After my very first belly dance class, I immediately fell in love with this dance form, the music and the culture
surrounding it.
I was introduced to the Turkish style of dance under the excellent teaching of Melek and built up a sound
knowledge of turkish cabaret style and an appreciation of turkish folkloric dance, such as the Karsilama 9/8, spoon dance
and mavlana. Melek was a total inspiration to me and played such an important role in my career and to her I owe
all my thanks.
I also perform and continue to study the Egyptian style of the dance and believe in fully understanding
the different syles of dance which include: cabaret, egyptian stick dancing, melaya lef, baladi and oriental.
It is important for me to continually
develop my dance and attend regular workshops, often taught by renowned teachers from Egypt, America and of
course UK based teachers.
In addition, I also seek out lessons and workshops with Princess Farhana, Keti Sharif and Serena Ramzy whenever possible...!
Always
seeking to add new and exciting elements to a performance, I recently studied the art of fire eating and where appropriate,
use this to create a heated finale to a show.
My teaching career began with Adult Education and during this time I established
my own private classes which have now been running successfully for five years.
I teach beginner and intermediate level
and alongside technique, my students are also taught to recognise different musical rhythms and are encouraged to improvise
and find their own style.
Best of all though, we have lots of fun and get the chance to perform
every year at local fetes, charity events and festivals and show off the choreographies learnt and, for the braver students,
the chance to perform a solo or duet.
Above all, I love my dancing, and hope to share with my audience and my students this fabulous dance and what
it has to offer.
