Previous Guests
AfrikatitudesAltered Modalities
Ananka Dance Company
Baba for Now
Bayanihan
Brisa Espanola
CalArts Academy Hip Hop
Celtic Motion Dance Ensemble
Cuadro Espanol
The Dancing Man
Dance Studio of Fresno
Daniel Ocampo
Danzantes de la Tierra
Drum Magic
Folklorico Moderno
Fresno State Salsa Club
HM Dance
Kathy Lane Band
KayDee
KeepDanzing!
Rico Estrada
Sabor Salseros
2nd Street Dancers
Stacy Cacal
University Dance Theater
Way of Dance
Tanjora
Afrikatitudes
Who I am:
Yao graduated from the School of Dance and Cultural Exchange (EDEC), in Abidjan. Mentored by the pioneer of African choreography Rose Marie Guiraud, he learned many tribal dances of
his native country, study performing and administrative art.
Yao performed with the Guirivoires dance company around the world and where he taught his African heritage. He was awarded a grant as fellow exchange student by the United States Information Agency and The Madame Walker Theater in Indianapolis, IN.
He worked with the Dayton Comp temporary dance company in Dayton, OH. and several other dance companies and choreographers in Africa, Germany and New York. Through his cultural sharing, Yao teaches techniques movement that are outside the mainstream, how dance impacts his culture, the role and function of dance in the social setting of his ethnic group. Yao’s dance encompass both non traditional and classical traditional dance. His teaching activities may have special appeal to the grade that studies Africa as a part of their social studies core. He delivers vibrant moves blended with grace and happiness. He recently lectured at the University of Santa Clara, Ca about “The impact of colonialism on traditional Ivorian dances”.
Yao is currently teaches African Dance at the California Arts Academy in Fresno, Ca.
Back to TopAltered Modalities
Who we are:
Debuting their first full length concert in October 2002, they have since been asked to perform as guest artists in numerous concerts, benefits, and showcases throughout the country.
They recently performed in the annual festival for Dancers Responding to AIDS in New York City and showcased in the L.A. Dance Invitational, a benefit for the Gay and Lesbian Center in
Los Angeles. In 2000, Martha Kelly-Fierro was awarded the Gold Leo award at the Jazz Dance World Congress for her choreography set on her company. Altered Modalities has performed at
the University of Arizona, Fullerton College, California Polytechnic University SLO, Fresno City College, and College of the Sequoias. Altered Modalities offers workshops to
their community and works with students who would otherwise not be able to experience dance.
The Director:
Martha Kelley-Fierro’s eclectic choreography stems from her background of well-versed dance training, including jazz, tap, ballet, and modern. She has assisted New York & L.A.
based choreographers Keith Clifton and Jeff Amsden and studied extensively with Mia Michaels, Artistic Director of R.A.W. and choreographer for Cirque de Soleil, and Jenn
Ballard, Artistic Director for Cedar Lake Dance Ensemble. Her choreography received recognition nationwide such as The Houston Metropolitan Dance Company.
Ananka Dance Company
Who we are:
ANANKA DANCE COMPANY specializes in traditional dances of Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia and Egypt, as well as modern Egyptian dance, improvisional cabaret style dance,
and group numbers...with direction and original choreography by Ely Buffin, whose peers have repeatedly voted her “ Most Versatile Dancer ”.
Always a crowd-pleaser, the company has performed in such diverse venues as dance festivals, renaissance fairs, for charitable organizations, concerts, and more. Whether dancing as a large troupe or as trios, duets or soloists, the ANANKA DANCE COMPANY provides colorful, exciting and original performances suitable for audiences of all ages.
Through the years, the ANANKA DANCE COMPANY has danced at events throughout California as well as holding their own dance events in the Fresno area. In 1997, the troupe was awarded the “Troupe of the year” at the Belly Dancer of the year pageant. That year also saw them dancing in the “Belly Dance of the Universe” competition...placing as second runner-up in the troupe category.
Deemed the perfect exercise for women of all sizes, ages, ethnic backgrounds (and hair color), traditional Belly Dance embraces the contribution of every individual’s life experiences...making all dancers unique in their interpretation of dance.
Back to TopBaba for Now
Who we are:
BABA FOR NOW is like a garage band for dancers, writers and performance artists. The eclectic troupe was founded by Andrea De Zubiria and Kara Bithell in 2002 to provide a forum
for non-traditional dancers interested in movement based art. Current members also include Hannah DeGroot and Aimee Morales. What can you expect from one of our shows? A simple
gesture, a gorgeous lift, maybe a free ride in an office chair, dance with giant rubber bands or old tire treads, a tear jerking story, or a recipe swap in 50s aprons.
Bayanihan of America
Who we are:
The Bayanihan Association of America is a not for profit community service association in the City of Fresno. Also known as Samahang Bayanihan, it was incorporated in August, 2003.
Our mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of the people in our community, especially those of Filipino descent and ethnicity, through civic, cultural and social
services for all ages. Through the production, presentation, exhibition, preservation and advancement of Filipino art, music, dance, and literature, Samahang Bayanihan aims to provide
for the general enlightenment and entertainment of the public.
Our more notable music and dance presentations include:
- Filipino Mahal Kita at the Tower Theater in 2004;
- Ang Galing ng Pilipino at the William Saroyan Theater
- Sponsoring the AUP Chorale in Concert at the Roosevelt School of the Performing Arts in 2005
Brisa Espanola
Who we are:
Brisa Espanola, or Spanish Breeze, is a Fresno based dance troop rooted in time honored tradition of classical Spanish dance choreographed by the late Amparo Sullivan. Similar to a
cool breeze, Brisa Espanola seeks to refresh well loved dance pieces with subtle changes that reflect the boundless spirit of its diverse dance and music artists. Founded by Anne Young
and Joyce Vasquez aka "Diana"
Anna has danced for most of her life and studied and performed with the flamenco artists Amparo, Eva Amador, Andrea La Canela, and Maria Benitez. She has been a dancer/ choreographer with the California Opera for the past six years and has been in several local productions, including 'Il Travatore' and 'Carmen.' She also helped form the flamenco dance group Brisa Espanola. Some of her latest projects are teaching Spanish dance at Cynthia Merrils.
Joyce began studies in Spanish dance in 1985 with La Clara and a few years later with Amparo. Eva Amador, from Cuadro Espanol, is her primary mentor. "Diana" has taken workshops with La Canela, Lourdes Rodriguez, Conte de Loyo, and Carmen Benitez. Diana is the founder and president of the newly formed Fresno Flamenco and Spanish Arts Society: A larger community of afficianados who share interests in dance, music, singing, writing, art, acting, and other creative endevors reflecting the culture of Spain.
Back to TopCalArts Academy-MADD Attack
Who we are:
J. spends his time thrilling audiences and students alike with his unique dance style and creative energy. J. trained for over ten years here in the Central Valley. He graduated from
EDGE Performing Art Center Scholarship program in Hollywood.
Professionally, he has toured with Circus Fantastico, directed and choreographed Dorey Sanchez. He was guest choreographer for the University of San Luis Obispo, winning an award for original choreography. He has appeared on television at the Miss California pageant and was recently in commercial for Gottshalks.
J. has taught jazz and hip hop for the Cynthia Merrill school and California Arts Academy off and on since 1998, and he loves the positive energy and enthusiasm in his students. He also coaches the Elite Gymnasts, who compete nationwide, at Central California Gymnastics Institute (CCGI) in Visalia.
Back to TopCeltic Motion Dance Ensemble
Who we are:
Celtic Motion Dance Company was founded in 1996, and performs regularly at festivals, community events and schools all over the Central Valley. The company performs traditional
and contemporary dances from Ireland, Scotland, and England.
Julie Anne Keller:
Ms. Keller is the owner and director of California Arts Academy, home of the Severance Fresno Ballet School, Cynthia Merrill School of Performing Arts, and Artists’ Repertory Theater.
In addition to Celtic Motion, she also directs Retroactive Ballroom and Vintage Dance Team and summer Shakespeare plays. She teaches ballet, jazz, tap, drama, ballroom, historic and
folk dance.
Cuadro Espanol
Who we are:
Eva Amador (Artistic Director/ Dance Teacher/Choreographer), Reina Contreras, and Ricardo Ramirez (Dance Teacher/Choreographer), are the talented dancers who make Cuadro Español.
Cuadro Español has been pleasing audiences with their excellent performances of the Spanish dance throughout California. They present a colorful, precise and creative series of dances such as the fiery flamenco, joyful regional, and balletic and aristocratic classical dances. Their credits range from educational television films, teaching videos, operas, ballets, to concerts throughout the state.
All the dancers are natives of Fresno. Cuadro Español has been dancing for over 20 years together and has developed a strong and technical assurance.
Back to TopThe Dancing Man
Who I am:
JohnnieRay is the creator “Freestyle Swing” and “Bal Swing”. He is a certified dance instructor and has brought his 20 plus years of experience to classes in the Clovis and Fresno
adult education programs. He currently offers private classes in many locations in both cities. His classes are filled with music of all genres, laughter and the contagious spirit
of the love of dance!
JohnnieRay is also a sought-after DJ, often combining dance lessons with the event. He has brought life to corporate parties, The Fresno Women’s Network Trade Show, the Taste of Clovis – a benefit for the Clovis Botanical Gardens, Father/Daughter dance for Bullard Talent and Girl Scout Events. He is a dancing/entertaining DJ who gets the party started and keeps people dancing all night. He also choreographs bride and groom first dances and provides wedding rehearsal parties with music and dance instruction if requested.
Back to TopDance Studio of Fresno
Who we are:
Sue Sampson-Dalena has a passion for dance. As the Owner/Artistic Director of The Dance Studio of Fresno and Co-Owner of The Dance Studio 2, she has created two of the most
successful dance studios in California and especially from the Central Valley.
The Dance Studio of Fresno offers 200 dance classes each week with staffing of 45 employees, Dance styles include Ballet/Pointe, Jazz, Progressions, Tap, HipHop, Breakdance, Clogging, Gymnastics, Baton, Pep/Cheer, and Children’s Combination classes
In addition to regular dance classes, students at The Dance Studio of Fresno are presented with unique Master Class opportunities. Sue enjoys friendships with numerous well known dancers and choreographers who bring their talent to the Studio. The list of recent Master Teachers includes Mia Michaels, Marguerite Derricks, Dee Caspary, Barry Youngblood, Brian Friedman, Tyce DiOrio, Chebar Williams, Gina Starbuck, Ted Levy, Mark Goodman, and others. Also, the Studio is one of only 3 locations hosting The Annual Chebar Williams CIA Method Summer Intensive.
In the classroom, Sue’s passion for dance is contagious. She and her teachers strive to instill The Love of Dance in all of their students, believing a child should pursue dance because of the delight felt in the expression of movement and the satisfaction of learning to do something well.
Sue encourages all dancers to respect and explore other dance disciplines and cultural movement. As a result, serious dancers at The Dance Studio have been invited to participate in exhibitions and workshops in Europe with a continued pursuit of classical training.
Back to TopDaniel Ocampo
Who I am:
The first classical guitarist in the history of Roosevelt High to play with the String Quartet, where he played Antonio Vivaldi’s 1st movement of Concerto for Lute in D Major,
Allegro Guisto. He has taken master classes with Canada’s youngest guitar virtuoso, Dr. Steven Thachuk; Elliot Fisk; Martha Masters; Nicholous Galousses; Hubert Kappel; Ron
Borczon; Michael Chapdelaine; Mark Teicholz; Richard Marlo; and internationally recognized Juan Serrano and Dr. Corey Whitehead.
Locally, he opened for the flamenco group Puro Flamenco at the Tower Theater, played with the flamenco group Brisa Espanola and performed at the University Presbyterian Church. He currently studies, teaches, and performs flamenco guitar.
Daniel attends Fresno State University; winning full scholarship for the Summer Arts Festival in 2004 and 2006. In 2007, he received scholarships to study classical guitar in Florence, Italy and flamenco accompaniment and the flamenco theory in the renowned Festival de Cordoba in Spain, studying with flamenco guitarists, Manolo Franco, Jose Antonio Rodriguez, the elite pedagogue, Manolo San lucar. In July 2007, Daniel went to Sanlucar de Barrameda, Spain to study the XVI Curso Flamenco with one of flamenco’sgreatest guitarist, Gerardo Nunez.
Back to TopDanzantes de la Tierra
Who we are:
A Mexican "Folklorico" Dance group was formed in May of 2004 by a group of local dancers who branched out to make a dream of having there own dance troupe come true.
They perform dances that are representative of the different states in Mexico. Each state has their own style of dress, music and dance. Those traditions are upheld with the costumes that are worn, the steps & styling, the movements that are made with the flowing skirts and the songs that they dance to.
They have performed for schools in the Central Valley for Mexican Independence Day, Cinco de Mayo festivals, conferences, birthday's, anniversaries, weddings and can be contacted for local shows.
Back to TopDJ Dean Zimmermann
Who we are:
An accomplished dancer in his own rights, DJ Dean has been a staple in almost every dance scene in Fresno. His dynamic and keen sense of understanding of what his clients want from
their events has made him an indispensable part of any celebration.
He is a professional and quite a magician in making any event a special one. Dependable, reliable and a friend to the salsa community, he continues to spin music to a large following of people who loves to dance and celebrate life. Always ready to lend a helping hand, he has made a huge impression on Cris Howell, director of the Central Valley Dance Conference.
‘Dean has been a reliable supporter of what I do and I encourage you to call him for your DeeJay needs. He is a good friend of mine and I can guarantee that the occasion you have been planning will become magical as he spins music, hosts and create an environment that is unforgettable for your guests and family.’
Back to TopDrum Magic
Who we are:
Drumagic is a Fresno based drum group who believe in the importance of working with our youth. Our mission is to reseed the rich culture of Africa in the youth of America. We encourage youth to participate and explore with Drumming, Singing and Dancing while instilling the values and principles of community living.
The Drumagic dancers are a young dance troupe from Los Angeles composed of Preteens and Teenagers. They believe that Drumming, Singing and Dancing is not only fun but a way to celebrate life. They perform a fusion of Hip Hop and African Dance
Back to TopFolklorico Moderno
Who we are:
Our names are Yolanda and Dannelle Ramirez, Rodriquez, mother and daughter. Together we are ‘Folklorico Moderno’. We dance to traditional songs of Mexico, as well asa regional dances.
We also dance to less commonly known songs, in which we blend Spanish and Mexican styles. Our renditions of ‘La Malaguena’ and ‘Buscar La Muerte’ are two examples of this fusion.
Folklorico Moderno was formed three years ago. With this group, we hope to carry on a tradition that has enriched our culture for generations. Our Mexican, Spanish, American heritage has helped to make up our style. Our wish is also to honor past family members, who had a love of their culture, music, song and dance.
Folklorico Moderno is currently a member of the Fresno Flamenco Spanish Arts Society (FFSAS). Recently, we performed at the Milla Vineyard. We had the honor of presenting alongside distinguished performers such as Cuadro Espanol, Joyce Vasquez, Anne Young, Jasmine Ayala and several other dynamic dancers.
Through music, dance and song, it is our endeavor to continue to celebrate all of who we are.
Back to TopFresno State Salsa Club
Who we are:
The Fresno State Salseros Dance Team is an arts performance troupe with spectacular and inspiring performances. The team is being recognized around the community, performing in
various events-César Chavez, the Raiders Road Show, and Starline Salsa Club Concerts, Vintage Days and the Central Valley Dance Conference.
The Fresno State Salseros dance Team hopes to grow and work on projects to spread the love of salsa music and dance. The Fresno State Salseros a whole new dance troupe filled with culture diversity and unity through salsa.
Back to TopHM Dance
Who we are:
Fusing traditional and creative Hmong dance, HmDance provides the opportunity for Hmong dancers to actively engage themselves in choreography, fundraising, costume design and
philanthropy.
HmDance was founded in 2007 in belief that Hmong arts have a unique power to engage its youth and motivate them towards excellence.
HmDancers: Mai Her, Mai Dia, Liana, Mai Hlee, Pang, Chue, Ka Bao, Ka Yeng, Jaria and See. Director: Ms. Susan Vang
Back to TopSabor Salseros
Who we are:
Sabor Salsero is the performing leg of Pete and Carmen's Salsa Dance Academy. In 2006 the team performed at the Los Angeles Salsa Congress, the Palm Springs Salsa/Mambo Summer Splash,
and the San Francisco Salsa Congress.
Pete Swingle is the co-owner of Pete and Carmen's Salsa Dance Academy in Fresno. Located at Studio 65, the Salsa Dance Academy specializes in Latin street dances, including salsa, cha cha cha, merengue, and bachata. Pete also is the winner of the 2007 Chukchansi Casino Salsa Dance Contest.
Gladys Alvarez has been dancing and performing salsa for 5 years. In that short time she has performed in some of the biggest events in the salsa dance world including the Los Angeles Salsa Congress with the all female dance team Beleza. In 2006, she co-founded the salsa performance team, La Salsa Centra. Known for the stunning lifts and daring choeography , the team recieved high marks and wild acclaim from their peers in performances at venues such as the Chukchansi Casino Salsa Contest and the showcase at Diannas' Studio of Dance.
Back to TopKathy Lane Band
Who we are:
Although KLB has its roots in folk, bluegrass, gospel and light rock traditions, the band has expanded its offerings to include classic rock and more original compositions as well
as dazzling harmonies. Lane’s a capella renditions of gospel numbers and old favorites showcases her strong and beautiful voice.
Following years of singing folk and rock numbers with her brother in local nightclubs and a capella and gospel numbers with her sister in the church choir, the Kathleen Lane Band was born from Kathleen’s dream to sing professionally. KLB began in 2004 with Kathleen, Prune Rooney, Woody Moise, Gordon Parrish and Dennis Wombacher and has played many venues over the years including music festivals, nightclubs and community events. They’ve appeared on radio stations such as KPIG, KKUP and has appeared on ‘Great Day’ on Channel 26. KLB has released an independently produced CD entitled “The Dream Comes True.”
Currently Prune Rooney backs Kathleen who in her own right is well known in the bluegrass community. She graced the stage with Alice Stewart for a number of years, singing, writing, playing strand-up bass and is an excellent guitar player and finger picker.
Back to TopKayDee
Who we are:
Cris met Rodrigo four years ago at a salsa club and it was apparent that the two had a deep love of dance including folkloric, country, Latin and traditional styles. Sharing a sense
of community, they were soon volunteering time and energy into teaching, performing and encouraging others to dance. They provided dance programs thru the Fresno County Libraries,
Heritage Adult Senior Center, Reedley Community Center, Reedley College, San Joaquin Wine Festival, Youth Leaders Conference in Visalia, and Fowler’s Annual Festival.
Rodrigo Rodriguez:
Teaches dance in Oakhurst and continues his work with Cris. “The best time we've had was watching kids under 12 dance at the Reedley Community Center and teaching ballroom dance to
seniors at the Heritage Adult Center.”
Cris Mendoza-Howell:
Teaches dance in four public schools, choreographs, directs and produces shows for schools and festivals in Fresno. Cris produced and directed the 2006, 2007 CVD Conference and the
“For the Love of Dance” show at the Rogue Festival, taught Youth Leaders how to teach dance in Visalia, attended the CSUF Festival de los Danzantes, and was a guest artist at the
CSUF Summer Arts LIVE TV program broadcasted internationally on July 12th 2007.
KeepDanzing!
Who we are:
We are a private non-profit portable dance troupe whose members come from all walks of life of varied interests, cultures and socio-economic backgrounds bonded together thru dance and
our love of other aspects of the arts including music, visual arts, and theater. KeepDanzing! believes in strong friendships amongst its members. We perform and offer dance programs
at County, City, public and private functions to educate and promote dance as fun, safe and healthy activity for children and adults of all ages.
Cris Mendoza-Howell has been a strong advocate for Dance, promoting, teaching, directing, producing and choreographing dance programs all over the Central Valley.
Ouraiphone "Orie" strives for knowledge and challenge. With no experience in dance, she is determined to learn the language, offer the passion through movements and influence everyone to step outside their box and recognize that they too have something to offer.
Raul Hernandez was born in Chihuahua, Mexico, came to the U.S. when he was 5 years old, has an A.A. Degree from FCC and a B.A. Degree in English from CSUF, and he has been dancing salsa for 3 years. "The point is not to study the world, but to change it!"
Rodrigo Rodriguez has been an original member of the group and is a certified Aviation Mechanic. He loves all types of dance and particularly banda and salsa.
Back to TopRico Estrada
Who I am:
Rico Estrada was born and raised in Mexico City. He came to the United States at the age of fourteen, where he began a new life. When he was in high School his favorite subjects
were Physical Education, History, and Science. Later in college, he developed his passion for the art of dancing. He was then introduced to the Latin dances such as Cumbia,
Salsa, Merengue, Mambo, and Cha-Cha.
From 1989-2000 Rico was given opportunities to participate in several television programs. He appeared in Buscando Estrellas con Budweiser Caliente. Mexicanisimo International. El Show de Gil Garcia Padron in Telemundo, Galavision channels 18, 21 and 59 in Fresno CA and on channels 22, 52, 59 in Los Angeles. He also received the Teacher of the Year Award given by Arthur Murray's and Diana's Dance Studios.
Back to Top2nd Street Dancers
Who we are:
The 2nd Street Dancers were founded in 1985 to enrich the performing arts in our community and to provide opportunities for dedicated dancers to participate in their art. The company
of students from The Dancing School of Selma performs jazz and many other styles of dance all over the valley as well as internationally. The group has just returned from two
very successful performances in Rome, Italy where they were invited to share their versatile and uniquely American jazz style.
They were honored to participate in the L’Estate Romana a Le Terrazze” di Casalpalocco festival and delighted audiences with their original show “With Love From California”.In 2001 they were selected to perform as official U.S. Cultural Ambassadors to China. The dancers presented four shows in China and through dance opened doors to friendship, appreciation and understanding between the U.S. and China. In 2003 they performed to standing room only European audiences in Greece. This led to an invitation to dance in the Noches Caribbean International Arts Festival near Cancun Mexico in 2005.
In addition to their performances abroad, the 2nd Street Dancers often dance at schools, hospitals, and local festivals, educating and exposing their community to dance and supporting dance in the valley.
Back to TopStacy Cacal
Who I am:
My name is Stacey Cristal Cacal and I live in Fresno, Ca. I started singing when I was three years old. Last year a family friend Ding Ricon asked if I could go with him to entertain
the residents at Fig Garden Retirement Home. I had a lot of compliments and I was happy. My family hired a teacher for voice lessons, in Los Angeles. I started my lessons last July.
In July 28, my aunt signed me up in the Filipino Community Fiesta for an audition to sing in a contest. In July 29, I sang To Love You More which won me first prize. It was awesome.
In August 5, my Mommy signed me up for audition in Pinoy Pop Superstar, special category ages 9-13, in North Hollywood, where I was chosen as one of the contestant for the next audition. I just finished my second audition on September 23. I just found out that I will be in the next grand finale.
Back to TopUniversity Dance Theater
Who we are:
With My Own Eyes is a contemporary dance work of choreographer Lindsay Joe Settle of University Dance that provides an active danced based atmosphere in which students can express
their distinct personalities through artistic expression at California State University, Fresno.
Under the direction of Kenneth Balint the group strives to provide talented students from all artistic sectors of the California State University Fresno community with a personally supportive and intellectually challenging dance-based environment.
Students participate in U.D.T. in three ways, as a dancer, choreographer, or in technical production. This dance theatre course creates, rehearses, and produces a diverse evening length dance concert each semester at the Lab School 101 Theatre on campus.
Back to TopWay of Dance
Who we are:
The brilliant and dynamic temple dance Bharata Natyam from South India will be presented as well as the dreamlike and meditative court dance from Java. These richly costumed and
adorned dances are the jewels of South & Southeast Asian cultures. The sunlit Bharata Natyam is based on complex rhythms and speed, and depicts various stories and poetic epics from
Indian history. Javanese dance is a mystical moonlight world of introspection and extreme refinement. These dance styles are rarely seen in the Valley, and have particular appeal
to audiences of all ages.
Lesandre Ayrey:
was born in Australia and started dance lessons in Paris at the age of five. A graduate of the Royal Ballet School, London, she studied, taught, and performed the world's great
dance traditions from the Far & Middle East and Indonesia. She has been performing and teaching Eastern dance since 1973, and teaches advanced ballet and ethnic dance styles at
the California Arts Academy.
Tanjora
"San Francisco style" belly dance comes to Fresno thru Tanjora, Fresno's first Tribal Belly Dance troupe, presenting the modern style of Tribal Fusion Belly Dance, as well as American Tribal Style (group improvisation) and Retro Belly Dance.
Tribal Fusion Belly Dance is a modern, sophisticated, globally aware style of Belly dance. It blends Egyptian style belly dance with Indian dance (Odissi, Kathak, Bhangra, Bollywood), Flamenco, North African, Hip Hop, & Turkish Rom ("Gypsy"). Presentations are entertaining, based on good dance technique and showmanship. Costumes and music are beautiful and exotic, with ancient and modern influences. Some shows include fire dancing too.
Lydia Fortner teaches Tribal Belly dance at Cynthia Merrill's since Jan. 2004. She has been involved in this San Francisco based form of fusion Belly dance since 2000, taking classes and workshops from prominent Tribal Belly dancers. Her training began in 1998 at Zamora's Middle Eastern Dance, studying and performing with them for 3 years. Raised in Fresno, Lydia studied Ballet and Modern Dance with local teachers Cynthia Merrill, Clare Porter, Diane Mosier, Hae Shik Kim, Madeline Gaynard, and Ruth Griffin, and performed with the Fresno Ballet, Fresno Civic Ballet, and Portable Dance Troupe.
Lydia has a Bachelors Degree in Fine Art from CSUF, and played cello in the CSUF Orchestra. Lydia was also the lead singer of local band The Shroud. She currently is the director of Tanjora Tribal Bellydance, and the Guild of Banat Tanjora.
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