I am loving the fact that ucanto is going strongly and dancing strongly and having lots of fun along the way.
I am blessed in so many ways in regards to the students I have, the friends that have come from it, and the reconnections that seem to be presenting themselves in the community again. Maturity and time can be such a good friend in the end.
Having enthusiastic students who are willing to do whatever it takes to learn this style of dance is what makes it all worthwhile for me, even when dealing with some of the growth aspects of the more senior dancers.
We all have times when we are not so sure of ourselves in whatever adventure we undertake but when we get some time under our belts our confidences increase, this is when a nasty pitfall can occur. Over confidence. We all do it, so don't think your exempt.
I still do that even with my experience level and dance level, but I have to keep in mind that we are all human but I still am the most senior (not just age LOL) dancer due to experience in the room. Especially in the dance form I teach.
I might not have jumped on the teaching bandwagon so many years ago, but I have more to offer from the start with the experience I have acquired over the years in getting to where I am with teaching.
Do I love to teach? I sure do!!!
But admittedly I am embracing the expansion of new teachers by having them substitute for me so I can actually have a life once in a while. Not a reflection on any of the baby dancers, I just need to revitalize once in a while and this enables me to do so and allows the newer teachers the opportunity to put in place practical application of their new skills and how it works within this structure.
It is a very exciting process I have to admit. :)
Let's Dance!!!!!
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Monday, July 18, 2011
Lucky Me!!!
My head is a buzz, my legs are like lead weights and achy, but my heart soars and smiles.
How in the world do I go about talking about this weekend?
I am not too sure however, I am gonna give it a try/
The weeks leading up to this weekend were full of dancing, full of quelling self-doubts if possible, encouraging personal growths. I did what a teacher is supposed to do…teach, and that means all aspects of the dance not just the movements…1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and, 6, and 7, and, 8.
More classes were requested as this weekend approached and it was made so. Meaning lots more of my time was devoted to the dance. That was ok. Even with my birthday happening just before it and all the various things surrounding that and just plain having my day job too. J
I have to make one side note that stresses were up to an all time high in general but my time with my students and fellow dancers seem to make that all go away even for those short periods of time we danced.
Thursday was my 50th birthday and it was the first time I had taken my birthday off in years. It was relaxing and wonderful despite the flower debockle with the cats and a hard drive crashing for Mr Man. But it got better since I got to share it with Mr Man and with some lovely ladies doing the Thursday night class at my home studio. When it came time for class, ta da….flowers and a gift of wine were in hand and it was just the start from and with my baby dancers. Course I made sure (at the help of Mr Man) that the ladies had some sugary goodness before leaving in a chocolate checkerboard mousse cakey treat. Stickiness…fun!!! (but tasty)
Friday for me was the last minute details in prepping for all the dancing the weekend would bring and for the class that followed on Sunday; plus the quick replacement of flowers for my performance hair this weekend. Course out of the line of fire from the cats. J
Saturday started simple enough except this weather…but life pressed on. I got there not long after the initial plan to do my quick shopping and have a close enough parking spot for the quick get away to go to the next dancing gig after MedFest…yes, you read and heard right…it wasn’t a typo on my schedule or site. ;)
Everyone arrived as scheduled with bells on, it was awfully warm for the weather so the potential for "melting" even before dancing was high. LOL We still managed to get some nice pre-dancing photos by Mr Man. YAY! I have to admit I am not thrilled with what I personally see in the photos. My figure that I worked hard to find again has slowly returned to what I hate most in my looks. The photos make it look even worse with that "dreaded extra 10 pounds that video and photos ADD" Bleh…28-30 looked 38-40 on me in gain…well, that is changing and some steps are already in place to move forward with for me. Enough on that…
I have never felt so "relaxed" with a performance when it comes to my babies as I was that day….I was honestly surprised by that and to have a fellow Sister Studio Teacher joining in on the fun, dancing for the first time with 5 of my Advanced students WITHOUT even so much as a quick run through beforehand made my day even more brilliant despite the weather uncertainty. I knew it would work, never doubted it, so I honestly never thought twice about it, and neither did they since they had a guest dancer at Cues & Tattoos. So I honestly think they didn’t think twice about it either…or they trusted me in what I shared.
I have never been so proud of what I witnessed, danced and reviewed later as that first day. However, my mind was dealing with whatever SHARP object I stepped on and it embedded I my foot during the performance, and then gathering those people going to the next venue together and buzzing out. I have to say it was great and awkward at the same time since I didn’t get to watch too many other dancers throughout the day, hell weekend, but I did see some. J
Traveling down to the next venue was a blast, I love my students beyond them dancing with me and in those times of "non-dance" moments that side emerges and it is a blast too!
Laughing is just too awesome!!!!
Our performance that night was far removed from the more structured one at MedFest, this was just about having fun and whatever happens happens….and of course it did. Dancing on damp grass, hot rods all around, and the crowd that loves their machines made for an awesome time even with some gliche’s.
All levels performed there and all levels just hung on to whatever was going to happen and just danced. Course 30 minutes sets are LONG! That is probably the first and last time that long a set will happen and that is ok…GREAT learning curve and experience for everyone (including me) but 15-20 it will be in the future. *chuckles*
Dancing at dusk too was actually quite surreal but in that magical way too. Having the burlesque troupe pay their compliments, and others just thrilled to have us there was the topper to it all. (Regardless of someone that decided to be an ass…we and meaning especially me, was so honored and blown away at the rallying of the supporters that had our backs and our honors maintained.) For that I am TRULY humbled and proud to call them friend. J
The day was long and ended well…I smiled between yawns and laughed even more heading home.
The night was short however, I was still a buzz and had a mental run down of what needed to happen on Sunday, but the next door neighbors dog barking woke me and kept me awake for over an hour. So when the alarm went off, it was far too early for me after that night….another bleh.
Well, the weather wasn’t cooperating any better this day but costuming was a bit easier for me but I still managed to run a bit late in leaving the house, however, traffic was with me this time…Sat was so so but it still worked.
This day was devoted to the all inclusive group so all levels of dancers were going to strut their stuff. Yes, more was going through my head but I knew too that whatever was going to happen will and just to be there for the absolute baby dancers "just in case" I wasn’t going to lead the entire time … they needed to, and they needed to remember how to follow what they knew, I and the few Advanced Students were there to help them shine, as well as a learning experience for the Advanced on how to dance, support, lead new dancers, not be the "stars" in this performance. BUT…if all advanced students ended up in a formation together of course they could pull their stuff out too…remember ALL INCLUSIVE. J
Pictures beforehand were also on the agenda and do to miscommunications one of the other photo bugs in the group was the one to do the deal…and I even got to climb a tree for this picture. J
But little did I know what was afoot with the students.
I won’t go into ever detail but having bustled skirts are a great way to conceal stuff, especially birthday presents from my students. It gives me chills in that " I am not gonna cry" moment when I recall what they did for me. Firstly, I love I have quite the twisted and fun group of people that I do in my students…that in itself is quite awesome….but the fact they went above and beyond for me. Well, even using the word "humble" seems trite..because it went beyond that feeling. I did managed to NOT cry even though I wanted to cry. (Afterall a performance was at hand )
Let’s put it this way with the assistance of all the students involved, Mr Man, and even Kathleen Crowley. I have my own custom-made, custom colored, capri version of Kathleen Crowley’s fuffy ruffles (yes the ones that a short sh*t can wear)…I believed they were called "Jessica pants" (she doesn’t make them any more) But this apparently all started around Cues & Tattoos, even to the point that Kathleen saw me and could size me up as it were *laughes* complete with a matching hankerchief. (Finished off with a blushing bottle of wine for the gifts at that moment.) I obviously wore them to perform in that day. Changing into them was a whole other spectacle and lots more laughing. Yes, I believe there are pics of that too.
The performance time came, all was good, and getting more relaxing even for me, but of course I had been distracted enough by now that no matter what happened again, it was all good. The performance had its issues, but if they didn’t I woulda wondered, we all smiled, we all had fun, we all just went with the flow and the audience had my babies backs too. (Both days the audience filled up and were cheering and supportive. I was so so so pleased, as a performer, as an instructor but even moreso as the Tribal Mumma of my babies. Whom I always try to keep safe in their dance and dance experience if I can.
Once the performance was over it was time to chill for a while. Everyone scattered to finish out their weekends as they needed. I however got to wander a bit, spend some time with Mr Man at MedFest before heading off to class for the night. Yes, class after MedFest.
I was willing to not do class but the students weren’t, so class was on.
And on it was, small (as expected) but great!!!!!!
But it even came with its surprises…fun dancing, great talks before class, some munchie goodness, and then to my surprised, cupcakes again to celebrate my birthday…WOW!
The night obviously was a little more forgiving on everyone’s bodies and brains INCLUDING mine but fun thing is, we got A LOT accomplished in the night too!!!! Score!!!!
So, as disjointed as this might read as whole, it is the brief rundown of the weekend, and why my heart is singing inside, why I push in my own dance to share it with those that want it from me, and how very much I love, respect, and cherish my students aka friends.
I am truly a lucky girl! (Well, maybe more aptly put "crone" now) No matter, I am lucky!
How in the world do I go about talking about this weekend?
I am not too sure however, I am gonna give it a try/
The weeks leading up to this weekend were full of dancing, full of quelling self-doubts if possible, encouraging personal growths. I did what a teacher is supposed to do…teach, and that means all aspects of the dance not just the movements…1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and, 6, and 7, and, 8.
More classes were requested as this weekend approached and it was made so. Meaning lots more of my time was devoted to the dance. That was ok. Even with my birthday happening just before it and all the various things surrounding that and just plain having my day job too. J
I have to make one side note that stresses were up to an all time high in general but my time with my students and fellow dancers seem to make that all go away even for those short periods of time we danced.
Thursday was my 50th birthday and it was the first time I had taken my birthday off in years. It was relaxing and wonderful despite the flower debockle with the cats and a hard drive crashing for Mr Man. But it got better since I got to share it with Mr Man and with some lovely ladies doing the Thursday night class at my home studio. When it came time for class, ta da….flowers and a gift of wine were in hand and it was just the start from and with my baby dancers. Course I made sure (at the help of Mr Man) that the ladies had some sugary goodness before leaving in a chocolate checkerboard mousse cakey treat. Stickiness…fun!!! (but tasty)
Friday for me was the last minute details in prepping for all the dancing the weekend would bring and for the class that followed on Sunday; plus the quick replacement of flowers for my performance hair this weekend. Course out of the line of fire from the cats. J
Saturday started simple enough except this weather…but life pressed on. I got there not long after the initial plan to do my quick shopping and have a close enough parking spot for the quick get away to go to the next dancing gig after MedFest…yes, you read and heard right…it wasn’t a typo on my schedule or site. ;)
Everyone arrived as scheduled with bells on, it was awfully warm for the weather so the potential for "melting" even before dancing was high. LOL We still managed to get some nice pre-dancing photos by Mr Man. YAY! I have to admit I am not thrilled with what I personally see in the photos. My figure that I worked hard to find again has slowly returned to what I hate most in my looks. The photos make it look even worse with that "dreaded extra 10 pounds that video and photos ADD" Bleh…28-30 looked 38-40 on me in gain…well, that is changing and some steps are already in place to move forward with for me. Enough on that…
I have never felt so "relaxed" with a performance when it comes to my babies as I was that day….I was honestly surprised by that and to have a fellow Sister Studio Teacher joining in on the fun, dancing for the first time with 5 of my Advanced students WITHOUT even so much as a quick run through beforehand made my day even more brilliant despite the weather uncertainty. I knew it would work, never doubted it, so I honestly never thought twice about it, and neither did they since they had a guest dancer at Cues & Tattoos. So I honestly think they didn’t think twice about it either…or they trusted me in what I shared.
I have never been so proud of what I witnessed, danced and reviewed later as that first day. However, my mind was dealing with whatever SHARP object I stepped on and it embedded I my foot during the performance, and then gathering those people going to the next venue together and buzzing out. I have to say it was great and awkward at the same time since I didn’t get to watch too many other dancers throughout the day, hell weekend, but I did see some. J
Traveling down to the next venue was a blast, I love my students beyond them dancing with me and in those times of "non-dance" moments that side emerges and it is a blast too!
Laughing is just too awesome!!!!
Our performance that night was far removed from the more structured one at MedFest, this was just about having fun and whatever happens happens….and of course it did. Dancing on damp grass, hot rods all around, and the crowd that loves their machines made for an awesome time even with some gliche’s.
All levels performed there and all levels just hung on to whatever was going to happen and just danced. Course 30 minutes sets are LONG! That is probably the first and last time that long a set will happen and that is ok…GREAT learning curve and experience for everyone (including me) but 15-20 it will be in the future. *chuckles*
Dancing at dusk too was actually quite surreal but in that magical way too. Having the burlesque troupe pay their compliments, and others just thrilled to have us there was the topper to it all. (Regardless of someone that decided to be an ass…we and meaning especially me, was so honored and blown away at the rallying of the supporters that had our backs and our honors maintained.) For that I am TRULY humbled and proud to call them friend. J
The day was long and ended well…I smiled between yawns and laughed even more heading home.
The night was short however, I was still a buzz and had a mental run down of what needed to happen on Sunday, but the next door neighbors dog barking woke me and kept me awake for over an hour. So when the alarm went off, it was far too early for me after that night….another bleh.
Well, the weather wasn’t cooperating any better this day but costuming was a bit easier for me but I still managed to run a bit late in leaving the house, however, traffic was with me this time…Sat was so so but it still worked.
This day was devoted to the all inclusive group so all levels of dancers were going to strut their stuff. Yes, more was going through my head but I knew too that whatever was going to happen will and just to be there for the absolute baby dancers "just in case" I wasn’t going to lead the entire time … they needed to, and they needed to remember how to follow what they knew, I and the few Advanced Students were there to help them shine, as well as a learning experience for the Advanced on how to dance, support, lead new dancers, not be the "stars" in this performance. BUT…if all advanced students ended up in a formation together of course they could pull their stuff out too…remember ALL INCLUSIVE. J
Pictures beforehand were also on the agenda and do to miscommunications one of the other photo bugs in the group was the one to do the deal…and I even got to climb a tree for this picture. J
But little did I know what was afoot with the students.
I won’t go into ever detail but having bustled skirts are a great way to conceal stuff, especially birthday presents from my students. It gives me chills in that " I am not gonna cry" moment when I recall what they did for me. Firstly, I love I have quite the twisted and fun group of people that I do in my students…that in itself is quite awesome….but the fact they went above and beyond for me. Well, even using the word "humble" seems trite..because it went beyond that feeling. I did managed to NOT cry even though I wanted to cry. (Afterall a performance was at hand )
Let’s put it this way with the assistance of all the students involved, Mr Man, and even Kathleen Crowley. I have my own custom-made, custom colored, capri version of Kathleen Crowley’s fuffy ruffles (yes the ones that a short sh*t can wear)…I believed they were called "Jessica pants" (she doesn’t make them any more) But this apparently all started around Cues & Tattoos, even to the point that Kathleen saw me and could size me up as it were *laughes* complete with a matching hankerchief. (Finished off with a blushing bottle of wine for the gifts at that moment.) I obviously wore them to perform in that day. Changing into them was a whole other spectacle and lots more laughing. Yes, I believe there are pics of that too.
The performance time came, all was good, and getting more relaxing even for me, but of course I had been distracted enough by now that no matter what happened again, it was all good. The performance had its issues, but if they didn’t I woulda wondered, we all smiled, we all had fun, we all just went with the flow and the audience had my babies backs too. (Both days the audience filled up and were cheering and supportive. I was so so so pleased, as a performer, as an instructor but even moreso as the Tribal Mumma of my babies. Whom I always try to keep safe in their dance and dance experience if I can.
Once the performance was over it was time to chill for a while. Everyone scattered to finish out their weekends as they needed. I however got to wander a bit, spend some time with Mr Man at MedFest before heading off to class for the night. Yes, class after MedFest.
I was willing to not do class but the students weren’t, so class was on.
And on it was, small (as expected) but great!!!!!!
But it even came with its surprises…fun dancing, great talks before class, some munchie goodness, and then to my surprised, cupcakes again to celebrate my birthday…WOW!
The night obviously was a little more forgiving on everyone’s bodies and brains INCLUDING mine but fun thing is, we got A LOT accomplished in the night too!!!! Score!!!!
So, as disjointed as this might read as whole, it is the brief rundown of the weekend, and why my heart is singing inside, why I push in my own dance to share it with those that want it from me, and how very much I love, respect, and cherish my students aka friends.
I am truly a lucky girl! (Well, maybe more aptly put "crone" now) No matter, I am lucky!
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Tacoma Tuesdays!!!!
Well, class #3 is under the belt, each one providing new faces and new experiences...all just NEW.
I could not be more thrilled at coming down to dance with the lovely ladies that have crossed the threshold of the studio...I am truly honored.
The studio is a large one and is based in a church that acts not only as a church to their parishioners it is also a community/office center that contributes back to the community via the leasing/renting of some of the otherwise "unused" spaces.
The view from the studio is tremendous, after all we are on the 3rd floor, underneath the old bell tower. Yes lots of fun jokes could be inserted there. :)
The mirrors have to be hung according to the walls and the pillars so that makes for an interesting and challenging way to see all the students from the teacher's perspective but it seems to work fine for the students. Which bottom line is what matters is they can see, cause I can turn around and move around LOL.
Working out of two Ballet studios (Seattle and Tacoma) make me appreciate my old dance roots even more and brings back memories. But it also helps me know what I want to do in a studio come the day I have one of my own. Maybe one day I will be grown up enough to have my own place to bring dance to those that seek it out...not just ATS bellydance (where my heart is with this body) but more types of dance since a DANCER I am.
Some day....
Some day has come for others which is awesome...but it will come for me too.
After all I have my own tiny studio now, but a bigger one is the dream...the dream to have even more dance available.
For now I travel to those that want/need me to find their ATS legs and I am just truly excited that I am able to share this amazing dance with more people.
Tacoma...so much more to come for you all!!!!
Seattle/Northend people...you are on your way!!!!
All of you awesome dancers...thank you and LET'S DANCE!!!!
I could not be more thrilled at coming down to dance with the lovely ladies that have crossed the threshold of the studio...I am truly honored.
The studio is a large one and is based in a church that acts not only as a church to their parishioners it is also a community/office center that contributes back to the community via the leasing/renting of some of the otherwise "unused" spaces.
The view from the studio is tremendous, after all we are on the 3rd floor, underneath the old bell tower. Yes lots of fun jokes could be inserted there. :)
The mirrors have to be hung according to the walls and the pillars so that makes for an interesting and challenging way to see all the students from the teacher's perspective but it seems to work fine for the students. Which bottom line is what matters is they can see, cause I can turn around and move around LOL.
Working out of two Ballet studios (Seattle and Tacoma) make me appreciate my old dance roots even more and brings back memories. But it also helps me know what I want to do in a studio come the day I have one of my own. Maybe one day I will be grown up enough to have my own place to bring dance to those that seek it out...not just ATS bellydance (where my heart is with this body) but more types of dance since a DANCER I am.
Some day....
Some day has come for others which is awesome...but it will come for me too.
After all I have my own tiny studio now, but a bigger one is the dream...the dream to have even more dance available.
For now I travel to those that want/need me to find their ATS legs and I am just truly excited that I am able to share this amazing dance with more people.
Tacoma...so much more to come for you all!!!!
Seattle/Northend people...you are on your way!!!!
All of you awesome dancers...thank you and LET'S DANCE!!!!
Friday, April 22, 2011
Supposed to Do and What it Does:::
For me dance is the outlet. Physically, emotionally, intellectually, creatively, and so on. I sink into the music when I dance, I share when I dance, I am vulnerable when I dance...I look for and most of the time find joy in the dance.
Isn't that what you are supposed to feel or find when dancing? I think so.
So, why is it that so often there comes strife with the dance?
It saddens me when strife presents itself from something that is creative and potentially blissful.
It is called "others"...others that seek control, others that push their personal imagery or chaos onto the other dancers without exception, it is poor instruction, it is a long list of life and the subjectivity of each person involved. Granted if any of these reasons cause the dance to not be your cuppa tea, then move on to what is, but sometimes that strife comes in so subtly and before you know it, it has become a soul destroyer.
What do you do to pick up the pieces and move on? Love the dance but fear it? Afraid to step out of that safe place now and share your dance but your inner being knows that is what you are supposed to do.
Twice I found that place...
I nearly quit dancing in any form outside of personal dance all together.
But I was taught to pick yourself up by those perverbial "boot straps" and keep going if it is truly who you are and what you love. It isn't easy to do.
I opted to seek out more training. I sought out information. I looked within as I looked with out. I did that soul searching and found I belonged in the dance.
I was supposed to do what I am doing now....teaching, performing, mentoring, and guiding without judgement or cause...outside of producing the best and most knowledgable dancers I can.
Teaching what I love, in the manner it is supposed to be, as if being taught directly by the Master of the dance.
I strive from the strife to produce better dancers than I.
I welcome any and all that wander into my class to let them know they are home if they so choose it, and accept if it might not be for them.
I am the vessel that is pouring the information into the cups of those that wish to drink from it.
Dance if you dare to live.
Namaste'
Isn't that what you are supposed to feel or find when dancing? I think so.
So, why is it that so often there comes strife with the dance?
It saddens me when strife presents itself from something that is creative and potentially blissful.
It is called "others"...others that seek control, others that push their personal imagery or chaos onto the other dancers without exception, it is poor instruction, it is a long list of life and the subjectivity of each person involved. Granted if any of these reasons cause the dance to not be your cuppa tea, then move on to what is, but sometimes that strife comes in so subtly and before you know it, it has become a soul destroyer.
What do you do to pick up the pieces and move on? Love the dance but fear it? Afraid to step out of that safe place now and share your dance but your inner being knows that is what you are supposed to do.
Twice I found that place...
I nearly quit dancing in any form outside of personal dance all together.
But I was taught to pick yourself up by those perverbial "boot straps" and keep going if it is truly who you are and what you love. It isn't easy to do.
I opted to seek out more training. I sought out information. I looked within as I looked with out. I did that soul searching and found I belonged in the dance.
I was supposed to do what I am doing now....teaching, performing, mentoring, and guiding without judgement or cause...outside of producing the best and most knowledgable dancers I can.
Teaching what I love, in the manner it is supposed to be, as if being taught directly by the Master of the dance.
I strive from the strife to produce better dancers than I.
I welcome any and all that wander into my class to let them know they are home if they so choose it, and accept if it might not be for them.
I am the vessel that is pouring the information into the cups of those that wish to drink from it.
Dance if you dare to live.
Namaste'
Friday, February 25, 2011
Pride...
I take pride in this dance called ATS and I am constantly astonished at how it is used in a manner to promote ones self ONLY.
I am about the team work, the community of the dance, the sharing of joy, but I see others attach alterior motives. I truly love this dance and what it represents. I defend it and will beg to differ when a spin is being placed on it that doesn't exist or shouldn't be there.
It was created and it continues to have ebb and flow but it is what it is...nothing more.
It is not Victorian Gothic, it is not Circus arts, it is not authentic to any specific region, it is not a lot of things that are being thrown out there and are attaching the label ATS.
It is also not a dance that can be taught by people that have only been doing this dance a year. Sure maybe the basics but to truly understand the dance it takes time, it takes growth, it takes experience.
I could have started teaching this dance about 7-8 yrs ago, but did I think I was qualified to do so...hell no!
I am technically minded in dance forms, I have taught lots of things over my lifetime, but did I REALLY know what this dance was about back then...HELL NO!
Not to the depth and bredth that I do now...and I am so glad I waited. I have MORE to offer, I have lots of experience to share and help guide people in a much more compassionate way, or challenging way, or whatever manner they need it.
I have experiences with all sorts of versions of Tribal so I see where people are "at" and where they need to go in order to find the ATS way of posture or movement. Did I "know" that then...HELL NO...even if my only learning was straight up ATS only....I would NEVER have presumed to have the knowledge to teach it to someone else with any authority.
To see what I see, and am saddened at the level of self-proclaimed ability to teach this dance with dancers that are so new to it, especially when their own skill level might not even grant them a position in a student troupe with me.
Am I too hard??? Do I care too much??? Do I put too much value on the dance and technique????
I don't think so...but maybe others do...well apparently so cause this is exactly what others are doing and promoting.
I am sad (and slightly pissed), but I hold true to my own personal values and beliefs and will produce the best dancers I can within the dancer's abilities. I won't pet them and cajol them in a manner that elevates their egos where they have no business being...however, I will strive to the best of my ability to help them actually get to where they want to be...egos included. ;)*
I have pride in what I do both in performing and teaching, instilling the best in the dancers that I possibily can!!!
Am I proud? Sure of what my students are stepping up to do...I couldn't be more proud of them.
But am I prideful....no - for the students and my own faults keep me humble for I am human and make errors.
But I won't mislead anyone either. I just can't do that disservice to another person...period.
I am about the team work, the community of the dance, the sharing of joy, but I see others attach alterior motives. I truly love this dance and what it represents. I defend it and will beg to differ when a spin is being placed on it that doesn't exist or shouldn't be there.
It was created and it continues to have ebb and flow but it is what it is...nothing more.
It is not Victorian Gothic, it is not Circus arts, it is not authentic to any specific region, it is not a lot of things that are being thrown out there and are attaching the label ATS.
It is also not a dance that can be taught by people that have only been doing this dance a year. Sure maybe the basics but to truly understand the dance it takes time, it takes growth, it takes experience.
I could have started teaching this dance about 7-8 yrs ago, but did I think I was qualified to do so...hell no!
I am technically minded in dance forms, I have taught lots of things over my lifetime, but did I REALLY know what this dance was about back then...HELL NO!
Not to the depth and bredth that I do now...and I am so glad I waited. I have MORE to offer, I have lots of experience to share and help guide people in a much more compassionate way, or challenging way, or whatever manner they need it.
I have experiences with all sorts of versions of Tribal so I see where people are "at" and where they need to go in order to find the ATS way of posture or movement. Did I "know" that then...HELL NO...even if my only learning was straight up ATS only....I would NEVER have presumed to have the knowledge to teach it to someone else with any authority.
To see what I see, and am saddened at the level of self-proclaimed ability to teach this dance with dancers that are so new to it, especially when their own skill level might not even grant them a position in a student troupe with me.
Am I too hard??? Do I care too much??? Do I put too much value on the dance and technique????
I don't think so...but maybe others do...well apparently so cause this is exactly what others are doing and promoting.
I am sad (and slightly pissed), but I hold true to my own personal values and beliefs and will produce the best dancers I can within the dancer's abilities. I won't pet them and cajol them in a manner that elevates their egos where they have no business being...however, I will strive to the best of my ability to help them actually get to where they want to be...egos included. ;)*
I have pride in what I do both in performing and teaching, instilling the best in the dancers that I possibily can!!!
Am I proud? Sure of what my students are stepping up to do...I couldn't be more proud of them.
But am I prideful....no - for the students and my own faults keep me humble for I am human and make errors.
But I won't mislead anyone either. I just can't do that disservice to another person...period.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
A New Year...
Welcome 2011:::...
I am looking forward to what this year hopes to bring in the world of dance for me and my students.
Last year ended with a bang with the students dancing at Alauda. What an awesome event and venue for students to stretch there wings. It was so fun to have 9 of us up on stage dancing from all the student levels and everyone was so wonderful in giving it a try in the spot they were best suited for in the performance.
On a personal note, switching up to only one dance in the performance for me was a good thing - firstly, to help show case the students; secondly, falling on my knees just an hour before hand made it even better that it was only one song for me. Made it nice on another note for me to be able to see what was going on from the chorus from the "teachers point of view"...and wow, what I saw from the back, looked far different from the front, while there were hiccups as expected, I was quite pleased. :)
I see lots of potential in my students and I have lots of things in the works to help them amp up their game even more. I am just trying to put all the pieces together to formalize some stuff for them. :D
The new series started with some fresh new faces that had never done belly dance or had tried ATS, so this is exciting to be able to share what I love with fresh hearts too.
So in the world of dance for me....I have my passion, I have my escape, and I have WONDERFUL students/dancers that are learning what I love and doing so beautifully...I am a proud Tribal Momma. They ROCK!!!
Along with the students abilities and commitments...I want to acknowledge their family members/partners that have been so encouraging and supportive of them in their dance venture. I cannot THANK them enough either and they need to be acknowledged for their part in this adventure!!!! You Rock Too!
I am looking forward to what this year hopes to bring in the world of dance for me and my students.
Last year ended with a bang with the students dancing at Alauda. What an awesome event and venue for students to stretch there wings. It was so fun to have 9 of us up on stage dancing from all the student levels and everyone was so wonderful in giving it a try in the spot they were best suited for in the performance.
On a personal note, switching up to only one dance in the performance for me was a good thing - firstly, to help show case the students; secondly, falling on my knees just an hour before hand made it even better that it was only one song for me. Made it nice on another note for me to be able to see what was going on from the chorus from the "teachers point of view"...and wow, what I saw from the back, looked far different from the front, while there were hiccups as expected, I was quite pleased. :)
I see lots of potential in my students and I have lots of things in the works to help them amp up their game even more. I am just trying to put all the pieces together to formalize some stuff for them. :D
The new series started with some fresh new faces that had never done belly dance or had tried ATS, so this is exciting to be able to share what I love with fresh hearts too.
So in the world of dance for me....I have my passion, I have my escape, and I have WONDERFUL students/dancers that are learning what I love and doing so beautifully...I am a proud Tribal Momma. They ROCK!!!
Along with the students abilities and commitments...I want to acknowledge their family members/partners that have been so encouraging and supportive of them in their dance venture. I cannot THANK them enough either and they need to be acknowledged for their part in this adventure!!!! You Rock Too!
Monday, November 15, 2010
'tis the season...
to be jolly...
I think so. Well the dance season is a jolly time for me.
I am thrilled at the progression of my students, their commitment, and desires. Gads, I just sound like a proud "momma" but I am. :)
This was week two of all the Levels new series. It was a delight to see all the new and returning faces with the added diversity to my students. Niiiice!!!!
Plus, a new experience for the babies was dancing with live musicians. Fortunately, these musicians are excellent in working with dancers especially newbies. They lead the way nicely and responded to my cue when needed...and the student dancers were none the wiser on what happened, they were just dancing having a good time. What a great experience in all!!!
I couldn't have been more pleased.
I do have to say having someone dis'd my male dancer for being a dancer, as I later found out, did upset me. People are so ignorant and I am guessing "threatened" by this??? I don't know but it was uncalled for and rude.
I also found out my dancer heard this comment and it affected him deeply. This made me sad, but he understands that he is a unique member to this dance community and people especially other men can be confused and "threatened" by men who like to dance especially belly dance. Plus, having the misconception that all male dancers are gay...WRONG!!!
Anyway, I goat trailed a bit, I couldn't be more proud of all my dancers, they are the true spirit of the dance and they love to share it too!!!!
Namaste'
I think so. Well the dance season is a jolly time for me.
I am thrilled at the progression of my students, their commitment, and desires. Gads, I just sound like a proud "momma" but I am. :)
This was week two of all the Levels new series. It was a delight to see all the new and returning faces with the added diversity to my students. Niiiice!!!!
Plus, a new experience for the babies was dancing with live musicians. Fortunately, these musicians are excellent in working with dancers especially newbies. They lead the way nicely and responded to my cue when needed...and the student dancers were none the wiser on what happened, they were just dancing having a good time. What a great experience in all!!!
I couldn't have been more pleased.
I do have to say having someone dis'd my male dancer for being a dancer, as I later found out, did upset me. People are so ignorant and I am guessing "threatened" by this??? I don't know but it was uncalled for and rude.
I also found out my dancer heard this comment and it affected him deeply. This made me sad, but he understands that he is a unique member to this dance community and people especially other men can be confused and "threatened" by men who like to dance especially belly dance. Plus, having the misconception that all male dancers are gay...WRONG!!!
Anyway, I goat trailed a bit, I couldn't be more proud of all my dancers, they are the true spirit of the dance and they love to share it too!!!!
Namaste'
Monday, October 11, 2010
More growth and direction coming down the primrose path...
Actually it is coming down the dancing path of some hard knocks and frustrations and brain overload, but the end result always makes the trip worth it.
I couldn't be more excited on various different levels for the start of the Level 3 classes in my Sister Studioship...I just am now starting to feel like the teacher I know I am. I have felt challenged all along the way in myself with teaching this dance and trying to show the joy that comes from it but also the joy I personally get from it. Now, I am "feeling" like I am starting to truly see the results of it from people sharing the same joys. New challenges, new movements, new everything but coming from a more grounded dance form is making it fun for me and that good kind of challenge for me and hopefully positive growths for my students.
We are all synching up, but in a manner that is non-restrictive. Both in dancing in general with whomever you wish to dance, and dancing with ucanto.
I am a firm believer in having fun while we dance, but I want to have the best dancing we can have too. Not just dancing around the "Bonfire" feel all the time when we are supposed to be in performance mode. However, with that - I work hard to be inclusive of all levels of dancers in that performance. Beginners need that chance to shine too and the more seasoned get to stretch those wings a bit more.
I don't ever put anyone outside their actual level of skill, even if they think they aren't "worthy" yet. But I also am currently allowing students to stretch their capabilities if they so chose. It is made perfectly clear the venues we are performing at currently are relaxed, pressure free enviroments for the dance. But, when it comes time for more "finessed" performances, bigger audiences, more critical eyes that are paying for what they are getting, the expectation for that level of performance will to rise to the level. I am seeing that drive in my students to rise to that level...I couldn't be more pleased by that drive.
The first class in Level 3 got the students moving in ways they hadn't fully yet, but I started them with a "familiar" that might have presented itself to them in other dance classes, and they all took to it like ducks to water. But I did team a lesser known movement to learn too...so a taste test of each to get their feet wet in this water pond. ;)
So the first step down this path of creativity and more expression has been taken. I can't wait to see how the students take it down their own personal paths yet we all share in the creativity together with one another. The results may well be ..... to infinity and beyond.
Happy place. :)
I couldn't be more excited on various different levels for the start of the Level 3 classes in my Sister Studioship...I just am now starting to feel like the teacher I know I am. I have felt challenged all along the way in myself with teaching this dance and trying to show the joy that comes from it but also the joy I personally get from it. Now, I am "feeling" like I am starting to truly see the results of it from people sharing the same joys. New challenges, new movements, new everything but coming from a more grounded dance form is making it fun for me and that good kind of challenge for me and hopefully positive growths for my students.
We are all synching up, but in a manner that is non-restrictive. Both in dancing in general with whomever you wish to dance, and dancing with ucanto.
I am a firm believer in having fun while we dance, but I want to have the best dancing we can have too. Not just dancing around the "Bonfire" feel all the time when we are supposed to be in performance mode. However, with that - I work hard to be inclusive of all levels of dancers in that performance. Beginners need that chance to shine too and the more seasoned get to stretch those wings a bit more.
I don't ever put anyone outside their actual level of skill, even if they think they aren't "worthy" yet. But I also am currently allowing students to stretch their capabilities if they so chose. It is made perfectly clear the venues we are performing at currently are relaxed, pressure free enviroments for the dance. But, when it comes time for more "finessed" performances, bigger audiences, more critical eyes that are paying for what they are getting, the expectation for that level of performance will to rise to the level. I am seeing that drive in my students to rise to that level...I couldn't be more pleased by that drive.
The first class in Level 3 got the students moving in ways they hadn't fully yet, but I started them with a "familiar" that might have presented itself to them in other dance classes, and they all took to it like ducks to water. But I did team a lesser known movement to learn too...so a taste test of each to get their feet wet in this water pond. ;)
So the first step down this path of creativity and more expression has been taken. I can't wait to see how the students take it down their own personal paths yet we all share in the creativity together with one another. The results may well be ..... to infinity and beyond.
Happy place. :)
Thursday, September 23, 2010
to ATS or not to ATS...what is the question?
A freedom in creativity was given to those that teach and perform ATS, specifically the FatChance format, but it drew lots of comments, emotions, and down right ridicule from many people (personally that isn't good). However, natural responses to something they didn't know was coming and ended up not understanding initially. Doesn't make it right...it just is.
For me, the response ended up being deeper felt emotion based on the time it came out than it might have been any other time. The combination of dealing with the last minute details of my Father's death and service were coming to a head when this hit.
It was more than I could possibly comprehend and deal with when I didn't understand what was going on. Of course, I am not unintelligent by any stretch of the imagination, but timing caused it to be more than I could digest quickly and move forward. So my emotions took over for a short period...which I had to allow myself to feel, even if it was based on confusion from my Father's stuff and the dance stuff combined.
Once I allowed myself to just feel whatever in the moment, it started to level itself out. I saw and understood the intent completely and welcomed it with open arms, but I have to say with some of the situations that are in my backyard - I will just have to wait and see what is going on with this new found freedom and how it is going to be interpreted and handled. I am looking and hoping for the best...
For me...
I am going to keep going the course with the dance I love and allow whatever innovative stuff that comes from it to come. Keeping true to the format, the aesthetic, and the intent that FatChance created to begin with...period.
I love this dance, I love the people that created it, and I love what it created as a whole.
There are always "bad apples" in the bunch, but hey...let them sort themselves out and let them make applesauce, while the rest pursues to be the apple pie or the apple crisp.
We are all apples in the bunch, we just get to be made up differently based on our intentions and personal desires which is a whole other recipe for expansion in our dance. :)
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Retro? or just never moved forward?
Ok, this is a random post about dance in general. Yes the focus is still more on belly dance but it has the overview of just dance and its progressions.
It is amazing to see the level of athletics in dance now, not that dance never was an athletic "sport" or art form, but the heights that are reached and are pushing the human boundaries go way beyond anything we imagined even as little as 20 years ago.
When I sit a watch shows like "So You Think You Can Dance" - I am astounded at the abilities and the drive that dancers have now. Now this is no way diminishes the likes of Baryshnikov and such. Those dancers actually were way before their time even, but because of those types of dancers we have dancers now that just seem to defy gravity, and physics as well as the constraints of their own body. They truly soar and excel. So, what does the future bring...omg.
I have to say there are times I wish that I had followed my dream more to the letter, but in all honesty...I did - just in a slightly different way, but I am digressing here.
The one thing that I am a bit bothered by in dance when it comes to belly dance is the feeling of getting lost in a time period. I love the fact that people experiment with costuming and try to bring the looks forward to the present and future, but with it comes a "genre" tag. (i.e. Gothic, ATS, Tribal Fusion, Baltic/Gypsy Fusion, etc.) But when traditional belly dance appears it looks like it just stalled in the past...somewhere around the 70s. In all honesty, it looks cheezy to me and that is sad when the dancing is quite good...the cheeziness of the retro costuming (when not meant to be Retro) overshadows the dance.
Now, that might seem an odd statement cause "traditional" means "such and such." But yet when I see what I interpret as traditional it doesn't look like it crawled out of the 70s, it has a more ethnic feel or geographic stamp to the period or region it comes from around the world. Traditional (to me) is not hot pink with maribou feathers and tons of glitter and sequins...while yes, some of that is what is considered performance attire even in the Middle East where ever it is an accepted dance form...it still looks like it never grew up into the present time.
I do like, as I stated, those trying to bring belly dance to a fashion forward arena but even in efforts to be edgy it can be over-the-top and honestly distracting. Or is that the point? The costume is to shine not the dance ability or lack of ability?
I love costuming, I love to have fun in costuming in whatever means the costume applies but the old word "edit" keeps coming to mind. Some times less really is more even in belly dance, but I am not meaning the amount of costuming coverage but more the aesthetic of the costume itself. :)
It is a hard thing to try to legitimize an art form, it is even harder when it looks like it is still in the 70s and people try to associate it with the overtly sexual dancing of striptease, especially when it has been brought into striptease as a theme. So, while belly dance is slowly gaining acceptance via ATS and some of the edgier genres that have emerged, it still has a stigma attached especially when viewed in what seems to be a time warp.
I don't have a solution, nor would I ever profess to have one. I just know it is difficult at times to see something you enjoy...dance, and a specific dance form that I participate in be caught in this time warp.
Something to consider and think about? I would hope so, but for now, I do what I enjoy doing. I support all other dancers in their efforts to express, even if they are in a time warp. ;)
Personal opinion only here and observation.
It is amazing to see the level of athletics in dance now, not that dance never was an athletic "sport" or art form, but the heights that are reached and are pushing the human boundaries go way beyond anything we imagined even as little as 20 years ago.
When I sit a watch shows like "So You Think You Can Dance" - I am astounded at the abilities and the drive that dancers have now. Now this is no way diminishes the likes of Baryshnikov and such. Those dancers actually were way before their time even, but because of those types of dancers we have dancers now that just seem to defy gravity, and physics as well as the constraints of their own body. They truly soar and excel. So, what does the future bring...omg.
I have to say there are times I wish that I had followed my dream more to the letter, but in all honesty...I did - just in a slightly different way, but I am digressing here.
The one thing that I am a bit bothered by in dance when it comes to belly dance is the feeling of getting lost in a time period. I love the fact that people experiment with costuming and try to bring the looks forward to the present and future, but with it comes a "genre" tag. (i.e. Gothic, ATS, Tribal Fusion, Baltic/Gypsy Fusion, etc.) But when traditional belly dance appears it looks like it just stalled in the past...somewhere around the 70s. In all honesty, it looks cheezy to me and that is sad when the dancing is quite good...the cheeziness of the retro costuming (when not meant to be Retro) overshadows the dance.
Now, that might seem an odd statement cause "traditional" means "such and such." But yet when I see what I interpret as traditional it doesn't look like it crawled out of the 70s, it has a more ethnic feel or geographic stamp to the period or region it comes from around the world. Traditional (to me) is not hot pink with maribou feathers and tons of glitter and sequins...while yes, some of that is what is considered performance attire even in the Middle East where ever it is an accepted dance form...it still looks like it never grew up into the present time.
I do like, as I stated, those trying to bring belly dance to a fashion forward arena but even in efforts to be edgy it can be over-the-top and honestly distracting. Or is that the point? The costume is to shine not the dance ability or lack of ability?
I love costuming, I love to have fun in costuming in whatever means the costume applies but the old word "edit" keeps coming to mind. Some times less really is more even in belly dance, but I am not meaning the amount of costuming coverage but more the aesthetic of the costume itself. :)
It is a hard thing to try to legitimize an art form, it is even harder when it looks like it is still in the 70s and people try to associate it with the overtly sexual dancing of striptease, especially when it has been brought into striptease as a theme. So, while belly dance is slowly gaining acceptance via ATS and some of the edgier genres that have emerged, it still has a stigma attached especially when viewed in what seems to be a time warp.
I don't have a solution, nor would I ever profess to have one. I just know it is difficult at times to see something you enjoy...dance, and a specific dance form that I participate in be caught in this time warp.
Something to consider and think about? I would hope so, but for now, I do what I enjoy doing. I support all other dancers in their efforts to express, even if they are in a time warp. ;)
Personal opinion only here and observation.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Focus, focus, focus
Focus is the theme, technique is the challenge, and fun is the desired result.
After having so many things happening lately for the students, with a performance at MedFest, a performance at Tribal Regale, a performance at Pearls of the East, and a their first performance at Cues & Tattoos this year. It is time for the lessons learned via these performances to be put into perspective.
Now, it is understood what happens in ATS, why is it structured the way it is, and why it is important to be clear in cues. Fun is a result of the connections of those dancing but these other things now have more meaning and importance in the dance now.
I feel like I have taken these "new to ATS" baby dancers a long way in a short time, but now it is my responsibility to refine them, make them better at what they have come to love. To represent not only themselves, but to be able to represent what ATS means in its finest forms. And of course the ultimate to properly represent the lady(s) that started this whole thing. That is my most important task at hand to be the guide along the way to get where the students are going and do it properly and proudly.
I am totally thrilled at the level of commitment I have come to see from the students that have come, gone, and come back into the class. Yes, the come and go thing is the reality check that "life" happens. :)
To see not only the time and effort to get to my class commitment but the level of commitment in the class.
So, babbling aside, what does this mean?
Focus was not an issue but concentration in the specifics within a movement is going to be tweaked, torqued, and adjusted. The techiques will be drilled and refined to their finest.
Funny all these rather complex thoughts, formulations, configurations, and procedures that have been finding their course in my head and in actions in the class seemed to have disappeared when putting "pen to paper" in sharing what I have in mind. Complexities traverse the brain but sharing them seemed to have found the simplest form.
I guess any profoundness that I might have shared will have to wait for now...for the brain has halted all exiting thoughts currently.
The only thing I know this whole process is going to not only guide my students but will refine my own abilities even more. Win/win.
After having so many things happening lately for the students, with a performance at MedFest, a performance at Tribal Regale, a performance at Pearls of the East, and a their first performance at Cues & Tattoos this year. It is time for the lessons learned via these performances to be put into perspective.
Now, it is understood what happens in ATS, why is it structured the way it is, and why it is important to be clear in cues. Fun is a result of the connections of those dancing but these other things now have more meaning and importance in the dance now.
I feel like I have taken these "new to ATS" baby dancers a long way in a short time, but now it is my responsibility to refine them, make them better at what they have come to love. To represent not only themselves, but to be able to represent what ATS means in its finest forms. And of course the ultimate to properly represent the lady(s) that started this whole thing. That is my most important task at hand to be the guide along the way to get where the students are going and do it properly and proudly.
I am totally thrilled at the level of commitment I have come to see from the students that have come, gone, and come back into the class. Yes, the come and go thing is the reality check that "life" happens. :)
To see not only the time and effort to get to my class commitment but the level of commitment in the class.
So, babbling aside, what does this mean?
Focus was not an issue but concentration in the specifics within a movement is going to be tweaked, torqued, and adjusted. The techiques will be drilled and refined to their finest.
Funny all these rather complex thoughts, formulations, configurations, and procedures that have been finding their course in my head and in actions in the class seemed to have disappeared when putting "pen to paper" in sharing what I have in mind. Complexities traverse the brain but sharing them seemed to have found the simplest form.
I guess any profoundness that I might have shared will have to wait for now...for the brain has halted all exiting thoughts currently.
The only thing I know this whole process is going to not only guide my students but will refine my own abilities even more. Win/win.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Be careful what you ask for....
one of my students, who just is beyond ecstatic about dancing, asked after MedFest when the next time would be they could dance....well...TADA...
Dancing came up for a local Tribal Hafla and the potential to send in info for another performance and then this weekend low and behold Sunday ended up with a local hafla performance for my students and rumor through last night another inquiry was made to perform.
This last one was sort of funny since it all started with just looking to the future. Didn't know the future was only a day away (Annie moment there)...
Well, the scramble to find students available and wanting to dance started. Not really a toughy on who would "want" to dance, just if they were available to do so. Well, long and short, we got the dancers pulled together and enough of them that I opted to have them fly solo.
Yes, this was the first time Tribal Mumma, as I have been deemed now, did not dance with the baby chickadees....they got to fly for the first time truly on their own. It was exciting to see from my perspective and cute to see their reactions when they saw I was not dressed to dance. :)
Now, I didn't set them up to freak them out, when you don't know who is going to be available, I kept all my options open. So, I might have danced that night too. But when it came together, I knew they could handle it and would do better if they didn't know too much in advance allowing them to stew on it and cause them more anxiety than necessary.
I could so easily do a play by play on the performance on how wonderful they did on such, etc. But no matter what did or didn't happen in the performance, they smiled, they took the challenge with stride, and they had a blast themselves. While I got to watch it and take pictures of their first flight.
ucanto bellydance truly is "you can too" bellydance no matter what comes their way....I love it!
and and and...I love the announcers struggle to say "ucanto" which is pronounced "you can too". They usually come up with an exotic sounding name sounding like "oocahnto"...makes me giggle ESPECIALLY when they realize how simple the name really is....so much fun and makes it "stick" in the brain...YAY!
Anyway...be careful of what you ask for cause it just might happen. ;)
Let's Dance!
Dancing came up for a local Tribal Hafla and the potential to send in info for another performance and then this weekend low and behold Sunday ended up with a local hafla performance for my students and rumor through last night another inquiry was made to perform.
This last one was sort of funny since it all started with just looking to the future. Didn't know the future was only a day away (Annie moment there)...
Well, the scramble to find students available and wanting to dance started. Not really a toughy on who would "want" to dance, just if they were available to do so. Well, long and short, we got the dancers pulled together and enough of them that I opted to have them fly solo.
Yes, this was the first time Tribal Mumma, as I have been deemed now, did not dance with the baby chickadees....they got to fly for the first time truly on their own. It was exciting to see from my perspective and cute to see their reactions when they saw I was not dressed to dance. :)
Now, I didn't set them up to freak them out, when you don't know who is going to be available, I kept all my options open. So, I might have danced that night too. But when it came together, I knew they could handle it and would do better if they didn't know too much in advance allowing them to stew on it and cause them more anxiety than necessary.
I could so easily do a play by play on the performance on how wonderful they did on such, etc. But no matter what did or didn't happen in the performance, they smiled, they took the challenge with stride, and they had a blast themselves. While I got to watch it and take pictures of their first flight.
ucanto bellydance truly is "you can too" bellydance no matter what comes their way....I love it!
and and and...I love the announcers struggle to say "ucanto" which is pronounced "you can too". They usually come up with an exotic sounding name sounding like "oocahnto"...makes me giggle ESPECIALLY when they realize how simple the name really is....so much fun and makes it "stick" in the brain...YAY!
Anyway...be careful of what you ask for cause it just might happen. ;)
Let's Dance!
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
MedFest Pride
The Biggie in PNW Bellydance has come and gone. We managed to survive it and relish in it.
ucanto students brought their game and learned a lot along the way. I couldn't be more proud.
The process was a long arduous one as any learning/teaching thing is to get from point A to point B. But even in the process, it was a breeze because the students wanted it and did what it took to get to that point B. I couldn't be more proud.
Like anything, it wasn't perfect but that is what made it more perfect than ever. It was real, it was human infested, it was full of charm, wonder, and giggles with those occasional spots of panick in the eyes quickly overcome with more smiles and more dancing. I couldn't be more proud.
I hope to have pictures posted on my website soon and maybe a couple here, but I wanted to touch base to acknowledge the convergence of all the students from all areas throughout the state that came together to dance. Monroe, Sultan, Shoreline, Sequim, and technically Carnation...provided the true meaning of coming together to dance with one common dance language. ATS is a wonderful dance, I couldn't be more proud to be a part of it.
ucanto students brought their game and learned a lot along the way. I couldn't be more proud.
The process was a long arduous one as any learning/teaching thing is to get from point A to point B. But even in the process, it was a breeze because the students wanted it and did what it took to get to that point B. I couldn't be more proud.
Like anything, it wasn't perfect but that is what made it more perfect than ever. It was real, it was human infested, it was full of charm, wonder, and giggles with those occasional spots of panick in the eyes quickly overcome with more smiles and more dancing. I couldn't be more proud.
I hope to have pictures posted on my website soon and maybe a couple here, but I wanted to touch base to acknowledge the convergence of all the students from all areas throughout the state that came together to dance. Monroe, Sultan, Shoreline, Sequim, and technically Carnation...provided the true meaning of coming together to dance with one common dance language. ATS is a wonderful dance, I couldn't be more proud to be a part of it.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Time flies....
Today I can actually take a moment and a breath to look at what has been happening in the dancing world of mine.
Tribal Regale was a noted success regardless of how people felt on their own personal level. Having goals and high expectations is a grand and wonderful thing for that pushes us into improving all the time...however, you can't let it bog you down. It is about having fun and sharing the dance with others with like dance enjoyment.
The last dance class showed that spirit when presented with lots of smiles, silliness, genuine desire to improve but not at the expense of one's self can come SCREAMING out. I literally on a couple of occassions found myself with my jaw hanging open but with a smile helping hold it off the floor when watching the students try things...grow in their own personal dance.
If the world ended today...I have to say that day in dance and last night too....was enough to make me feel full in life. :)
What now comes is MedFest in W Seattle. ucanto can be otherwise known at the "convergance zone"....I love it. Dancers from Sequim, Olympia, Monroe, Shoreline, Seattle and the Eastside will all "converge" to dance on Sunday at 3:28pm on the Inside Stage. I couldn't be more thrilled and a touch overwhelmed by it. Not so overwhelmed that I can keep it on track and focused, but overwhelmed enough at the enthusiasm and drive these people have towards ATS Belly Dance. A true representation of ATS and the common knowledge of this vocabulary allows us to dance together anytime, any place.
I probably sound like at advertisement or that I am full of bull with my accolades towards my students but I am not. I mean every word I say and type AND....they are the ones stepping it up for me to be able to brag on...so there.
Sincerely though, they are bringing in more self confidences and truly surprising me and themselves...what a nice combination of feelings to have occur.
On that note....I think I have shared enough at this moment, I am still processing and enjoying the feelings from our last class. :)
Tribal Regale was a noted success regardless of how people felt on their own personal level. Having goals and high expectations is a grand and wonderful thing for that pushes us into improving all the time...however, you can't let it bog you down. It is about having fun and sharing the dance with others with like dance enjoyment.
The last dance class showed that spirit when presented with lots of smiles, silliness, genuine desire to improve but not at the expense of one's self can come SCREAMING out. I literally on a couple of occassions found myself with my jaw hanging open but with a smile helping hold it off the floor when watching the students try things...grow in their own personal dance.
If the world ended today...I have to say that day in dance and last night too....was enough to make me feel full in life. :)
What now comes is MedFest in W Seattle. ucanto can be otherwise known at the "convergance zone"....I love it. Dancers from Sequim, Olympia, Monroe, Shoreline, Seattle and the Eastside will all "converge" to dance on Sunday at 3:28pm on the Inside Stage. I couldn't be more thrilled and a touch overwhelmed by it. Not so overwhelmed that I can keep it on track and focused, but overwhelmed enough at the enthusiasm and drive these people have towards ATS Belly Dance. A true representation of ATS and the common knowledge of this vocabulary allows us to dance together anytime, any place.
I probably sound like at advertisement or that I am full of bull with my accolades towards my students but I am not. I mean every word I say and type AND....they are the ones stepping it up for me to be able to brag on...so there.
Sincerely though, they are bringing in more self confidences and truly surprising me and themselves...what a nice combination of feelings to have occur.
On that note....I think I have shared enough at this moment, I am still processing and enjoying the feelings from our last class. :)
Monday, June 14, 2010
wow...
I couldn't ask for more tolerant and supportive people in my life. This weekend proved to me that I sometimes take on maybe more than I should. But it is what it is.
Dance is not among the things on the list but I have to say it suffered in the realm of communication this weekend. I have been so overwhelmed with life that some of the little things (or not really so little) seem to slip through the cracks. I absolutely abhor that when it happens. It makes me feel lame and not effective.
I understand life happens but I try to not let things affect other things in life, but it sometimes happens despite our efforts.
Just a quick thought shared here....
I am excited about the coming weekend dancing. I just want it to be fun, relaxing, and a positive experience for all. To show what this dance is really all about...just having fun (even in a performance situation).
Dance is not among the things on the list but I have to say it suffered in the realm of communication this weekend. I have been so overwhelmed with life that some of the little things (or not really so little) seem to slip through the cracks. I absolutely abhor that when it happens. It makes me feel lame and not effective.
I understand life happens but I try to not let things affect other things in life, but it sometimes happens despite our efforts.
Just a quick thought shared here....
I am excited about the coming weekend dancing. I just want it to be fun, relaxing, and a positive experience for all. To show what this dance is really all about...just having fun (even in a performance situation).
Friday, June 11, 2010
Dancing exploits?
I know I haven't been here in a bit, life has been throwing lots at me. Including on a positive note, some amping up from my students (all) and some of their own dance exploits (travels) that have caused them to want to give it more than the 100% they have been giving.
I couldn't be more pleased with the students I have and I am constantly amazed that they honestly do travel to get to my classes. I am honored and humbled at the same time. So, that of course already says something about their desires but now when things are coming up they are all over it. Wow...
In all honestly, I have literally been taking it day-to-day to see what people want, if they want it and such since our little niche in the world is pretty bellydance heavy. Not quite like California but I would put it a close, very close second. Which makes it interesting to say the least to see what is or isn't going to come of the students/dancers/professionals/enthusiasts and such here.
Lots has been discussed about saturation, "community," or the lack there of to ad nauseum. I am just literally taking it, like I said, from day-to-day, enjoying what that day does or doesn't bring and learning from it.
So, when yet another day passes, and the current students are giving me more than I expect or a new shiny face comes into classes and returns, I am truly amazed. Now don't get me wrong, it has nothing to do with my own abilities. In that I have confidences and abilities and I strive to better them constantly, but I am amazed at what people do show and bring to the table, as it were. It truly makes me smile both outwardly and inside, so when some ask how a teacher could have more fun than the students, here is one of the ways.
Til the next time.....
I couldn't be more pleased with the students I have and I am constantly amazed that they honestly do travel to get to my classes. I am honored and humbled at the same time. So, that of course already says something about their desires but now when things are coming up they are all over it. Wow...
In all honestly, I have literally been taking it day-to-day to see what people want, if they want it and such since our little niche in the world is pretty bellydance heavy. Not quite like California but I would put it a close, very close second. Which makes it interesting to say the least to see what is or isn't going to come of the students/dancers/professionals/enthusiasts and such here.
Lots has been discussed about saturation, "community," or the lack there of to ad nauseum. I am just literally taking it, like I said, from day-to-day, enjoying what that day does or doesn't bring and learning from it.
So, when yet another day passes, and the current students are giving me more than I expect or a new shiny face comes into classes and returns, I am truly amazed. Now don't get me wrong, it has nothing to do with my own abilities. In that I have confidences and abilities and I strive to better them constantly, but I am amazed at what people do show and bring to the table, as it were. It truly makes me smile both outwardly and inside, so when some ask how a teacher could have more fun than the students, here is one of the ways.
Til the next time.....
Monday, May 17, 2010
Catch up?
How can I put it all into words? The emotions and grounding that I have been lucky enough to start to feel over the last couple of months...not that there weren't and aren't still moments of WTF? but those are seemingly more spaced apart...finally. :) Okay, not trying to jinx myself just noting it.
From the time I went down to Breitenbush to dance and hike and do some self love/time to now, things have been just shifting slowly but definitely showing signs of shifting in a good way.
I am about the dance when it comes to my dance. I am about the joy that dancing with other people that love this dance too, and I am about teaching it to the best of my ability so people can dance this dance without hesitation and being full of joy themselves!!!
Breitenbush allowed me to reconnect with people that I haven't seen except on a cursory basis...that was wonderful. I got to experience nature and being by myself when I needed to do that while there. That was odd and wonderful at the same time, cause I have never seen that trail empty before other than me...but it was like it was supposed to be...just me. I got to see some of the beauty of this wonderful world without any other distractions outside of Mother Nature herself. I got to test myself and push myself. I was allowed to return safely to be a part of the human collective that was finding themselves in their own way too. I got to dance some more....all on my owns terms, which is a BIGGIE for me.
Especially still coming off the Cues & Tattoos weekend with my awesome students that brought their imperfect game but what was imperfect was PERFECTION in putting it out there - dancing and having fun!!!!! I still couldn't be more proud of that day!
Fast forward, other things are happening in the world of dance for others, new "presentations" that are not what was expected and it is unfortunate and a bit angering, but other things are coming that will offset that...yay! But I am here to do my thing and again be the best I can at what I do etc....yada yada yada ;)~
Then this weekend happened...omg, I can't express in words how good this felt and how many smiles from all the participants kept showing up - 35 year veterans to brand new people just gave themselves to me and seemed to have found a new form of expression they want to share too. Wow, the impact on me is beyond words, I just hope those smiles were just a hint of the impact on them.
Because of that my energies were up and maybe it rubbed off a bit on my students on Sunday cause wow, they even brought their best game thus far in class. I was seeing not only smiles and more confidences, I was seeing the "turning themselves over to the dance and the movements" and not thinking so hard so they got to "feel" it and go with it.
An amazing weekend in dance to be sure.
And then people wonder why I love this dance...it is because I feel whole and I love love love seeing others find the "love" too. wow.....
From the time I went down to Breitenbush to dance and hike and do some self love/time to now, things have been just shifting slowly but definitely showing signs of shifting in a good way.
I am about the dance when it comes to my dance. I am about the joy that dancing with other people that love this dance too, and I am about teaching it to the best of my ability so people can dance this dance without hesitation and being full of joy themselves!!!
Breitenbush allowed me to reconnect with people that I haven't seen except on a cursory basis...that was wonderful. I got to experience nature and being by myself when I needed to do that while there. That was odd and wonderful at the same time, cause I have never seen that trail empty before other than me...but it was like it was supposed to be...just me. I got to see some of the beauty of this wonderful world without any other distractions outside of Mother Nature herself. I got to test myself and push myself. I was allowed to return safely to be a part of the human collective that was finding themselves in their own way too. I got to dance some more....all on my owns terms, which is a BIGGIE for me.
Especially still coming off the Cues & Tattoos weekend with my awesome students that brought their imperfect game but what was imperfect was PERFECTION in putting it out there - dancing and having fun!!!!! I still couldn't be more proud of that day!
Fast forward, other things are happening in the world of dance for others, new "presentations" that are not what was expected and it is unfortunate and a bit angering, but other things are coming that will offset that...yay! But I am here to do my thing and again be the best I can at what I do etc....yada yada yada ;)~
Then this weekend happened...omg, I can't express in words how good this felt and how many smiles from all the participants kept showing up - 35 year veterans to brand new people just gave themselves to me and seemed to have found a new form of expression they want to share too. Wow, the impact on me is beyond words, I just hope those smiles were just a hint of the impact on them.
Because of that my energies were up and maybe it rubbed off a bit on my students on Sunday cause wow, they even brought their best game thus far in class. I was seeing not only smiles and more confidences, I was seeing the "turning themselves over to the dance and the movements" and not thinking so hard so they got to "feel" it and go with it.
An amazing weekend in dance to be sure.
And then people wonder why I love this dance...it is because I feel whole and I love love love seeing others find the "love" too. wow.....
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Not forgotten...
I just lost the entire post I was about to make...so later I will try it again...just sayin.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Lots to think about and practice :)
What a whirlwind of a weekend, it is still a bit of a blur but now I can actually "think" about what we did.
I cannot express adequately the amount of relaxation and fun I had while being down in Hood River country with Co-co (Colette) and Momma C (Carolena) for the Advanced and Floorwork Workshops.
Even though it was a 4 hour drive, going along with my bud in the car made it seem to speed by, even on the way back after the long day of dancing and pushing the perverbial physical envelope. Fran and I always seem to make it a nice road trip no matter where we head. :)
I had my eyes opened to a fews things...those details that sometimes slip through the crack when you are trying to absorb it all....things that made me go "oh that is how it is done." Instead of the fake it until you make it look kinda right movement. :) Now, I gots the skinny on some things. :)
Shapes, constant movement, presentation, presence, in the moment, skill levels, smiles, eye communication, body communication, personal body challenges, beauty of the dance - just a skimming of what this dance is about and how it is to look and function.
The variety of skills levels in these workshops provided all of us with new and exciting challenges:::...
For those times that the more seasoned dancers got the brief chance to dance together coming from a chorus that ebbed and flowed - it provided that glimpse of what we are aiming for in the dance. When this ebb and flow allowed it to get mixed up in skill levels it provided yet another wonderful challenge in pushing seasoned dancers to be clear in their intentions and newer dancers to learn with clarity coming from the other dancer. Finally, when the flow put all newer dancers together, they got the chance to explore themselves and growth of each other in this process. It was wonderful to go through this experience, seeing the Advanced Workshop staying at the advanced level, and the learning and growth from all of us in such a wide span of ways.
It made my heart smile inside and needless to say my face showed it too. :) YAY!
The floorwork class was as expected since I had taken it at the Cues & Tattoos 2010 event just a few weeks prior, but I knew that I wanted to do it again because you can never have too much information. You just never know that some morsel or tidbit might emerge that didn't before that would become useful to myself. So, I will take classes many times even though I "know" how to do it...you can never have too much information. :)
So, the class met and exceeded my expectations this time. Because....
I for the second time ever allowed myself to try a drop. The first time was back in Seattle several years back and quite a few pounds heavier. It was a disaster in my head and I just resigned myself to the fact, drops were not for me. But for some reason this time, I thought ok, why not try. The first attempt caused my muscles to release and I literally dropped to the ground (yes, had spotters), but I tried again and wow, it was far different than I thought it would be and it was a successful drop. Not pretty, but I made it down properly. Hmmmmmm, now the possibilities are opening up again. But we will see...after all I am getting older and I haven't been doing this all along, but *wink* you never know cause I am pretty young at heart after all. :)
So, the trip was quite the adventure and success story, I am so glad to have gone.
I cannot express adequately the amount of relaxation and fun I had while being down in Hood River country with Co-co (Colette) and Momma C (Carolena) for the Advanced and Floorwork Workshops.
Even though it was a 4 hour drive, going along with my bud in the car made it seem to speed by, even on the way back after the long day of dancing and pushing the perverbial physical envelope. Fran and I always seem to make it a nice road trip no matter where we head. :)
I had my eyes opened to a fews things...those details that sometimes slip through the crack when you are trying to absorb it all....things that made me go "oh that is how it is done." Instead of the fake it until you make it look kinda right movement. :) Now, I gots the skinny on some things. :)
Shapes, constant movement, presentation, presence, in the moment, skill levels, smiles, eye communication, body communication, personal body challenges, beauty of the dance - just a skimming of what this dance is about and how it is to look and function.
The variety of skills levels in these workshops provided all of us with new and exciting challenges:::...
For those times that the more seasoned dancers got the brief chance to dance together coming from a chorus that ebbed and flowed - it provided that glimpse of what we are aiming for in the dance. When this ebb and flow allowed it to get mixed up in skill levels it provided yet another wonderful challenge in pushing seasoned dancers to be clear in their intentions and newer dancers to learn with clarity coming from the other dancer. Finally, when the flow put all newer dancers together, they got the chance to explore themselves and growth of each other in this process. It was wonderful to go through this experience, seeing the Advanced Workshop staying at the advanced level, and the learning and growth from all of us in such a wide span of ways.
It made my heart smile inside and needless to say my face showed it too. :) YAY!
The floorwork class was as expected since I had taken it at the Cues & Tattoos 2010 event just a few weeks prior, but I knew that I wanted to do it again because you can never have too much information. You just never know that some morsel or tidbit might emerge that didn't before that would become useful to myself. So, I will take classes many times even though I "know" how to do it...you can never have too much information. :)
So, the class met and exceeded my expectations this time. Because....
I for the second time ever allowed myself to try a drop. The first time was back in Seattle several years back and quite a few pounds heavier. It was a disaster in my head and I just resigned myself to the fact, drops were not for me. But for some reason this time, I thought ok, why not try. The first attempt caused my muscles to release and I literally dropped to the ground (yes, had spotters), but I tried again and wow, it was far different than I thought it would be and it was a successful drop. Not pretty, but I made it down properly. Hmmmmmm, now the possibilities are opening up again. But we will see...after all I am getting older and I haven't been doing this all along, but *wink* you never know cause I am pretty young at heart after all. :)
So, the trip was quite the adventure and success story, I am so glad to have gone.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Focus and Direction...
for the world of tribal bellydance is forever morphing, progressing, trancending itself beyond what the current imagination can see. As it is for the people that are a part of the changing, be it in their own personal realm or if they affect the bigger picture of the dance.
I know that I am a small fish in this pond but I have been around for a while watching many changes occuring and am witness to more to come. Hell, I have had numerous changes within my own dance but for me it came right back to what brought me into the dance in the first place.
I only want to provide the best in the dance form that I can because I love it so much. I, also, find it imperative to set a high standard to live by in order to share and pass on properly and how it is presented.
I won't settle, I want to do the best I can at whatever it is that I do in the dance, and I want my students to be able to walk away and know they got the correct information to be able to find the movement in themselves and enjoy it in whatever capacity that might well be.
So in that ... I find myself even a bit shy when it comes to going to the Mecca lands as it were, I want to do the best I can, learn the most I can, and come away with the approval that I am doing what I am supposed to be doing. Does that means I get intimidated? Not really, (maybe a bit) but honestly just really focused and I put so much personal pressure on myself that I tend to shut down with concentrating on what I am doing.
I don't want to screw it up.
So, when things go well, I am ecstatic beyond adequate expression in words, and sometimes I get just down right goofy sounding I am sure. But, it is sincere and honest, as well as heartfelt to my very core. When these things happen, then I know I am going and have gone in the right direction.
Now, is the time to build on what I am doing and trying to accomplish. Solidify all that encompasses this dance in myself and for my students. The growth and change just from 8ish months ago in my teaching is HUGE....significantly HUGE, and I see more changes coming for me in how I present this dance both in teaching and in performance.
I am excited honestly!
I know that I am a small fish in this pond but I have been around for a while watching many changes occuring and am witness to more to come. Hell, I have had numerous changes within my own dance but for me it came right back to what brought me into the dance in the first place.
I only want to provide the best in the dance form that I can because I love it so much. I, also, find it imperative to set a high standard to live by in order to share and pass on properly and how it is presented.
I won't settle, I want to do the best I can at whatever it is that I do in the dance, and I want my students to be able to walk away and know they got the correct information to be able to find the movement in themselves and enjoy it in whatever capacity that might well be.
So in that ... I find myself even a bit shy when it comes to going to the Mecca lands as it were, I want to do the best I can, learn the most I can, and come away with the approval that I am doing what I am supposed to be doing. Does that means I get intimidated? Not really, (maybe a bit) but honestly just really focused and I put so much personal pressure on myself that I tend to shut down with concentrating on what I am doing.
I don't want to screw it up.
So, when things go well, I am ecstatic beyond adequate expression in words, and sometimes I get just down right goofy sounding I am sure. But, it is sincere and honest, as well as heartfelt to my very core. When these things happen, then I know I am going and have gone in the right direction.
Now, is the time to build on what I am doing and trying to accomplish. Solidify all that encompasses this dance in myself and for my students. The growth and change just from 8ish months ago in my teaching is HUGE....significantly HUGE, and I see more changes coming for me in how I present this dance both in teaching and in performance.
I am excited honestly!
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