Shanna is one of the most senior and less traditional member’s of Troupe Faraatha (Fah Rah Than). Shanna dances primarily in American Cabaret style as a member of the troupe but individually her dance style could be described more as Cabaret Fusion. She has combined her training in Ballet, Flamenco, Tahitian, and Brazilian samba, along with her training in tribal fusion, and Egyptian cabaret styles of bellydance. Shanna has studied under many teachers and instructors at various workshops, in her pursuit of knowledge. Currently she studies under Jen Gallagher, Simon Phillips and Emily Bowers at Art in Motion Pittsburgh in beautiful Sharpsburg.

Shanna is also an award winning costume designer and wears her own designs on the stage. She believes that every costume is special and must fit the dance and the dancer correctly. She has been known to be the one backstage of a performance making sure everyone is pinned into their costumes properly, and securely. She feels that if a dancer does not feel comfortable in their costume, their performance will show it. She has also tried to encourage her fellow performers to learn the basic skill of hand sewing because one never knows when a pesky hook will decide to break.

Shanna can also be found on burlesque stages on occasion as her international woman of mystery alter ego, Marianna Morttease. She uses her theatre training to create a plus size seductress who also has a silly side. Though she has been on break because the Pandemic has been annoying.

Shanna is a graduate of the University of North Texas with a Bachelors of Arts in Radio Television and Film. When she is not dancing with the troupe she is sharing her love of dance at various shows and workshop galas around the region, or she is in some type of dance class learning more about all the dance world can offer.

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