Diane
Diane
began her performing career at the age of three as a horse back dancer in the
circus. Well, that was in a young girls vivid imagination. In reality her father
was the trusted steed and the big top was the front room!!
Diane first discovered dance at the age of 9 years when she attended ballet lessons in her home village. Over the years she has sampled a variety of other dance forms; tap, salsa, jazz, flamenco and more recently street dance and first trod the boards proper in a local amateur dramatic company. Despite her enjoyment of and dedication to all these dance styles, none compared to what she discovered in 2001.
From a young age Diane has had a passion for all things Middle Eastern and always felt some kind of spiritual affinity. It was after a one hour "bite size" Middle Eastern dance class, that she became hooked and swiftly booked a 10 lesson course. One class was all it took to become totally and utterly addicted and over the past 6 years it has developed into an uncontrollable obsession!! What other hobby/interest offers adult women the chance to relive those childhood days of delving into the dressing up box and whirl around like a demented dervish in public, whilst still being able to maintain their dignity and reputation??!!
It was here she met many wonderful women and all who shared the same passion. Many friendships were made but non stronger than the ones she has formed with Claire and Barbara. Our tastes and creativity have grown together over the last 5 years and resulted in us forming the Shimmychicks.
The beauty of Middle Eastern dance is that there are no rules or boundaries and it is forever evolving, combining other dance forms to create a fusion. Adding a few street dance moves or tap steps would even be acceptable. It has opened up a spectrum of wonderful and exciting musical and dance styles such as Bhangra, Bollywood and Baltic Gypsy that may never have been fully explored.
There is no end..................I can't imagine my life without it now. It can put a smile on my face on the darkest of days.
Inspiration and thanks go to:
Bayda Asbridge : for introducing this amazing dance and sisterhood into my life
Amel Tafsout : a beautiful woman in every way
Michelle Pender : one of my first major influences
Amelia Barlow : eternally grateful for helping me master the Egyptian walk.
Domba : truly inspiring