I’m Karen Barbee Adkisson, The Baby Boomer Belly Dancer.
I’ve been in a dance studio since five years of age; and once upon a time, I worked in the corporate world in information systems for 12 years then finally quit to belly dance full time in 1996.
Welcome to my journey! During this episode you can find out:
00:00 I’m Karen Barbee, The Baby Boomer Belly Dancer
01:19 When I quit the corporate world
03:00 My first belly dance job at 16
03:57 First started teaching belly dance at 18… thanks to my sister
05:19 The bumpy birth of Karavan Studio and being a studio owner
10:22 Success is being invited to the workshop circuit… even overseas
10:54 Public speaking, improvisation to live music, and growth spurts
15:15 How to become a better artist? Dig into the culture and community
17:30 When the National Arab Orchestra came to San Antonio
19:17 Bringing live music and belly dancing together every year
21:57 Bringing fluency to your dance form and appreciation of live music
26:06 The secret to what keeps all of us interested after all these years
29:37 Being a drilling maniac and how it helps your brain
There are moments that I sound like I’m talking to myself ?… ask Gylon why his mic was not on (thought he was a tech guru).
With that said, excuse the dust, we are working out the kinks. Enjoy.
With over 40 years in her chosen craft of belly dancing, Karavan Studio owner and professional belly dancer, Karen Barbee Adkisson, has been teaching students the art of belly dance techniques for more than 30 years and is dedicated to keeping live music performances as part of this artful cultural dance.
Join us as Karen’s inquisitive mind and unique perspective on a wide array of topics inspire, educate, and even entertain your sensibilities… because everything comes back to belly dance.
You can also subscribe to my YouTube channel or the Baby Boomer Belly Dancer podcast.