Joan Schaefer and Rita Simon of Chippewa Falls have partnered to open a new dance studio in Eau Claire. “Sofia Spirit Studio,” located at 2131 Fenwick Avenue, is dedicated to offering a variety of programs that serve women in the Chippewa Valley.
Sofia Spirit Studio offers certified instruction in American Tribal Style (ATS) Belly Dance, a beautiful stylized improvisational form of belly dance. This dance is excellent physical exercise, especially for the core muscles and the cardiovascular system. It also fosters the development of inner awareness and self-esteem and all while having a great time!
Ongoing 6 week Level 1 ATS dance classes are offered, with the next series scheduled to begin on September 14. Classes are provided 3 times a week, on Tuesday and Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings, which allows for participant flexibility. Level 2 and 3 classes will be added as students progress in their mastery of the dance skills.
The studio is also home to “Sofia Tribal,” a performance ATS belly dance troupe comprised of Joan, Rita and three other local professional women. Sofia Tribal is available to provide classy entertainment at private events, such as weddings or women’s gatherings, or at fundraisers and other community events.
A variety of workshops exploring a broad range of women’s interests will be offered at Sofia Studio. Many of these workshops are designed to be beneficial for any woman, wherever she is in her life journey. Look for the first of these workshops in October.
The studio also incorporates a boutique, “Sofia’s Souk.” The souk features beautiful creations by local artisans, worldly treasures and jewelry. Many of these items look great for every day wear and would also beautifully enhance the tribal or fusion belly dancer’s costuming.
The studio is available for rent and is suitable for yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates, zumba, martial arts, etc. Classes in ballroom and hoop dancing are currently being scheduled there.
For more information visit www.sofiatribal.com or contact Joan Schaefer at 715-379-6304 or sofiatribal@gmail.com