As the Director of Alchemy Dance Company & Academy, Davina Birch brings with her a wealth of experience and qualifications. She began her dance journey at the young age of 2, studying ballet and obtaining ISTD teaching qualifications and advanced certificates in Modern Theatre Dance and Tap. Additionally, she holds a BA Honours degree in Drama & Theatre Studies and is a qualified gym instructor, with various fitness teaching certificates including an S/NVQ in Exercise to Music, Pilates, and Body Pump.
Davina has been teaching since 1996, starting as a freelance fitness instructor in London and later becoming a dance teacher in various dance schools and colleges around the city. She was also Head of Dance at Finchley Youth Theatre and taught the dance aspect of GCSE performing arts in secondary education. Throughout her teaching career, she has entered many students for dance exams and choreographed numerous showcases, theatre productions, and competitions.
Her introduction to salsa came in the late nineties at the iconic London salsa club La Finca. Davina's trip to Cuba in 2000 allowed her to explore and learn Son, Cha Cha, and Cuban Mambo. She discovered cross-body salsa in 2003 and underwent training with Marchant, which led to the formation of Alchemy Dance Company. Her experience in jazz dance became part of the core technique training for the company, and she co-choreographed Alchemy's debut show 'Timbalito' with Marchant.
Davina is considered one of the leading ladies of the UK salsa scene, with a smooth, sophisticated, and sexy style. Her teaching is renowned for its high standard and excellent following techniques, emphasizing the natural flow of partner work with smooth rhythmical body movement and flowing arms. She is also a popular salsa DJ, having been invited to DJ at salsa events and congresses across the UK, Ireland, Trinidad, and South Africa. She is also the resident DJ at Alchemy Social and it is her first time playing for us here at Salsa On The Pier
"Through our performances and teaching, we hope to share with you our love and passion for dance. Our aim is to create beautiful dance by transcending technique and becoming one with our partner and the music. Our priority is not on the end product but in the process. A continual journey of learning and discovery for ourselves, our students and our audience.