Described as a 'powerful dancer' by Dance Magazine, Cihtli Ocampo began her career at the age of eight and first stepped onto a stage at nine.  She began teaching and choreographing at the age of twelve for Stage 7 Dance Theater in San Diego, CA.  In 1999 she was awarded the William J. Fulbright Scholarship for the study of Flamenco and Spanish Dance within Spain.  This scholarship marked the beginning of an 11 year residency in Seville where she immersed herself in Gypsy culture.  
     From 2000-2007 Ocampo trained exclusively with the legendary Farruco family.  In 2004, she debuted in Farruquitos' production of Alma Vieja.  That same year Ms. Ocampo was the featured female dancer in Tony Gatlif's film "Exils" (Best Director, Cannes Film Festival).  Since 2006 she has worked as the featured dancer of Arte y Pureza Flamenco Company.  
     Ocampo has performed extensively throughout Europe, South America, and the USA in theaters including Bilbao's Arriaga Theater, Seville's Los Gallos and New York's Tribeca Performing Arts Center.  She is known for her strength and power while maintaining an elegance of line that comes from a lifetime of dancing.  Her performance credits include Los Farrucos, Concha Vargas, Inés Bacan, La Macanita, Miguel Funi, Diego del Morao, Jose Valencia, Manuel Molina, Montse Cortes, La Tana, Antonio Moya, El Bobote, and Tito Puente.  The film by Jeff Katz, "Spanish Day The Documentary" is currently being edited and will showcase her life in Spain with husband, Ethan Margolis (acclaimed Flamenco guitarist, musician, and composer).

Inviting and Challenging are the two words that come to mind when I think of my training with Cihtli. She is an incredible teacher and will give you a strong foundation if you are just starting out or if you are ready to step up your flamenco technique.  She is the teacher to train with if you are in Southern California.