Dance-bio of Christian Thierens, "The Dancing Giant"

Christian was introduced to Latin American and Ballroom dance at the late age of 23 when he saw an advertisement in the local paper saying that a successful dance studio in his home town of Manchester, England, was looking for people who wanted a career in teaching people how to dance.  As this was his first introduction to formal dancing, he was very tentative about even going for the interview and try out for the job; but something inside said "go, give it a shot!".

He was hired to start training the next day.

After successfully completing intensive training for dancing and becoming accredited, he was let loose on the public to show his stuff and to teach members of the public.

He was quickly honored by winning "teacher of the year", and from then on nothing could deter him from continuing to teach at the highest level.

"I was never the typical stereo-type for a dancer being 6' 6" tall and coming from a rough inner city neighborhood, but I persevered and became a very popular and successful instructor".

In 1990, Christian was offered a position as an instructor at a very large and successful dance studio in South California, which he took with a gamble.

"I knew that leaving England and my family was a big step as I never even flew on a plane before, let alone move to another country, but it was in retrospect the best decision I have made in my life!"

Christian soon developed a reputation as a top quality instructor primarily for complete beginners up to advanced level.

"When I came to the States, it was definitely a culture shock, but one I wouldn't replace for the world".

From then on Christian would have greater access to better coaching and training personally, which he transferred to his students.

Working as a specialist teacher and occasionally competing with his students and performing, was especially rewarding.  However he had to make some tough decisions.

"I soon realized that competing professionally was not for me and I concentrated on perfecting my teaching skills and extracting certain techniques and methodologies that I felt to be the best from the best in business.  I then combined that with my experience to formulate my own style of teaching that I call "dancing with common sense through body mechanics"".

Christian's main goal today is to teach people of all ages and backgrounds about the tremendous rewards both physical and emotional that are associated with dancing. 

After a brief hiatus from teaching, "the dancing giant" is now back full force and looks forward to meeting and becoming friends with many new fledging dancers.

Check back often here for the latest news about our social dances, showcases  and workshops!

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