In 2002 Maria Provenzano, Founder of The Foxy Diamondz dance troop, began to explore an innovative idea that would enhance the concept of the movie “Coyote Ugly”. By taking the art of dance to the people, Maria has been able to redefine the role of dance in Buffalo, by giving her dancers the opportunity to be flexible when it comes to the types of shows they perform. Being so nimble has allowed the dancers to flourish in settings that range from specialty events to festivals.
Maria’s love for fashion and the entertainment business eventually led to her involvement in various performances and fashion shows. During the process of pursuing her master’s degree in Executive Leadership & Business at Daemen College, she was able to revisit her passion for dance and fashion; specifically how the two could be combined to create a successful business in Buffalo.
It was the opportunity to explore the market from a business perspective, that ultimately confirmed Maria’s suspicions. It turned out that there was a need for professional entertainment at various local events, and a business model could be created around Maria’s passions and skills. Maria also credits her dance mentor, Mr. Matthew Clark, who challenged the experienced dancer to pursue her dream.
Thanks to Maria’s tenacity and hard work, The Foxy Diamondz Dance Company was established in June of 2013. Today, the company offers professional dance opportunities to those who are interested in introducing dance culture to the public, away from the traditional venues and into everyday and even unexpected places. Provenzano states, “Dance is my life. I always felt the art of dance was under-looked in the community. I want people to love dance as much as I do.”
The Foxy Diamondz rehearse at their resident studio Free Soul Dance, which is located in the south towns of WNY. Free Soul Dance offers open adult classes at all levels. Director, Kara Mann, has been a huge supporter of the company and their growth.
The Foxy Diamondz dancers are selected based on their dance training, performance ability, attitude and that “extra little sparkle”. The specific dance styles and techniques that are incorporated into their events include, but are not limited to: jazz, tap, burlesque, contemporary, hip hop and country.
The dancers’ talents transcend the realm of dance. They are educated, ambitious, well-rounded entertainers, promoters and role models who represent strength and independence. All of the dancers embody a special talent which is appreciated and utilized for the greater good of the team, overseen by their Dance Captain, Courtney Costanzo. Their skills range from engineering props, mixing music and singing, to costume design and choreography. The dancers are versatile, and are able to adapt to any venue or event. The girls’ unique abilities to work as a team makes them a strong and sustainable dance company. “If someone asks us to a do a Batman dance, we do it,” stated foxy Veteran Jess Moore. Each team member is 100% dedicated to bring a unique and ‘classy and sassy’ dance experience to any event.
Over the past year the Foxy Diamondz have been involved in various performances and that list continues to grow. Past events, fundraisers and parties include:
“Runway on the Water” USS Sullivan Battleship 7 Chances Charity
“Deck the Halls for Main Street Runway” Knox Estate Mansion Hunters Hope Foundation
“Gatsby Buffalo” The Statler Summit Foundation
“Catwalk for Charity” Town Ballroom Steadfast Foundation
“Fire and Ice Gala” Hotel Lafayette Child and Adolescent Treatment Services
“Good Vibrations” Hyatt Hotel Regency Buffalo Hearing and Speech Center
Taste of Diversity Festival
Elmwood Village Bidwell Concert Series
Erie County Fair
Glamour and Glow Fashion Show Rapids Theatre
“Coyote Ugly” Themed Dance Parties @ Gables Bar
Specialty Themed Events at Duke’s Bohemian Grove Bar
Corporate Events/Weddings
You can catch The Foxy Diamondz at their next upcoming performance – The Witches Ball on Halloween.
Or find them on Facebook | Website
Photos:
Lead photo: Rick Warne
Center photo: Erica-Malinowski-Morano (w/ Ryan Miller)
Final photo: Brittini Schreiber