LaDonna Bartol

When my best friend started dancing in college, I wanted to learn more, and was immediately smitten with the art. I began my dance training with the Aalim School of Dance in 2007, and have been a devoted student of Middle Eastern and American Tribal Style® dance ever since.

After several years of American- and Egyptian- cabaret classes, I connected with Tasha-Rose, proprietor of Minnesota’s first FCBD® sister studio, Kamala Chaand Dance Company. I began attending weekly classes, but felt that once a week was not enough. I began taking two classes a week and, after taking many sessions of levels one and two, was asked to join the student troupe, Sohalia Tribal.

Working with Tasha-Rose, taking up to four classes a week, watching videos, and going to workshops, I gained confidence in my dance abilities. I was asked to join KCDC’s performance troupe, and now I am the Managing Director and co-owner of Kamala Chaand Dance Company, Inc. and director of its student troupe, Sohalia Tribal.

I have gained an immense amount of self-confidence since I began dancing, and I find little else brings me as much joy as sharing ATS® with others. My love of the dance, the music, and the friendships I have gained within the local and global dance community have inspired me to teach.

I completed my General Skills (Classic & Modern) and Teacher Training certifications in August 2014.