financial security, and providing the flexibility over time to pursue your dreams. There is no better time than early in adulthood to learn about personal finance and to begin deploying these lessons in your financial life. This 6-week course covers topics such as compensation, taxes, budgeting, credit, insurance, and investing, and will involve a mix of presentations, group exercises, and guest speakers. Come start your personal financial literacy journey now! Given weekday evening class schedule, pizza dinner will be provided.
Introduction to acting
Wednesdays, October 1st – November 5th (6 Sessions)
6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Instructor: Tiffany Tuck
Early Registration: NU $69, Public $79
Regular registration: NU $79, Public $89
Learn the fundamentals of acting for the stage and screen! Knowing these performance techniques can help with auditions and performances as well as in interviews, presentations, and proposals in any field! Gain confidence and have fun by participating in drama exercises, improvisation games, and scenes from plays, movies, and TV shows. This class will have some mini-lectures that will include watching video clips, but most of it will be spent up and on our feet participating and watching each other. All experience levels welcome.
Learn to Play Ancient Board Games
Tuesdays, October 7th – November 11th (6 Sessions)6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Instructor: Nicholas Winters
Early Registration: NU $79, Public $89
Regular registration: NU $89, Public $99
Learn to play games that are thousands of years old! In this course, we will learn the rules, strategies, and gameplay of ancient board games from Egypt, Greece, Rome, India, and Mesopotamia. We will play the games in class, and even learn to make our own game boards! In the short lecture portions of the course, we will discuss the history of board games and how ancient games have been recovered and reconstructed, as well as some basics of game theory.
Pocket Billiards for Beginners
Tuesdays, September 30th – November 4th (6 Sessions)
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Instructor: Larry Schwartz
Early Registration: NU $69, Public $79
Regular registration: NU $79, Public $89
These lessons are tailored to players who range from beginner level to advanced. You will learn topics ranging from mastering fundamentals to difficult shots and game strategies.
Public Speaking: How to Speak with Confidence and Impact
Wednesdays, April 16th – May 21st (6 Sessions)
6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Instructor: Tom Rosenak
Early Registration: NU $69, Public $79
Regular registration: NU $79, Public $89
In this class, we will learn how to develop the skills and the confidence needed to make clear, professional, and persuasive presentations to audiences of any size. In addition to the emphasis on physical delivery skills, other important topics include analyzing the audience, organizing the content, using visuals to support the message, and handling questions and objections. Some topics covered include organizing your thoughts for persuasion, audience analysis, physical delivery skills congruent to your style and message, detractors and enhancers, delivering effective presentations, physical delivery skills, and overcoming resistance and Q&A.