Katie B. has been studying tribal-style bellydance for almost 9 years. Although she has always done theater productions, bellydance was the first form of dance she studied and it has stuck! Katie has studied with numerous teachers but is particularly influenced by Heather Stants of Urban Tribal Dance Company, Jill Parker of Ultra Gypsy, and Amy Sigil of Unmata and the classic tribal improvisation of Fat Chance Bellydance and Gypsy Caravan. She recently completed the General Skills Certification with Carolena Nericcio of Fat Chance Bellydance and looks forward to completing her teacher training course in 2009. Katie also enjoys taking classes in other forms of dance and movement including West African dance, Bhangra, Spanish, and yoga.

Katie has performed around New England and the Northeast in troupe Azar Maya and as part of the duo Chrysaora, and is a promoter of workshops, haflas and drum circles. Formerly she was a member of Boston-based fire performance troupe Anthelion. A zoologist and birder by training, her dance and costuming are inspired by the forms of nature and the movement and cultural symbolism of animals and plants.

Katie considers music and musicality important to all dancers, and promotes the cooperation between musicians and dancers at performances and events. She has been known to play basic dumbek and riq (somewhat!). She’s always on the look out for more musicians who might be interested in joining up with a middle-eastern Jam Band!

In addition to dancing, Katie makes hand-dyed silk veils, painted silk scarves, scratchboard illustrations, and various other crafty creations.

Katie currently teaches American Tribal Style bellydance at the Dragon’s Egg in Ledyard, CT. and Lily Pad Kidz Family Enrichment Center in Pawcatuck, CT.