I love dance!!!! A dancer at heart, I began dancing as a young girl and then got into competitive gymnastics. In University, at UCSB, I studied dance and began to prolifically choreograph for which I received several awards and honors. After graduation I I formed a dance company where we created works for the stage as well as designed and facilitated workshops for youth to explore pursuing one’s dreams. To further my dance studies and dive into my passion for choreography I ventured on to graduate school at California State University, Long Beach where I received my MFA in choreography and performance and then went on to dance and choreograph for Los Angeles Contemporary Dance Company.
In 2008 I moved to Nevada City and began making dance works with Azriel LaMarca. On occasion, I work with Shadow Cabinet, an indescribable group that explores movement and creates performance pieces. I also create and perform for Dance Because, a dance performance and dance party to showcase our local dance talent.
I first discovered Pilates after completing my undergraduate degree in dance. In 1999 I began my Pilates training doing a private apprenticeship with Adrienne Smith. Since then I have done two more Pilates Certification courses with Centered Studio and Body Arts and Science, plus many other specialized Pilates trainings. While in graduate school I both studied and taught Pilates with a dance specialization as well as dance science. In 2005, while in graduate school, I opened a flourishing Pilates studio in southern California. In 2008 the doors to my fully equipped studio on the Ridge opened. I love teaching Pilates, movement and dance. The miraculous human body fascinates me and I continue to learn more.
In 1999, I went to Santa Barbara Body Therapy Institute to first study massage. Over the years I studied at several different massage schools continuing my education and spent some time studying Thai massage in Thailand.
Currently, I’m pursuing my latest dream to become a clinical herbalist. I look forward to being of service to you and assisting you in following your own dreams.
With love,
Shari