Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Garion.
Hi Amanda, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I began my dance journey in 2012 after a painful tailbone surgery left me with very little strength and flexibility. Looking for a way to get moving again, I signed up for a belly dance class at my local park district after years of admiring dancers at Renaissance fairs.
After just one class, I was hooked. I fell in love with the intricate, expressive movements, but even more than that, I loved how dance made me feel. I had always been incredibly shy, and dance gave me a level of confidence I had never experienced before. Before long I joined the student troupe and began performing.
About a year later, I realized I wanted my dance to reflect who I was. While I loved belly dance, I had always been a metalhead, so blending the two felt completely natural. My teacher gave me the chance to perform my first metal fusion solo, and although it was something entirely different, the audience embraced it. That performance sparked a wave of creativity that completely changed my path.
I started teaching at the request of friends while continuing to develop my own style. Not everyone in the traditional dance community welcomed what I was doing, but I also found dancers who were excited by it. Together we formed the Stygian Sisters in Champaign, IL.
We proudly embraced being different. We performed constantly, taught classes, attended workshops, and built a reputation for pushing boundaries in our Midwest dance community. Over the next seven years we grew, evolved, and created a home for dancers who wanted something outside the traditional path.
In 2019, after moving away from my troupe, I found myself missing that sense of connection. I wondered what would happen if I could build that same community online. What if dancers from anywhere in the world could share a troupe experience, even if they were the only metal or dark fusion dancer in their area?
I launched the Stygian Collective on February 14, 2020, just weeks before the pandemic changed everything. While so many dancers suddenly felt isolated, the online community I had been building was already in place. Dancers from around the world found each other through the Collective, and together we created virtual performances, festivals, classes, collaborations, and lasting friendships.
Today, the Stygian Collective is an international community of metal and dark fusion dancers connected by creativity, curiosity, and support. We provide instruction, performance opportunities, collaborative projects, and a place where dancers can truly be themselves.
People often ask who can join, and the answer is simple. Everyone is welcome. Whether you’re brand new to dance or have years of experience, whether you dance metal, gothic fusion, or something completely different, if you’re passionate about expressing yourself through movement, you’ll find a place here.
At its heart, the Stygian Collective is about belonging – finding people who celebrate your uniqueness, encourage your growth, and remind you that you never have to create alone.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s definitely not been a smooth road! As with starting any new business, it’s been a slow build. I only recently have been able to make dance my full-time employment, and even still, it’s a struggle. There is a lot of competition, especially online, and getting found on social media is a constant shift in processes. When there’s millions of viral videos on TikTok, who’s going to find ME?
There’s also the struggle of building beyond the online community. Now that the pandemic is passed, people say they want in-person opportunities again. Then it’s a difficult road of finding venues (and venues closing), fitting people’s schedules (and avoiding conflicting with other events), and simply getting people’s attention.
Despite all that, I’m making due – building gradually, making personal connections with dancers across the world, and enjoying referrals from happy students and members.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m the founder of the Stygian Collective and the pioneer of Metal Fusion dance—a dark, powerful blend of heavy music and fusion belly dance. Drawing inspiration from metal riffs, horror, emotion, mythology, and my mentors, I’ve carved a niche in the fusion world as both a performer and instructor. Since 2020, I’ve built a thriving international dance community, producing online festivals, leading workshops, and offering a comprehensive Stygian Certification Program for dancers of all levels. I’ve studied extensively in the fusion style with many top-tier instructors, and continue my training as a forever student. With a background in psychology, coaching, and also rune divination, I combine technical expertise, magical flair, emotional depth, and a passion for personal growth to support dancers both on and off the stage. I’m known as “Mama Stygian” for a reason – I balance my dark, powerful performances with warmth, humor, and a deep commitment to community.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
My authenticity and genuine care for people. At my core I am a people person, and I hold a special place in my heart for people who feel “other.” No one wants to feel left out, unliked, or unseen, and with me, they won’t. I’ve made it my mission to practice radical acceptance, providing space for people to express themselves through movement, explore their creativity, and tell their stories. Every member knows me, and knows I’m there to support, guide, and celebrate them!
Pricing:
- Stygian Collective Membership: $50/month, $135/quarter, or $500/year
- Private Lessons: $80/hour
- Workshops: $150/per hour
- Performance: Starting at $200
Contact Info:
- Website: https://stygian.dance
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stygiancollective
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stygiancollective
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@stygiancollective
