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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.
Amanda -
By combining American, Cabaret, Modern Egyptian, and her own style of "tribaret," Amanda creates unique belly dance performances. Amanda's sharp, precise technique and layering, keen musical awareness, and vivacious enthusiasm for the art of dance shine each time she performs. Amanda remains committed to furthering her excellence as a dancer. She strives to continue performing, learning, and enjoying all aspects of belly dance so that she may convey to audiences that belly dance is an intriguing art form full of integrity and grace. She is available for performance and workshops.
Please view Amanda's video clip posted on her website!
The Forbidden -
Fire and Belly Dance formed out of the combined imaginings of Soubhi and Nur in 2007.
Showcasing a dark, tribal fusion style that focuses on tightly woven duets, controlled and muscular movements and the feminine strength that is so deeply a part of tribal belly dance, all set to a modern electronic soundscape, The Forbidden offers a show that is sure to awe and inspire.
Fire charming lends itself as a natural addition to the intricacies of contemporary tribal fusion dance. Nur and Soubhi are well versed in such fire arts as poi, fingers, eating, and transfers, as well as many one of a kind acts.
Contact The Forbidden at theforbidden@gmail.com.
Website Coming Soon!
Kristi Renee -
Throughout her journey of life Kristi has studied and performed many different forms of dance and movement. She has also spent many years in the field of natural healing and energy attunement. In the past few years of her life Kristi has enjoyed integrating her studies together into the temple bellydance she performs, teaches, and shares with others. Contact Kristi at: temple.dancer@yahoo.com, 513-479-5271, or check out her myspace page.
Baraka Mundi -
Baraka Mundi is the most well-known bellydance and live music ensemble in the Carolinas. Since 1999, they have
united world music, movement, theatre, ceremony, and the fire arts with enchanted audiences. Inspired by the cultures
of the Middle East, North Africa, India and more, they entertain, educate and enchant everywhere they go.
For more information, visit their website.
LisaZahiya -
Lisa Zahiya began the study of bellydance in the Baltimore/Washington area where she studied with several master teachers including Piper Reid Hunt, Artemis Mourat and Laurel Victoria Gray. She was a member of Piper Hunt’s Daughters of Rhea Dance Ensemble and was a founding member of Baltimore's first Tribal Improv Group, Shivani Tribal. Lisa 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.
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.
Mizilca -
Mizilca launched into bellydance performance with
Baraka Mundi, who she danced with for three years.
Currently, as a soloist, she can be seen dancing
frequently at Jerusalem Garden, in downtown Asheville.
She also collaborates with a variety of other
talented dancers and musicians, exploring the many
exciting co-creative possibilities.
Mizilca performs in many arts-related events and
grand openings. Her speciality, however, is sacred
dance or dance priestessing, which she performs or
leads groups in at various private and public
gatherings of a ritualistic or celebratory nature.
For more information, please visit her website.
Onca -
Onca is renowned for her charismatic stage presence and her joyful, lively dancing. Since 1999, she has performed and taught regularly at festivals, theatres, schools, nightclubs and restaurants through out the Carolinas and beyond. From her travels and studies with many of bellydance's great teachers, she has a distinctive cosmopolitan dance style she calls 'World Spirit Tribal'. Sword, fire, working with live music, and spanish stylings are several of her performance specialities.
A foundational member of the world dance community in Western North Carolina, she is also director of 'Baraka Mundi Live Music & Dance Ensemble', co-director of the Future of Tradition Center for Folkloric Arts, and director of the student troupe ' World Spirit BellyDance'. She also performs song, dance and theatre with the national troupe 'Accidental Circus', presenting modern medievalist Gypsy Cabaret.
For more information, visit her website.
SamiTe' -
SamiTe's unique style of Fusion Bellydance gently blends the ancient and modern into a sacred ritualistic dance
experience. Journey to another time and place where music and dance communicate ageless stories of times long past and
those yet to be created.
Visit
her website.
Su Resha & Ensemble - Su Resha, the director of Su Resha & Ensemble, specializes in Westernized Nightclub, Veil, Balancing, and Finger Cymbals.
Chris "Hajji" Stack - Has been playing regularly at Jerusalem Garden Cafe in Asheville, NC for the past few years. He plays oud, lavta, bouzouki, rebab, flute, bass and percussion, and can be contacted at http://www.stackdigital.com/main.html or chris@stackdigital.com.
Tribalesque -
Tribalesque specializes in traditional and modern ethnic dance styles forms from the Middle East, India, and Latin America. We have combined these influences to create our signature style. Our performance repertoire is suitable for festivals, weddings, parties, clubs, and any other special occasion.
For more information, email Selenah at tribalesquedance@yahoo.com or visit
their website.
Click here to view listings for Chapel Hill and the surrounding "Triangle" area
Asali - Asali's dance style is joyful and tasteful. Her
style of dance is influenced by western dance, traditional and non-traditional belly dance styles,
modern dance, and her martial arts background. She uses several props such as veil, sword, and finger
cymbals. She dances regularly as a soloist and troupe member at restaurants, festivals, parties,
haflas and shows. She is available for children's birthday parties and women's parties
which includes a performance and short class. Asali choreographs for soloists and groups and teaches
several private belly dance students in the Gastonia and Charlotte area. To schedule Asali for your event,
please visit www.asalidances.com or contact at asalidances@yahoo.com.
Asim - A Raqs Shaquri Performer of a Different Strain. He believes in:
Jamundo - Jamundo is an eclectic acoustic band from Charlotte, NC. The name comes from the two most important elements of their music - "Jam" (for improvisation) and "mundo" (for world music). The band currently consists of two members - Dennis Shearin and Rony Tel-Or - who met while jamming on the Charlotte belly dance circuit. After playing Arabic songs and improvisations for some time, they decided to draw upon other sources of inspiration. Some of the influences are African, Middle Eastern, Caribbean, Celtic, and rock. Jamundo has just released its first CD - Orientation - which features nearly an hour of instrumental music, ranging from Middle Eastern improvisations to latin flavored multi-tracked songs. The featured instruments include oud, violin, bazuki, flutes and melodica. For more information, visit their website or call 704-509-9673.
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 naynathedancer@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.
Potbelly Belly Dance Company - a new
American Tribal Style dance company, led by Jenny Helms, previously of Devyani.
Sama - The members of the musical group Sama play music from the Middle East and beyond - Turkish Egyptian, Arabo-Andalusian, etc. Instrumentation includes Alemeh Baraka on doumbek, frame drums, mandolin, and vocals; Jason Teeter on cello; David Walen on clarinet; Jimmy Duckworth on oud; and various wind instruments. The name Sama comes from the sufi. It means "listen" and it represents the idea of sufist transcendentalism.
The Voyager Band -
The Voyager was formed to be a project that travels from one genre to the next, from song to song. It was created to be an outlet for curiousity and creativity, regardless of the origin.
The music is written and performed by Travis (of Dark Autumn recognition), with the help of live musicians, such as percussionist/multi-instrumentalist Josh Watkins.
The band creates a fusion of many world genres, citing influences predominantly from Middle Eastern music, then taking it in their own direction by adding touches of electronic drums, synth tones, and other more modern embellishments that are sure to please the listener.
Their live performance is booming with lots of high-octane hand drumming, exotic stringed instruments, and powerful, dancer-friendly rhythms that are fueled off of an energetic relationship between the performers and the audience.
The Voyager is available for performing live shows , which will provide a great night of variety and entertainment for a very reasonable rate! Please contact us and we will talk. thevoyagerband@yahoo.com, www.myspace.com/thevoyagerband.
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.
Kaitlyn -
Kaitlyn has been belly dancing since 2001. Her dance experience also includes over 6 years of formal training in ballet, tap and jazz. Her obsession with Middle Eastern and Indian cultures has lead her on a path to discover the beauty and grace of belly dancing. Kaitlyn is a former member of Jackson, Mississippi's premier belly dance troupe "MissiHippy" for over a year and a half. As a member she performed at various festivals and venues all over the state. In 2007, Kaitlyn and her family relocated back to her native North Carolina. 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. Kaitlyn has taken private instruction from Mesmera, Aubre of Bellydance Super Stars, Veena of the Belly Twins, and Super Kate. She has attended workshops with Jillina, Artemis Mourat, Suhaila Salimpour, Kami Liddle, and Khafif. She performs and continues to study Cabaret, American Tribal Style, Tribal Fusion, Tribaret, and Raqs Gothique. She also incorporates a variety of props in her performances such as zills, veil, sword, and Isis wings. 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
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
Click here to view listings for High Point and the surrounding "Triad" area
Khalida - a Tribal dancer based out of the Lillington area, she is willing to travel for performances. For more information, visit her MySpace page.
Maysameh - Maysameh has been belly dancing since 2000 and was named Belly Dancer of the Month for August 2007 by the Middle Eastern Dance Leaders Society (MEDLS). MEDLS is dedicated to preserving cultures of the world; retaining heritage, contributing to a better understanding of other cultures, enhancing communication, respect, and peace among the peoples of the world.
Maysameh also received her American Tribal Style General Skills Certificate after Carolena's 3-Day Workshop in October 2007. This was a life changing experience!
Maysameh leads Rhythmic Essence Belly dance with locations in Newton and Mooresville, NC. She teaches the basics and choreography to ancient interpretive (pharaonic dance), classic, folkloric and modern Egyptian style belly dance. An array of dances offered are: beginner dance, pharaonic candle dance, sword, cane, tray balancing, American veil, wings, pop, feather fan, melaya luff, hagallah, fellahin, ATS, fusion, world dance and much more!
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) 446-5855.
Aziza Al-Tawil -
Aziza is the daughter of longtime "Greektown NYC" dance star Johanna and composer/recording artist/actor Samir Al-Tawil. Aziza has been a professional belly dancer since the age of one, performing in venues in many towns and cities. She was a regular guest of "Turkish Television" for seven years.
Her repertoire includes classic belly dance "Cifte Telli," "Veil," "Turkish Gypsy Karsilama," authentic (martial) sword dance "Al-Ard," and a variety of Middle Eastern and Greek/International folk dances like "Dabke," "Hassapico"/"Kasop"/"Kazatsky"/ "Hora," "Syrto-Ciftetelli," and "Laz"/"Laziko" (Black Sea Dance w/fire pot or w/out).
Aziza has played "Zil" since the age of two and can drum.
As a teacher she is available for specialized instruction in a "Seminar" format. She is available for public performances including concert, festival, and club venues, etc.
Contact info: zizidancer@yahoo.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.
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.
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.
Sharifa Asmar -
Sharifa Asmar is renowned for her authentic Middle Eastern dance style and engaging performances. Sharifa has performed in the US and Europe, entertaining at family celebrations, corporate and museum events, nightclubs, restaurants, festivals, theatres, schools, and charity benefits.
Contact Sharifa at 910.461.1265 or sharifa@sharifaasmar.com. See www.sharifaasmar.com for booking and rate information.
Anala (High Point) -- Anala is a professional performer from the High Point area. She is also
available for instruction. Anala has studied Middle Eastern dance for over 6 years. She also has had training in various western forms of dance
including ballet and jazz. Anala is available for private parties, festivals and other events. She performs
primarily American Cabaret (westernized nightclub) style dance. Specialties include sword dancing, veil dances and
floor work. She is formerly a member of Gypsy's Aladdin's Genies from Winston-Salem.
Contact at mideastarts@yahoo.com or (336) 434-6267.
Daliana (Greensboro) -- Daliana is originally from Long Island, New York where she received formal training in ballet,tap, and jazz dancing. She began belly dancing at the age of twelve and has continues sharing her passion for this dance. Daliana has established Troupe Bellysima in Greensboro, NC and offers classes on Monday evenings at the Ragsdale YMCA in Jamestown. She offers workshops for adults, teens and children, on and off site. For more info visit www.dalianadance.com or call 336-508-4417.
Faun (“Chantrea-Shanti”) (Greensboro) --
Faun “Chantrea-Shanti”) has a 20-year background 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 can seamlessly fuse 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 a variety of churches, temples and haflas.
Faun is also co-owner of Studio 318, a world dance studio in downtown Greensboro and artistic director for the performance group, East Dreams West.
To hire Faun for performing, teaching and/or choreographing, please email her at faun@soulflowerstudios.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.
Soner Cicek - professional musician and instructor from Turkey. He is also an importer of goods from the Middle East.
Aloha Makana -
Aloha Makana is an authentic Polynesian dance company that brings the beauty, grace and energy of Polynesian dance to North Carolina. Its dancers have performed in Hawaii, Tahiti, Japan, France, California, Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia and Washington. Specializing in corporate and private events, Aloha Makana has also performed at community festivals, museums, fundraisers, universities and other community events. Aloha Makana also offers group and private classes, teaching a variety of dances from Pacific island cultures including Tahiti, Hawaii, Samoa, and New Zealand. For more information about classes or performances,
visit their website or send an email to Aloha@AlohaMakana.com.
Amara -
Amara is a bellydance performer and instructor in the Cary area. She has been dancing for 5 years and is a current member of the Colorful Waves Bellydance Troupe. She has performed at many local events including haflas, private parties, weddings, the Raleigh Drum Circle and the NC Renaissance Faire. Amara is available for performances, and teaches private and group lessons in the Cary area. Visit her website for more
information- http://www.electricshimmy.com or email her for more information at amara@electricshimmy.com.
Photo credit: Audra Evans
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 has been dancing for over two years. The name Andalee is a derivative of the Muslim name, Andalib, which means nightingale. In the Persian poem, the Conference of the Birds, the nightingale represents the lover. Andalee is a lover of Middle Eastern dance and music. Through her movements you'll discover layers of passion, love, joy, sorrow, musicality and fluidity--much like the layers of a nightingale's song. Andalee is available for public and private performances in the Triangle area. She'll provide a family friendly-experience with all the glitz and glam that people come to expect from "belly dancers." Contact her at andalee.oriental@gmail.com for more information, or visit her Web site at
http://andalee.oriental.googlepages.com/.
Photo credit: Audra Evans
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: Woodland Willow Photography
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.
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!) at various venues around the Triangle, including the Festival for the Eno in July. Troupe members welcome the chance to perform for your special celebrations. Magdalene teaches classes in Raleigh and Qadria teaches workshops for women's groups. Belly Revelations also sponsors "Shimmy South" in the early spring in Raleigh
(see website for information).
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.
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.
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: Woodland Willow Photography
Gozde - professional dancer and instructor. For more information, email her at gozde@bellsouth.net.
Haala -
Haala has over 7 years of Middle-Eastern dance experience, studying
with internationally renowned instructors from Egypt, Turkey and the United States.
She has performed at public events such as The Festival for the Eno and the North Carolina Renaissance Faire, as well as local venues, such as Aladdin's, Marrakesh Cafe and Layalina Nights events.
In addition, she promotes belly dance in the community through her work with NCbellydance.org and
presentations at schools and institutions, such as Wake Tech, Louisburg Community College, and Vance-Granville Community College. She is willing to travel outside the Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill area for special performances and workshops.
Let Haala add the joy of authentic Raqs Sharqi "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 Youth Oriental Dance Troupe is currently comprised of dancers from 2-10 years old. It is directed by Sadiya and Jennat Hilal. Participants are all dancers enrolled in one of Sadiya’s youth classes. They are available for community and educational performances. For their first performance in the Chapel Hill/Carrboro Holiday Parade they were awarded “Most Original” by the parade judges. Please contact Sadiya to inquire about scheduling a performance or participating in the Troupe.
She can be reached at http://sadiyabellydancer.com/, or 919-968-2471.
Jaafar - A middle eastern jazz Arabic funk fusion ensemble that originates from the Raleigh/Durham Triangle of NC. JAAFAR are no longer just “local boys”. They have just recently completed their 2nd tour of Cairo, Egypt, been invited to perform at The Conga Square Jazz Festival in Calcutta, India 2 years in a row, and a jazz festival in Poland as well. JAAFAR is a revolving door of extremely talented musicians, with a willingness to push themselves and their audience to unforeseen places, fuseing traditional Arabic music, classical Indian concepts of composition , North African rhythmic grooves, and pure American "old-school Funk" to produce the INCREDIBLY unique soundscape that is Jaafar. Jaafar tries to incorporate the Middle Eastern techniques of melodic improvisation with the Jazz styles of John Coltrane, Mahavishnu Orchestra, Jonas Hellborg, Shakti, etc. The percussion players' global influences vary from West African to Turkish to Indian to the incorporation of a full Western-style drum kit. Jaafar has performed as a septet, as solo bass, and every possibility in between. There is a spiritual, meditative, "mellow", middle eastern philosophy in the music; this is represented by our "Acoustic form". There is also a raw power of raw beauty, energetic, explosive, and yet sensitive ; this comes through as the "Electric form". We would not be complete if we could not acknowledge the exsistence of both that actually create a bigger ONE. For more information, visit the Jafaar website.
Layalina Nights - We are specialized in organizing and managing entertainment events in the Triangle area of North Carolina and the surrounding states. We are committed to offer the highest level of professional entertainment in the US. For more information on our DJs and upcoming entertainment events, visit http://www.layalinanights.com.
Leigh Brown - professional dancer and instructor.
Magdalene -
Magdalene is a member of Belly Revelations. Dancing since 2002, Magdalene likes to bring her own percussive style to the troupe. Teaching at such venues as YMCAs, Arts Centers, Senior Centers, women's groups, and Boys and Girls Clubs, Magdalene loves to see the transformative power of belly dance in the lives of her students. Fond of tribal fusion, she likes experimenting to bring grace and power to her dancing.
Photo Credit: Audra Evans
Mark Malachi - Mark Malachi performs sacred dance and music. His dance style is a synthesis of Middle Eastern belly dance, East Indian Kathak, Ballet, and Modern dance styles, and is based on 25 years of study and practice.
Nadya -
Born and raised in Lebanon, she has studied with such greats as Yousri Sharif and Mahmoud Reda, among others. She is fluent in 4 languages (Arabic, French, Italian, and English).
Nadya offers you… The Luxury of Enjoying an Exquisite and Authentic show and Transforms your special occasions into everlasting memories of “Exotic Delight” and “Excitement”.
With stunning grace and poise Nadya captures the essence of this ancient art of Belly
Dancing and delivers it with every performance. Nadya is born with an exotic sensuality and a desire to share her gift of dance with you.
For more information, visit Nadya's website
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.
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 a 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 under the < HREF="http://www.bluemoonbellydance.com">www.bluemoonbellydance.com web site.
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.
Sadiya -
Sadiya is an Oriental Dance instructor and performer. She teaches children and adults in Chapel Hill and Durham at various locations. She is the Director of Happy Hips Youth Oriental Dance Troupe. Sadiya offers children’s birthday parties that include a performance, lesson and hip scarf making project. She is also available for adult women’s belly dance parties to celebrate a birthday or as a good excuse to get together with friends. Finally, she dances, teaches and does mini-classes for schools, daycares, girl scouts and other youth groups.
She can be reached at http://sadiyabellydancer.com/, or 919-968-2471.
Shahzaadee - A dynamic and entertaining performer, she has also sponsored several
well-attended dance and drum events in the Triangle area. Her specialties include Raqs Sharqi, Ethnic/Historical, Westernized Nightclub, Tribal Fusion, Balancing, Romany (Gypsy),
and International Folk Line Dance. In addition to being an
instructor, she also serves as staff writer for the 'The Caravan' Middle Eastern dance magazine.
Andrea Deagon - performer and director of Sitat al Shitar. Her specialties include Raqs Sharqi, Westernized Nightclub, Veil, Finger Cymbals, Cane, Lebanese, and Turkish.
Europamoon - Europamoon has recently moved to the Wilmington area and has begun teaching bellydancing at Babs Mcdance social dance studio.(call for details,763-2223). "I moved from Los Angeles where I studied with Kristen Cunningham for 1 year, and then with my mentor Mesmera for 5 years. I have also taken various workshops from many of the fabulous dancers in the los Angeles area. I have also been studying fire dance for 3 years and have traveled all over the U.S. and Europe on tour with Creative Flame, for whom I bellydanced, and did various fire performance. I have a very innovative, and creative style, fusing folklore, traditional technique, creative imagery, and the elements, and always passion. I have a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre, with extensive training in all areas of performance including make-up, costuming, set design, and lighting. I am currently forming a troup of some of my advancing dancers(yet to be named)." Europamoon can be reached via her website or via email at marcy@www.firetalent.com.
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.
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.
Nazneen -
Nazneen loves to dance and it shows in her exciting, elegant performances. She is a dynamic performer that captivates the audience with her energy & playful style. Nazneen provides family oriented entertainment. Her teachers include Zarifa, Europamoon, and Andrea Deagon. Also a former charter member of Vatra Gitana. Her training includes Egyptian Oriental, American Classic, Turkish, Tribal fusion, and Gypsy.
For more information, contact her at Nazneen61@yahoo.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!
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.
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 19 years and has taught the
dance for 16 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.
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 336/922-1172 or send email to ktharpe@graphically-speaking.biz.
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.
Pataya -
Patayah 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.
Ruby Scarab Belly Dancers -
Ruby Scarab fills your world with images from the Orientthe luster of coins and glitter, the radiance of colors, the
tones of Arabic music. Delivering crowd-pleasing performances, Ruby Scarab provides family entertainment with an Oriental
flavor. Whether you¹re planning an international festival or a wedding reception, Ruby Scarab presents a quality program,
leaving your guests with a lasting memory of your celebration. Crowds have enjoyed their performances at art galleries,
private and corporate receptions, Middle-Eastern theme parties, festivals, weddings, milestone celebrations and other
occasions. Consider Ruby Scarab for your next event. They will provide a full-scale show or teach your group how to
execute snake arms and the genie in a class-like environment. Be prepared to get up on your feet because Ruby Scarab
stirs up the crowd.
For more information and contacts, go to http://www.shimmies-r-us.com.
Saphira
Saphira (Teresa Dickerson) is a dance performer who specializes in belly dance. She has performed extensively
throughout areas in North Carolina and beyond. Venues include festivals, corporate events, restaurants,
universities, birthday parties, retirement functions, and other special events. Saphira’s beautiful costumes as
well as her style of dance delight audiences. She is the recipient of the Lewisville Area Arts Council 2006 Achievement
in Dance Award. Audiences also
find intriguing her use of various props, such as the sword, veils, cane, basket, and fire. Saphira is also a
model and co-founder of Three Graces Entertainment International,
a professional dance troupe. She can be contacted at (336) 830-3479 or by email
at Teresa3graces@aol.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".
Three Graces Entertainment -
In Greek mythology the three graces were the three goddesses of joy, charm, and beauty (whose names meant Splendor,
Mirth and Good Cheer). The Graces presided over banquets, dances, and all other pleasurable social events, and
brought joy and goodwill to both gods and mortals. (Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia 99). In real life, the
Three Graces Entertainment is comprised of Saphira and her professional belly dance troupe, The Nefertiti
Dance Troupe, whose performances have been enjoyed at festivals, art events, schools, private functions, and more.
For additional information, please visit the
Three Graces Entertainment website.
Allow Three Graces Entertainment to bring joy, charm, and beauty to your next social event.
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