North Carolina Belly Dance Instructors

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North Carolina Belly Dance Instructors
By City

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Anyone can learn how to dance - let one of these instructors show you how!

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Asheville

Claire Dima - Coming to bellydance after ballet, weight training and tae kwon do, Dima is well-known for her physical power and flexibility. Intellectually voracious, she has devoted herself to studying the histories, movements and cultures of bellydance, modern, fusion and traditional. She has taught bellydance in the classroom, regional workshops, colleges and universities for several years, with a clear emphasis on both personal empowerment and cultural appreciation. "I love the fact that within the same dance language we can engage in ritualistic mystic dance like the guedras and also tap the vibrancy of the glamourous cabaret scene." For information about educational offerings, see the website: www.barakamundi.com.
View her class schedule here or visit the Baraka Mundi 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 is a certified Level II dancer in the Piper Method of Bellydance. For more information, email lisazahiya@gmail.com or visit LisaZahiya's website.
View her class schedule here

Mahsati Janan - Mahsati Janan is a teacher, performer and workshop instructor in Asheville, NC. She began her journey in belly dance in 1996 and has studied and performed throughout the southeastern US. Co-director of the successful Troupe Amani Dance Ensemble and Bal Fahjar Dance Ensemble for over 7 years, she was also a principal dancer in the El Oadhi Dancers and Drummers, Bal Yifte and Bal Tzigane while she lived in Florida. Now having relocated to Asheville, she is available to teach workshops as well as private or groups classes in Classical Egyptian, Middle Eastern Folkloric, Turkish, Lebanese and techniques that are common to all styles. Her anthropology background and research emphases are also strongly represented in her classes as you learn the history and traditions of this dance. For more information, please call 828 318 7572 or email to mahsati@mahsati-janan.com. More information about Mahsati Janan is available on her website at www.mahsati-janan.com.

mbody studio - mbody studio offers bellydance classes for all levels with a fusion style that leans towards modern tribal. class structure consists of yoga/ stretching for warm up, basic movements and drills, layering or combinations, tribal style improvisation, and a yogic style cool down . each class is different and structured to fit the ability level of the students present. all classes are held at mbody studio; 1200 hendersonville rd, asheville, NC. check out our website: www.mbody.net for more info, or call at 828-277-7500.
View their class schedule here

Mizilca - Mizilca teaches "Transformational Bellydance", her own unique approach to belly dance in its sacred element, integrating yoga, chakra and energy work, and Goddess mythos into the dance on both technical and inspirational levels. Classes for women (sorry brothers, i swear I'll get one going for you too eventually) are at Namaste Yoga and Healing Arts, 57 Broadway in downtown Asheville (828-253-6985) on Thursday nights from 7:30 until much later. The class was supposedly an hour and a half, but it typically goes about three hours, and you wont want to miss the end, so be warned to come with stamina and lots of water. All levels welcome! Costuming by Mizilca is available for sale at Namaste. Mizilca also offers a very popular kids Bellydance class! The class is also on Thursdays, 4-5pm for girls 8-11 years old and 4:30-5 pm for girls 5-7 years (yes they overlap, based on attention spans). The kids class strongly encourages self-confidence, intuitive movement, and cooperative co-creation. Kids' dance costumes are also available for sale!
View her class schedule here or visit her website

Onca - Along with her husband and fellow folk-arts teacher Draven Arcane, she is the co-director of the Future of Tradition Center for Folkloric Arts; the Center provides space for the perpetuation of global traditions of art, movement, and multicultural spiritual practice. In addition to teaching at Warren Wilson College and Clemson University, Onça has taught at numerous dance academies, preschools, and community centers, and lectured on the costuming traditions of tribal cultures at UNCA Asheville and through the Buncombe and Polk County Library systems. She is a noted scholar of European traditions of divination, a published author and noted illustrator of the internationally recognized "World Spirit Tarot". She can be contacted at onca@barakamundi.com, or at (828) 232 2980.
View the class schedules for Onca here or visit the Baraka Mundi 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. You can contact SamiTe' at 828.273.9528, by email at samite@fusionbellydance.com, or visit her website.
View her class schedule here

Su Resha - Su Resha teaches beginning to intermediate cabaret style bellydance at the West Asheville Community Center, Monday evening, 6:45 to 8:00. With 15 years of performing and teaching, Su can teach your body to dance with grace and sensuality.
View her class schedule here

Boone

Joharah - Joharah (Vickie Young) teaches beginner bellydance and tribal classes at Northwestern Studio in Boone, NC. She is a member of the ethnic fusion bellydance troupe Lost Jewels of the Ghawazee located in Granite Falls. The Lost Jewels are directed by Neela (Becky Shook) and Joharah continues to be one of her devoted students. Contact her at 828-297-1083 or vcyoung@skybest.com for information.

Cary

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Chapel Hill

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Charlotte

Asali - Looking for a fun way to exercise, meet people, and learn something new, Asali began learning raks sharqi from both Zarifa and Yasmine, in 2002 and began performing under their direction in 2003. Asali began teaching in Gastonia in 2005, and loves sharing her passion for belly dance with others. Asali continues to add to her Oriental dance repertoire by regularly attending workshops from internationally renowned performers such as Aziza, Bozenka, and Sahra Saeeda, to name a few. Asali teaches ongoing, multi-level classes exclusively at The Perfect Step Dance Studio in Gastonia, NC and is also available for private and small group instruction and mini-workshops. Visit www.asalidances.com or email asalidances@yahoo.com for additional information.

Daveed Korup - Korup is the co-creator of DrumFest!, a hands-on, multi-cultural drumming experience for people of all ages. Through school assembly programs, artist-in-residency projects, concerts and workshops, Daveed introduces participants to the electrifying world of percussion and rhythm. Since its inception, DrumFest! has reached tens of thousands of people, young and old, from all across the United States. Daveed has worked with musician and mentor, Billy Woods, performing the "Music of the Urban Gypsy" all across the country and is co-founder of Lights-On Productions, which promotes percussion performance and instructional projects. In 2002, Korup self-published Tao Te Drum, which is a comprehensive hand drumming method that integrates Eastern and Western drumming traditions. Daveed can be contacted through his website, email or by phone at 704-544-2212.

Nayna and Iona - A new beginning for bellydance is in Charlotte at Lotus Dance Studio. Both Nayna and Iona have studied and performed Oriental Dance under Yasmine for over 5 years, along with attending workshops of internationally known instructors such as Rachel Brice, Suhaila Salimpour, and Bozenka. For information about classes and the new location, you can send information to info@lotus-studios.com or visit the website at http://lotus-studios.com.
View their class schedule here.

World Dance Center - Beginner belly dance is now offered at World Dance Center in Charlotte, Thursdays 7:15-8:15. No belly dance experience is needed to take this class. The class is ongoing and focuses on basic skills rather than choreography, so you can start any time. Each class consists of warm up isolation exercises, combination and across-the-floor drills, and improv exercises using that day's combinations. Cynthia has 8 years of belly dance experience in modern tribal fusion, folkloric, and traditional Egyptian styles, as well as several years experience with latin dances and American ballroom. 3116-F Milton Road (near the intersection of WT Harris and Sharon Amity) weekly. $10 or $80 for a 10-class card that can also be used for other World Dance Center classes such as salsa, flamenco and capoeira. Belly dance classes are also offered at the UNCC Student Activity Center during term for UNCC students and staff -- contact me for current schedule information. Questions? E-mail me at cynthiagibas@yahoo.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.
View her class schedule here.

Zarifa Bint al-Waha - Zarifa Bint al-Waha'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.
Credentials: Bachelor of Science Degree in Health and Physical Education, ACE (American Council on Exercise) Certification Group Fitness Instructor. Teaching experience includes Oriental Dance, Folkdance, high school Science, Health, Physical Education, Swimming, and Synchronized Swimming.
View her class schedule here.

Durham

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Elizabeth City

Yasmin - Yasmin is the Student Activity Director at College of The Albemarle, Elizabeth City, NC. She offers ongoing beginning and intermediate instructions in Middle Eastern Dance. Yasmin invites you to contact her for class schedules and information at (252)335-0821, ext. 2277. Or you may send her email.

Nadira - Looking for a small tribal belly dance class with individualized attention? Or for a place where you can be nurtured and supported? Nadira's students enjoy all of this as well as performance opportunities and the opportunity to grow with other dancers in a tribal troupe. Join me, Nadira, at Hickory/Great Bridge Jazzercise center 1296 Battlefield Blvd, S 102, Chesapeake, VA 23322 (very accessible to people in the Moyock, Elizabeth City area of NC). My phone is (757) 362-4973 and I can also be reached at Nadira@burningphoenix.net .Classes are $12 each or $40 per month when pre-paid. More information on my instruction style and approach to bellydance is also available at www.burningphoenix.net

Fayetteville

Alexandra - Current director of The Shadows of the Fire, she teaches middle eastern dance classes through the Fayetteville Parks and Recreation Department.
Contact the Fayetteville Parks and Recreation Department for current class schedule.

Ja'Dihra - a dancer with the Shadows of Fire Dance troupe, she teaches yoga-based bellydance classes at various locations in Fayetteville. For more information, email her at stephlobato@aol.com or call 910-644-1212.
View her class schedule here.

Gastonia

Asali - Asali has studied and performed raks sharqi under the instruction of Zarifa and Yasmine for 3 years. Asali continues to add to her Oriental dance repertoire by attending workshops from internationally renowned teachers such as Suhaila Salimpour, Aziza, and Rachel Brice, to name a few. For more information on private or small group instruction, visit www.asalidances.com, or email asalidances@yahoo.com.
View her Gastonia class schedule here.

Greensboro

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Greenville

Donna Whitley - Donna has taught bellydance for over 30 years and she can be contacted via phone at 252-355-5150 and via e-mail at donna@greenvillenc.com.

Nahla (Christie Hill) -- Nahla, creative director of Hypnotic Waves dance troupe, teaches beginning and continuing bellydance at the Absolute Studio in Arlington Village, Greenville, NC. Nahla began her study of bellydance in 1995 with Donna Whitley. After attending beginning bellydance classes, she quickly realized that bellydance was an overwhelming passion that she wanted to pursue further. Nahla began to pursue various workshops, events and private lessons, and began hosting haflas with her friends from Iran, Palestine, and Egypt! In 2007, Nahla completed the bellydance instructor certification, “Sharing the Art we Love” through Qadria of Belly Revelations. Nahla continues to pursue workshops and private instruction from some of her favorite dancers, including Sadie (Denver, Co), Rachel Brice (Ca.), Gina of Georgia, Aisha Ali, Lisa Zahiya of Asheville, Nandana of Raleigh, Amara Al Amira, and many more! In addition to Nahla’s Bellydance certifications, she is an AFAA certified group fitness instructor, PCC certified Mat Pilates and Reformer Instructor, AFAA certified Personal Trainer and is certified in CPR. , Nahla can be reached at 252-717-0259. Email at christie0928@suddenlink.net or visit her website at www.theabsolutestudio.com.

Hickory/Granite Falls

Art in Motion - Art in Motion is a belly dance and yoga studio located in a beautiful historic two-story building in downtown Granite Falls, NC offering ethnic fusion style belly dance choreography classes and yoga classes Monday through Thursday evenings. The studio also offers a weekly belly dance fitness class and six-week costuming class sessions. Art in Motion (formerly Mind Body Connection) moved into a beautiful new building at 18 South Main Street in historic downtown Granite Falls, North Carolina in April 2007. Owners Becky Shook (Neela), Kim Edmisten (Sa'idah) and Debbie Burns (Sephira) are proud of the colorful new facility which features a world imports store downstairs, a large belly dance studio and smaller yoga studio upstairs. The boutique features fine art, clothing, perfumes, accessories and a wide variety of imports from around the world. Boutique items include authentic belly dance costumes, saris, cholis, sarongs, jeweled Indian blouses, jewelry and art from India, yoga mats, incense, candles, bindis, yoga and belly dance DVDs and videotapes, and music CDs. The store also features hand-crafted ethnic fusion belly dance costume items like skirts, harem pants, Ghawazee coats, vests, hip scarves, and more. For more information, visit www.artinmotionnc.com, email bshook2@charter.net or call 828-313-0013.
View their class schedule here.

Neela (Becky Shook) - Neela (Becky Shook) has been dancing since 1995. She offers classes in beginning and intermediate Ethnic Fusion Belly Dance. Classes are held in Granite Falls, NC at the lovely Art in Motion bellydance and yoga studio. Neela emphasizes the fun and sisterhood of the dance. Classes time is spent with warm-ups and body conditioning exercises and working on basic dance moves. She is also is the director of the Lost Jewels of the Ghawazee. The studio hosts a drum circle the second Saturday of each month that is open to the public. If you have interest in drumming or seeing Belly Dancers in a casual freestyle environment please join them. Web Site: www.artinmotionnc.com, Phone: (828) 313-0013, E-mail: bellydancer@charter.net. Please call for more information or class times.
View her class schedule here.

High Point

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Jacksonville/Richlands/"Inner Banks" Area

Blue Fire Belly Dance - Aaminah (Megan Wright) has been studying the alluring art of Belly Dance since 1997. She started in Oklahoma under the instruction of Habiba (of the renown Mirage Belly Dance Troupe in Austin). After moving away from her hometown, she studied with various teachers in Virginia, New Orleans and North Carolina, though mostly doing her studying independently. She recently founded Blue Fire Belly Dance and teaches classes twice a week in Sneads Ferry, NC. Find out more by visiting her website at www.bluefiredance.com.

Kaitlyn - Kaitlyn is a professional belly dancer that has over 6 years of formal training in ballet, tap and jazz and has been studying belly dance since 2001. She is a former member the troupe MissiHippy and is a current member of The Nefertiti Dance Troupe. 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 currently teaches at various studios in eastern NC including Swansboro Dance Studio and Diana's Dance Academy in Jacksonville. For additional information about classes and instruction contact Kaitlyn at 910-647-4722 or by e-mail at greenvirgo80@yahoo.com
View her class schedule here.

Kenansville

Ahmose - Ahmose teaches a beginner basic course with emphasis on flexibility, basic core moves, and having fun. Classes are a 6 week course at James Sprunt Community College. For course beginning dates\times contact Artheresa Best at 910-296-2462. An Intermediate tribal course is currently in the planning stage. Ahmose is a former charter member of Vatra Gitana and a student of Europamoon of Wilmington. Currently she is the leader of kenansville's tribal troupe The Barefoot Gypsies. She can be reached at ahmosedance@yahoo.com.

Lillington

Desire Ivy - Desire Ivy teaches Tribal Fusion style Bellydance for a reaonable price in Lillington. She charges $150 for 2 weeks of instruction. - for more information, contact her via email at snakechama@yahoo.com, visit her myspace pageor call 910-814-2088.

Matthews

Shibar has been researching middle eastern dance and culture for over 20 years and specializes in Turkish Romani (gypsy) and Turkish Oriental (cabaret) style dance. She has studied extensively with the best Turkish Style dancers in the United States including Artemis Mourat (http://www.serpentine.org/artemis/artemis.htm), and Eva Cernik (http://home.earthlink.net/~evacernik/). She has also attended numerous workshops with other experts on Turkish Style Dance including Tayyar Akdeniz (http://tayyarakdenizdance.netfirms.com/) and Nursel (http://www.nursel.net/). Shibar stresses teaching the context in which the dances are performed and in her classes you will not only learn the dance style, but you will also learn about the cultures from which the various dance styles originate. "To understand the culture, study the dance. To understand the dance, study the people."
View her class schedule here.

Monroe

Moonlight Bellydance - At Moonlight Bellydance, we believe every woman is beautiful, every shape, every size, every age. We believe this dance form is female body friendly and helps the dancer develop strength, grace, poise, and confidence that she can take out of the classroom into the world.
View their class schedule here.

Mooresville

Rhythmic Essence Belly Dance - Owner/Leader: Candy Heafner.
Location: Mooresville, NC (Located at the War Memorial Bldg. - 220 N Maple St Mooresville, NC 28115).
Phone: (828) 394-8414.
Website: www.rebellydance.com.
email: rebellydance@yahoo.com.

We offer classical, modern and folkloric Egyptian style dance along with belly dance fitness classes. Please check website for class information! Have fun in a relaxing, non-competitive atmosphere with a unity in dance!

Morganton

Reyna - Reyna teaches Tribal Belly Dance at the Mountainview Community Center in Morganton. She has been belly dancing since 1999. You can email her at: reyna@risingsuntribe.com or call her at: 828-443-3459.
View her class schedule here.

Mount Airy

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 - Samra is a regular dance instructor and performer in various parts of Southwest Virginia, and Mt. Airy, NC, where she teaches at Reeves Community Center. Classes at Reeves at offered in 8 week sessions. She also teaches private individual and group lessons at her house or at your site. She has taught workshops and performed in several states in the USA, as well as in Brazil, Malaysia, and Singapore. For more information about her schedule in Mt. Airy and various sites, check her calendar, call 276-236-4533 or email: stephip1234@yahoo.com
View her class schedule here.

Newton

Rhythmic Essence Belly Dance - Owner/Leader: Candy Heafner.
Location: Newton, NC (Located in downtown Newton on the square at 103 North Main Avenue, Newton, NC).
Phone: 828-446-5855
Website: www.rebellydance.com
email: rebellydance@yahoo.com

We offer classical, modern and folkloric Egyptian style dance along with belly dance fitness classes. Please check website for class information! Have fun in a relaxing, non-competitive atmosphere with a unity in dance!

New Bern

Kaitlyn - Kaitlyn is a professional belly dancer that has over 6 years of formal training in ballet, tap and jazz and has been studying belly dance since 2001. She is a former member the troupe MissiHippy and is a current member of The Nefertiti Dance Troupe. 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 currently teaches at various studios in eastern NC including Swansboro Dance Studio and Diana's Dance Academy in Jacksonville. For additional information about classes and instruction contact Kaitlyn at 910-647-4722 or by e-mail at greenvirgo80@yahoo.com
View her class schedule here.

Raleigh

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Rockingham

Sharifa Asmar - Sharifa is well-known for her authentic Middle Eastern style, technique, choreography and stage presence. She is the director of Qarisma Dance Arts, a resource for traditional Middle Eastern & North African dance, including Oriental Bellydance. Sharifa emphasizes strong Oriental dance basics to support each dancer's creativity. Her performance experience includes a variety of venues and family events in the US and Europe. She has been an invited panelist on NPR radio and cable TV re: Middle Eastern Dance. Sharifa has studied with Egyptian notables Nagwa Fouad, Nadia Hamdi, Farida Fahmy, Mahmoud Reda and others; and renowned artists including Morocco [NYC], Suhaila Salimpour[CA], the late Ibrahim Farrah[NYC], Dahlena[Chicago / AZ] , Aegela[MI /Alexandria, Egypt], Sahra Kent [CA/ Cairo, Egypt], Hadia[Canada], Aisha Ali [CA], Nourhan Sharif[NYC],and Karim Nagi [MA]. Sharifa is also a certified Lebed method instructor, incorporating dance movement with healing and lymphatic activation. Sharifa is available for workshops, private or group lessons and special events. Contact Sharifa at 910.461.1265 or sharifa@sharifaasmar.com. See www.sharifaasmar.com for more information and registration.

Rutherfordton

Suhayla - I am in Rutherfordton, N.C. (foothills WNC). I have a studio downtown where I teach primarily egyptian style dance. My troupe is El Binet. My name is Suhayla and I have been studying for 7 yrs. 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 and current class schedule.

Salisbury

Haneen has been dancing for 5 years, 3 under Nadirah of Nadirah Dance Company in Salisbury, NC. She has also studied under several other area teachers with workshops and private lessons, includig Paulette Denis-Rees. She fell in love with Tribal Style Dance and have been trying to absorb as much of it as possible and would love to share this style with as many people as she can. She can be contacted at RebelRose589@yahoo.com.
View her class schedule here.

Nadirah - Nadirah teaches at the "Garage Mahal" behind her house, located in convenient downtown Salisbury. Nadirah began her study of bellydance over 13 years ago. After attending Donna Whitley’s beginning classes in Greenville, she quickly realized that bellydance was a true passion for her. Over the years, she has continued her studies through various workshops, dancing with friends from Iran, Palestine, and Egypt, and has performed for private parties and multi-cultural events. In 2007, Nadirah completed the bellydance instructor certification, “Sharing the Art We Love”, through Qadria of Belly Revelations. In addition to Belly dance certification, Nadirah is an AFAA certified group fitness instructor, PCC certified Pilates Mat and Reformer Instructor, and AFAA certified Personal Trainer. Nadirah can be reached at 704-638-9903 or 704-564-2006. E-mail info@nadirahdancecompany.com or visit her website at www.nadirahdancecompany.com.

Triad Area (Greensboro/High Point/Graham)

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 Finley -- Faun teaches three levels of classes in belly dance. Level I is Basic Belly Dance Movement. Level IIA is Technique, Drills & Design and Level IIB is Choreography and Creativity. Level III is Choreography for Performance. With Basic Belly Dance Movement, students learn an array of movements from hip lifts and drops to figure 8's, shimmies and more. Each class begins with a yoga-style warm up and isolation exercises. Faun’s Level II classes takes belly dance moves to the next level, emphasizing the deeper layers of movement and musculature in the Level IIA class, and choreography and creativity in the Level IIB class. Level III puts all these elements together for students who want to perform. Faun has a 20-year background in myriad forms of dance, including jazz, and has been belly dancing for nearly 10 years. She primarily studied in Northern California with Katarina Burda, Nanna Candelaria and Jill Parker. Her teaching style is fun and upbeat, and the Studio atmosphere is warm and welcoming. Faun is also a certified and registered yoga teacher and applies yogic principles to her teaching to preserve the body for a long dancing life! For more information visit www.soulflowerstudios.com, or call 336-373-1311. All classes are at Soulflower Studios@Studio 318. Starting May 10, Studio 318 will be located at 604 West Market Street, near Muirs Chapel, Suite 124 of the Sunset Strip shopping center right near Bert's Seafood, in Greensboro. Until then, they will be holding classes at Artistika at 523 S. Elm Street in downtown Greensboro.
View her class schedule here.

Kaharaman (Linda Bryan) - Kaharaman is the director of the Magic Carpet Dancers and teaches a variety of beginning to advanced level classes in cabaret and several different regional ethnic dances. In addition, Kaharaman serves as a guest instructor in North African dance at both UNC-Greensboro and A&T University. She can be contacted via email at dancetoo@bellsouth.net.
View her class schedule here.

Karma (Carmen Cavenaugh) -- Karma has been bellydancing since 2002. She was a student of Tamalyn Dallal who has a bellydance school in Miami and when she transferred here she continued to study with local and international teachers. She uses bellydancing for fitness and excersize and also to express herself creatively. Karma started Studio 318, where she teaches bellydance classes in Greensboro and High Point.
View her class schedule here.

Triangle Area (Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Durham, and surrounding areas)

Amara (Cary) - Amara is a dancer, photographer, wife, and a mother of three. She began bellydancing in 2002 after the birth of her second child. She has studied under Clare Smith as well as other local teachers. She teaches beginning bellydance classes in Cary. Please visit her website for more information.
View her class schedule here.

Amara Al Amir (Raleigh) - Amara Al Amir is an Artistic Director, Choreographer, Concert Performer, Master Teacher, Designer, Workshop Teacher, Seminar Leader and Guest Lecturer of new and old world dances of the Middle East. Awarded has been performances for the UN, Tourism Authority for Egypt, Egypt Air & the Egyptian American Society. Amara opens Tapestry Belly Dance Academy in Raleigh, NC on 8/6/07 and offers classes at every level. Please contact Amara (amara@amaraalamir.com) 919 803 0931 and visit her site for class schedules www.amaraalamir.com.
View her class schedule here.

Andalee (Raleigh) - Andalee is an Oriental dancer and instructor and has been studying Middle Eastern dance for three years. Andalee's warmth, grace and openness allow this dance to come to life. She'll teach you that Oriental dance is truly accessible to anyone. Andalee's dance style pulls from the many teachers she has studied with here in the Triangle. There are many ways to Belly dance, and she'll explore the different techniques and styles. You can pick the ones that work for you and your body! Andalee studied modern and African dances before finding the dance for her, Oriental dance. For more information visit http://andalee.oriental.googlepages.com/ or e-mail her at andalee.oriental@gmail.com.
View her class schedule here.

Jamie Anderson (Durham) - Jamie Anderson studied with Kathryn Ferguson for several years and teaches a cabaret style at the Durham Arts Council. For more information, email Jamie at jamie@jamieanderson.com or visit her website.
View her class schedule here.

Ken Ashley (Raleigh) - Ken Ashley, the instructor, has a relaxed style of teaching and loves helping others discover this ancient art form. Ken recently moved here from California where he taught drumming and had his drummers performing in many venues. He looks forward to meeting others who enjoy the rhythms as much as he. For private lessons, contact him by phone at 919 341-5235 or kasha4bd@yahoo.com .

Sharifa Asmar - Performer, instructor, choreographer, and historian, Sharifa is well known for her audience-pleasing style, musicality, technique and classic style. She is the director of Qarisma Dance, a professional dance company dedicated to excellence in Oriental Dance, as well as regional dances of North Africa and the Middle East. Sharifa has performed at a variety of venues and family celebrations in the US and Europe, and has been an invited panelist on NPR radio and cable TV re: Middle Eastern Dance and music. Sharifa has studied with internationally-known dancers and choreographers including Egyptian notables Nagwa Fouad, Nadia Hamdi, Farida Fahmy and Mahmoud Reda; and other internationally renowned artists and instructors including Morocco [NYC], Suhaila Salimpour[CA], the late Ibrahim Farrah[NYC], Dahlena[Chicago / AZ] , Aegela[MI /Alexandria, Egypt], Sahra Kent [CA/ Cairo, Egypt], Hadia[Canada], Aisha Ali [CA], Nourhan Sharif[NYC],and Karim Nagi [MA]. Sharifa teaches weekly studio classes in several North Carolina locations and workshops nationwide. Sharifa is also a certified Lebed method instructor, incorporating dance movement with healing and lymphatic activation. Contact Sharifa at 910.461.1265 or sharifaasmar@earthlink.net for private or group lessons, corporate events, educational or museum programs, family occasions, theme parties and special events.
View her Triangle-area class schedule here.

Sara Beaman (Durham) - Sara Beaman teaches tribal and fusion classes in Durham, NC on Saturday mornings. Sara's classes are fun, welcoming and full of her signature brand of offbeat humor, but informative and challenging nonetheless. Sara's top priority is making sure that each and every student in her classes has the resources they need to grow into a well-rounded dancer-- clear movement instruction, information about safe technique, helpful and specific feedback, and access to performance opportunities. Sara's experience as a student of multiple styles of bellydance enables her to make her curriculum accessible to students from all backgrounds, and to present her class content as part of a greater schema of bellydance moves. In addition to teaching classes, Sara performs as a soloist and as a member of three local troupes and groups: Blue Moon Dance Company, The Devoted Bellydance Collective, and Sparkle Oasis. You can visit Sara's website at http://www.sarabeaman.com or email her at skbeaman@gmail.com with any questions.
View her Triangle-area class schedule here.

Leigh Brown (Chapel Hill) - Leigh Brown of Orientale Expressions teaches bellydance classes at the the Chapel Hill/Carrboro YMCA.
View her class schedule here or at the Orientale Expressions website

Aziza Fadwa (Carrboro, Durham, and Cary) - Aziza Fadwa combines her extensive training and professional experience with a dynamic personality and technical expertise to create 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 has been described as spirited, joyful, versatile, and talented, and she draws on a vast knowledge of various forms of belly dance, including classical and modern raqs sharqi, traditional and folkloric dance, cane, sword balancing, and both American and Egyptian-style veil. She is also the Artistic Director for the professional dance troupe, Flowers of the Desert. Please see her website: www.azizafadwa.com for more information.
View her class schedule here.

Laura Florand (Durham/Carrboro) - A Fulbright Scholar to French Polynesia, Laura Florand trained in Tahitian dance under Louise Kimitete, considered one of the greatest living authorities in the field. She studied Hawaiian dance in Tahiti and Paris, and has taught Polynesian dance since 1997 in the US, France, and Spain. She teaches beginning and intermediate classes in Durham and Carrboro, as well as regular one-day workshops. She can be contacted at lmh3@duke.edu.
View her class schedule here.

Nahla Furat (Raleigh) - Nahla has been teaching beginning Middle Eastern dance in the North Raleigh area since 2000. For information on her classes, please contact her at (919) 846-3793 or by email at nahlafurat@yahoo.com.

Gozde Oasis Dance(Chapel Hill) - Detailed and supportive instruction in all levels of bellydance, from Beginning Students to Professionals wanting to “tune up” their technique and style. To enjoy dance, to grow and express ourselves, and to laugh – these are hallmarks of Gozde’s classes. Gozde is also availble for private instruction for small groups and for individuals, in addition to teaching at Bellydance Parties. All classes held in Chapel Hill. Please call for rates and scheduling : (919) 933-3142.
View her class schedule here.

Haala (Apex, Cary, West Raleigh) - Haala has over 8 years of dance experience, studying with such internationally well known dancers as Farida Famhy of the Mahmoud Reda Troupe, Aziza, Artemis Mourat, Karim Nagi, and Souhail Kaspar. Her dance style is most influenced by authentic Raqs Sharqi (Egyptian Orientale) techniques. Her style of teaching is gentle and encouraging, with an emphasis on personal attention and expression, and a sense of fun. Laughter is always encouraged! She teaches various levels of bellydance classes in Apex at Infinity Ballet Conservatory & Theatre and in the Cary/West Raleigh area at Clear Horizons. She was the Dance Instructor for the 2004 Rockin' Camp for Girls in Durham, and is the webmistress for NCBellydance.org, the premier online resource for Middle-Eastern dance and music in North Carolina. For more information, visit her website Halo Bellydance, call (919)380-7882 or email Haala at haala@halobellydance.com.
View her class schedule here.

Elena Markina Harrison (Durham & Raleigh) - Elena teaches Orientale belly dance and comes from Russian school of bellydance. She focuses a lot on the fitness aspects of bellydance. Her classes are a combination of workout routines incorporated with the main bellydance techniques and choreography. She uses mainly folkloric Egyptian and Lebanese music, and she LOVES Tarkan (Turkish pop singer). For more information, visit www.myspace.com/goldenislesbellydance or call 912.571.2099.
View her class schedule here.

K'asha (Raleigh) - Kate Ashley teaches intermediate "California Performance" classes on Wednesdays from 7 to 8 p.m. The classes are a mixture of the lessons she's learned from her five teachers in California, three of whom were national award winners. Workshops with a variety of teachers from Judeen of Santa Barbara to John Compton of Habi Ru have led to a style that is more cabaret than tribal with entertaining audiences being the goal. Students learn steps, combinations and choreographies. Beginning classes are held at Lake Lynn Rec Center in North Raleigh on Mondays. Visit http://www.geocities.com/kkashley for more information.
View her class schedule here.

Sylvia Lim (Durham) offers belly dance technique classes at the Dance Plus in Durham. She is a long-time student of movement, and has studied with many famous dancers and teachers in modern dance, ballet, ballroom, and Indian Kathak. Her belly dancing is distinctly flavored by the influence of these other dance forms. However, what draws her to belly dancing is its emphasis on being profoundly comfortable in one's own kinesphere. It is not a dance about soaring through space or leaping into the air; it is a dance about seeing the myriad of possibilities within one's body, in one's space ("If you thought that move was cool, wait until you see me layer a shimmy on top of that!) But whatever the movement, Sylvia is interested in clear technique, fluidity of line, and dynamic sense of balance. She imparts this knowledge to her students so that they, too, can access a sinuous and centered beauty within themselves. To read a recent article about Sylvia, click heres. For more information about her classes, email her at khadro.sylvia@gmail.com.
View her class schedule here.

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.
View her Triangle-area class schedule here.

Mark Malachi (Durham) - Mark Malachi's dance style combines East Indian and belly dance, yoga, and modern and improvisational dance to create a unique tapestry of movement as the fusion of Eastern and Western dance styles is explored. Mark is available for private lessons.

Mara (Cary) - Mara is a teacher and performer of this beautiful art called “Bellydance“ with an emphasis on Arab-Spanish Fusion and Gypsy style dance. This dance form evolved around 711ad until 1492 when southern Spain came under Muslim rule, and where the Moors settled. This is a high-spirited dance that incorporates Middle Eastern and Flamenco influences. The emphasis in the music is Arab-Gypsy with an undeniable Latin flavor. She is the creative director of the Moorish Gypsy Tribe which is a Mother/Daughter troupe with her 11 year old daughter. She is also the Organizer for the Cary Bellydance Meetup Group, which is an organization that helps bring dancers and musicians together for social and dance related events. See Mara’s profile on the Meetup site at: http://bellydance.meetup.com/317/ Mara has studied with many great teachers such as Maja and Rimarah Hare from South Florida; Suhaila and Rachael Brice from California, and recently Amara Al Amir in Raleigh. Mara has performed at numerous venues including Spirit of the Tribe, Blue Cayote Restaurant, and the Asian Festival in Florida. She has recently relocated to Cary where classes are scheduled to begin on Wednesdays. Troupe opportunities available for all students who want to perform locally in the Triangle area as part of the Moorish Gypsy Tribe.
View her class schedule here.

Asyia Mas'ouda (Raleigh) - 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.
View her class schedule here.

Michela (Raleigh) - Michela has been studying raqs sharqi – commonly known as belly dance – since 1998 with renowned teachers in the US and the Middle East. She is also an architect and academic, specializing in Middle Eastern architecture and culture. Michela currently teaches at Body Balance Movement Therapy in Raleigh, and is available for private and group lessons. Email her at mlamprakos@mindspring.com for more information.
View her class schedule here.

Nandana (RTP) - Nandana of Blue Moon Dance Co. teaches "Tribal fusion" and "American Tribal-Style" Belly dance, which uses dance influences from all over the world. Nandana has been dancing since 1994 and teaching since 2001. Nandana has been certified to teach General Skills for “American Tribal Style” (ATS) belly dance by Carolena Nericcio, director of Fat Chance BellyDance. These movements are used to perform both “lead and follow”, solo improvisational dance and choreographies. For more information visit http://www.nandanabellydance.com or call 919 367 0203.
View her class schedule here.

Sashi Neela (Cary/Holly Springs) - Sashi is a founding member of Blue Moon Dance Company, the Triangle’s first and premier tribal fusion belly dance troupe. She has been teaching for 3 years, and absolutely loves to share her passion for tribal dance with others! Sashi has trained with many world renowned belly dance instructors including Suhaila Salimpour, Jill Parker, Rachel Brice, Carolena Nericcio, Paulette Rees-Denis, Kajira Djoumahna, Dalia Carella, Heather Stants, Ansuya, Alexandra King, and John Compton. In addition to instructing and performing, Sashi also vends dance wares suitable for all bellydancers. You can visit her website @ bluefusiontribal.com or e-mail Sashi @ bluefusiontribal@hotmail.com.
View her class schedule here.

John Price (Cary) - John Price teaches Middle-Eastern drumming classes at the Clear Horizons in Cary, and is also available for private lessons. He has studied with internationally known percussionists Souhail Kaspar, Issam Houshan, Raquy Danziger and Karim Nagi, and has performed at the North Carolina Renaissance Faire, Festival for the Eno, North Carolina Museum of Art, and Marrakesh, among others. For more information, visit John's class page at Halo Bellydance, call (919)380-7882 or email him at freecellwizard@gmail.com.
View his class schedule here.

Qadria of Belly Revelations (Raleigh) - Qadria offers beginning and continuing classes at Moving Mantra Yoga Studio in Raleigh. MMY follows the public school schedule and uses a 16-week calendar, which is split into 2 or 3 series of 8 weeks, each with a different focus; e.g., veil, cane, zils, Egyptian, Turkish, shimmies. Qadria's specialty is helping women develop healthy relationships with their bodies, delighting in the joy bellydancing brings to everyday life. Qadria's DVD, “Bellydance Moves & Combinations Anyone Can Do” will get you started at home, complement your classes, and/or give you a thorough review of basics plus teaching ideas. Qadria’s VIDEO, "Warm-Ups & Cool-Downs for Bellydancers" is a supplement to bellydancing or whatever activity you may be doing today -- gentle warm-ups and juicy cool-down stretches to keep you safe and happy to play another day.

Click on Qadria for more information and to place an order.
View her class schedule here or visit her website

Romalie - Romalie has been studying and performing dance for most of her life: from ballet, to modern, to jazz, with a smattering of folk and flamenco, her focus is now on bellydance, specifically Egyptian raqs sharqi with an American accent. She thoroughly believes that "any size and shape of body can dance" and her classes encourage proper body posture, technique and fluid movement. She teaches through the town of Fuquay-Varina. (919-744-9478) Romalie@goldencircledesigns.com
View her Triangle-area class schedule here.

Samira and Maya (Chapel Hill) - Samira and Maya of Orientale Expressions teach both beginning and intermediate bellydance classes at the Chapel Hill Senior Center on Elliott Road.
View their class schedule here or at the Orientale Expressions website

Shahzaadee (Durham) - Shahzaadee teaches ongoing beginning and intermediate dance classes and is also available for private coaching.
View her class schedule here.

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.
View her class schedule here.

Hannan Sultan (Durham) - Hannan Sultan is a professional bellydancer who has dedicated her life to this art form. As a teacher, she is friendly and nurturing, but is still able to present rigorous and demanding classes. 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. Leading numerous students along their path to becoming excellent professional dancers is her proudest accomplishment. 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. She teaches group and private classes as well as local and international workshops.
View her class schedule here.

Suzanne (Carrboro) - Suzanne began tribal dancing 4 yrs ago in Syracuse, NY, learning from a fabulous dancer and yoga instructor, Lorie Bebber of Shezam!, who trained with Jill Parker. She moved to San Francisco for personal growth and to study the dance for 2 ½ years with Jill Parker and Rose Harden of Ultra Gypsy, Carolena Nericcio of Fat Chance Belly Dance, and the Suhaila School of Dance. While in San Francisco, she performed in and helped manage a student troupe. She has taken many workshops, attending Tribal Fest and Spirit of the Tribes, as well as taking classes throughout the US and abroad. This has provided her the opportunity to study with top notch performers such as Mira Betz, Rachel Brice, Domba, Kassar, Urban Tribal, Farfesha, Aruna, sword dancers Farhana and Marguerite, as well as instructors from Turkey and Turkmenistan. Although she has studied with the best, she considers herself a perpetual student of the dance and continues to take workshops and classes. Her aim is to bring her travels to you, while maintaining a fun, supportive environment that allows you to achieve your own personal growth. Her teaching style is one that incorporates all learning styles, using analogies to learning a language and constructing a story, to enhance grasping the dance. Her focus is on muscular moves, building core strength, and putting the belly in tribal belly dance.
View her class schedule here.

Andy Von (Raleigh) - Anderson Beckmann (aka Andy Von) is a student at N.C. State University, pursuing a double degree in Philosophy and Belly Dance traditions (self-designed study). Though able to teach in both classical "cabaret" styles and modern Tribal/Fusion, a preference is given to more traditional forms of the dance stemming from the Roma Gypsy lineage; an incredibly diverse tradition stemming from Kathak in India/Pakistan to Flamenco in southern Spain! Anderson also loves working with non-profit and educational events. Classes at B'Risque Fitness will resume the week of August 6, 2007 - call the Raleigh location for more information. Visit her website at , or email her for more information at ALBeckma@ncsu.edu.
View her class schedule here.

Yonja (Carrboro) - Yonja has been performing Oriental dance since beginning in Georgia in 1999, and has been teaching since 2002. She leans towards Egyptian-style belly dance, even though she is married to a Turk. She performs zills, veil, and sword; she has classes in Chapel Hill at Carolina Fitness, and is also available for private classes. She has performed at numerous cultural festivals in Georgia and South Carolina, in restaurants in Chicago and Savannah (where she was a featured performer for 5 years), and at other events, such as the Savannah College of Art and Design's graduation ceremony. Yonja is also available for performances.
View her class schedule here.

Wake Forest

Ehediya - Middle Eastern Dance instructor and Director of Oasis Tapestry Middle Eastern Dance Troupe of Fayetteville, NC for approximately 15 years. She may be contacted at: 138 Abercrombie Drive, Wake Forest, NC 27587. Phone#: (919)570-1671.
View her class schedule here.

Waxhaw

Kiyya - Kiyya has been Belly Dancing for over 12 years. She has trained with various dance instructors and has attended numerous workshops on different styles of Middle Eastern dance. Her dance performances include numerous festivals, restaurants, fundraisers, private parties, as well as performing with an award-winning dance troupe for over 7 years (Bay Area, CA). Kiyya is an enthusiastic instructor and enjoys bringing the wonderful aspects of this art form to her students. As an ACE Certified Group Fitness Instructor, she has a strong commitment to fitness and strives to bring quality instruction to a fun and sensuous form of dance. For more information, email her at Kiyya@aol.com.
View her class schedule here.

Wilmington

Andrea Deagon - Andrea Deagon has been teaching middle-eastern dance for almost 25 years, and currently offers both beginning and advanced classes. She teaches at the Community Arts Center 910-341-7860.

Europamoon - Europamoon teaches a variety of bellydance styles with an emphesis on tribal and folkloric. She was recently transplanted from Los Angeles where she studied extensivly with her mentor Mesmera. Europamoon holds a B.F.A. in Theatre and has studied percussion for twenty years, as well as touring internationally with the fire performance art troupe Creative Flame. Her classes are filled with passion for the dance, and the wonderful rewards of giving this dance to other women. Come join her in a safe and encouraging enviornment at "The Studio" 1702 Wrightsville ave. For more information please visit her website, call 910-763-2223 or email inquires to marcy@firetalent.com

Nazneen - My training includes Egyptian Oriental, American Classic Turkish, Tribal Fusion, and Gypsy. I teach an on going basic beginners class at The Crest Fitness Club in Hampstead Thursdays from 6:30 to 7:30. The next advanced beginners class will start up again on September 8th, 2008 at the Holly Ridge Fire department from 6 to 7. I also teach private lessons. For performance or additional information please email me at nazneen61@yahoo.com or see my website http//www.geocities.com/nazneen61/ . "
View her class schedule here

Samra - Samra teaches belly dance classes at the Community Arts Center and at Ballroom DanceSport NC in Wilmington. For more information, please visit her website, phone 910-794-5487 or e-mail sandyfrances@juno.com.
View her class schedule here.

Wilson

Yusra - Yusra (Sue Furman) began belly dancing when she was 3 years old. She has performed and taught in several different venues through out the years, and has grown to thoroughly love teaching. Sue received her B.F.A. in Graphic Design from the University of Florida, and her Exercise, Nutrition & Sports Nutrition Certifications from Thomas College. Sue is also MS & IFA certified as well as American Red Cross First Aid & CPR certified. She currently teaches Basic Belly Dance at Dance Studio "B" in Wilson, NC on Tuesdays & Thursdays at 7:30pm and can be reached by email at MsSue@DanceStudioB.com. View her class schedule here.

Winston-Salem

Gypsy - "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 over 20 years and has taught the dance for 17 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.
View her class schedule here

Kristie Staton Tharpe - Kristie Staton began studying Oriental dance in 1999 from both local and international dance artists. She continues to explore various performing arts of the Middle East. Kristie is co-founder of the professional dance troupe, Ruby Scarab. For more information, go to For more information, go to http://www.shimmies-r-us.com/Krisite.html, call 336/245-2520 or send email to kristie@graphically-speaking.biz.
View her class schedule here

Saphira - Saphira (Teresa Dickerson) is co-founder of Three Graces Entertainment, which offers professional belly dancing performances. She is a full-time belly dance teacher and teaches classes at several locations, including Winston-Salem, Lewisville, and Mocksville. Saphira is also Middle Eastern dance educator for several local schools. For the past 7 years, she has studied under the direction of acclaimed international dance masters and continues her dance education by frequently attending dance workshops. She attributes her early belly dance education to the well-respected dance teacher, Samra of Fancy Gap, Virginia. Saphira is the recipient of the Lewisville Area Arts Council 2006 Achievement in Dance Award. Using her knowledge as a certified personal trainer and as a yoga student, she emphasizes proper alignment, safe movement, and flexibility when teaching dance. Saphira is also artistic director and choreographer for the professional dance troupe, Nefertiti; her student troupe, Cleopatra; and the teen troupe, Arabesque. She can be contacted at (336) 830-3479, or by email at Teresa3graces@aol.com.
View her class schedule here or visit www.ThreeGracesEntertainment.com.

Sylvana - Sylvana began her serious study of bellydance after seeing professional dancers in Cappadocia, Turkey. She originally studied under the instruction of Paula Stump in Winston-Salem, NC, but continues to seek opportunities for further dance education in Washington, DC, NYC, and at workshops close to home. She is currently teaching Bellydance for Fitness, Beginning Bellydance, and Intermediate Bellydance at several sites around Winston-Salem.
View her class schedule here or at http://www.1001dance.com.

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