I often get asked, "What do you do for fun?" or "What do you do in your spare time"? The answer is: I am already doing it, and because it is so much fun, I don't have any spare time!
Dance has been at the core of my existence for a lifetime. I have studied Middle Eastern dance locally and internationally for over a decade, building on an extensive background in jazz, West African, modern, and ballet, and 12 years in the theatre. I discovered my passion for belly dance while preparing for a lead role in a play, “Shivaree,” in which the character was a belly dancer.
Today, I perform weekly at Seattle’s premiere venues as well as with arranged tours, private functions, and events such as World Rhythm Festival, Arab Festival, and Arts Gumbo, frequently collaborating with other top dance artists and musicians, including House of Tarab and MB Orchestra.
I am founder and producer of World Dance Showcase, a monthly event celebrating dance across the globe. Check out these shots!..
Since 2004, I have offered classes in Seattle, and am regularly contacted for private coaching by people of all backgrounds, needs, and goals.
My dynamic style has been influenced by studies with Middle Eastern dance artists such as Mahmoud Reda, Farida Fahmy, Liza Laziza, Hadia, Tito, Morocco, Saqra, and Elisa Gamal. Independent travels to Egypt, Morocco, Senegal, and other areas of Africa, and strong ties with immigrant communities, enable me to continually advance my comprehensive knowledge of rhythm, movement, choreography, and production.
When I'm not being an artist or producer, I manage a small nonprofit which assists refugees of southern Sudan in establishing a new life in Washington State. I hold a Master's degree in Public Administration with an International Development focus, and a BA in two majors -- Theatre Arts and Political Science.
On a personal level, words cannot express how grateful I am for my amazing daughter and my incomparable circle of friends and family. The heart, talent, and intellect of these extraordinary individuals are evidence that life and humanity are astoundingly beautiful, in spite of the evil we see.
Myspace friends reflect my community of choice on a global scale. Thus, while I support freedom of expression and respect diverse tastes and lifestyle choices, if your page is covered with g-strings, I will probably not accept.
Who I'd like to meet: Bono. Prince. Denzel Washington. Nelson Mandela. I've already met Youssou N'Dour and Baba Maal, but I'd love to meet them again.
Hey Suzanna!! i am back in Santa Barbara, i really feel sad for not meeting you but i understand!! you have other priorities in your life right now and we both were so busy that we missed each other. Did i tell you that i spent one night on the street because the hotels were so full but Sonja was so mad at me because i didn't call her. I did have an amazing time there with sonja and her friends. She took me to Vancouver and showed me around, she introduced me to a lot of great people that just contributed to the success of my experience there .I did call Moussa but he didn't pick up my call so i figured he was busy too. Now i have a lot of reasons to go back there. Hope you are doing great. Love Seattle.
Hey there gorgeous! I miss you too lady! You should hitch a ride with Zaphara in May. ;-) I'd love to see you. You look like you're doing great. Have you heard from Andrea at all? I'll have to look her up next time I'm in Egypt. I'd love to go again this November, but we shal see. Keep in touch bella. MUAH!
