About
I'm an internationally-touring performer and instructor in modern/fusion belly dance. I offer group classes and private lessons in belly dance technique, choreography, style, improvisation, props, and dance conditioning.
I have formal pedagogical training and a background in classical music, so I love to geek out on working with different learning styles and music theory. My teaching style is fairly structured, but the learning environment is very relaxed and growth-oriented class; we laugh a lot!
I run Dauntless Dance and Movement in the Heights and have been teaching for over 10 years. I am also a certified instructor of 8 Elements (level 4) and Hot Pot ITS Levels 1 and 2 and have completed Dancecraft levels 1-3.
For information on Dauntless and our wonderful variety of movement classes for adults, please visit www.dauntlessdance.com or facebook.com/dauntlessdance
For more information on performance and workshop bookings, please see www.kimberlylarkspur.com or facebook.com/kimberlylarkspurdance
I love helping people find joy in moving their meatsuits through space. Our bodies are so often treated as liabilities defined by our limitations that there's something especially satisfying- and even rebellious- in putting in the work to develop a movement-based skill set. Belly dance is a beautiful way to develop a movement practice; it can be as gentle or athletic as the dancer needs it to be.
I came to dance as an adult, and it has introduced me to a world of incredible art, expression, and community that I never dreamed existed. Giving others the opportunity to find these things in their lives is a privilege and an honor.
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Amanda L.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
We start with a general assessment of current technical skills, physical capabilities and challenges, and short and long-term goals. From there we'll work on shoring up technique and finding the right combination of training and projects for developing the skills and experience necessary for tackling those goals.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a double major in all-level music education and history which has provided me with quite a bit of practical pedagogical knowledge and training.
As far as dance-specific training goes, I am a certified (level 4) instructor of 8 Elements, Level 2 Certified instructor of Improv Team Sync, and have completed Dancecraft levels 1 through 3.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Classes:
Drop-in: $15
4-class pack: $50
10-class pack: $125
20-class pack: $220
Private lessons/ coaching: $65/hr
How did you get started teaching?
After being approached by a couple of studios about offering classes and deciding that I would eventually like to share dance in a classroom setting, I sought out an apprenticeship under an established instructor in order to receive formal training and feedback on dance instruction. When that teacher retired from dance, she asked that I take over her classes, and I've been teaching since.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with dancers ranging in age from mid-teens to mid-seventies with experience ranging from first-time-dancers to established professionals. I strongly believe that dance can be studied, practiced, and performed beautifully by any human with the desire to do so.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for a teacher who is interested in helping you meet (and if necessary, determine) your personal goals. If you're looking to integrate with and get comfortable moving your body, you might be looking for a different classroom environment than someone looking for a fitness experience or someone looking to perform professionally.
Make sure your teacher has a clear understanding of the style(s) they teach and a respect for the cultural contexts of those dances.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What about belly dance interests you? Are you looking to cultivate a particular style? What are your immediate goals for your dance practice? What are your long-term goals for your dance practice? Do you have any physical challenges your instructor should be aware of?