Belly dance, oriental dance, Egyptian dance, raks sharqi, are all names you’ll hear for this dance.  I started dancing in March 2003 because I wanted to feel and look as graceful as it appears.  After my first class, I was hooked! 

Belly dance brings women together in sisterhood and celebration.  I have met women of many different ages, shapes and interests from this dance. 

I love the liveliness of the Arabic music.  The themes of the music are very similar to American songs, all about love and life.  I know some Arabic words, and am currently learning to read and write Arabic.  

I perform for charity and cultural events around the Boston area.  I dance at celebrations and birthday parties.  I offer belly dancing classes on the South Shore.  I teach private lessons, group sessions, and weekly classes. 

I am the co-chair of the Northeast Belly Dance Association (NBDA) Southeastern Massachusetts Chapter.  The NBDA offers many opportunities to meet local dancers, to share knowledge, and to create performance events for all levels.

How did I get started?

I owe my first glance at belly dancing to Khadija, my friend, mentor, and teacher.  She lead an entire workshop of men and women through stretches including the graceful dance moves. 

Have you traveled to the Middle East?

I traveled to Egypt in February 2004.  Among seeing the pyramids and temples, I was able to shop for costumes in Cairo and see local performers.  One night I showed off my first costume and performed on the Nile cruise boat.

Do I choreograph my pieces?

Yes and No.  I have learned for other dancers that it’s best to choreograph parts, but not get focused on remembering certain steps. Group performances take much care with choreography.

Where have you performed?

To name a few, Multicultural Day at the Cape Cod Community College, Jewels of the Nile, held in Falmouth, and the Icicles and Fringe Charity event.

Why do you perform?

I love the costumes, excitement, and the movements.  I am no stranger to performing.  I had been in the high school marching band and flag corp.  In flag corp I dressed in a flashy gold jacket, smiled wide, and twirled my flag in time with 20 other girls in front of crowds of people.  Solo dance performances are quite more exhilarating.

What drives you to continue dancing?

Belly dancing makes me feel alive and very feminine.  When I dance, even if it’s while I’m in the kitchen doing dishes, I connect with my body.  I feel joy, confidence, and feel my feminine power. 

What do you think are the benefits of belly dancing?

It is a very earthy and grounding dance.  The movements draw our center of energy lower in the body to the pelvis.  Belly dancing helps with balance, muscle toning of the entire body, and most importantly increases self confidence.

Will belly dancing help me with weight loss?

Absolutely. Dancing burns calories and tones muscles.  Expect much more than losing weight, such as losing anxieties about your body.