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Florida Tribal Dance
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Lacey Sanchez
Kindle Cimmerian
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Lacey Sanchez
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**For Lacey's Workshop** **Schedule**
Click Here! |
Lacey began her journey into Tribal Belly dance at the early age of 15 in southern California with Patricia Johnson . Her love for this beautiful art form was immediate; she began performing at tribal events and around campfires at SCA (Society for Creative Anachronism) events almost instantly. The thrill of live drums and dancing with her sisters was inspiring. She took this love for the dance all the way through high school and pursued a dance degree at Victor Valley Community College. She studied many forms of classical dance including Ballet, Jazz, Modern, and Ballroom. However, as fate would have it Lacey sustained an injury that would prevent her from ever pursuing a career in classical dance. To her surprise though, because Belly Dance is best danced barefoot her doctor approved and encouraged her to continue Belly dancing.
Lacey then traveled cross country from California to Central Florida where she was exposed to the large community of Cabaret Belly dancers in Florida. Lacey then spent the next four years studying, teaching, and performing classical Cabaret Belly dance in Florida as well as in Southern California. It was in her last trip to California where her original love for Tribal Belly dance was re-ignited. Lacey then made the decision that she wanted to bring her experience and love of Tribal Belly dance to Florida. So she began Florida Tribal Dance in November of 2006 for just that reason.
Lacey is the director of Florida Tribal Dance Troupes: Aeonium Dance Collective, offering professional Tribal Fusion performances, Blue Caravan, a troupe specializing in improvisational Tribal Style, and Silver Sage Tribal Florida Tribal Dance's student troupe.
Lacey and Florida Tribal Dance also host "A Tribal Garden" our annual Gala every Spring, celebrating the students, troupes, and extended family of Florida Tribal Dance.
In addition to teaching weekly classes Lacey is also available for instructional workshops. She prides herself on her upbeat personality that puts students in a fun place to learn and her meticulous breakdown of movements so whether you are a first time dancer or a seasoned professional you will find Lacey's teaching easy to comprehend and useful in any dancer' s progression.
Lacey holds a beginning certification in the
YogaFit Method.
Lacey completed the American Tribal Style General Skills Certification by
Fat Chance Bellydance in June 2009 as well as American Tribal Style Teacher Training in 2017.
Lacey completed and passed the necessary requirements and testing for Phases I, II, and III of Rachel Brice's 8 Elements program. Phase 1: Intitiation in 2012, Phase II: Cultivation in 2013, and Phase III: Culmination in 2016.
Tribal fusion bellydance is a modern evolution of traditional American Tribal Style, blending structured group improvisation with influences from global dance forms. The style draws from Spanish flamenco, North African movement, and Middle Eastern and Indian folk traditions, weaving them into a unified aesthetic that feels both earthy and contemporary. Performances often emphasize community, with dancers connecting through shared cues rather than rehearsed choreography. The result is a spirited and colorful expression that honors ancient roots while embracing creative freedom. For many practitioners, tribal fusion offers a deeply personal way to move, inviting dancers of every age, size, and background to discover their own voice within a supportive collective rhythm and visual storytelling tradition that continues to evolve worldwide.
One of the most appealing aspects of tribal style bellydance is its inclusive philosophy. The genre welcomes dancers regardless of age, body type, gender, or prior experience, making it accessible to anyone with a desire to learn. Classes often feel more like gatherings of friends than formal lessons, fostering camaraderie and mutual encouragement. The community aspect is central: dancers support one another through shared challenges, celebrate each other's growth, and build lasting friendships. Many students describe their tribal dance practice as a workout for the body and a refuge for the spirit. This welcoming atmosphere, combined with the dance's expressive nature, helps newcomers feel at home while providing experienced dancers with opportunities to deepen their artistry within a thriving local and global family of passionate performers.
Learning tribal fusion bellydance offers numerous physical and creative benefits. The practice builds core strength, improves posture, and enhances flexibility through layered isolations and fluid transitions. Dancers develop musicality by interpreting diverse rhythms, from traditional Middle Eastern percussion to modern fusion beats. Beyond the physical, tribal dance nurtures confidence and self-expression, allowing each student to explore movement that reflects their personality. Classes typically begin with warm-ups that wake up the entire body, followed by technique drills and combinations that gradually build into group improvisations. The combination of structure and creative freedom makes every class engaging, and students often find themselves surprised by how quickly they progress when surrounded by an encouraging community of fellow learners who share their enthusiasm for this vibrant and evolving art form.
Tribal bellydance performances are known for their visual richness and emotional depth. Costumes often feature flowing skirts, layered coin belts, and intricate jewelry that accentuate movement and add a joyful, colorful dimension to each piece. Live drums are a hallmark of many tribal events, creating an electric connection between musicians and dancers that energizes both performers and audiences. Group improvisations allow dancers to respond to one another in real time, resulting in performances that feel spontaneous yet cohesive. Whether presented at festivals, community gatherings, or intimate showcases, tribal dance celebrates heritage while pushing artistic boundaries. The combination of earthy roots and contemporary influence produces performances that are at once grounded and transcendent, inviting viewers into a world where ancient tradition and modern creativity dance together in spirited harmony.
Joining a tribal bellydance class is an invitation to become part of a global movement that began in California and has since spread across the world. Founded in the late 1960s, American Tribal Style has grown into a worldwide community of dancers who share a passion for connection, creativity, and cultural appreciation. Local studios serve as gathering places where students can learn technique, rehearse for events, and simply enjoy the company of others who love the dance. Many communities host workshops, haflas, and festivals that bring dancers together to celebrate their craft. Whether you are seeking a new hobby, a way to meet friends, or a path toward greater physical and emotional well-being, tribal fusion bellydance offers a welcoming doorway into a vibrant and enduring artistic tradition.
floridatribaldance@floridatribaldance.com