Teachers
DeAnna Freeman (USA)
DeAnna cultivates a unique teaching style that allows students to elevate their skills in a safe, positive and fun learning environment.
Rupali Ashok Modak
At just five years old, Rupali fell in love with the classical dance style of Kathak. After nearly 12 years of dedicated training, she began teaching alongside her instructors, initially focusing on children and later expanding to adult beginner classes. Her talent led her to become an independent dance teacher at an international school in Mumbai.
While pursuing her B.Com degree at Mumbai University, Rupali also studied Indian folk dance, earning a silver medal and a university diploma. She had the incredible opportunity to work with the legendary choreographer Mrs. Saroj Khan, choreographing and performing at various prestigious events.
In 2008, Rupali founded Zhanak Dance Academy in Mumbai, where she introduced students to the beauty of Kathak, Bollywood, and folk dance. Her journey also took her into the world of Bollywood, working as an assistant choreographer for TV serials and films.
After moving to Germany in 2015, she resumed her workshops, receiving an amazing response from students. Now, she conducts regular classes and online workshops in Hannover and nearby cities, inspiring her students and helping them build confidence through performance.
Gesche Höhner
Since discovering her passion for improvised "Tribal Style" dance in 2004, Gesche has devoted herself to this vibrant art form. After years of learning from local teachers, she began attending workshops with the amazing Wendy Allen whenever she visited Germany, who became a significant influence in her dance journey. Gesche has also learned from other talented artists like Carolena, Sandi Ball, Anita Lalwani, and Kae Montgomery.
In 2015, she took the leap to start teaching, and by 2016, she completed her General Skills and Teacher Training in Barcelona, earning her certification as a studio instructor. Since then, she has dedicated herself to teaching weekly classes and hosting monthly workshops, collaborating with renowned dancers like Wendy, Sandi, Jesse Standbridge, and Sofia Salazar-Rubio.
In 2018, Gesche expanded her offerings by creating psychology and dance workshops, which have led her to teach in various cities across Germany. She continued to enhance her skills with advanced training in General Skills and Technique for Teachers in 2022, Alignment in Munich in 2023, and Advanced Teacher Training in 2024.
Carolena Nericcio
Carolena aka Mama C is the legendary founder of FatChanceBellyDance® and the visionary behind the global dance phenomenon known as FCBD®Style. Her journey began at the age of eight when she requested a special ring from her father, igniting a lifelong fascination with body adornment, textiles, and a beautiful collection of jewelry from around the world.
Discovering belly dance transformed her passion into the creation of her own unique style, FCBD®Style. In 1987, she founded the troupe FatChanceBellyDance®, captivating audiences worldwide with mesmerizing performances, majestic costuming, and layers of intricate jewelry. The carefully curated music blends traditional sounds with modern fusion, giving FCBD®Style its enchanting yet contemporary flair.
Today, students can learn from Carolena through online classes and private lessons, complemented by instructional DVDs and international workshops. She also offers business consultations through FCBD® Troupe Consulting.
When she’s not traveling the globe or teaching at her studio, Carolena enjoys exercising, sewing, knitting, and reading.
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