ShanDien Sonwai LaRance Native American Hoop Dance

What to Expect: 🔥
1. High-Energy Native American Hoop Dance
• Sonwai LaRance brings 20+ years of worldwide hoop dance experience, including performances at the White House and with Cirque du Soleil.
• This fast-paced, high-energy, athletic dance features multiple hoops, which ShanDien skillfully manipulates to create symbolic shapes and designs inspired by nature—eagles, butterflies, flowers, rain clouds, and even the ladder of life, among others. Each routine is rooted in healing ceremony traditions, ensuring a visually stunning and culturally meaningful show.

2. Live Music & Cultural Context🪶
• ShanDien’s father, Steve LaRance, accompanies her with live flute, drum, and pow wow songs, creating an immersive, authentic atmosphere.
• He also offers insights into hoop dance origins and symbolism, guiding your audience through the ancient storytelling that underlies every performance.

3. Interactive Meet & Greet👋🏽
• After the show, ShanDien and Steve are available to meet guests, take photos, and answer questions.
• This personal engagement allows attendees to learn more about Native American culture and the dedication required to become a world-class hoop dancer.

4. Optional Hoop Dance Workshops(Add-On)
• For Indigenous Communities: Tailored sessions for youth and adults, strengthening cultural pride and connection through the art of hoop dance.
• For Non-Indigenous Groups: A culturally appropriate introduction to hoop dance basics, fostering cross-cultural understanding and respect.
5. Optional Native American Jewelry Exhibit (Special Request)
• Steve LaRance is a world-renowned jeweler, handcrafting pieces with authentic gems, sterling silver, and gold.
• If requested, he can showcase his jewelry at your event, adding an extra layer of cultural and artistic enrichment for attendees.
6. Special Event LED Hoop Performances (Special Request)
• For large-scale productions, circus-style shows, or other special events, ShanDien can incorporate LED hoops into her performance.
• These light-up routines elevate the spectacle and are available upon special request only.

7. Tailored Pricing & Logistics
• Performance fees depend on event size, duration, travel requirements, and any add-on options (workshops, jewelry exhibit, LED hoops).
• As a full-time performer and instructor , ShanDien will work with you to customize the show, ensuring an unforgettable, authentic experience that meets your event’s specific needs.

By welcoming Shandien “Sonwai” LaRance and Steve LaRance to your event, you’ll introduce your audience to a captivating, culturally rich spectacle. This blend of tradition, artistry, and heartfelt storytelling will leave everyone inspired and eager to witness more of the remarkable Native American hoop dance.

From her earliest memories, ShanDien “Sonwai” LaRance has been immersed in the vivid artistry of Native American hoop dance, arts and culture. Guided by her family’s legacy, she began dancing as a young child, mastering an ancient art form that gracefully weaves athleticism and storytelling. Today, Sonwai stands among the world’s top female hoop dancers, showcasing the cultural importance and mesmerizing spectacle of hoop dance at events nationwide.

Over the years, Sonwai has performed everywhere from the White House to around the world with Cirque du Soleil’s TOTEM, earning international acclaim as a cultural ambassador for her breathtaking performances . She has also worked with Lonely Planet—hosting “A Local’s Guide to Must-See New Mexico,”—and collaborated with New Mexico True Campaign to celebrate the state’s rich heritage.

A centerpiece of each show is Sonwai’s collaboration with her father, Steve LaRance—a revered singer, drummer, and flutist. His live music provides the heartbeat of the performance, creating a deeply immersive atmosphere. Together, they honor the historic roots of hoop dance, illustrating its evolution and cultural significance through graceful choreography and soul-stirring melodies.

Sonwai extends her passion beyond the stage by teaching Hoop Dance workshops and cultural exchanges to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, fostering cultural exchange, mutual respect, and understanding. Through hands-on instruction, she invites participants to explore the symbolism of each hoop and discover the vibrant life lessons woven into this time-honored tradition.

At the heart of every performance is Sonwai’s dynamic hoop choreography—transforming up to a six hoops into striking formations like eagles, butterflies, and more, symbolizing transformation and unity within the circle of life. Steve’s resonant drumbeats and mesmerizing flute melodies guide the audience through each story, bridging the past and present.

Based in Ohkay Owingeh , New Mexico, Sonwai and Steve travel worldwide, offering a perfect highlight for festivals, corporate gatherings, schools, weddings, and private celebrations. By sharing this living tradition with diverse audiences, they champion hoop dance as a bridge for cultural appreciation and unity.

Bring an unforgettable fusion of dance, music, and storytelling to your next event. With her passion, skill, and commitment to cultural preservation, Sonwai LaRance ensures every audience leaves inspired, enlightened, and connected to the enduring spirit of Native American hoop dance. Book now to create a memorable celebration of tradition and togetherness.

• Performance Area: A clear, level space (minimum 10 ft x 10 ft) is ideal to accommodate hoop maneuvers. Indoor or outdoor venues are fine, but the surface should be free of debris and provide firm footing.
• Sound Needs: A basic sound system with microphone access is recommended so Steve can project his flute, drum, and voice clearly. If no sound system is available, please let us know to discuss alternatives.
• Lighting: Adequate lighting is important so audiences can fully appreciate the intricate hoop designs. For LED hoop performances, dim or theatrical lighting enhances the visual effect.
• A nearby, private dressing area is appreciated for Regalia and equipment preparation.

Please contact us with any specific venue considerations or questions—our goal is to ensure a smooth, captivating performance for everyone.