| When I started studying American Tribal Style with
FatChanceBellyDance in 1994, I never would have believed what a huge part
of my life this awesome form of dance would become! After having
had the great fortune to study with Carolena Nericcio and FCBD, I decided
I needed a change of scenery. I moved to Bend, Oregon, in 1998, and
thought: "I'd love to keep dancing up here, but it's no fun to be a troupe
of one!" So I taught a couple of girlfriends to dance, and after
awhile of teaching in my living room, we kept growing, moved to a studio;
and today, I teach 6+ classes a week, direct Gypsy Fire, the performing
troupe, and Sister Fire, our student troupe!
To say I couldn't imagine my life without dance is
no over-statement. The joy I feel in dance, the connection to my
dancing sisters, and the creativity I am able to express are indispensible!
(The added bonus of being able to dress in beautiful costumes and ethnic
jewelry are pretty cool, too!)
I have continued my study of Bellydance through workshops with such inspirational teachers and troupes as: Paulette Rees-Denis and Gypsy Caravan; Rachel Brice; Hahbi'Ru; Ansuya; Heather Stants and Urban Tribal; Jill Parker and Ultra Gypsy; Zafira Dance Company; DOMBA!; Aziza; Colleena; Amy Sigil and Unmata; and others. I have completed both the Fat Chance Bellydance General Skills Certification, and FCBD Certification for teaching ATS (General Studio), and have previously completed Level 1 in the Suhaila Salimpour format (currently lapsed).
The process of teaching ATS has really intensified
my love and appreciation for this style of dance: it is so rewarding to
see a student "get it"-- whether it is understanding a movement, giving
a clear cue, or seeing a woman begin to accept her body, and learn to love
herself in a new way. The self-confidence, and communication skills that are gained in dance, have been great lessons for me, as well: as so often in life, the most rewarding gifts come from unexpected sources! All these are great blessings, and inspire
me to encourage more women to move beyond the limited vision of
femininity we have been taught: to celebrate the strength and beauty in
all women!
The greatest gifts of ATS are self-acceptance and the
unconditional trust and support of your dancing sisters. I feel blessed
to dance with such incredible, talented, beautiful women!
--Quinn Donovan |
