North Carolina Belly Dance Instructors

ncbellydance logo

North Carolina Belly Dance Instructors
By City

Anyone can learn how to dance - let one of these instructors show you how!

Asheville

Claire Dima - Coming to bellydance after ballet, weight training and tae kwon do, Dima is well-known for her physical power and flexibility. Intellectually voracious, she has devoted herself to studying the histories, movements and cultures of bellydance, modern, fusion and traditional. She has taught bellydance in the classroom, regional workshops, colleges and universities for several years, with a clear emphasis on both personal empowerment and cultural appreciation. "I love the fact that within the same dance language we can engage in ritualistic mystic dance like the guedras and also tap the vibrancy of the glamourous cabaret scene." For information about educational offerings, see the website: www.barakamundi.com.
View her class schedule here or visit the Baraka Mundi website.

LisaZahiya - Lisa Zahiya began the study of bellydance in the Baltimore/Washington area where she studied with several master teachers including Piper Reid Hunt, Artemis Mourat and Laurel Victoria Gray. She was a member of Piper Hunt’s Daughters of Rhea Dance Ensemble and was a founding member of Baltimore's first Tribal Improv Group, Shivani Tribal. Lisa is a certified Level II dancer in the Piper Method of Bellydance. For more information, email lisazahiya@gmail.com or visit LisaZahiya's website.
View her class schedule here

Mahsati Janan - Mahsati Janan is a teacher, performer and workshop instructor in Asheville, NC. She began her journey in belly dance in 1996 and has studied and performed throughout the southeastern US. Co-director of the successful Troupe Amani Dance Ensemble and Bal Fahjar Dance Ensemble for over 7 years, she was also a principal dancer in the El Oadhi Dancers and Drummers, Bal Yifte and Bal Tzigane while she lived in Florida. Now having relocated to Asheville, she is available to teach workshops as well as private or groups classes in Classical Egyptian, Middle Eastern Folkloric, Turkish, Lebanese and techniques that are common to all styles. Her anthropology background and research emphases are also strongly represented in her classes as you learn the history and traditions of this dance. For more information, please call 828 318 7572 or email to mahsati@mahsati-janan.com. More information about Mahsati Janan is available on her website at www.mahsati-janan.com.

Mizilca - Mizilca teaches "Transformational Bellydance", her own unique approach to belly dance in its sacred element, integrating yoga, chakra and energy work, and Goddess mythos into the dance on both technical and inspirational levels. Classes for women (sorry brothers, i swear I'll get one going for you too eventually) are at Namaste Yoga and Healing Arts, 57 Broadway in downtown Asheville (828-253-6985) on Thursday nights from 7:30 until much later. The class was supposedly an hour and a half, but it typically goes about three hours, and you wont want to miss the end, so be warned to come with stamina and lots of water. All levels welcome! Costuming by Mizilca is available for sale at Namaste. Mizilca also offers a very popular kids Bellydance class! The class is also on Thursdays, 4-5pm for girls 8-11 years old and 4:30-5 pm for girls 5-7 years (yes they overlap, based on attention spans). The kids class strongly encourages self-confidence, intuitive movement, and cooperative co-creation. Kids' dance costumes are also available for sale!
View her class schedule here or visit her website

Onca - Since 1999, Onca O'Leary has been the source for Tribal Bellydance in Western North Carolina. Best known for her agility, artistry, and stagecraft, she is an in-demand instructor with a full-time career in bellydance. Since 2007, she has toured exclusively with The Mezmer Society: Luscious Cabaret & Balkan Ruckus, presenting high-spirited Balkan music and sheer bellydance havoc to audiences from California to New England. Her dance and live music company, Baraka Mundi, was nominated for the Golden Belly and Best of WNC Awards. Onca directed the Future of Tradition Center for Folkloric Arts in Asheville, NC, for eight years, and TribOriginal, her annual dance camp was nominated for Best Event of 2008. She is also a published author and noted illustrator of the internationally recognized "World Spirit Tarot". She can be contacted at onca@barakamundi.com, or at (828) 232 2980.
View the class schedules for Onca here or visit the Baraka Mundi website.

SamiTe' - SamiTe's unique style of Fusion Bellydance gently blends the ancient and modern into a sacred ritualistic dance experience. Journey to another time and place where music and dance communicate ageless stories of times long past and those yet to be created. You can contact SamiTe' at 828.273.9528, by email at samite@fusionbellydance.com, or visit her website.
View her class schedule here

Boone

Annie Goodson - Annie Goodson of Ancient Moon Bellydance offers classes in American Tribal Style (ATS) bellydance. Annie has completed her General Skills and Teacher Trainings I and II from Carolena Nericcio of FatChanceBellydance. Classes are offered in Boone and in West Jefferson. For more information email: ancientmoonbellydance@yahoo.com or call 828-719-1125

Joharah - Joharah (Vickie Young) teaches beginner bellydance and tribal classes at Northwestern Studio in Boone, NC. She is a member of the ethnic fusion bellydance troupe Lost Jewels of the Ghawazee located in Granite Falls. The Lost Jewels are directed by Neela (Becky Shook) and Joharah continues to be one of her devoted students. Contact her at 828-297-1083 or vcyoung@skybest.com for information.

Saphira - Saphira (Teresa Dickerson) is a full-time belly dance instructor and performer (since 2001) and teaches at several locations, including Winston-Salem, Wilkesboro and Boone NC. For the past 10 years, she has studied under the direction of acclaimed international dance masters and continues her in-depth studies by frequently attending dance workshops. Saphira is the recipient of the Lewisville Area Arts Council 2006 Achievement in Dance Award and her dance company Three Graces Entertainment received the Best of Winston-Salem Performing Arts Group runner-up for 2009. Saphira is the artistic director and choreographer for two student troupes and two advanced troupes. Using her knowledge as a certified personal trainer, she emphasizes proper alignment, safe movement, and flexibility when teaching dance. She provides a supportive teaching environment that allows her students ample opportunities to learn and grow as dancers. She can be contacted at (336) 830-3479, or by email at Teresa3graces@aol.com.
View her class schedule here or visit www.ThreeGracesEntertainment.com.

Cary

Click here to view listings for Cary and the surrounding "Triangle" area

Chapel Hill

Click here to view listings for Chapel Hill and the surrounding "Triangle" area

Charlotte

Asali - Looking for a fun way to exercise, meet people, and learn something new, Asali began learning raks sharqi from both Zarifa and Yasmine, in 2002 and began performing under their direction in 2003. Asali began teaching in Gastonia in 2005, and loves sharing her passion for belly dance with others. Asali continues to add to her Oriental dance repertoire by regularly attending workshops from internationally renowned performers such as Aziza, Bozenka, and Sahra Saeeda, to name a few. Asali teaches ongoing, multi-level classes exclusively at The Perfect Step Dance Studio in Gastonia, NC and is also available for private and small group instruction and mini-workshops. Visit www.asalidances.com or email asalidances@yahoo.com for additional information.

Daveed Korup - Korup is the co-creator of DrumFest!, a hands-on, multi-cultural drumming experience for people of all ages. Through school assembly programs, artist-in-residency projects, concerts and workshops, Daveed introduces participants to the electrifying world of percussion and rhythm. Since its inception, DrumFest! has reached tens of thousands of people, young and old, from all across the United States. Daveed has worked with musician and mentor, Billy Woods, performing the "Music of the Urban Gypsy" all across the country and is co-founder of Lights-On Productions, which promotes percussion performance and instructional projects. In 2002, Korup self-published Tao Te Drum, which is a comprehensive hand drumming method that integrates Eastern and Western drumming traditions. Daveed can be contacted through his website, email or by phone at 704-544-2212.

Nayna and Iona - A new beginning for bellydance is in Charlotte with Lotus Bellydance. Both Nayna and Iona have studied and performed Oriental Dance under Yasmine for over 5 years and have since taught independantly for the last 2 years at Lotus Dance Studio. They have most recently branched out to other locations as well. For information about classes and the new locations, you can send information to info@lotus-studios.com or visit the website at http://lotus-studios.com.
View their class schedule here.

Vania - is a Greek bellydancer who has kept in her heart the origins, the music, the cuisine, the uniqueness of the Greek-Eastern culture, the Greek-Oriental dances. She has been bellydancing since childhood. She taught bellydance classes in Greece, and now teaches here in Charlotte. She is the organizer of the "Charlotte Belly Dance-Gypsy Meetup Group" and schedules and organizes workshops in Charlotte.
View her class schedule here.

World Dance Center - Beginner belly dance is now offered at World Dance Center in Charlotte, Thursdays 7:15-8:15. No belly dance experience is needed to take this class. The class is ongoing and focuses on basic skills rather than choreography, so you can start any time. Each class consists of warm up isolation exercises, combination and across-the-floor drills, and improv exercises using that day's combinations. Cynthia has 8 years of belly dance experience in modern tribal fusion, folkloric, and traditional Egyptian styles, as well as several years experience with latin dances and American ballroom. 3116-F Milton Road (near the intersection of WT Harris and Sharon Amity) weekly. $10 or $80 for a 10-class card that can also be used for other World Dance Center classes such as salsa, flamenco and capoeira. Belly dance classes are also offered at the UNCC Student Activity Center during term for UNCC students and staff -- contact me for current schedule information. Questions? E-mail me at cynthiagibas@yahoo.com.

Yasmine - Yasmine, who has an extensive background in ballet, tap, jazz, & Middle Eastern dance, is the studio owner of Mid-East Dance by Yasmine. Yasmine spent much of 2004 touring with the Bellydance Superstars performing in major cities around the United States as well as Barcelona, Spain. Yasmine's distinct performance style is often referred to as "Cutting Edge Cabaret" and Yasmine's diverse knowledge and style gives her classes & workshops a unique flare. Featured on the cover of the May/June 2007 issue of Zaghareet, Yasmine also appears in IAMED's Bellydance-O-Rama 3. Yasmine hosts several workshop and show events in the Charlotte area & is currently teaching seminars throughout the U.S. Call 704-525-3606 or email yasmine@magic-hips.com for bookings and rates.
View her class schedule here.

Zarifa Bint al-Waha - Zarifa Bint al-Waha's professional Oriental Dance teaching and performance career spans 30 years of studies with Cassandra of Minneapolis, MN., Raqia Hassan in Egypt, Ibrahim Farrah, Yousry Sharif, Amaya, Morocco, Ozel Turkbas, and the best instructors in the world of Middle Eastern Dance. Early training included classical ballet, tap, and modern dance.
Credentials: Bachelor of Science Degree in Health and Physical Education, ACE (American Council on Exercise) Certification Group Fitness Instructor. Teaching experience includes Oriental Dance, Folkdance, high school Science, Health, Physical Education, Swimming, and Synchronized Swimming.
View her class schedule here.

Durham

Click here to view listings for Durham and the surrounding "Triangle" area

Elizabeth City

Yasmin - Yasmin is the Student Activity Director at College of The Albemarle, Elizabeth City, NC. She offers ongoing beginning and intermediate instructions in Middle Eastern Dance. Yasmin invites you to contact her for class schedules and information at (252)335-0821, ext. 2277. Or you may send her email.

Nadira - Looking for a small tribal belly dance class with individualized attention? Or for a place where you can be nurtured and supported? Nadira's students enjoy all of this as well as performance opportunities and the opportunity to grow with other dancers in a tribal troupe. Join me, Nadira, at Hickory/Great Bridge Jazzercise center 1296 Battlefield Blvd, S 102, Chesapeake, VA 23322 (very accessible to people in the Moyock, Elizabeth City area of NC). My phone is (757) 362-4973 and I can also be reached at Nadira@burningphoenix.net .Classes are $12 each or $40 per month when pre-paid. More information on my instruction style and approach to bellydance is also available at www.burningphoenix.net

Elkin

Mena (Kelly Hembree) - Mena has been a student and performer under the phenomenal Samra for over 4 years. She began teaching a beginners class in the Fall of 2009 at the Elkin Recreation Center. For more information, call 336-401-5648.
View her class schedule here.

Fayetteville

Alexandra - Current director of The Shadows of the Fire, she teaches middle eastern dance classes through the Fayetteville Parks and Recreation Department.
Contact the Fayetteville Parks and Recreation Department for current class schedule.

Sharifa Asmar - Performer, instructor, choreographer, and historian, Sharifa is well known for her audience-pleasing style, musicality, technique and classic style. She is the director of Qarisma Dance, a professional dance company dedicated to excellence in Oriental Dance, as well as regional dances of North Africa and the Middle East. Sharifa has performed at a variety of venues and family celebrations in the US and Europe, and has been an invited panelist on NPR radio and cable TV re: Middle Eastern Dance and music. Sharifa has studied with internationally-known dancers and choreographers including Egyptian notables Nagwa Fouad, Nadia Hamdi, Farida Fahmy and Mahmoud Reda; and other internationally renowned artists and instructors including Morocco [NYC], Suhaila Salimpour[CA], the late Ibrahim Farrah[NYC], Dahlena[Chicago / AZ] , Aegela[MI /Alexandria, Egypt], Sahra Kent [CA/ Cairo, Egypt], Hadia[Canada], Aisha Ali [CA], Nourhan Sharif[NYC],and Karim Nagi [MA]. Sharifa teaches weekly studio classes in several North Carolina locations and workshops nationwide. Sharifa is also a certified Lebed method instructor, incorporating dance movement with healing and lymphatic activation. Contact Sharifa at 910.461.1265 or sharifaasmar@earthlink.net for private or group lessons, corporate events, educational or museum programs, family occasions, theme parties and special events.
View her class schedule here.

Ja'Dihra - a dancer with the Shadows of Fire Dance troupe, she teaches yoga-based bellydance classes at various locations in Fayetteville. For more information, email her at stephlobato@aol.com or call 910-644-1212.
View her class schedule here.

Gastonia

Asali - Asali has studied and performed raks sharqi under the instruction of Zarifa and Yasmine for 3 years. Asali continues to add to her Oriental dance repertoire by attending workshops from internationally renowned teachers such as Suhaila Salimpour, Aziza, and Rachel Brice, to name a few. For more information on private or small group instruction, visit www.asalidances.com, or email asalidances@yahoo.com.
View her Gastonia class schedule here.

Greensboro

Click here to view listings for Greensboro and the surrounding "Triad" area

Greenville

Nahla (Christie Hill) -- Nahla Hamad, professional instructor, performer, and creative director of Hypnotic student troupe, teaches beginning and continuing bellydance at the Absolute Studio in Arlington Village, Greenville, NC. Nahla began her study of bellydance over 14 years ago, and has since attended various workshops, events and private lessons with some of her favorite dancers including Sadie (Denver, Co) Rachel Brice (Ca.) Gina (Ga.), Aisha Ali, Fahtiem, Lisa Zahiya (NC), Nandana (NC), and many more. In 2007, Nahla completed the bellydance instructor certification, “Sharing the Art we Love” through Qadria of Belly Revelations, and in 2009, completed Level I Certification in Suhaila Salimpour’s School of Dance. In addition to Nahla’s Bellydance certifications, she is an AFAA certified group fitness instructor, PCC certified Mat Pilates and Reformer Instructor, AFAA certified Personal Trainer and is certified in CPR. For performance, classes, or private instruction, Nahla can be reached at 252-717-0259, christie0928@suddenlink.net, or visit her website at www.theabsolutestudio.com.

Donna Whitley -- Donna Whitley is a dance performer, teacher, and scholar of Middle Eastern “belly dance". A regular guest teacher in the East Carolina University School of Theatre and Dance, Donna brings her unique understanding and personal experience of the dance to each class. Every class involves autobiography, creative process, repertory, and history. Donna Whitley was trained in California in the 1960’s under the late Bert Balladine, and studied with Karima in Casablanca, danced in a nightclub as Farida “unique” and lived for a year in a Moroccan village where she learned the dance as a folk art. Ms. Whitley teaches privately and lectures on the “History of Middle Eastern Dance.” In 2009 she is celebrating 37 years of teaching! Her website is www.donnawhitley.com. Phone: 252-355-5150. donnawhitley@embarqmail.com.

Hickory/Granite Falls

Art in Motion - Art in Motion is a belly dance and yoga studio located in a beautiful historic two-story building in downtown Granite Falls, NC offering ethnic fusion style belly dance choreography classes and yoga classes Monday through Thursday evenings. Art in Motion moved into a beautiful new building at 18 South Main Street in historic downtown Granite Falls, North Carolina in April 2007. Owners Becky Shook (Neela), Kim Edmisten (Sa'idah) and Debbie Burns (Sephira) are proud of the colorful new facility which features a large belly dance studio upstairs and a small belly dance boutique. Boutique items include authentic belly dance costumes, saris, cholis, jewelry, yoga mats, incense, candles, and music CDs. The store also features hand-crafted ethnic fusion belly dance costume items like skirts, harem pants, Ghawazee coats, vests, hip scarves, and more. ETSY Site: 3paintedpeacocks.etsy.com, Web Site: www.artinmotionnc.com, Email: Studios@ArtInMotionNC.com, Phone 828-391-7525.
View their class schedule here.

Neela (Becky Shook) - Neela (Becky Shook) has been dancing since 1995. She offers classes in beginning and intermediate Ethnic Fusion Belly Dance. Classes are held in Granite Falls, NC at the lovely Art in Motion bellydance and yoga studio. Neela emphasizes the fun and sisterhood of the dance. Classes time is spent with warm-ups and body conditioning exercises and working on basic dance moves. She is also is the director of the Lost Jewels of the Ghawazee. The studio hosts a drum circle the second Saturday of each month that is open to the public. If you have interest in drumming or seeing Belly Dancers in a casual freestyle environment please join them. Web Site: www.artinmotionnc.com, Phone: (828) 313-0013, E-mail: bellydancer@charter.net. Please call for more information or class times.
View her class schedule here.

High Point

Click here to view listings for High Point and the surrounding "Triad" area

Jacksonville/Richlands/"Inner Banks" Area

Blue Fire Belly Dance - Aaminah (Megan Wright) has been studying the alluring art of Belly Dance since 1997. She started in Oklahoma under the instruction of Habiba (of the renown Mirage Belly Dance Troupe in Austin). After moving away from her hometown, she studied with various teachers in Virginia, New Orleans and North Carolina, though mostly doing her studying independently. She recently founded Blue Fire Belly Dance and teaches classes twice a week in Sneads Ferry, NC. Find out more by visiting her website at www.bluefiredance.com.

Kaitlyn - Kaitlyn is a professional belly dancer that has over 6 years of formal training in ballet, tap and jazz and has been studying belly dance since 2001. She is a former member the troupe MissiHippy and is currently the director of a student level troupe "The Apsara Dance Ensemble". Kaitlyn has a B.S. in Art Education and has dedicated her life and career to performing, and educating others about the ancient art of the dance. She currently teaches at various studios in eastern NC including Dance Theatre of Jacksonville. For additional information about classes and instruction contact Kaitlyn at 910-647-4722 or visit her site at www.KaitlynBellyDance.com.
View her class schedule here.

Anna Maria Sophia of Tara Sophia Belly Dance plays with dangerous toys! Sword and fire props instruction and coaching - private, group, troupe, or workshop. Sword instruction in balancing, spinning, and twirling techniques, combos, travelling, floor work, and presentation. Single to triple swords. Fire props instruction in safety, fans, palm torches, palm candles, and staff technique including staff twirling and balancing. Please visit tarasophiabellydance.blogspot.com to view demo videos. Classes, coaching, and workshops conducted upon request anywhere in NC. Have swords - will travel! For rates and booking please call 910 581 6150 or email annasophia999@yahoo.com.

Kenansville

Ahmose - Ahmose teaches a beginner basic course with emphasis on flexibility, basic core moves, and having fun. Classes are a 6 week course at James Sprunt Community College. For course beginning dates\times contact Artheresa Best at 910-296-2462. An Intermediate tribal course is currently in the planning stage. Ahmose is a former charter member of Vatra Gitana and a student of Europamoon of Wilmington. Currently she is the leader of kenansville's tribal troupe The Barefoot Gypsies. She can be reached at ahmosedance@yahoo.com.

Lillington

Khalida - Largely self-taught, Khalida Mahira is a committed teacher as well as a performer, who has a distinct love for the vintage variety. With a passion for performing, her goal is to paint a picture for the audience as if her body was formed from the music. Today, she is an innovator in costume design, and has hand-crafted and pieced her dance wear together to reflect her style. Her dance style is a derivative of contemporary Tribal, Hiphop, Urban sass, and Gothic ideas. Khalida was awarded "Star Gothic Tribal Bellydancer of 2009" by MEDLS (Middle Eastern Dance Leaders Society) and was also a headliner for Tribal Delight 2009 in Williamsburg, VA alongside Aela Badiana and Frederique.

Matthews

Shibar has been researching middle eastern dance and culture for over 20 years and specializes in Turkish Romani (gypsy) and Turkish Oriental (cabaret) style dance. She has studied extensively with the best Turkish Style dancers in the United States including Artemis Mourat (http://www.serpentine.org/artemis/artemis.htm), and Eva Cernik (http://home.earthlink.net/~evacernik/). She has also attended numerous workshops with other experts on Turkish Style Dance including Tayyar Akdeniz (http://tayyarakdenizdance.netfirms.com/) and Nursel (http://www.nursel.net/). Shibar stresses teaching the context in which the dances are performed and in her classes you will not only learn the dance style, but you will also learn about the cultures from which the various dance styles originate. "To understand the culture, study the dance. To understand the dance, study the people."
View her class schedule here.

Monroe

Moonlight Bellydance - At Moonlight Bellydance, we believe every woman is beautiful, every shape, every size, every age. We believe this dance form is female body friendly and helps the dancer develop strength, grace, poise, and confidence that she can take out of the classroom into the world.
View their class schedule here.

Mooresville

Rhythmic Essence Belly Dance - Owner/Leader: Maysameh (Candy Heafner).
Location: Mooresville, NC (Charles Mack Citizen Center - 215 N. Main Street, Mooresville NC 28115).
Phone: (828) 408-3344
Website: www.rebellydance.com.
Email: rebellydance@yahoo.com.
We offer classical, modern and folkloric Egyptian style dance along with belly dance fitness classes. Please check website for class information! Have fun in a relaxing, non-competitive atmosphere with a unity in dance!
View their class schedule here.

Morganton

Reyna - Reyna teaches Tribal Belly Dance at the Mountainview Community Center in Morganton. She has been belly dancing since 1999. You can email her at: reyna@risingsuntribe.com or call her at: 828-443-3459.
View her class schedule here.

Mount Airy

Samra - Samra is a regular dance instructor and performer in various parts of Southwest Virginia, and Mt. Airy, NC, where she teaches at Reeves Community Center. Classes at Reeves at offered in 8 week sessions. She also teaches private individual and group lessons at her house or at your site. She has taught workshops and performed in several states in the USA, as well as in Brazil, Malaysia, and Singapore. For more information about her schedule in Mt. Airy and various sites, check her calendar, call 276-236-4533 or email: stephip1234@yahoo.com
View her class schedule here.

Newton

Rhythmic Essence Belly Dance - Owner/Leader: Maysameh (Candy Heafner).
Location: Newton, NC (Located in downtown Newton on the square at 120 North Main Avenue, Newton, NC).
Phone: 828-408-3344
Website: www.rebellydance.com
Email: rebellydance@yahoo.com

We offer classical, modern and folkloric Egyptian style dance along with belly dance fitness classes. Please check website for class information! Have fun in a relaxing, non-competitive atmosphere with a unity in dance!
View their class schedule here.

New Bern

Kaitlyn - Kaitlyn is a professional belly dancer that has over 6 years of formal training in ballet, tap and jazz and has been studying belly dance since 2001. She is a former member the troupe MissiHippy and is a current member of The Nefertiti Dance Troupe. Kaitlyn has a B.S. in Art Education and has dedicated her life and career to performing, and educating others about the ancient art of the dance. She currently teaches at various studios in eastern NC including Swansboro Dance Studio and Diana's Dance Academy in Jacksonville. For additional information about classes and instruction contact Kaitlyn at 910-647-4722 or by e-mail at greenvirgo80@yahoo.com
View her class schedule here.

Kim O'Malley Montero (Tara of Tara Sophia Bellydance) is available for group, private and workshop instruction in the New Bern and surrounding areas. Kim combines her extensive dance training in tap, jazz, modern and ballet with her certification in group fitness to provide a well rounded and dynamic class experience. Her bellydance classes include elements of yoga, pilates and strength training with a focus on proper belly dance form and technique. She began her bellydance training in 1998 in Syracuse, NY. As a member of the Hawamin Dance Collective and Trieste, she performed regularly in the Syracuse and surrounding areas. She has attended workshops with John Compton, Kami Liddle, Moria Chappell, Ansyua and several workshops with Ava Flemming, including a weekend intensive for professionals. Please visit tarasophiabellydance.blogspot.com to view demo videos. For further information, please contact her at tarasophiabellydance@yahoo.com.

Raleigh

Click here to view listings for Raleigh and the surrounding "Triangle" area

Rutherfordton

Suhayla - I am in Rutherfordton, N.C. (foothills WNC). I have a studio downtown where I teach primarily egyptian style dance. My troupe is El Binet. My name is Suhayla and I have been studying for 7 yrs. My primary mentors where Ruby Jazayre and Leila Gamal of Ind. I have since danced and studied in South Bend,columbus, charlotte, ashville, chicago, minneapolis.experience includes restaurants, theatre, street, faires, bellygrams, etc.
Contact Suhayla at suhayla37@yahoo.com for more information and current class schedule.

Salisbury

Haneen has been dancing for 5 years, 3 under Nadirah of Nadirah Dance Company in Salisbury, NC. She has also studied under several other area teachers with workshops and private lessons, includig Paulette Denis-Rees. She fell in love with Tribal Style Dance and have been trying to absorb as much of it as possible and would love to share this style with as many people as she can. She can be contacted at RebelRose589@yahoo.com.
View her class schedule here.

Nadirah - Nadirah teaches at the "Garage Mahal" behind her house, located in convenient downtown Salisbury. Nadirah began her study of bellydance over 13 years ago. After attending Donna Whitley’s beginning classes in Greenville, she quickly realized that bellydance was a true passion for her. Over the years, she has continued her studies through various workshops, dancing with friends from Iran, Palestine, and Egypt, and has performed for private parties and multi-cultural events. In 2007, Nadirah completed the bellydance instructor certification, “Sharing the Art We Love”, through Qadria of Belly Revelations. In addition to Belly dance certification, Nadirah is an AFAA certified group fitness instructor, PCC certified Pilates Mat and Reformer Instructor, and AFAA certified Personal Trainer. Nadirah can be reached at 704-638-9903 or 704-564-2006. E-mail info@nadirahdancecompany.com or visit her website at www.nadirahdancecompany.com.

Sandhills/Southern Pines-Aberdeen Area

Sharifa Asmar - Sharifa is well-known for her authentic Middle Eastern style, technique, choreography and stage presence. She is the director of Qarisma Dance Arts, a resource for traditional Middle Eastern & North African dance, including Oriental Bellydance. Sharifa emphasizes strong Oriental dance basics to support each dancer's creativity. Her performance experience includes a variety of venues and family events in the US and Europe. She has been an invited panelist on NPR radio and cable TV re: Middle Eastern Dance. Sharifa has studied with Egyptian notables Nagwa Fouad, Nadia Hamdi, Farida Fahmy, Mahmoud Reda and others; and renowned artists including Morocco [NYC], Suhaila Salimpour[CA], the late Ibrahim Farrah[NYC], Dahlena[Chicago / AZ] , Aegela[MI /Alexandria, Egypt], Sahra Kent [CA/ Cairo, Egypt], Hadia[Canada], Aisha Ali [CA], Nourhan Sharif[NYC],and Karim Nagi [MA]. Sharifa is also a certified Lebed method instructor, incorporating dance movement with healing and lymphatic activation. Sharifa is available for workshops, private or group lessons and special events. Contact Sharifa at 910.461.1265 or sharifa@sharifaasmar.com. See www.sharifaasmar.com for more information and registration.

Triad Area (Greensboro/High Point/Graham)

Ayla - Ayla has been studying a variety of International dance forms since 2004 at the Vintage Theater in Winston-Salem. In 2006 she joined 1001 Nights Middle Eastern Dance, led by Artistic Director Sylvana, with which she has performed numerous times on stage, in private, and for free public events. Since 2007 Ayla has been teaching periodic dance classes for beginners in Raks Sharki and International folk dance styles. In 2008 Ayla joined the professional Turkish performance group, Blue Star Dance, with which she has travelled and performed at venues across the U.S. Ayla’s first performance outside of the U.S. was in Toronto, Canada with Blue Star in August 2009. Currently Ayla is teaching Raks Sharki and International folk dance in Welcome, NC and Winston-Salem, NC. If you’re interested in learning a variety of International dance styles, visit www.sevenseasdance.com.
View her class schedule here

Azadi (Lynn Hoffman) -- Azadi discovered belly dance in September 2005 and has been obsessed with it ever since. A true student at heart, she takes several classes a week and frequently workshops. She has studied fusion and cabaret styles , tribal improvisation, and performance skills. Her favorite style is tribal group improv because she loves the interaction between dancers and the proud, grounded look of tribal dancers. She is a founding member of Greensboro's Tribal Fusion group Torque. More information is available at Azadi's website.Azadi teaches bellydance classes in Greensboro at Twisted Dance.
View her class schedule here.

Daliana (Greensboro) -- Daliana is Greensboro's most sought out Belly Dance Instructor and performer. She is the artistic director and choreographer for Troupe Bellysima and currently teaches over one hundred students each week from the Greensboro area and beyond. She began belly dancing at the age of twelve, and performed with a professional troupe in Long Island, NY for eight years, then began as a soloist while also giving focus her classical dance education and raising her two daughters. She has formal training in Jazz, Tap, Modern Dance and Classical Ballet. She was a member of the Long Island Ballet Theater for four years. Daliana enjoys learning and growing in all areas of dance. She participates in belly dance workshops and classes with instructors from all over the world. She also continues to participate in training workshops for ballet and modern dance with the Broadway Dance Center in New York. Daliana also studied Baton Twirling and competed nationally for six years.She is an active member and Level I coach with the United States Twirling Association. Contact www.dalianadance.com or call 336-508-4417.
View her class schedule here.

Faun Finley -- Faun teaches three levels of classes in belly dance. Level I is Basic Belly Dance Movement. Level IIA is Technique, Drills & Design and Level IIB is Choreography and Creativity. Level III is Choreography for Performance. With Basic Belly Dance Movement, students learn an array of movements from hip lifts and drops to figure 8's, shimmies and more. Each class begins with a yoga-style warm up and isolation exercises. Faun’s Level II classes takes belly dance moves to the next level, emphasizing the deeper layers of movement and musculature in the Level IIA class, and choreography and creativity in the Level IIB class. Level III puts all these elements together for students who want to perform. Faun has a 20-year background in myriad forms of dance, including jazz, and has been belly dancing for nearly 10 years. She primarily studied in Northern California with Katarina Burda, Nanna Candelaria and Jill Parker. Her teaching style is fun and upbeat, and the Studio atmosphere is warm and welcoming. Faun is also a certified and registered yoga teacher and applies yogic principles to her teaching to preserve the body for a long dancing life! For more information visit www.soulflowerdance.com, or call 336-373-1311.
View her class schedule here.

Kaharaman (Linda Bryan) - Kaharaman is the director of the Magic Carpet Dancers and teaches a variety of beginning to advanced level classes in cabaret and several different regional ethnic dances. In addition, Kaharaman serves as a guest instructor in North African dance at both UNC-Greensboro and A&T University. She can be contacted via email at lindabryan@bellsouth.net.
View her class schedule here.

Karma (Carmen Cavenaugh) -- Karma is member of Greensboro's tribal fusion group, Torque. She is a soulful dancer who loves to express emotion in her dance. Her eclectic style changes with each venue. She has performed at many local events in the Triad with live music, at Castle McCullouch, and at the Carolina Theatre. She specializes in cabaret and tribal fusion and loves to work with props such as zils, veils and swords. Karma teaches bellydance classes in Greensboro at Twisted Dance.
View her class schedule here.

Mimi (Melissa Richard) -- In order to make exercise more interesting, Mimi began belly dancing in 2003. She is an active member of Torque Bellydance and specializes in balance dances with head props, specifically the sword and the shamadan. She has studied a variety of belly dance styles and incorporates elements of oriental (“cabaret”), fusion, and tribal improv into her classes. As a performer, she finds inspiration in dancers able to blend diverse techniques, movements, and emotions in order to create a personal form of dance. Mimi teaches bellydance classes in Greensboro at Twisted Dance.
View her class schedule here.

Sarasvati (Sarah Sills) -- Sarasvati stumbled across belly dance classes at the YMCA, and was thenceforth unable to stop. She has danced in Karma's student dance troupe Bell-un-jum for several years and continues to do so. Her style of choice is Tribal Fusion, although she can be persuaded at times to partake in Cabaret, ATS, or Tribal dancing. Her favorite Style-of-the-Moment is Goth/Experimental, because who doesn't love black tulle with metal chains? Sarasvati dances with swords, veils, and zills, and hopes to soon begin learning technique for Isis Wings. She is inspired by the likes of Tempest, The Indigo, Nekyia, and of course the original Sarasvati. Sarasvati teaches bellydance classes in Greensboro at Twisted Dance.
View her class schedule here.

Sashame (Lori Whitman) -- Sashame is the most sought after tribal fusion dancer in the area. She has been dancing since she was four years old, when she took her first dance class in Florida. At 17, she began studying classical ballet at the Winchester Ballet Company, founded by her mother and Jamie Planck in Winchester, Kentucky. As a ballet student, she danced for 10 years on both flat and pointe and became a core member of the studio’s dance troupe. Trading her ballet shoes for hip scarves, she began belly dancing in the fall of 2006. She is influenced by Tribal Fusion belly dancers Zoe Jakes and Rachel Brice, although she is currently delving into Egyptian Cabaret style. Sashame teaches bellydance classes in Greensboro at Twisted Dance.
View her class schedule here.

Twisted Dance -- Belly Dance, Bhangra, Middle Eastern dance and more. Whether you're looking to get fit or to develope as a serious dancer, we have classes to fit your needs. The new studio will feature 750 square feet of dance space, a practice room, expanded vending, a comfy and intimate waiting room, and spacious changing rooms. Mimi teaches bellydance classes in Greensboro at Twisted Dance.
View the class schedule here.

Xavier Shadowdancer (Jason Moyer) -- Xavier Shadowdancer is a North Carolina native whose mix of belly dance and hip-hop styles creates a charm that captivates all who see him dance. Originally a student of African Dance, Xavier discovered belly dance in November 2006 and has studied under the instruction of Carmen Cavanaugh and Faun Finley. He taught basic belly dance at Adam & Eve Lingerie in 2008. One of Greensboro’s few male belly dancers and proud alumni of Torque, he often performs at events such as Summer Solstice and Tate Street Fall and Spring festivals and was recently featured in the News & Record for "Get Down Town Greensboro. Xavier teaches bellydance classes in Greensboro at Twisted Dance.
View his class schedule here.

Triangle Area (Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Durham, and surrounding areas)

Amara (Cary) - Amara is a dancer, photographer, wife, and a mother of three. She began bellydancing in 2002 after the birth of her second child. She has studied under Clare Smith as well as other local teachers. She teaches beginning bellydance classes in Cary. Please visit her website for more information.
View her class schedule here.

Amara Al Amir (Raleigh) - Amara Al Amir is an Artistic Director, Choreographer, Concert Performer, Master Teacher, Designer, Workshop Teacher, Seminar Leader and Guest Lecturer of new and old world dances of the Middle East. Awarded has been performances for the UN, Tourism Authority for Egypt, Egypt Air & the Egyptian American Society. Amara opens\ed Tapestry Belly Dance Academy in Raleigh, NC on 8/6/07 and offers classes at every level. Please contact Amara (amara@amaraalamir.com) 919 803 0931 and visit her site for class schedules www.amaraalamir.com.
View her class schedule here.

Andalee (Raleigh) - Andalee is an Oriental dancer and instructor and has been studying Middle Eastern dance for three years. Andalee's warmth, grace and openness allow this dance to come to life. She'll teach you that Oriental dance is truly accessible to anyone. Andalee's dance style pulls from the many teachers she has studied with here in the Triangle. There are many ways to Belly dance, and she'll explore the different techniques and styles. You can pick the ones that work for you and your body! Andalee studied modern and African dances before finding the dance for her, Oriental dance. For more information visit http://andalee.oriental.googlepages.com/ or e-mail her at andalee.oriental@gmail.com.
View her class schedule here.

Jamie Anderson (Durham) - Jamie Anderson studied with Kathryn Ferguson for several years and teaches a cabaret style at the Durham Arts Council. For more information, email Jamie at jamie@jamieanderson.com or visit her website.
View her class schedule here.

Ken Ashley (Raleigh) - Ken Ashley began drumming to accompany his belly dancer wife Kasha. He has since moved on to teaching and playing with Middle Eastern bands. He has a relaxed style of teaching and loves helping others discover the ancient art of drumming. Currently, Ken plays with the Lost Nomads of the Triangle and Timbucktooth. For private lessons, contact him at kn_ashley@yahoo.com or through www.kashabellydance.com/kendrum.

Sara Beaman (Durham/Hillsborough/Chapel Hill) - Sara Beaman teaches tribal and fusion classes in the Triangle area. Sara's classes are fun, welcoming and full of her signature brand of offbeat humor, but informative and challenging nonetheless. Sara's top priority is making sure that each and every student in her classes has the resources they need to grow into a well-rounded dancer-- clear movement instruction, information about safe technique, helpful and specific feedback, and access to performance opportunities. Sara's experience as a student of multiple styles of bellydance enables her to make her curriculum accessible to students from all backgrounds, and to present her class content as part of a greater schema of bellydance moves. In addition to teaching classes, Sara performs as a soloist and as a member of three local troupes and groups: Blue Moon Dance Company, The Devoted Bellydance Collective, and Sparkle Oasis. You can visit Sara's website at http://www.sarabeaman.com or email her at skbeaman@gmail.com with any questions.
View her Triangle-area class schedule here.

Leigh Brown (Chapel Hill) - Leigh Brown began studying Bellydance with Morocco in New York City and has performed professionally in New York, Sicily, and Florence, Italy. She is a dynamic performer who loves to play with the crowd, and enjoys creating a festive mood. She performs Bellydance every first and third Friday at Xios Authentic Greek Cuisine in Apex, NC. Leigh is also a certified Pilates, GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® instructor, and offers personal training at her studio, Metaform Movement in Saxapahaw. She has been teaching in the Triangle since 2000. Leigh is available for workshops, group classes and performance. Contact her through www.leighbrown.info.
View her class schedule here

Margaret Clemen (Rayahanna) (Durham) - Margaret has been teaching this sell-out class in Duke’s Institute For learning in Retirement, “OLLI,” for several years In addition to continuing to improve her own technique, she has been studying appropriate exercise for mature bodies. She began bellydancing in the 70's and extensively performed bellydance as a cultural art. She is still active in bellydance and over the past 35 years has also been an enthusiastic modern, swing, contra, and international folk dancer. She has taught children and adults in her professional career as an elementary educator and teacher trainer. Contact her by email: margaretclemen@hotmail.com.
View her class schedule here

Aziza Fadwa (Carrboro, Durham, and Cary) - Aziza Fadwa combines her extensive training and professional experience with a dynamic personality and technical expertise to create a delightful and dramatic exhibition of Middle Eastern Dance. After getting her start 30 years ago in the heyday of American belly dance, Aziza taught and performed throughout the east coast, including New York City, until she established herself as a teacher of teachers in the Raleigh-Durham area. She has been described as spirited, joyful, versatile, and talented, and she draws on a vast knowledge of various forms of belly dance, including classical and modern raqs sharqi, traditional and folkloric dance, cane, sword balancing, and both American and Egyptian-style veil. She is also the Artistic Director for the professional dance troupe, Flowers of the Desert. Please see her website: www.azizafadwa.com for more information.
View her class schedule here.

Laura Florand (Durham/Carrboro) - A Fulbright Scholar to French Polynesia, Laura Florand trained in Tahitian dance under Louise Kimitete, considered one of the greatest living authorities in the field. She studied Hawaiian dance in Tahiti and Paris, and has taught Polynesian dance since 1997 in the US, France, and Spain. She teaches beginning and intermediate classes in Durham and Carrboro, as well as regular one-day workshops. She can be contacted at lmh3@duke.edu.
View her class schedule here.

Nahla Furat (Raleigh) - Nahla has been teaching beginning Middle Eastern dance in the North Raleigh area since 2000. For information on her classes, please contact her at (919) 846-3793 or by email at nahlafurat@yahoo.com.

Gozde Oasis Dance(Chapel Hill) - Detailed and supportive instruction in all levels of bellydance, from Beginning Students to Professionals wanting to “tune up” their technique and style. To enjoy dance, to grow and express ourselves, and to laugh – these are hallmarks of Gozde’s classes. Gozde is also availble for private instruction for small groups and for individuals, in addition to teaching at Bellydance Parties. All classes held in Chapel Hill. Please call for rates and scheduling : (919) 933-3142.
View her class schedule here.

Haala (Cary, West Raleigh) - Haala has over 10 years of dance experience, studying with such internationally well known dancers as Farida Famhy of the Mahmoud Reda Troupe of Egypt, Aziza, Artemis Mourat, Karim Nagi, and Souhail Kaspar. Her dance style is most influenced by authentic Raqs al Sharqi (Egyptian Orientale) techniques. Her style of teaching is gentle and encouraging, with an emphasis on personal attention and expression, and a sense of fun. Laughter is always encouraged! She teaches various levels of bellydance classes in the Cary/West Raleigh area at Clear Horizons. She was the Dance Instructor for the 2004 Rockin' Camp for Girls in Durham, and is the webmistress for NCBellydance.org, the premier online resource for Middle-Eastern dance and music in North Carolina. For more information, visit her website Halo Bellydance, call (919)380-7882 or email Haala at haala@halobellydance.com.
View her class schedule here.

Elena Markina Harrison (Durham & Raleigh) - Elena teaches Orientale belly dance and comes from Russian school of bellydance. She focuses a lot on the fitness aspects of bellydance. Her classes are a combination of workout routines incorporated with the main bellydance techniques and choreography. She uses mainly folkloric Egyptian and Lebanese music, and she LOVES Tarkan (Turkish pop singer). For more information, visit www.myspace.com/goldenislesbellydance or call 912.571.2099.
View her class schedule here.

Kasha (Raleigh) - Kasha has loved belly dance since she took her first class in 2000. Now she shares that love with students from all walks of life. Training in California she studied the dance from many different angles – ATS, folkloric, historical, modern and cabaret. Her style is a mixture of all that she has learned but she leans towards American cabaret with a eye on entertaining family audiences. In 2009, Kasha expanding her teaching to include Bollywood. This dance style from India is gaining popularity for its “easy to understand” moves and fun rhythms. Kasha’s classes are held at Lake Lynn Community Center in north Raleigh on Mondays and Tuesdays. Her website is www.kashabellydance.com.
View her class schedule here.

Miss Kitty - Miss Kitty is a wife, poet, dancer, and cosmetologist. Her dance style is American Caberet. She began bellydancing in 2002 while managing 2 salons. She studied with Clare Smith as well as local instructors. Miss Kitty teaches bellydance for beginners and for fitness at the Garner Senior Center, Laurel Hills Community Center in Raleigh. She is also available for performances and private lessons. She can be reached by email at ladypinklotus@yahoo.com, or visit her Web site: www.lotusmovement.com.

Sylvia Lim (Durham) offers belly dance technique classes at her home studio in Durham. She is a long-time student of movement, and has studied with many famous dancers and teachers in modern dance, ballet, ballroom, and Indian Kathak. Her belly dancing is distinctly flavored by the influence of these other dance forms. However, what draws her to belly dancing is its emphasis on being profoundly comfortable in one's own kinesphere. It is not a dance about soaring through space or leaping into the air; it is a dance about seeing the myriad of possibilities within one's body, in one's space ("If you thought that move was cool, wait until you see me layer a shimmy on top of that!) But whatever the movement, Sylvia is interested in clear technique, fluidity of line, and dynamic sense of balance. She imparts this knowledge to her students so that they, too, can access a sinuous and centered beauty within themselves. To read a recent article about Sylvia, click heres. For more information about her classes, email her at khadro.sylvia@gmail.com.
View her class schedule here.

Mara (Cary) - Mara is a teacher and performer of this beautiful art called “Bellydance“ with an emphasis on Arab-Spanish and Gypsy Fusion dance. This style of dance is full of "passion"!! Integrating Latin, Flamenco, and Egyptian as seen through the eyes of the Gypsies. The origins of this style stems from the Moorish rule of Southern Spain around 711ad until 1492.. She is the creative director of the Moorish Gypsy Tribe, a Mother/Daughter Company with her 12 year old daughter, Nadia. She is also the Organizer for the Cary Bellydance Meetup Group, an organization that helps bring dancers and musicians together for social and dance related events. See Mara’s profile on the Meetup site at: http://bellydance.meetup.com/317/ or visit her blog for additional information http://www.moorishgypsy.blogspot.com. Troupe opportunities available for all students who want to perform locally in the Triangle area. Contact Mara directly at: moorishgypsy@aol.com.
View her class schedule here.

Asyia Mas'ouda (Raleigh) - Asyia has always been larger than life. Growing up in her family's Chinese Restaurant in New York, she learned how technique & presentation makes all the difference. With an eye on quality, Asyia saught out the most beautiful dancers in world to train under. She started out under Josephine Wise of London and took regular classes from Bozenka's Belly Dance Academy in Miami. She completed Intensive Training with Bozenka, Teacher Training with Tamalyn Dallal and Ansuya's Elite Certification. She worked for Ansuya Productions in Florida and has now moved to Raleigh! Asyia's classes reflect her priorities, Quality, Technique and Presentation and her eye for those things brings out each student's potential. View more details at www.Asyia.com, email her at asyiadancing@gmail.com or call 239-784-6859.
View her class schedule here.

Heather Murphy (Clayton/Smithfield) - Heather grew up loving classical dance forms and studied ballet, jazz, and modern dance for 15 years. She developed a passion for other cultures while in college and lived abroad for 7 years in Japan and England, satisfying her travel bug. She moved to Raleigh in 2007, when she began studying bellydance under the instruction of Blue Moon Bellydance Company. Heather dances with two tribal style bellydance troupes, Bella Luna and Twilight Tribal. She teaches beginning bellydance at Johnston Community College in Smithfield and at Revolution Self Defense in Clayton. For more information about her Clayton classes go to www.twilighttribal.com. Contact Heather at hewmurph@gmail.com.
View her class schedule here.

Michela (Raleigh) - Michela has been studying raqs sharqi – commonly known as belly dance – since 1998 with renowned teachers in the US and the Middle East. She is also an architect and academic, specializing in Middle Eastern architecture and culture. Michela currently teaches at Body Balance Movement Therapy in Raleigh, and is available for private and group lessons. Email her at mlamprakos@mindspring.com for more information.
View her class schedule here.

Nandana (Apex) - Nandana of Blue Moon Dance Company and The Devoted Bellydance Collective, teaches Tribal Fusion and American Tribal-Style belly dance, which uses dance influences from all over the world. Nandana has been dancing since 1994 and teaching since 2001. Nandana has been certified to teach General Skills for American Tribal Style(ATS) belly dance by Carolena Nericcio, director of Fat Chance BellyDance. These movements are used to perform both lead and follow, solo improvisational dance and choreographies. She teaches classes on Sunday afternoons and on Monday and Wednesday evenings with Sashi of Blue Moon Dance Co. For more information visit http://www.nandanabellydance.com or call 919 367 0203.
View her class schedule here.

Sashi (Cary) - Sashi is a founding member of and principal dancer for Blue Moon Dance Company, the Triangle’s premier tribal style and world fusion belly dance troupe. She has been teaching for 7 years, and absolutely loves to share her passion for belly dance with others! In addition to instructing and performing, Sashi also is the current president of ACCMED (Association of Central Carolina Middle Eastern Dancers) and is the owner of Blue Fusion Tribal which vends wares suitable for all types of belly dancers. For more information about Sashi, please visit her website @ www.bluefusiontribal.com or e-mail her @ bluefusiontribal@hotmail.com.
View her class schedule here.

Anush Pele (Raleigh/Cary) - Anush Pele is an Holistic Belly Dancer, Choreographer, Instructor and Entertainment Producer. Anush Pele is known for her exquisite technique, dramatic stage presence and high-concept theatrical flair. She has performed at countless social events, weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, folk festivals, and at cultural centers, restaurants, and fairs, sharing her culture, her magic and enchantment with her audiences. In addition to her study of Belly Dance, Anush Pele studied theater and direction and performed in plays and television. Anush Pele is Artistic Director, Choreographer and Workshop Teacher. She established the Pele Belly Dance School in North Carolina, U.S.A., as well as its exclusive dancing group made up of members from diverse countries like Costa Rica, Colombia, Mexico, Argentina, Peru, Brazil and the United States. Anush Pele strives always to inspire her audience and her students with the beauty of belly dance itself, and they in turn nourish themselves of the deep wisdom, beauty and connection with Life that she brings to her performances.
View his class schedule here.

John Price (Cary) - John Price teaches Middle-Eastern drumming classes at the Clear Horizons in Cary, and is also available for private lessons. He has studied with internationally known percussionists Souhail Kaspar, Issam Houshan, Raquy Danziger and Karim Nagi, and has performed at the North Carolina Renaissance Faire, Festival for the Eno, North Carolina Museum of Art, and Marrakesh, among others. For more information, visit John's class page at Halo Bellydance, call (919)380-7882 or email him at freecellwizard@gmail.com.
View his class schedule here.

Qadria of Belly Revelations (Raleigh) - Qadria offers beginner or intermediate workshops by request for your special group – your reading club, church or civic group, or your best girlfriends. Her newest way to share the fun is "Bellydance-by-the-Lake," a Casbah retreat on Kerr Lake, tailored to your heart’s desire around bellydance, water, and woodsy activities (various bellydance styles & props, swimming, sailing, canoeing, beachcombing, and vegging out). Qadria's specialty is helping women develop healthy relationships with their bodies, delighting in the joy bellydancing brings to everyday life. Her DVD, “Bellydance Moves & Combinations Anyone Can Do” will get you started at home, complement your classes, or give you a thorough review of basics plus teaching ideas. http://www.Qadria.net, http://www.BellyRevelations.com, 919-786-9895.

Romalie - Romalie has been studying and performing dance for most of her life: from ballet, to modern, to jazz, with a smattering of folk and flamenco, her focus is now on bellydance, specifically Egyptian raqs sharqi with an American accent. She thoroughly believes that "any size and shape of body can dance" and her classes encourage proper body posture, technique and fluid movement. She teaches through the town of Fuquay-Varina. (919-744-9478) Romalie@goldencircledesigns.com
View her Triangle-area class schedule here.

Samira and Maya (Chapel Hill) - Samira and Maya of Orientale Expressions teach both beginning and intermediate bellydance classes at the Chapel Hill Senior Center on Elliott Road.
View their class schedule here or at the Orientale Expressions website

Shahzaadee (Durham) - Shahzaadee teaches ongoing beginning and intermediate dance classes and is also available for private coaching.
View her class schedule here.

Shaiya (Raleigh/Cary) - Shaiya has been bellydancing for 5 years. She has a background in ballet and modern dance. Her teachers have included Qadria, Haala, Sadiya, Mara and Nandana. She is the director of Happy Hips Bellydance Troupe, which was founded by her sister, Sadiya. In addition to performing with Happy Hips, she also performs with Moorish Gypsy Tribe and Nandana’s Improv Student group. She is teaching children’s classes in Raleigh/Cary and in Durham/Chapel Hill and offers Children’s belly dance birthday parties in the Triangle area. She also teaches Bellydance at Peace College where she is the Director of the Counseling Center and an Adjunct Professor in Child Development. For more information about classes, Happy Hips performances, or birthday parties, please contact Shaiya (Lisa Allred Draper) at lisaallreddraper@yahoo.com.
View her class schedule here.

Clare Smith (Raleigh) - Clare Smith is a very talented Belly dance Instructor and Performer. She brings excellence to this art from discipline gathered over 43 years from studying, competing and instructing Ballet, jazz, Classical Indian, Country, Ballroom, Swing and Belly dance. Her Training in Belly dance includes various styles studied on Maui, in Colorado and here at home, North Carolina. Thru Clear Light Dance, she teaches both private and group lessons. She actively teaches at health clubs and dance studios. Current group class schedules may be viewed at asteptogold.com. Additional information is available by contacting Clare at clare.smith@clearlightdance.com, 919-949-2141, or visiting her Website.
View her class schedule here.

Hannan Sultan (Durham) - Hannan Sultan is a professional bellydancer who has dedicated her life to this art form. As a teacher, she is friendly and nurturing, but is still able to present rigorous and demanding classes. She is a charismatic and powerful performer with excellent technique and musicality. She also creates creative and compelling choreography for soloists and groups. Some of her achievements thus far in her career include creating Canada's largest bellydance school, teaching workshops internationally, winning national competitions, starring in two instructional DVDs, and directing student and professional troupes. Leading numerous students along their path to becoming excellent professional dancers is her proudest accomplishment. Hannan's main instructor was Aziza of Portland/Montreal. She also trained frequently with Jillina, Raqia Hassan, Randa Kamal and Tahia Sassine. She keeps her dance fresh by continually taking workshops with international instructors. Additionally, she has extensive training in yoga, ballet, and jazz dance. She teaches group and private classes as well as local and international workshops.
View her class schedule here.

Suzanne (Carrboro) - Suzanne began tribal dancing 4 yrs ago in Syracuse, NY, learning from a fabulous dancer and yoga instructor, Lorie Bebber of Shezam!, who trained with Jill Parker. She moved to San Francisco for personal growth and to study the dance for 2 ½ years with Jill Parker and Rose Harden of Ultra Gypsy, Carolena Nericcio of Fat Chance Belly Dance, and the Suhaila School of Dance. While in San Francisco, she performed in and helped manage a student troupe. She has taken many workshops, attending Tribal Fest and Spirit of the Tribes, as well as taking classes throughout the US and abroad. This has provided her the opportunity to study with top notch performers such as Mira Betz, Rachel Brice, Domba, Kassar, Urban Tribal, Farfesha, Aruna, sword dancers Farhana and Marguerite, as well as instructors from Turkey and Turkmenistan. Although she has studied with the best, she considers herself a perpetual student of the dance and continues to take workshops and classes. Her aim is to bring her travels to you, while maintaining a fun, supportive environment that allows you to achieve your own personal growth. Her teaching style is one that incorporates all learning styles, using analogies to learning a language and constructing a story, to enhance grasping the dance. Her focus is on muscular moves, building core strength, and putting the belly in tribal belly dance.
View her class schedule here.

Andy Von (Raleigh) - Anderson Beckmann (aka Andy Von) is a student at N.C. State University, pursuing a double degree in Philosophy and Belly Dance traditions (self-designed study). Though able to teach in both classical "cabaret" styles and modern Tribal/Fusion, a preference is given to more traditional forms of the dance stemming from the Roma Gypsy lineage; an incredibly diverse tradition stemming from Kathak in India/Pakistan to Flamenco in southern Spain! Anderson also loves working with non-profit and educational events. Andy teaches classes at Evolve Yoga Fitness in Raleigh. Visit her website at www.andyvon.com, or email her for more information at ALBeckma@ncsu.edu.
View her class schedule here.

Yonja (Durham) - Yonja has been performing Oriental dance since beginning in Georgia in 1999, and has been teaching since 2002. She leans towards Egyptian-style belly dance, even though she is married to a Turk. She performs zills, veil, and sword; she has classes in Chapel Hill at Carolina Fitness, and is also available for private classes. She has performed at numerous cultural festivals in Georgia and South Carolina, in restaurants in Chicago and Savannah (where she was a featured performer for 5 years), and at other events, such as the Savannah College of Art and Design's graduation ceremony. Yonja is also available for performances.
View her class schedule here.

Wake Forest

Ehediya - Agnes Wanman (Ehediya), listed in Who’s Who of American Women, has been dancing since the fall of 1981, when she became a member of the Oasis Tapestry Middle Eastern Dance Troupe in Fayetteville, NC. She served as Director of the troupe from May 1985 to February 1999 when the troupe disbanded and she moved to the Raleigh/Wake Forest area. Ehediya taught Middle Eastern dance (a.k.a. “belly dance”) from 1983 to early 1999 through the Fayetteville Recreation and Parks Department and, for a few years, at the Pope Air Force Base recreation center. Since moving to the Wake Forest area Ehediya has taught belly dance through the Wake Forest Parks and Recreation Department since 2000. She has studied under such international instructors as Ibrahim Farrah (founder and editor of “Arabesque Magazine”), Yousry Sharif, Suhaila Salimpour, Bert Balladine, Morocco, Amaya, Delilah, and Mahmoud Reda (Director of the famed Reda Troupe of Cairo, Egypt). She may be contacted at: 138 Abercrombie Drive, Wake Forest, NC 27587. Phone#: (919)570-1671.
View her class schedule here.

Cheryl Kornegay - Cheryl Kornegay discovered Middle Eastern “Belly” Dance in 2002 and fell in love with the transformative power of the dance. She began teaching at-risk youth in 2004. After seeing the impact that movement and rhythm had on her students’ self-esteem and confidence, she began teaching adults the same year. Cheryl has been an active member of the North Carolina Belly Dance community for several years and enjoys pushing herself through dance to explore personal expression, strength, and moving meditation. She believes that one should never believe that they’ve mastered the art but should constantly seek to improve and learn from others. In addition to being a part of troupe performances, annual galas and statewide workshops, Cheryl has taught classes and workshops for the City of Raleigh, women’s groups, senior centers, hospitals, and private venues and performs frequently for local events, weddings, family friendly gatherings, and restaurants. Her classes have a relaxed atmosphere coupled with challenging work-outs, refinement of execution, and attention to individual students. She teaches a movement foundation that is applicable to all styles of Belly Dance. Contact www.hipgnosisdance.com, hipgnosisdance@aol.com, or 919-529-4447.
View her class schedule here.

Waxhaw

Kiyya - Kiyya has been Belly Dancing for over 12 years. She has trained with various dance instructors and has attended numerous workshops on different styles of Middle Eastern dance. Her dance performances include numerous festivals, restaurants, fundraisers, private parties, as well as performing with an award-winning dance troupe for over 7 years (Bay Area, CA). Kiyya is an enthusiastic instructor and enjoys bringing the wonderful aspects of this art form to her students. As an ACE Certified Group Fitness Instructor, she has a strong commitment to fitness and strives to bring quality instruction to a fun and sensuous form of dance. For more information, email her at Kiyya@aol.com.
View her class schedule here.

Wilmington/Cape Fear Area

Annwyn - Annwyn has been intensely studying Middle Eastern Dance for over seven years. She is now living in the Cape Fear, North Carolina area where she performs many different forms of Middle Eastern Dance, Including Turkish Oriental, Egyptian Oriental, American Cabaret, and Turkish Rom Fusion (commonly known as Gypsy). Her extraordinary performances include Veil, Double veil, Isis Wings, Sword, Zills, Candle Tray, and Spoons. Annwyn has always been fascinated with and inspired by many forms of fine art and the performing arts. She received her Associates in Art in 2004 followed by her Bachelors of Fine Art in sculpture in 2005. She feels that the art that surrounds her is a constant inspiration to her dance.. For more information please contact Annwyn at www.annwyndance.com or call 910-202-4018.
View her class schedule here

Andrea Deagon - Andrea Deagon has been teaching middle-eastern dance for almost 25 years, and currently offers both beginning and advanced classes. She teaches at the Community Arts Center 910-341-7860.

Marie - Marie has been belly dancing for over 5 years and has studied with multiple belly dance instructors. 4 of the 5 years, she studied with Europamoon (Marcy Whipkins) and performed with Vatra Gitana, Wilmington's premier Fire Bellydance Troupe. She is continuously inspired by this ancient dance form and loves the fact that it has evolved in so many ways. She is trained in American Classic, Gypsy and Tribal stylings, and currently teaches private and semi private classes that range from beginner to advanced. Contact her at 910.620.3566 or by emailing her at info@vatragitana.com.

Nazneen - My training includes Egyptian Oriental, American Classic, Turkish, Tribal Fusion, and Gypsy. I teach an on going basic beginners class at The Crest Fitness Club in Hampstead Wednesdays from 6:30pm-7:30pm and in Carolina Beach at the Carolina Beach Recreation Center on Thursday from 7pm-8pm. I also teach private lessons. For performance or additional information please email me at nazneen61@yahoo.com or see my website http://www.geocities.com/nazneen61/.
View her class schedule here

Phoenix has been belly dancing for eigth years. Whether you are looking for a new and fun way to get and stay fit, some new moves for the dance floor or a serious boost in confidence, you will find it through belly dance. Real beauty begins within ourselves; belly dance is just one of many tools used to discover that beautiful goddess within us all.Phoenix loves belly dancing because it provides confidence from the inside out. It is a wonderful workout for the body and mind. It gives you that extra, little burst of confidence you need to go anywhere with your head held high and know that you are a beautiful woman just for being you.You are as beautiful as you allow yourself to be. Put on a hip scarf and come belly dance with Phoenix! For contact information and to learn more about Phoenix, visit her website at http://phoenixbellydance.webs.com

Samra - Samra teaches belly dance classes at the Community Arts Center and at Ballroom DanceSport NC in Wilmington. For more information, please visit her website, phone 910-794-5487 or e-mail sandyfrances@juno.com.
View her class schedule here.

Anna Maria Sophia of Tara Sophia Belly Dance plays with dangerous toys! Sword and fire props instruction and coaching - private, group, troupe, or workshop. Sword instruction in balancing, spinning, and twirling techniques, combos, travelling, floor work, and presentation. Single to triple swords. Fire props instruction in safety, fans, palm torches, palm candles, and staff technique including staff twirling and balancing. Please visit tarasophiabellydance.blogspot.com to view demo videos. Classes, coaching, and workshops conducted upon request anywhere in NC. Have swords - will travel! For rates and booking please call 910 581 6150 or email annasophia999@yahoo.com.

Wilson

Yusra - Yusra (Sue Furman) began belly dancing when she was 3 years old. She has performed and taught in several different venues through out the years, and has grown to thoroughly love teaching. Sue received her B.F.A. in Graphic Design from the University of Florida, and her Exercise, Nutrition & Sports Nutrition Certifications from Thomas College. Sue is also MS & IFA certified as well as American Red Cross First Aid & CPR certified. She currently teaches Basic Belly Dance at Dance Studio "B" in Wilson, NC on Tuesdays & Thursdays at 7:30pm and can be reached by email at MsSue@DanceStudioB.com. View her class schedule here.

Winston-Salem

Alexandria DeMay - Alexandria is a strong classical dancer whose background in dance, which includes ballet, ballroom, traditional turkish folk, and indian, has helped shape her unique and captivating style of dance. Her knowledge of middle eastern music and culture has helped her to become a confident instructor and performer. Alexandria is available for private lessons and performances. For inquiries, she can be contacted at adwadell@yahoo.com or (336) 671-5745.

Ayla - Ayla has been studying a variety of International dance forms since 2004 at the Vintage Theater in Winston-Salem. In 2006 she joined 1001 Nights Middle Eastern Dance, led by Artistic Director Sylvana, with which she has performed numerous times on stage, in private, and for free public events. Since 2007 Ayla has been teaching periodic dance classes for beginners in Raks Sharki and International folk dance styles. In 2008 Ayla joined the professional Turkish performance group, Blue Star Dance, with which she has travelled and performed at venues across the U.S. Ayla’s first performance outside of the U.S. was in Toronto, Canada with Blue Star in August 2009. Currently Ayla is teaching Raks Sharki and International folk dance in Welcome, NC and Winston-Salem, NC. If you’re interested in learning a variety of International dance styles, visit www.sevenseasdance.com.
View her class schedule here

Gypsy - "GYPSY" (Paula Stump) is originally from Lexington, NC and now resides in Winston-Salem, where she is the owner of PR Stump & Stuff, Inc., a promotional products advertising firm. She is a former model and actress and after playing the role of Gypsy Rose Lee in the Little Theater's 1978 production "Gypsy", she borrowed her stage name "Gypsy". Gypsy has been a student of Middle Eastern dance for over 20 years and has taught the dance for 17 years. She has appeared twice with the Winston-Salem Symphony Orchestra at their "Sunday at the Pops" concert and at "Music at Sunset" where she performed to Bacchanale from Samson and Delilah. Her studies have taken her to San Francisco, Atlanta, New York, Seattle, and finally Egypt and Turkey, where she has received training from internationally acclaimed master teachers such as Delilah, Suhaila Salimpour, Nadia Hamdy and famous Egyptian choreographer, Mahmoud Reda.
View her class schedule here

Kharma - Kharma has been belly dancing since 2003. She has trained under the direction of Teresa Dickerson (Saphira) and Three Graces Entertainment since 2006, with a special interest in Tribal Fusion she has traveled throughout the southern states attending workshops and studying the current trends in Fusion Belly Dance. She performs solo and with her troupe throughout North Carolina displaying a passion for dance. Kharma teaches belly dance basics with a focus on tribal fusion and chorography classes at Women's Wellness in Winston-Salem. Her students have the opportunity to perform tribal fusion after achieving a solid foundation in belly dance basics. Visit www.ThreeGracesEntertainment.com for class schedule and videos.
View her class schedule here

Paatayah - Paatayah brings years of classical dance experience and training to the art of Belly Dance. She is a strong performer and instructor who truly loves to communicate the essence of the dance and the music with her audience, be it performance or in a class setting. She produces an exciting and entertaining Belly Dance performance as well as other styles of dance. Spiritual performances are available and a specialty. She operates out of Winston-Salem, NC where she runs Dance With Me Studios and produces gifted students and teachers who share in her love of dance. Please see her photo gallery for an example of her work at www.pamsdanceschool.com.

Sylvana - Sylvana began her serious study of bellydance after seeing professional dancers in Cappadocia, Turkey. She originally studied under the instruction of Paula Stump in Winston-Salem, NC, but continues to seek opportunities for further dance education in Washington, DC, NYC, and at workshops close to home. She is currently teaching Bellydance for Fitness, Beginning Bellydance, and Intermediate Bellydance at several sites around Winston-Salem.
View her class schedule here or at http://www.1001dance.com.

If you are an instructor in North Carolina and would like to be listed here or update your information, please contact us