How To Dance With Fire

Photo by David Stevens

"It's fun.  A bit dangerous so be cautious...
'Dancing With Fire' is the working title of our latest project."

Photo by David Stevens

"I'm no expert, but below are a few things I've learned:"

• It helps to melt into the movement, stiffness of the body will cause the activity to resemble flag semaphore.
    
• Become master of the fire-sticks, as if they are an extension of your arms...think a bit like Edward Scissorhands.
   
• Lead the fire with soft arms; just enough tension to hold the sticks - they are not heavy.
   
• Keep your centre of gravity - the pelvic area or just above the pelvis - low. 
  
  
• Imagine your feet are bigger and wider than they really are to give yourself sureness of foot, then you will move more confidently.  If you're working without shoes think about spreading the metatarsals and phalanges (your toes).
   
• Plié the legs.  Imagine your legs are a little weak, as if slightly intoxicated.  Let your weight drop into your legs.
  
  
• Keep the movement soft and flowing as if you're in water, keep moving and the fire-sticks will follow your lead.
  
  
• Do everything possible to remove tension from the neck and shoulders.  Then you'll make it look easy; all part of the illusion. 

David Stevens. Photo by Manuel Vason. 

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