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These dancers and musicians will enliven your special
events and family functions! Performers are listed by their home city, but most are
willing to travel.
Performer bios with pink backgrounds are
official Sponsors of NCBellydance.org!
Mahsati Janan -
Mahsati Janan is a performer and instructor in Asheville who specializes in Classical
Egyptian style of belly dance. Mahsati also performs other ethnic styles such as
Lebanese and Turkish and American-based styles such as American Cabaret and Tribal
Fantasy. Mahsati has been performing professionally as both a soloist and group artist
for 10 years and has been a member of the Troupe Amani Dance Ensemble, El Oahdi, Bal
Yifte, and Bal Tzigane. She also served as the co-director of the Troupe Amani Dance
Ensemble and Bal Fahjar. For more information, please visit www.mahsati-janan.com or call 828 318 7572.
Lisa Zahiya -
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 performs as a cabaret and tribal fusion soloist and is well known for her dynamic
and engaging performance style. She is a regular performer at Asheville's Jerusalem
Garden and also does private birthday parties, wedding showers and ethnic events. For
more information, email lisazahiya@gmail.com or visit LisaZahiya's website.
SamiTe' - SamiTe' has over 15 years of performance experience in several disciplines. A bellydancer by trade, SamiTe' also works as a fire performer and aerial acrobat with the Libravado Sisters Aerial Dance Ensemble. She has studied the art of Bellydance with some of America's legends and took 1st runner up in the Tribal Fusion category at the 2008 Bellydancer of the Universe Competition as well as Miss Congeniality. Her diverse background in dance and theatre have helped her to create unforgettable stage performances that leave students and audiences wanting more. Visit her website.
Click here to view listings for Chapel Hill and the surrounding "Triangle" area
Nayna - Nayna began in
bellydance in 2002 under the instruction of Yasmine and her love for this dance grew
quickly. With her fluid like movements and natural skill Nayna enjoys the improvisation
that is allowed in bellydance. Nayna's performances reflect her joy in the dance, and
both students and audiences find themselves drawn in by her infectious smile and quick
wit. Her inspiration comes from Rachel Brice and Suhaila, and she is Level 1 certified
through the Suhaila Salimpour School of Dance. She is available for private parties,
corporate events, festivals, and wedding receptions. In addition to Bellydance, Nayna
is also accomplished in dancing with fire! You can contact her at www.bellydancebynayna.com or at bellydancebynayna@yahoo.com.
The Magic Hips Dancers - Yasmine & The Magic Hips Dancers are a
professional award nominated Mid-East Dance troupe based out of Charlotte, North
Carolina under the direction of belly dance superstar, Yasmine. The group has elevated
the art form of belly dance by blending modern dance elements with the exotic styles of
the Middle East. Their fusion of styles and high energy performances has made them one
of the Southeast's most popular performers at restaurants, festivals, special events
and gala shows. Call 704-525-3606 or email yasmine@magic-hips.com for bookings and
rates.
Naima -
Professional performer of Middle Eastern dance for over seven years as a soloist and
troupe member. Her dancing style includes Lebanese and Egyptian influences, and Naima
specializes in American Orientale (westernized nightclub), veil, and cane. Formerly a
member of the Pyramid Dance Co. (Memphis, TN) and the Lotus Dancers (Omaha, NE),
currently performs with the Hadadah Dancers in Charlotte, NC. She is available for
birthdays, weddings, fundraisers and benefits, corporate events, festivals, and many
other special events. Resume available.
Spirit of the Lotus - Spirit of the
Lotus Dance Company was formed in August 2007. While the troupe is fairly new, all
members have performed professionally together for the past six years. Spirit of the
Lotus performs a wide range of bellydance styles, with our specialties in Egyptian and
Fusion bellydance. On the stage, the troupe has an unique energy and a welcoming vibe
for all to enjoy. They were nominated "Best Kept Secret" by Zaghareet Magazine for
2008! For more information, visit their website.
Troupe Sholeh - Troupe Sholeh is an award winning Middle-Eastern dance troupe in Charlotte, NC. Founded in 2006. Troupe Sholeh is available for shows, birthday parties, weddings, showers etc. We would love to perform for your special occasion to add that extra Sholeh(flame) to the event. Please contact us if you are interested in having us perform for your next event at 704-737-2456 or email us at TroupeSholeh@carolina.rr.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.
Zarifa - Zarifa'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. Performance experience
includes a 3-month tour of Europe as a member of the George Williams College Folk
Dancers, Minnesota and North Carolina Renaissance Fairs, the Mint Museum of Art opening
of "Orientalism in America", numerous seminar performances, restaurant and night club
engagements. Currently performing the first Saturday of each month at the Kabob House,
6432 Independence Ave., Charlotte, NC. For more information, email zarifa@carolina.rr.com.
Nuria Jihan - Oriental dancer Nuria Jihan performs regularly at local resturants, and international and renaissance festivals in and around the Charlotte area as both a soloist and a troupe performer. She is a member of the Hadadah Dancers. Performance specialities include zills, cane, sword, and veil, and she is available for parties, fundraisers, benefits, and other special events.
Perizada - Perizada has danced all her life. Classical ballet formed her early training and performing experience, along with a study of flamenco. She has been a professional Middle Eastern dancer since 1992. Perizada is experienced in a wide range of belly dance styles, and specializes in the styles of the Turkish and Spanish Roma (Gypsies). Swirling skirts, fans, shawls, and intriguing gestures are part of this exciting dance. She also features snake dances with her serpent partner, a Colombian boa named Taj. Perizada is available for private parties, corporate events, festivals, and special women's parties that include a show and mini-lesson. She also offers group and private classes. Visit her website for more information.
Vania - Vania is native Greek, originally from Istanbul (Asia Minor) and has been dancing since her childhood. She gave her 1st performance when she was 15 and since then she's been experiencing and dancing the 'Tsifteteli-Bellydance' (Greco-Turk), the Egyptian traditional 'cabaret' and some Folkloric soloist and line dances, like Zeibekiko (dance of warriors) and Hassapiko (the butcher's dance), from Asia Minor. She has also incorporated in her classes some of the Gypsy (Caravan/Urban) moves, style and costuming, which she learned from the big Gypsy population, in her father's village in Greece. She has attended many workshops in Greece and had great teachers there, like Aurora and Hashan Shani. She has also studied "acting through dance and veil techniques" in Greece and "script writing" and she collaborated with the Russian Dance School "Romanoff". Besides her strong artistic side, she has a PhD in ancient Greek Philosophy (Aristotle) and has worked in the University of Athens, Greece. She has lived in the USA since September 2007 and finds it a strong experience so far. For more information, visit her website at www.vaniabellydance.com.
Apsara Dance
Ensemble - The Apsara Dance Ensemble is a student level bellydance troupe under the
creative direction of Kaitlyn. Members have backgrounds in everything from formal
ballet to hip hop. Apsara Dance Ensemble performs various styles of bellydance at local
events and shows throughout the eastern North Carolina area and beyond. For booking
information please contact Kaitlyn at 910-467-4722 or visit www.myspace.com/theapsaradancers.
Kaitlyn -
Kaitlyn has been belly dancing since 2001. Her dance experience also includes over 6
years of formal training in ballet, tap and jazz. Kaitlyn is a former member of
Jackson, Mississippi's premier belly dance troupe "MissiHippy". As a member she
performed at various festivals and venues all over the state. 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 is now "Bringing the Art of the Middle East to
the Down East" after relocating to eastern NC in 2007. Kaitlyn has taken private
instruction and workshops with likes of from Mesmera, Veena of the Belly Twins,
Jillina, Artemis Mourat, Suhaila Salimpour, and Sharon Kihara. She performs and
continues to study American Cabaret, ATS, Tribal Fusion, and Raqs Gothique. She is
presently studying and performing her other passion, Indian dancing, taking classes
that range from Bharatanatyam to Bollywood. For contact or booking information, visit
her website at www.kaitlynbellydance.com
or email her at greenvirgo80@yahoo.com.
Click here to view listings for Durham and the surrounding "Triangle" area
Sharifa Asmar - Sharifa Asmar is renowned for her engaging and
authentic Middle Eastern performances. Sharifa's beautiful musicality, exquisite
technique, and love of this dance and music magically transports her audiences beyond
the everyday world. Sharifa is also a sought-after instructor, innovative dance artist,
creative choreographer, workshop/seminar instructor, historian, and lecturer. She
accepts public and private engagements. *Girls - Ask about Red Hat, Pajama and Goddess
parties, Teen and Tween Fun, Ladies' luncheons, Weddings, Bridal and Baby showers.
Contact Sharifa at 910.461.1265 or sharifa@sharifaasmar.com. Visit Sharifa at www.sharifaasmar.com.
The Shadows of the
Fire - We are Shadows of the Fire -- an ever-evolving community of dancers. From
tribal -- inspired styles and Hollywood inspired cabaret to more experimental modern
expressions, we enjoy performing a variety of American belly dance styles. We draw
inspiration from the dance traditions of various countries and cultures to create our
own eclectic artform. Our dancers bring their own unique talents, style and experience
together to create a dynamic performance. For more information on dance classes or to
book us for a special event, email ShadowOfTheFires@aol.com or contact Sabihah at (910)
864-3228 or (910) 303-0209. Check out our website.
Lost Jewels of the Ghawazee is an ethnic fusion belly dance troupe. Our mission is to encourage the study and appreciation of ethnic fusion dance and music through learning, teaching, research and performance. Our troupe takes inspiration from the traditional and modern dances of a variety of cultures. We flavor our belly dance style with the spices of movements and costumes from India, Spain, Morocco, Egypt, Latin America and the Middle East. Our talented musicians, the LJ Boys, provide live music for the Lost Jewels of the Ghawazee during most of our public performances and all of our drum circles. Our home studio is Art in Motion in Granite Falls, and we perform regularly throughout the Western Piedmont area of North Carolina at community festivals. Our troupe of belly dancers and musicians can enhance your event with live music, a belly dance performance, fire dancing, a history of belly dance presentation, belly dance lessons, henna temporary tattooing, or souvenir photos for your guests. We also host workshops for belly dancers. To hire the Lost Jewels of the Ghawazee for your event or to inquire about upcoming workshops, visit www.lostjewelsbellydance.com, or email bellydancer@charter.net.
Click here to view listings for Greensboro and the surrounding "Triad" area
Nahla Hamad -- Nahla
Hamad (aka Christie Hill), professional instructor, performer, and creative director of
Hypnotic student troupe, teaches beginning and continuing bellydance at the Absolute
Studio in Arlington Village, Greenville, NC. Classes are held in Spring, Fall and
Summer Sessions on Monday and Wednesday evenings. Nahla began her study of bellydance
in 1995. Her love of fitness and fun inspired her to open a studio for Pilates and
Bellydance with co-owner, Michelle Hunt. As part of Nahla's training, she has attended
various workshops, events and private lessons with some of her favorite dancers
including Sadie (Denver, Co) Rachel Brice (Ca.) Gina (Ga.), Aisha Ali, Artemis Mourat,
Zoe Jakes, Fahtiem, Bozenka, 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, where she continues to study each year. In
addition to Nahla's Bellydance certifications, she is an certified Pilates Instructor,
PCC certified Mat Pilates and Reformer Instructor, is certified in CPR. For
performance, classes, or private instruction, Nahla can be reached at 252-830-2271,
christie0928@suddenlink.net, or visit her studio's website at www.theabsolutestudio.com.
Donna Whitley -- Donna Whitley is a dance performer,
teacher, and scholar of Middle Eastern "belly dance". Donna Whitley was trained in
California in the 1960s 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. This experience sparked her interest
in folk dancing and led her to further study African dance at the University of Ghana.
She has performed in nightclubs in San Francisco and Casablanca, Morocco. She is
available for all-women bridal showers and other wedding events. Her website is
www.donnawhitley.com. Phone: 252-355-5150.
donnawhitley@embarqmail.com.
Click here to view listings for High Point and the surrounding "Triad" area
Maysameh - Maysameh has been belly dancing since 2000 and was named
"Star Teacher of the Year 2009" by the Middle Eastern Dance Leaders Society (MEDLS).
She is also certified by Keti Sharif. Maysameh leads Rhythmic Essence Belly dance with
locations in Newton and Mooresville, NC. In addition to weekly classes, Maysameh is
also available for professional performances at community events, schools, festivals,
multi-cultural fares, parties, belly grams and corporate functions.
To visit her online, log onto: www.rebellydance.com or call (828) 408-3344.
Click here to view listings for Raleigh and the surrounding "Triangle" area
Suhayla - I am in Rutherfordton, N.C. (foothills WNC). My name is Suhayla and I have been studying for 7 yrs. My troupe is El Binet. 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.
Kalima has been studying the art of belly dance for seven years, starting out just for a lark and becoming more ingrossed and obsessed over the years. She began studying with Nadirah of the Nadirah Dance Company in Salisbury, and then with Nayna and Iona at Lotus Studios in Charlotte. Now Kalima continues her studies by attending least one workshop a month with visiting regional and national artists including Jillina, Zoe Jakes, Ava Fleming, Paulette Rhys-Denis, Mahsati Jehan, Ziah Ali, Tempest, Samantah Riggs, and many others. Several years ago she began to focus on Tribal Style Belly Dance and in October 2007 received her ATS General Skills Certification from Carolena Nerecio. As Kalima Tribal Belly Dance she teaches regular tribal style belly dance classes at the Looking Glass Artist Collective, in Salisbury, NC. She and some of her students have recently formed a performing troupe, Damhsa Gasra, which can be seen performing at local festivals and events around Salisbury and Rowan County. You can contact her at www.kalimatribal.com or email KalimaTribal@carolina.rr.com.
Nadirah has studied various forms of dance since childhood, with an emphasis on ballet and jazz. She discovered bellydance several years ago under the tutelage of Sidnoir. Her love of the art form inspired her to further professional training under Ansuya and Jillina, world renowned bellydancers and teachers. Nadirah now resides and teaches in Salisbury, NC. Her troupe is an eclectic ensemble of varied interests, embracing old and new art forms. African, American Tribal, Egyptian, Turkish and Middle Eastern influences combine to form a unique blend of World Fusion Bellydance. As both a soloist and with her ensemble group, Nadirah Dance Company provides unique and exciting entertainment suitable for all audiences. Nadirah has performed in a wide variety of venues and is available for performances, private or group lessons and workshops. You may contact her or her troupe at dtcasper@bellsouth.net, or visit her website at NadirahDanceCompany.com.
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 www.troupebellysima.com, or call
336-508-4417.
Faun (Greensboro) -- Faun has an extensive backgroung in dance and live performance that began with jazz, hip hop and folk dance. Captivated by the beauty and music of belly dance in Northern California, she began studying with renown teachers such as Katarina Burda, Nanna Candelaria, Jill Parker, and Suhalia Salimpour. She credits them as influences in her choreography - along with her primary jazz teacher, Maureen Kennedy from Los Angeles. Faun brings passion and freshness to all her performances. Her dance is always evolving, but her dedication to delighting audience never wavers. As an instructor and choreographer, Faun seamlessly fuses teaching and audience participation into any event. Her local performance credits include: A&T University International Day, Blind Tiger w/Barefoot Manner, Castle Carnivale, Center City Park Opening, Elements Show, Fireflies Festival, Goddess Mark, Lager Haus, Mystic Karnival, Solstice Festival, Tate Street Festival, Tribal Carnival, UNCG Alumni Festival and RibFest. She also played 'Luna' in 'Awake the White and Win'try Queen' at the Carolina Theatre. Faun is artistic director for the performance group, LunaSea Dance Theatre. To hire Faun for performing, teaching and/or choreographing, please email her at faun@soulflowerdance.com or call 336.255.8989.
Karma (Greensboro/High Point) -- Karma is a soulful dancer who loves to express emotion. Her eclectic style changes with each venue. She has performed at local events with live music and at Castle McCullouch and the Carolina Theatre. She teaches in High Point and Greensboro.
Kisaiya (Greensboro) -- Kisaiya is an instructor and performer of American style belly dance located in Greensboro, NC. She has studied belly dance since 1990 and enjoys continuing her studies whenever possible. She has studied with Kaharaman, Zarifa and Yasmine. Additionally she has attended seminars by Eva Cernik, Suhaila Salimpour, Mahmoud Rehda and Morocco. She is a member of ACCMED. She is an avid student of Turkish culture and history. You can contact Kisaiya at baronesskisaiya@yahoo.com. Her website is coming soon.
Magic Carpet Dancers(Greensboro) - led by Kaharaman (Linda Bryan), this versatile troupe of dancers performs cabaret style as well as many regional ethnic dances in authentic costuming. Some of the many regional specialties in their repertoire include North African/Moroccan, Georgian, Uzbek, Armenian, Samoan, Polynesian, Hawaiian, Eastern Islands, Brazilian, Persian from different periods, Mexican, Caribbean, Bedouin, Turkish, and Gypsy (Rom). Other specialties include cane, shamadan, and tamborine. They perform at schools, colleges, street festivals, and various venues around the Greensboro area, and they often include other dancers from the surrounding area in these performances.
Amara - Amara is a
professional bellydance performer who is known for her expressive style and using the
music to tell a story through her dance. Her style is American Oriental and she often
dances with props such as Wings of Isis, Veil, and Sword. She has performed at many
local events and festivals including the Apex Peakfest, Cary Spring Daze, the Raleigh
Drum Circle, the NC Renaissance Faire, and the Festival for the Eno, as well as
weddings and private parties. Amara is available for performances, and teaches private
and group lessons in the Cary-Apex area. Visit her website for more information--
http://www.electricshimmy.com or email her
for more information at amara@electricshimmy.com.
Photo credit: Woodland
Willow Photography
Amara Al Amir -
Amara Al Amir and World Artists Productions feature the finest Belly Dancers and
entertainment programs for your special event, cultural and education shows, Corporate
and PR. We specialize in Goddess or Gypsy Parties for Woman and Children. Amara Al Amir
is certainly one of the most glamorous and expressive dance artists in America today.
Amara's joyful dancing plus her full range of inventive steps, moods and styles emerges
as one of the most magnetic and tantalizing dance experiences you will ever witness.
Amara is an Artistic Director, Choreographer, Concert Performer, Master Teacher,
Costume Designer, Workshop Teacher, Seminar Leader and Guest Lecturer. Contact Amara at
919 803 0931, amara@iworldartists.com, or visit www.iworldartists.com.
Andalee -
Andalee is an Oriental Dancer and Instructor based in Durham, NC. She is available for
public and private performances in the Triangle area (Raleigh, Durham, & Chapel
Hill) and beyond. She'll provide a family-friendly experience with all the glitz and
glam that people come to expect from "belly dancers". Andalee specializes in Shimmy
Parties, by-women-for-women workshop packages. Andalee is also an encouraging and
knowledgable belly dance teacher. She is also available for weddings, parties,
corporate events, club meetings, restaurants, night clubs, mini-workshops, educational
events, fundraisers and community festivals. Have something else in mind? Just ask!
Contact her at info@andaleedance.com for more information, or visit her Web site at
http://andaleedance.com/book/booking/.
Emily Beaman - Located in
central North Carolina aka the "Triangle", Emily's passion for bellydance has brought
delight to both audiences and students for over 8 years. A student of both Tribal and
Cabaret bellydance, Emily's dancing is unique and captivating. Visit her website for more information on classes and
upcoming events.
Sara Beaman - Sara
performs Tribal bellydance throughout the Triangle and beyond, both as a member of Blue
Moon Dance Company and the Devoted Bellydance Collective, and as a soloist. She is
dedicated to promoting bellydance as an artform through community-building events,
public performances, and instruction. Her distinctive personal style is the result of
several years of performance experience and a consistent dedication to continuing dance
education. Sara is available for private and public performances (female-only or
family-oriented audiences only, please) as well as private lessons. Contact her at
skbeaman@yahoo.com or visit her website at http://www.sarabeaman.com for more information.
Belly Revelations -
Belly Revelations performs in several styles (including their own!) in various venues
around the Triangle and North Carolina. Troupe members & friends welcome the
opportunity to perform for your special celebrations and community events. Qadria
teaches workshops tailored especially for you, for women's and community groups, and
also holds bellydance retreats at her lake house near Henderson, NC, sailing included,
www.Qadria.net.
Blue Moon Dance Company - Blue Moon Dance Company
combines tribal style belly dance with an eclectic fusion of globally inspired dance
and music styles. Their innovative choreography, layered improvisational techniques and
live musical accompaniment make Blue Moon an exciting and unique presence in the
Triangle's middle eastern dance community. Blue Moon Dance Company is available to
perform at special celebrations, restaurants, festivals, corporate functions and more.
Blue Moon teaches ongoing dance classes throughout the Triangle and sponsors periodic
dancing and drumming workshops which are renowned throughout the region for their
excellence- and fun! For more information on Blue Moon's class schedules, upcoming
events, workshops or bookings, contact mail@bluemoonbellydance.com or call
919-303-6716.
Colorful Waves
(Durham) - Colorful Waves Bellydance troupe is unique in that, the members are selected
each year by Shahzaadee based on talent, eagerness to perform well, availability and a
spirit of co-operation and true love of bellydance. After intensive fall/winter
training, the troupe presents dance performance that both challenges the dancers and
delights their audiences. Colorful Waves was established in 1996 in Asheville NC and is
now located in Durham, NC. For more information on Colorful Waves, contact Troupe
Director Shahzaadee at (919)806-1281, email her at shahzaadee@yahoo.com, or visit www.colorfulwaves.com.
Photo credit: Keith Evans
Deirdre - Deirdre is an
award winning artist devoted to Raqs Sharqi, or what is more commonly called Belly
Dance! Her style is American Cabaret: based in classic Egyptian, and taking a little
from the best of Turkish, Folkloric and Tribal Fusion, her elegant style alternates
with a playfulness that's appealing to every audience. She's performed solo up and down
the east coast, as well as with Gozde Hilal, with the Colorful Waves troupe, and with
Zouhour Al Sultan all over the Triangle cities. Deirdre is available for
family-friendly performances, and also teaches beginning, intermediate and advanced
classes in several area locations. For more information, please visit her website:
www.veilandcoin.com.
Photo credit: Audra
Evans
Audra Evans - Professional
Bellydance Performer. Audra's dance website: www.audradance.com.
Aziza Fadwa - With her vast
training and professional experience, Aziza's dynamic personality and technical
expertise have combined into 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 is
spirited, joyful, versatile, and talented, drawing on a vast knowledge of various forms
of bellydance including classical and modern raqs sharqi, traditional and folkloric
dance, sword balancing, and both American and Egyptian-style veil. She is also the
Artistic Director for the professional dance troupe, Flowers of the Desert. She is
available to perform either solo or with her troupe. For booking or more information,
visit her website or email her at aziza@azizafadwa.com.
Flowers of the Desert - a professional belly dance troupe that has performed successfully all over the Triangle area of North Carolina. They will gladly perform for corporate banquets, retreats, conventions, festivals and fairs, charity fundraisers and benefits, retirement centers, weddings, family reunions and celebrations, private parties, and special events.
Haala - Haala has
over 12 years of Middle-Eastern dance experience, studying with internationally
renowned instructors from Egypt, Lebanon, Turkey and the United States. She is known
for her authentic, classy, graceful dancing and warm presence. She has performed at
public events such as The Festival for the Eno and Raleigh Wide Open, in formal staged
performances at the Halle Cultural Arts Center, Durham Arts Council and the Clayton
Center, at local venues such as the Oliver Twist Lounge and Marrakesh Cafe, and
countless special occasions such as birthdays, bridal showers, and anniversaries. She
is a founding member of ACCMED (Association for Central Carolina Middle Eastern
Dancers). In addition, she promotes belly dance in the community through her work as
Director of NCBellydance.org and presentations at schools and institutions, such as
Meredith College, St. Mary's College, and Wake Tech. She is willing to travel outside
the Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill area for special performances and workshops. Let Haala
add the joy of authentic Raks al Sharki "belly dance" to your special celebrations -
for more information, visit her website at http://www.halobellydance.com, or email her at
haala@halobellydance.com.
Photo Credit: Audra
Evans
Camila Karam
(Raleigh/Durham) - Camila Karam is an accomplished North African Dancer (belly dance). She executes the dance with a serpentine grace and beauty. Camila performs with zils, sword, veil and does floorwork. She also teaches Earth Goddess Workshops that promote the sacredness and healing aspects of the dance and natural living habits. She has danced in New York City, San Francisco, Puerto Rico, Washington DC, Oregon and locally. Camila Karam is one of the few "black women pioneers" of belly dance in the USA. She danced with the first black dance troupe to perform at Rakkasah in Oakland, California in 1983. Camila is also a professional Brazilian dance performer. She currently teaches in Chapel Hill and Durham and is available to perform at special events and celebrations. Visit her website at www.camilakaram.com. Contact her at camkaram@gmail.com or 919 500-8196.
Khahari Belly Dance
Collaborative - Khahari Belly Dance Collaborative - The Khahari Belly Dance
Collaborative is an exciting belly dance group from Chapel Hill, NC. The group loves
dancing and performing and it was only natural that their great friendship and common
passion for belly dance brought them together. The members, Andalee, Milagros and
Seher, work together on choreograhies for solos and group dances. Khahari is available
to perform at community events throughout the Triangle. For more information e-mail
info@andaleedance.com.
Asyia Mas'ouda - 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.
Milagros - Milagros
has performed with various troupes and as a soloist in the Triangle area since 2001.
Today she performs primarily at fundraisers, festivals and haflas. Most recently she
has been moving away from choreography and toward improvisation. She also enjoys
teaching beginner and intermediate level classes as well as private lessons and
parties. Contact her at Milagros@LoveToBellyDance.com or 919-260-4620 or visit http://www.LoveToBellyDance.com for more
information.
Nandana - Nandana
has been dancing since 1994 and teaching since 2001. She specializes in Tribal Fusion
belly dance as well as being certified in American Tribal Style belly dance by Carolena
Nericcio of Fat Chance BellyDance. Nandana is a member of Blue Moon Dance Company, The
Devoted Bellydance Collective and also dances as a soloist throughout the United States
. She lives for the dance and strives to pass on the forms and her passion to the next
generation of dancers. For information: email at nandana_dance@yahoo.com, call at 919
367 0203 or check the classes page at her www.nandanabellydance.com web site.
Photo credit: Woodland
Willow Photography
Orientale
Expressions - Orientale Expressions Middle Eastern Dance Troupe specializes in Raqs
Sharqi, Westernized Nightclub, Veil, Balancing, Ethno-fusion, Cane, and Shamadan.
Troupe members (Maya, Samira Souzan, and Leigh Brown) teach exercise and belly dance
classes at various locations in Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Durham, and
Hillsborough.
Safiya
- Safiya is a belly dancer specializing in Egyptian cabaret,
with a personal passion for the drum solo. She has over a decade of experience and
learned the core of her technique in Southern California. Safiya is the resident belly
dancer at Spartacus, a Greek restaurant in Durham and Mosaic, a Moroccan themed wine
lounge in downtown Raleigh. She has performed at a variety of private events,
restaurants, night clubs, haflas, charity and gala shows throughout the area (Raleigh,
Durham, Chapel Hill, and Fayetteville). For performance schedule, bookings, or
information on student classes visit http://www.safiyabellydancer.com or contact:
info@safiyabellydancer.com.
Shahzaadee
- Shahzaadee has a passion for bellydance and is an artist at her craft. She is a
dynamic entertainer. She is the director of Colorful Waves bellydance troupe in Durham.
Her specialties include Raqs Sharqi, Ethnic/Historical, Westernized Nightclub, Tribal
Fusion, Balancing, Romany (Gypsy), and International Folk Line Dance. She has also
sponsored several well-attended dance and drum events in the Triangle area and
contributed beauty and bellydance articles to trade publications. She began her dance
studies in jazz/modern style as a child, shifting her focus to International dance
studies in 1990. She has taken instruction from many World-renowned masters of Middle
Eastern dance and performed in shows nationally and internationally. www.shahzaadee.com
Hannan Sultan - Hannan Sultan is a professional bellydancer who has
dedicated her life to this art form. 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. 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. Hannan is currently based in Durham, North Carolina and continually
returns to her studios in Toronto, Canada. She is available for select performances.
For more information, visit www.hannansultan.com.
Andy Von -
Andy Von has been studying dance since the age of 3 and became a devoted student of
authentic Arab and MidEastern belly dance forms at the age of 15. She now has over a
decade of experience performing, teaching, and choreographing in this art form and has
traveled and studied the dance and its culture extensively, including a BA degree
specifically in belly dance traditions from N.C. State University, as well as regular
work with universities and national television appearances including the Travel
Channel. Andy loves to introduce new students to this ancient feminine art as well as
provide intensive classes for upper level students and is dedicated to engaging
students in the authentic culture as much as the technical movements.
A.Beckmann137@gmail.com. Facebook: Andy Von.
Photo credit: Audra
Evans
Belly Dance Lebanon - The First Native Lebanese Belly Dance Group from Raleigh, NC. Born to Belly Dance, these dancers feel the exotic rhythms of Arabic music and interpret the romance in each song. Lebanon... known for its mysterious and exotic women. For Events call Bearta 919-606-0647, or write to bellydancelebanon@gmail.com.
Nahla Furat - A Middle Eastern Dancer and Instructor located in North Raleigh. She has studied dance since 1997, and has been teaching beginners since 2000.
Gozde - professional dancer and instructor. For more information, email her at gozde@bellsouth.net.
Happy Hips - Happy Hips Children's Bellydance Troupe is comprised of dancers from 4-12 years old. It is directed by Lisa Allred Draper. They are available for community and educational performances. They have been invited to dance at Marbles Childrens' Museum, SparkCon, Live it up on Hillsborough, and other events. They are also featured every summer with Moorish Gypsy at The Festival for the Eno. Please contact Lisa Allred Draper to inquire about scheduling a performance or participating in the Troupe. For more information, visit www.hhbellydance.com or email lisaallreddraper@yahoo.com.
Leigh Johnson - Leigh Johnson began her bellydance exploration studying with Morocco in New York City, where she learned Shikhat, Guedra, Shamadan and Egyptian Cabaret. She has performed professionally for the past 20 years. She is a dynamic performer who loves to play with the crowd, and enjoys creating a festive mood for weddings, birthdays and other special events. Group lessons available. To contact Leigh and check her current teaching schedule please visit www.metaformmovement.com.
Anush Pele - 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. She can be reached by email at anushbellydance@yahoo.com.
Shaiya (Raleigh/Cary) - Shaiya is the director of Happy Hips Children's Bellydance Troupe and is available for children's birthday parties in the Triangle area. Delight that special little girl with a complete Bellydance party. Her friends (as many as she wants to invite) will be greeted by Shaiya with temporary tatoos, personalized bellydance word searches and coloring sheets. Once all the girls are adorned with Bindis and hip scarves (borrowed from Shaiya), the dance lesson begins. A 30-45 minute lesson is followed by an optional performance for the adults in attendance. For more information or to schedule a party, please contact Shaiya (Lisa Allred Draper) at lisallreddraper@yahoo.com.
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.
Yonja
(Raleigh) - Yonja has been belly dancing since 1998, and teaching since 2002. She began
taking classes while earning her BFA at the Savannah College of Art & Design and
hasn't stopped dancing since. She has performed in many venues, including nightclubs,
haflas, restaurants, international festivals, birthday parties, and weddings. Her
preferred styles are Egyptian, Orientale and American Cabaret. She has extensive
experience in solo performance but also has been a member of the troupe Colorful Waves
since 2009. She has studied with many talented dancers and is available for all types
of performances and instruction. Yonja performs veil, finger cymbals, and sword
dance.Email her at dolunay_kadini@hotmail.com
Nazneen - Nazneen has been studying bellydance since 1997 and her love for this beautiful dance shows. Her training includes Egyptian Oriental, American Classic, Turkish, Tribal Fusion, and Gypsy. Her performances are family friendly and fun. She is available for private lessons, in-home classes, festivals, restaurants, and special occasions (no bachelor parties). For more information, please visit http://www.nazneenbellydancer.com/, phone 910-620-3242 or email her at nazneen61@yahoo.com. Nazneen performs regularly at the Arabian Nights Hookah Cafe' 3021 Market St Wilmington NC.
Samra - Samra's cabaret-style dance is joyful, tasteful and suitable for family entertainment. Her veil dance is exquisite! She loves to present belly grams! Samra is the protege of Andrea Deagon, the premier performer in Wilmington over the last decade. Invite your female friends to a truly wonderful group experience in your own home for "Samra's Night at the Harem: A Women's Party with Lesson." During the last three years, Samra's fans hired her to perform at bridal showers, weddings, anniversary parties, birthday parties, office parties and retirement homes in and around Wilmington. She performed at large festivals such as Riverfest, Sundown Shindig, Earth Day Festival, the International Festival at UNCW, Spring Fling at Topsail Beach, First Night in Charleston and fundraisers at WHQR and the Cape Fear Museum. She entertained patrons at local restaurants including Hollywood East Cinema Grill, Water Street Cafe, Michael's Seafood, Cedars and the Ice House. She performed regularly with William Strickland, a flamenco guitarist. Samra teaches belly dance classes at the Community Arts Center in Wilmington. To schedule Samra for your event, please visit her website, phone 910-794-5487 or e-mail sandyfrances@juno.com.
Vatra Gitana - Vatra Gitana is a bellydance, fire, and performance art dance troupe from Wilmington, NC. With both female and male members they offer an exciting spectacle for all types of audiences. Formed in 2003, the troupe continues to grow and evolve, with hour long shows using over 50 props, from umbrellas to knives and veils!
Desert Wishes - 2 performers: Ariel and Mahirimah, dancing for over 4 years.
Raq Mundi - Raq Mundi draws on a variety of cultures for our inspiration. The influences of Middle Eastern, North African, East Indian and Central Asian costumes and dance forms can be seen. Our style draws strongly a mix of traditional belly dance, but includes elements of modern dance along with our own artistic vision. This combination of traditional movement and music and modern innovation gives Raq Mundi's performances an exotic and ancient feeling and a powerful, mesmerizing presence.
Twysted Gypsy - Several of the members of Raq Mundi & Raq Taliba have joined forces to form Twysted Gypsy. To learn more about Twysted Gypsy and their performances visit: http://www.DanceStudioB.com/TwystedGypsy.htm, http://twitter.com/TwystedGypsy, http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000071645065&ref=profile, or http://www.myspace.com/twystedgypsy.
Gypsy (Paula Stump) -
"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 23 years and
has taught the dance for 20 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. For
more information, visit her website.
Gypsy
Fusion of Three Graces Entertainment. The women of the Gypsy Fusion Troupe reside
throughout the triad and enthusiastically travel to express their passion for tribal
fusion dance. The members of Gypsy Fusion create a bond on stage that is beautiful and
mesmerizing. Under the direction of Kharma, each performance contains an original
choreography written expressly for the troupe. Taking inspiration from other performers
in the tribal fusion field, each member shines with their own unique personality and
style in costuming and performance. For booking contact Kharma at
beverly@threegracesentertainment.com or see www.ThreeGracesEntertainment.com.
Samra --
Originally from Brazil, Samra considers dancing a form of communication and a way to
experience other cultures. After many years of intensive study she is a performer of
dances from Latin America, Middle East, Polynesia, Turkey, and other parts of the
world. She has also studied with some of the greatest masters of North African,
Armenian, Balinese, and Central Asian dances. Her interpretive dances include fire,
sword, wine balancing, and other exquisite dances.
She teaches and performs regularly in Sounthwest Virginia and Northwest North Carolina.
She teaches workshops regularly across the USA and overseas, and leads an annual
retreat to Bali in March. Samra also teaches and presents demonstrations at schools and
universities in the USA and abroad. Samra is a popular performer at cultural and
traditional events such as weddings, birthdays, and banquets. samra40@netzero.net,
276-236-4533, www.samrasexpressions.com.
Saphira (Teresa
Dickerson) is a full-time dance performer and instructor who specializes in belly dance
and other styles of international dance. She has performed extensively throughout areas
in North Carolina and beyond. Venues include festivals, corporate events, restaurants,
universities, elementary, middle and high schools, birthday parties, retirement
functions, and other special events. Audiences find intriguing her use of various
props, such as the sword, veils, cane, basket, and fire. She is the recipient of the
Lewisville Area Arts Council 2006 Achievement in Dance Award. Saphira is also a model
and co-founder/owner of Three Graces Entertainment, a dance company that was awarded
Best of Winston-Salem, performing arts group, runner-up for 2009. She can be contacted
at (336) 830-3479 or by email at Teresa3graces@aol.com or see www.ThreeGracesEntertainment.com.
Three
Graces Entertainment - The professional dancers of Three Graces Entertainment bring
belly dance, Polynesian, Brazilian, and many styles of international folkloric dances
to audiences throughout North Carolina and beyond.TGE was awarded Best of Winston-Salem
Performing Arts Group, runner-up 2009, 2010 and was honored to achieve Best of
Winston-Salem Performing Arts Group, first place, 2011. For past venue listings,
photos, videos, and more about their dance qualifications, see http://www.threegracesentertainment.com.
For booking information, call Saphira at 336-830-3479 or email her at
Teresa3Graces@aol.com.
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.
Gigi - Make your next event or celebration a memorable one with a performance by GiGi! Audiences of all ages have enjoyed her performances, where she has appeared at corporate events, art gallery openings, family-oriented private parties, weddings, festivals, schools, benefit events. Book GiGi for a 'Giggle and Wiggle' party, exclusively designed for girls and women of all ages. Invite your friends and family to learn how to execute snake arms, hip drops and shimmies. GiGi will provide hip scarves, veils, music and FUN! A co-founder of Ruby Scarab, the Triad's premier professional belly dance troupe, GiGi teaches the fine art of belly dance at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. For more information, contact her at 336.727.4806 or pmelton@cmc-nc.com.
Kristie Staton - Delivering crowd-pleasing performances, Kristie Staton provides family entertainment with an Oriental flavor. Kristie fuses Middle-Eastern dance with modern American culture. Performances are ornamented with silk veils, silver scimitars, canes and candle fire. Crowds have enjoyed Kristie's performances at art galleries, private and corporate receptions, Middle-Eastern theme parties, festivals, weddings, milestone celebrations and other occasions. Kristie is co-founder of the professional dance troupe, Ruby Scarab. For more information, go to http://www.shimmies-r-us.com, call 336-407-5275 or send email to kristie@kristieland.com.
Navani - Navani specializes in a range of belly dance styles including traditional folk dances from various Middle Eastern and Mediterranean regions. As a dancer, she is known for her great energy and passion, fluid movements and sensual style and is a popular performer at a range of venues from parties to weddings and at larger events in North Carolina as well as places like Atlanta, Maryland, New York City and California. Her love and devotion to Arabic music and dance and her desire to contribute to the evolving belly dance culture has made her an ambassador for this beautiful art form. He dedication has made her a student not only of Middle Eastern dance styles, but also of the language, music and culture of the Middle East. For more information visit www.navani.org.
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 - Performer and director of 1001 Nights Middle Eastern Dance, Sylvana is a charismatic and energetic entertainer. In addition to teaching classes in Winston-Salem and surrounding areas, she performs at private parties and events as well as at public festivals and fairs with Paula Stump and her "Aladdin's Genies".
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