In episode 22 of Strip Journey, I talk to Maria, the official Frame Up representative in Switzerland. Maria shares her unique journey from growing up in a conservative family to finding her passion for dance after graduating as a medical doctor. She delves into her experiences with dance forms like pole dance, jazz funk, and her love for Frame Up. Maria discusses the challenges of introducing Frame Up in Switzerland, her approach to teaching, and how her medical and musical background complements her dance instruction. She reflects on her competitive experiences, future plans, and the supportive nature of the European dance community.

Maria’s instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_walking_muse/

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:19 Meet Maria: Frame Up Representative

01:00 Maria's Dance Journey

02:39 Teaching Frame Up in Switzerland

06:25 Medical Background and Teaching Approach

09:03 Competitions and Future Plans

17:06 Teaching Beginners

19:16 Frame Up Icons and Inspirations

21:19 Favorite Choreographies and Classes

23:41 Memorable Moments as a Dance Teacher

26:06 Messages for Listeners

27:02 Comparing Dance Conventions

28:59 Conclusion and Farewell

In this special episode, I talk about my experience at the 5th Frame Up Strip CZ convention and the first Stage 18+ competition. I talk about the classes we had at the convention with our amazing teachers Ira Podshivalova, Baina Basanova, Aleksandra Demianova and Eve, and then I give a quick round up of the amazing competition we had in Prague. And of course, there are statements from Eve, our organiser and participants in the Stage 18+ competition, including pro winner Liza Makarova, team Shafran and pro polers Christiana and Amie.

As usual, I had a great time and learned a lot and I hope to see you at one of the upcoming events!

Frame Up Strip CZ’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frameupstrip_cz/

Stage 18+ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stage__18/

00:00 Welcome to Strip Journey

00:31 Convention Highlights: Day One

04:54 Convention Highlights: Day Two

08:50 Organizer's Insights: short interview with Eve

13:00 Stage 18+ competition begins

13:30 Frame Up Solo Beginners category

14:20 Frame Up Solo Pro category

15:09 Interview with the Solo Pro Champion Liza Makarova

16:59 Pole dance champions hooked on Frame Up

17:24 Pro competitor Christiana Koulouma

18:55 Pro competitor Amie Alma

20:37 Small Groups category

21:25 Team Shafran interview

26:59 Big Groups category

28:15 Thank you to the organiser

29:55 Conclusion and see you next time

In episode 21 of Strip Journey, I welcome Mariia from Belgrade, Serbia, who shares her dance journey and experience. Mariia talks about starting dance at a young age, focusing on cheerleading and ending up in Frame Up strip. She discusses her experience of moving to Belgrade, introducing Frame Up strip to the local community, forming a dedicated dance team, and participating in international and local competitions. Mariia emphasizes the importance of persistence, community building, and continuous learning in achieving success in dance. This episode portraits the growing Frame Up community and creating a new dance niche in Serbia.

Mariia’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masha_mahich/

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:15 Guest Introduction: Mariia from Serbia

00:49 Mariia's Dance Journey

03:31 Joining Frame Up and Teaching in Belgrade

06:22 Challenges and Growth in Teaching

09:02 Convention Experiences and Certifications

13:18 Competitions and Performances

17:49 Building and Leading a Dance Team

21:02 Future Plans and Community Building

27:05 Personal Insights and Advice

33:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts