International Folk Dance Festivals

While dancing with Brigham Young University's International Folk Dance Ensemble, I learned various international dance styles and represented more than a dozen countries in traditional costume. This is also when I started working specifically with dance costumes, and I realized I had a passion for cultural dance styles of all kinds! 

Over the past 4 years, I have also been able to travel to multiple countries throughout Europe to dance at international folk dance festivals, while representing The United States through traditional American dance repertoire. 

One of my favorite things about dancing and traveling abroad is meeting those dancers of other cultures, and seeing how uniquely intricate each costume is. I love the influence that color, style, shape, pattern, and trim/embellishments have in representing one's cultural heritage, and it has inspired me to learn more and involve myself in performance costumes professionally.

Because of these performance opportunities and festival experiences, I have been able to recognize the magic of human connection. Even when the people around me speak a different language, we can bond over shared laughter, dance, and a love for humanity. I would consider my ability to smile and connect with others one of my greatest strengths, which has granted me friendships with people all over the world.

1-3. Performance at Festival Du Mont Gargan, France (2024)

4. In American Charleston costume, with Italian dancer at Ilinden Days Festival in Bitola, North Macedonia (2022)

5. Swing Dancing & American clogging costumes, with young Serbian dancers at Etnofest in Čačak, Serbia (2022)

6. Square dance costumes, onstage in Budapest, Hungary (2023)