Laura
Hi, my name is Laura. From the age of three, when my mom put me in my first ballet class, I’ve always loved to dance. I began taking belly dance lessons with my sister Jane (also a Neighbourhood Stray!) in January 2006. A friend of ours had just finished the beginners’ class and it sounded like fun, so I decided to try it. I was addicted after the first five minutes! I joined the Neighbourhood Strays in fall 2007, and I am so excited and so proud to be a part of such a wonderful and talented group of dancers!
Belly dance is a beautiful art form. It gives you the opportunity to dance with a group in a choreographed number, but it also gives you the opportunity to explore your creative side through improvisation. Belly dance is also really great exercise. You get cardio and strength training, and you’re having so much fun, you don’t even realize how hard your body is working! The instructors are absolutely wonderful. I’ve had the privilege of taking classes with Andrea, Kristine, and Jenn, and they are so encouraging and knowledgeable and friendly, you can’t help but enjoy their lessons. I always leave class or rehearsal feeling energized and motivated and looking forward to the next one! Whether it is practicing at home, rehearsing in class, or performing with my fellow Strays, I truly think I am happiest when I’m dancing.
Photo by TerriLynn Colford.