Meet Our Teacher of the Month: Ashley Rhianne
We are thrilled to spotlight Ashley Rhianne as our Teacher of the Month! Based in Vancouver BC, Ashley brings a wealth of experience and passion to her dance teachings. She offers online classes for beginners, in-person sessions for intermediate/advanced students, and personalized private lessons.
How It All Began
Taking inspiration from her grandmother, Ashley's journey started at the tender age of four. Her early experiences with ballet then jazz laid the foundation for her future in dance. Her natural talent and her grandmother's encouragement set her on a path that would eventually lead to a fulfilling dance career.
When she was 14 years old, Ashley watched a belly dance performance at a country fair. Drawn to the music, and captivated by the dance, she discovered her true passion. She found an experienced instructor, Nahida, and trained intensively for 8 years. This dedication paid off, as Ashley soon began landing regular gigs at local restaurants honing her skills and building a reputation in the dance community. Her dance career skyrocketed in 2004, when she suddenly found herself with 10 shows per weekend.
Career Highlights
Her standout moments were performing internationally in countries like Ukraine, Ecuador, and Egypt. Dancing in Egypt was particularly notable, representing a major milestone in her career.
Another highlight came when Ashley collaborated with top flamenco dancers in a high-profile show at the Vancouver Playhouse. This performance, blending Middle Eastern music with flamenco, showcased her versatility and artistry, earning her recognition from esteemed colleagues.
A memorable teaching experience for Ashley was conducting a large workshop in Ecuador, where almost 200 students attended. Despite initial anxiety, the positive feedback and ongoing engagement from the students highlighted the impact of her work. For Ashley, the opportunity to connect with people who travel just to learn from her is particularly humbling and rewarding.
The Call to Teach
"Seeing people's confidence blossom through dance is my favorite part of teaching"
In recent years, Ashley has found a new passion in teaching dance. Initially hesitant, she discovered a natural talent for guiding and inspiring her students. Her holistic approach, combined with her deep understanding of the body and movement, has made her a sought-after instructor. Ashley approaches teaching with a strong focus on individual needs and problem-solving. Her teaching style emphasizes clear communication and adaptability, aiming to provide a supportive environment where students can grow confidently.
Balancing Multiple Roles
Balancing her dance career with a day job has been challenging and her role as a mother adds layer to her balancing act. As Ashley navigates the challenges of balancing her working life, motherhood, and her dance pursuits, she remains committed to her teaching.
Current Projects
Currently, Ashley is deeply involved in an upcoming show with Shahrzad, called Cairo Cafe, on September 21, 2024 at the Cultch in downtown Vancouver. Her role involves a range of responsibilities, from arranging the choreography for her students to managing administrative tasks.
She is also planning a tour in Egypt in March 2025, with the goal to share her love for Egyptian culture with others. This tour will offer an intimate look into Egyptian life beyond the typical tourist experience. It will include workshops with local dancers, and an opportunity to support local economies and small businesses.
Future Endeavors
Looking ahead, Ashley will begin teaching her beginner/ intermediate courses after the Cairo Cafe performance and revamp her advanced classes. This new structure aims to build a strong foundation for newcomers and help dancers of all levels reach new heights.
Advance for New Dancers
Ashley's advice to aspiring dancers is to always strive to maintain ethical practices within the local dance community. "There's enough work for everyone," she emphasizes, "and it's our responsibility to act with integrity and support one another."
Celebrating Dedication
Ashley Rhianne's passion for dance and commitment to her students shine through in every class she teaches. Whether you're just starting out, looking to refine your skills, or seeking personalized instruction, Ashley's diverse offerings provide an excellent opportunity to grow and excel. We're proud to feature her as our Teacher of the Month and encourage you to explore her classes for a truly enriching experience!
