I am a movement artist who teaches Fusion Belly Dance and floorwork through structured technique and embodied exploration, helping people build confidence, movement vocabulary, and expressive presence.
My Journey
My relationship with dance began in childhood. My mother, who was taking belly dance classes at the time, invited me to join. She helped me open the door to a lifelong connection with movement, confidence, and community.
With the support of my mom, she helped in my enroll at our local studio where I trained in youth FCBD® and the Pomegranate SEEDs® program in Twisp, WA. I was fortunate to develop an early foundation in belly dance, troupe culture, and embodied movement practice. We went to monthly "Haflas" and I got to experience intergenerational spaces of women dancing and eating together. It was truly a special time. I also was lucky enough to have a regular yoga practice and joined ballet classes.
Performing at Emerald Sanctuary, 2012.
Student Showcase Polmegranate SEEDS, 2014.
After I went into college, I decided to pursue a different side of life. I joined Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) and was in the military for six years.
After being in the service for a while, I knew I needed dance in my life again. I immediately found a home at Tease Studio, Denver. Through floorwork and pole fitness, I rediscovered autonomy, joy, and a more honest relationship with my body.
Movement became a way for me to regulate my nervous system and reconnect with myself. Through my journey, I also found lifelong friends and a community outside of the military.
Tease Studio, Denver 2022
Shortly after leaving the military, I moved to Spokane, WA and I began my Master of Social Work program focused on Mental Health Counseling. At the same time, I found my way back to dance through performing with my mom. Coming back to performing with my mom after ten years was incredibly special! What began as a way to reconnect quickly became something much deeper. I realized that I could actually make my dream a reality.
Methow Valley, WA 2010 (My Mom & I!)
My Mom & I Performing at Sauvage SZA, Spokane, WA 2025
After joining an belly dance academy in Spokane, WA, I began performing regularly with a group while also completing intensive Social Work practicums. Pushing myself in dance and school, I realized something felt out of alignment.
I found myself drawn back to movement education, embodiment work, and artistic development. I wanted a path that allowed for more creativity and individuality in my expression. I wanted to share what I had learned and help others find a way to reach their dreams too.
Inspired by my time at Tease Studio, I pursued Liquid Motion®, a floorwork methodology created by Jeni Janover, and became a certified and licensed instructor in 2026.
In April 2026, I attended and passed Zoe Jakes’ Diamonds — a dream I had carried since I was a teenager and one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. I’m excited to continue that journey into the next Zoe Jakes intensive in 2027.
Zoe Jakes Diamonds Training, 2026
I pride myself in having lived many lives. I bring lived experience alongside my training into my work, including Mental Health First Aid and CPR certification, as well as crisis negotiation and mental health response training from my military service. I am also completing my Master of Social Work at the University of Denver, which informs my trauma-aware approach.
These experiences have shaped my philosophy of working with the body rather than against it, and prioritizing movement that is supportive, adaptable, and sustainable.
I am supported by a strong care team, my therapist, and my family. These are resources I deeply value as someone committed to holding space for others.
Spirit Rebel Collective, Time as a Studio Manager in Lake Tahoe 2024
My artistic cup has been filled through active participation in the local burlesque community. I am a member of the Vaude Villains Burlesque troupe and perform regularly with Underground Burlesque at TRVST.
As an independent artist, I deeply value collaboration and the creative exchange that happens on and off the stage. I love bringing shared visions to life and creating work that centers presence, connection, and the joy of performing alongside other artists.
I love seeing others thrive!
Vaude Villians Spring Burlesque Show, 2026
Thank you for being here and for taking the time to learn about my journey and what inspires my movement practice.
I’m continually evolving as both a student and a mentor, and I deeply honor the teachers, lineages, and communities that have shaped my practice.
Belly dance is a living, evolving art form with many source and lineage teachers here in Washington and beyond.
I hold deep respect for the many ways this work is carried and shared. I do not approach this art from a place of ownership or competition, but from gratitude, curiosity, and a commitment to ongoing learning within a wider community of dancers.
I aim to create spaces where dancers feel welcome, returning dancers feel supported, and everyone is invited to move at their own pace.
I teach because movement changed my life—and I believe it can help others feel powerful, grounded, and at home in their bodies.
If you feel called to move with me, I would love to dance with you!
Underground Burlesque Collab, 2026
My Values & Philosophy
Body Neutrality
Inclusivity
Trauma-Informed
I focus on what my body can do rather than how it looks. My practice is about finding ease and function in movement, honoring my physical self exactly as it is today.
I create spaces that are a sanctuary for all bodies, genders, and experience levels. I am committed to creating a space where those feel seen, heard, and truly welcome.
I teach with a deep awareness of the mind-body connection. My approach emphasizes choice, safety, and empowerment, allowing me to navigate my own journey through dance.
How I Teach
We move through foundational movement, guided sequences, and moments of open exploration. Each layer builds on the last, so movement becomes something you understand not just intellectually, but in your body over time.
My work is not oriented toward perfection. It is oriented toward connection, confidence, and embodied understanding. This is the kind of movement that accumulates slowly, and stays with you.
Connect with Me
olivia.chapko.llc@gmail.com
Spokane, Washington