THIRZA DEFOE
Description
The art of traditional storytelling and knowledge of the Ojibwe language was passed down to Thirza by her Ojibwe grandmother. She has expressed her homage to her heritage by sharing her culture and its history through performances and presentations to students in elementary schools, high schools, and colleges throughout the United States. She interacts closely with the audience while introducing them to Iroqouis social songs, traditional flute music, storytelling, solo hoop dancing, and people hoop dancing, uniting all in the circle.
The Eagle Dance - The Eagle is respected and honored by many nations indigenous to the United States. The eagle is considered sacred and symbolic because of their ability to fly so high. Many nations feel that the Eagle delivers all of their prayers to the creator. Watch as Thirza transforms into this majestic animal portraying the flight of the Eagle.
Iroquois Social Songs - Socials within all Iroquois communities are meant to be enjoyed by all in attendance. Social Songs vary in length, verses and tempo. This call and response, led by Thirza, is a very interactive demonstration for all aged audiences.
The Fancy Shawl Dance - This dance is a relatively new dance. Footwork is the chief element of this dance, yet the style leans towards more movement, especially spinning. Fancy shawl dancers must follow the changing beat of the drum and stop when the music does with both feet on the ground. Envision the grace and beauty of a butterfly floating through the sky and you will see how this dance got its name, it's nicknamed the butterfly dance.
The Hoop Dance - Beginning with one hoop, Thirza effortlessly adds and weaves twenty-four hoops into formations that represent our journey through life. Each added hoop represents another thread in the web of life. Thirza maneuvers the hoops while dancing to create multiple designs that emulate nature, such as flowers, butterflies, eagles, and stars. This dance teaches about respect and the importance of taking care of our own circle.
The People's Hoop Dance - Driven by the power of traditional drums and soaring voices, the unity of humankind is reflected in this dance. This social dance invites all ages, races, nations, families and religions to come together in celebration of our unity.
Biography on Thirza Defoe
A 22-year-old performer from the Ojibwe and Oneida tribes of Wisconsin, is widely known for her sacred hoop dancing that she has been perfecting since the age of 8. Dancing has taken her around the world to Spain, Japan, Egypt, and Italy. Her passion for acting has brought her to Los Angeles.
Thirza's repertoire consists of performances at the 2002 Grammy Awards held at the Kodak Theater and the 2002 Native American Music Awards (NAMMY's) where she danced with Native American recording artists, Brule. Her many years as an accomplished hoop and eagle dancer (since the age of 8) have awarded her recognition in both the native community and throughout the world. In 1992, she danced in the opening ceremonies of the Olympic Games in Barcelona. She celebrated the Millenium in Egypt in December of 1999 dancing with the Call For Peace Drum and Dance Company. She has been featured in National Geographic World Magazine (August 1998) and has been hailed Wisconsin's Best Kept Secret by News from Indian Country: The Independent Native Journal.
Thirza is well-versed in music, theater and dance. Her acting credits include the starring role and narrator in the People of the Forest (PBS educational documentary), Helena in a Midsummer Night's Dream, and Peter in Milwaukee Public Theater's Peter Pan. As a versatile performer she played a young girl in Susan Lori-Park's, In The Blood along with composing and performing the performances soundtrack. Other credits include One Tribe Many Nations, a children's book that highlights Thirza. She is currently the featured hoop dancer with the Native American music group, Brule. When not performing, Thirza can be found pursuing her other interests: photography, guitar, writing and skateboarding.
Thirza recently graduated from the world-renowned, California Institute of the Arts, where she received her Bachelor in Fine Arts degree.