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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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. 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(spelling may be wrong) and the Carolina Theatre. She teaches in High Point and Greensboro.
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 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.
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.
Leigh Brown - 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.
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.
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.
Haala -
Haala has over 10 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 with 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.
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.
Camila Karam (Raleigh/Durham) -
Camila Karam dances with a serpentine grace and a rhythmic quality. An experienced performer and instructor, Camila promotes the beauty, femininity and healing benefits bellydance offers. She believes bellydance is a feminine rite of passage to movement. Miss Karam performs and instructs intricate hip movements, zils, veil dancing, floorwork and sword dancing.
Dynamic dancing for your upcoming event!! Cultural events, upscale parties, weddings, Goddess parties, showers, women's events, Solstice & Equinox celebrations are her specialties. For bookings & class information call 301 938-0906 (leave a message only) or camkaram@gmail.com. Visit Camila's website at www.camilakaram.com. Order Camila's "Dancing with A Goddess Bellydance Workshop" DVD. Ask for details.
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.
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.
Safiye Sevim
-
Safiye (pronounced SAH-fee-yeah) is a bellydance performer specializing in modern Egyptian cabaret. She learned the core of her technique in Southern California under the tutelage of Meleah and has been dancing for nine years. Safiye is the house dancer at Mosaic Wine Lounge in downtown Raleigh and has performed at private events, restaurants, night clubs, haflas, and gala shows throughout the Triangle area (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill). For booking information contact her at safiyesevim@gmail.com or visit her website http://www.safiyesevim.com for more information.
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
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.
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.
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 -
Anderson Beckmann (aka Andy Von) is a student at N.C. State University, persuing a double degree in Philosophy and a self-designed study of Belly Dance traditions. Her strong dance and yoga background allow for diversity in performance, from traditional Turkish Karsilama to modern Fusion! She is very open to catering to specific preferences based upon the nature of the event. Anderson also loves working with non-profit and educational events. For more information, visit her website at www.AndyVon.com or email her at ALBeckma@ncsu.edu.
Photo credit: Audra Evans
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, internatinal 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
Photo credit: Audra Evans
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. She teaches at Arabian Nights Hookah Café in WIlmington. Nazneen’s teaching is fun and encouraging. Her performances are family friendly and she is available for classes, 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 Café 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 Café, 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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Kristie¹s 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.
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.
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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