How to Find a Fire Dancing Teacher

Would you like to learn to fire dance, but don't know where to start? Finding a teacher may be easier than you think!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A computer with Internet access
• An email account
• A phone

1. Search online for fire dancing instructors in your area. Google is your best bet for broad searches like this. Be aware of variations on terms. For example, some people refer to "fire dancing" as "fire performance" or even more specifically, "fire poi," "fire staff," "fire hoop," or "fire fingers."
   
   Also be aware of variations on location. For example, if you live in San Francisco, you could try "fire dancing instructor San Francisco" or broaden your search to include "fire dancing instructor Bay Area" or "Northern California." If you are specifically looking for a poi (staff, hoop, etc.) teacher, you could try "fire poi teacher San Francisco."

2. The site http://fire-dancing.com/ offers the ability to search for instructors in different areas of the world. Their listings include a fire safety rating for each troupe; however, since it is a private website, their listings might not be as comprehensive as a Google search.

3. Once you have found a website or a listing for a teacher in your area, send the instructor an email or call them. Be sure to have your calendar nearby, so you can easily access your available days and times! Some teachers offer group lessons while others teach private lessons. You may prefer one over the other based on cost and schedule. Be sure to communicate your needs and current skill level clearly to the instructor.
   
   Good luck and have fun!

Tips & Warnings

• Determine beforehand how much you are willing to spend to learn.
• Keep in mind the size of the classes and how much one-on-one attention you'll be getting. A one-hour private lesson might seem expensive at the outset, but you might benefit from the individualized attention that you wouldn't get in a 4-week group class.
• Let your teacher know your current skill level (even if it's nothing!) before the class starts.
• Let your teacher know whether you need a pair of practice poi or fire poi, or a staff, hoop, fingers, fans, etc. He or she may be able to hook you up quickly and easily.
• Always have a trained safety person with you when you light up! Make sure they know how to put out a pair of flaming wicks.
• Do not ever attempt fire dancing if you feel you are not ready for it. There's no rush. Always do things at your own pace.
• Always practice WITHOUT fire first! Know the moves you're going to do and stick to them. On fire is NOT the time to try new moves!
• If you have long hair, tie it up and away from anywhere the flames might reach.
• Protect your head and your hair - wear a hat and/or spritz your hair with water beforehand.
• When your flames have completely expired, be careful not to touch the wicks of your poi or any metal parts until they have completely cooled. Also, do not place your wicks back into the fuel bucket until they are cool.
• Always wear clothing made of natural fibers, such as cotton, wool, or leather. They are less likely to catch on fire and won't melt into your skin, like synthetics will.

Resources

• Find fire dancers and teachers around the world
• Fire dancing teachers and performers in the San Francisco Bay Area

[Kilogramm]

on 9/20/2008 This sounds like a great idea, 5 stars!