Moon Dance Studio

Hidden away on Cyprus' busy streets is the gloriously beautiful MooN Dance Studio. Walking through the front doors, you would never guess that their main focus used to be pole dancing. MooN Dance Studio, with its paintings and art sculptures, all glistening in the sunlight peeking in through the windows, looks more like an art gallery than a dance studio.

I was recently able to tour this facility with Anna Gubareva, the owner and creator of MooN Dance, and ballet instructor Marija Savina. These two women have unbridled passion for the work they do, and I had the pleasure of photographing this brilliantly beautiful studio.

The tour started off in the lobby. I was immediately astounded by the glistening bead sculptures and blown-glass light fixtures. I'm pretty sure I got the following day's neck ache from staring up at them too long. The studio, which recently featured a large expansion of its rooms and programs, now has new designer halls filled with these astounding artworks. Anna explained to me that the beauty of these art pieces allows students to better express themselves and be more comfortable in the space.

Anna spilled out her vision for the studio in words I can only describe as being full of love. Her passion for her work and helping others to express themselves is clearly evident in the care she has taken to design her space.

Anna, as being her whole life in sport and dance, discovered she had a desire to share what she had learned with others in a way that would allow even beginners to express their individuality through the art of dance. MooN Dance Studio encourages learners of all ages to participate in their various programs. At MooN Dance, body size doesn't matter. All you need to have is an eagerness to learn and enthusiasm for the art of dance.

Anna's ballet instructor, Marija, is the epitome of grace. As MooN Dance started to expand its classes and add different types of dances to the mix, even going so far as to start a yoga class, Marija was brought on to instruct both new and veteran students alike in the graceful practice of ballet. I was fortunate enough to watch Marija perform a ballet routine; it was as if she was part liquid. The way her body moved and the femininity she exuded were nothing short of spectacular. To be honest, I'm pretty sure that her joints are made of Jello the way she bends and twists. She has a sweetness that shows through in her smile.

Both Marija and Anna have impressed me with their strength and commitment to MooN Dance Studio so much. I'm proud to make the following announcement. :)

I am honored and happy to be an official photographer of an amazing project Notable Women led by wonderful Janice Ruffle. Anna and Janice decided to do a greater cause and to show you the artistic images of the island’s most famous women.

MooN Dance Studio will be hosting my solo photo exhibition in October in Limassol, Cyprus that will celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month titled “Take 10 of 20". Ten of Cyprus' most Notable Women portraits, including Anna and Marija will be exhibited and will focus on a woman's place in today's culture and how they influence society. 

We'll see you there! :)