| 2003 was a fun and exciting year for me! There were so many changes that happened, that I cannot even begin to list them all! It was a year of personal growth for me as a dancer and author. It was a year of many changes as our company has grown and we have devloped new products, like our latest book, Embellished Bras. We're trying new approaches, and this latest book looks and feels much different than our other publications because of the lush color cover and the photos inside.
My goal in 2003 was to improve my professional image. Not just as a dancer, but as an author and publisher. It was a year of makeovers. My wordrobe experienced an overhaul. My dance costuming took a change from the tribal looks of the past four years towards a more stylish Gypsy/Cabaret fusion that seems to work for me. I litterally, let my hair down.
 In the early fall, I started teaching a dance class in Milpitas. This was an unepexted change, but one that has become richly rewarding. I enjoy dancing with students and helping them discover the own inner dancer.
Here are two of my students, Chris and Jenny, Perorming with me at Setereh's Hafla in early December.
Makeup Makeovers
Many years ago, I had a makeover by the talented makeup artist Meleah. Not only did she radically transform the way I looked and presented myself on stage, but she taught me the value of a professional face. In our industry, makeup is one component of our total look. It works with our hair, costume and accessories to create a unified total look. Applying beautiful, falttering and flawless makeup takes skills that can be learned, and over the years, I have tried to glean tips, hints and suggestions from every makeup artist I've come into contact with.
This year, I decided to revisit my "look" and talked to many makeup artists. I had three makeup artist work on my face, teaching me new tricks, new stylistic trends and products that are on the market. I was stuck in a rut, and needed a bost. I decided to share the knowledge I gained through these makeup explorations.
I hope that as you read this issue, that you find some inspiration! As performers we are constantly fine-tuning our look, trying to find that perfect balance. Many of the steps I’ve taken have, though geared towards my professional wardrobe, are actually the same as if you were planning a new costume ensemble complete with new makeup and hairstyle. Good luck on your own personal style journey!
Dawn “Davina” Devine Brown
Author • Costumer • Dancer • Historian
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