04/02/2025
Like all wishes in life, it started like a spark, eventually turned into Dances As Fire.
This is the second year in a row, we took an early spring trip to Italy, to seek knowledge from masters there.
Livorno’s port stirred with the quiet hum of morning, while we navigate the winding roads of Tuscany region trying to get to the infamous Studio. Traffic circles packed the route, each roundabout a small negotiation between locals and visitors still learning the "floor craft". The salt-laden wind from the Tyrrhenian Sea rushed through the car windows, assisted by a hesitant spring sun. Little did we know, we won't be seeing it until our last day in Italy.
A huge shout-out to Edita Gozzoli and Valerio Colontoni. Your fiery energy, knowledge, and encouragement set the tone for the rest of our trip.
By the time practice was finally wrapped, rain had replaced the sun. Yet not all were lost as Pisa was only 30 minutes away. The Leaning Tower bathed in the soft glow of street lamps. Its silhouette is like a Standard lady's setup, blurred by the mist reflected in the puddles scattered throughout the Piazza dei Miracoli. Daytime noises replaced by a quiet whisper allowed us to be lost in time.
When we reached the competition site, Lake Maggiore decided to lay cloaked in fog for the duration of our stay. The surrounding mountains were half hidden behind the canvas of the lake's still water.
But we could care less as we got a dream team of coaches at our disposal. Fabio, Monica, and Sarah, your wisdom, patience, and fervent drive fueled our every step and each spin. We couldn't have burned this bright in the competition otherwise.
I am so proud of my student Patricia for setting the floor ablaze during the open gold showcase.
To Massimo and Alessia, the Masterminds behind this sizzling event. Your flawless organization, passion, and attention to details made Dances As Fire 2025 an unforgettable experience for all of us. The dance community is lucky to have you!
As we bid farewell to Stresa, as if the heavens had finally relented, the sun broke through and granted us a leisurely afternoon in Milan.
