Belly Dance Life

André Elbing, a renowned belly dance photographer from Germany, developed an interest in oriental dance in 1989 when he began organizing and producing shows with his long-time friend, Shahrazad. As he started photographing these events, his passion evolved into a thriving business with an impressive collection of approximately 4.5 million photos to this date. André has collaborated with the most prominent stars in the world of oriental dance, both past and present. His work has been featured in numerous dance magazines, including Halima, Orient Magazine, Tanz Oriental, Bazar Oriental, Bastet, and many more. His photographs are widely recognized, appearing on hundreds of belly dance websites, as well as on CD and DVD covers, books, and various other media.In this episode you will learn about:- How André became involved in belly dance photography- The differences between photographing a live show and conducting a studio shoot- Tips for the best stage lights setup- How André prepares for his work at festivals- Insights into his underwater photo shootsShow Notes to this episode:Find André Elbing on FB and Instagram, and his website.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Pierre Khoury, a Syrian-Canadian male belly dancer from Montreal, is renowned for his expertise in Syrian/Lebanese Dabke, Raqs Sharqi, and Whirling. His talents have graced prestigious stages, including the Theatrical Bellydance Conference of New York and the International Bellydance Conference of Canada in Toronto. He recently was a guest master instructor in several venues including Hot Raqs and Cairo Shimmy Quake in California, and his workshops were acclaimed for the quality of their content. Beyond the realm of dance, Pierre brings his unique perspective as a psychology teacher at the University of Montreal to his coaching endeavors, seamlessly integrating his psychological insights into his dance instructions.In this episode you will learn about:- Pierre's journey into the world of belly dance- The harmonious fusion of his  careers and how his psychology background enriches his coaching approach- Main mindset blocks that prevent dancers from growth- Variations of Dabke, and different Syrian dances- Building dance career as a male belly dancerShow Notes to this episode:Find Pierre Khoury on FB and Instagram.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Nath Keo is the artistic director and choreographer of the Sacred Centre Dance Company based in Victoria, B.C., Canada. Nath is a belly dancer who has performed in over 51 cities with more than 1,000 performances during his career. Along with releasing a few music albums, a book and instructional dance DVDs, his resume includes serving as a featured instructor and performer at the International Bellydance Conference of Canada, alongside the legendary Farida Fahmy, and as a judge at the World Bellydance Championship hosted in Seoul, South Korea.In this episode you will learn about:- Nath experience of growing up in a refugee camp, and how it influenced his interest in dance- How Nath got involved in belly dance- Difference between belly dance & Cambodian dance and music- Fusion opportunities between two genres- Having a successful belly dance career, experience of living as a monk, to becoming a mega music star in CambodiaShow Notes to this episode:Find Nath Keo on FB.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

This is a best of episode! You will hear a collection of tips and practices from the belly dance stars regarding their experience of creating fusion between belly dance and other dance genres.You will hear from Meher Malik, Anjelica Scannura, Soraia Zaied and Diana Gnatchenko.Check these full interviews with the podcast guests:Ep 27. Meher Malik: Fusion, Confusion and Female ObjectificationEp 79. Anjelica Scannura: From Flamenco to Belly Dance to Stand-Up ComedyEp 128. Soraia Zaied: Never Give Up On Your Dreams!Ep 200. Diana Gnatchenko: Life Before & AfterShow Notes to this episode:Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFind information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Heather (Henna) Louise is a performer, teacher, and life long student of Middle Eastern music and dance based in Portland, Oregon. After studying belly dance for five years, life took Heather to Asia where she began her performing career in the restaurant gig scene of Tokyo, Japan. Along with her dance partners, she worked with the live band Alladeen and co-founded the Tokyo International Bellydance Competition. Since returning to Portland in 2008, Heather has taught and performed at Jamballah NW Festival, The Hawaii Bellydance Convention, competed and placed in Bellydance of the Year Competition, and won the Ms. La Danse Orientale title. She has been a featured instructor at the Middle Eastern Dance Guild of Eugene (MEDGE), as well as at Emerald Sanctuary Belly Dance Retreat, and has been a panel judge for The Belly Dance Off. In this episode you will learn about:- Becoming a professional performer in Japan- How to break down difficult movements to students- Overcoming learning frustrations- Tips for better improvisations- Heather’s approach to personal practice, and injury prevention measuresShow Notes to this episode:Find Heather (Henna) Louise on Instagram, FB and her website.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

In order to find emotional connection with Baladi, you need to understand its cultural environment, and typical archetypes that are often associated with Baladi women. Let’s dive into this topic in this solo episode with Iana!Show Notes to this episode:Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Join the Iana Dance Club to have access to the Baladi intensive mentioned in the episode.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFind information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Randa Kamel is one of the most famous Egyptian dancers with her own unique style full of energy, as well as a teacher who has shared her knowledge with thousand of students all around the world. At the age of 15, she began studying folklore with the famous Reda group. After 7 years Randa transitioned into her solo career as a professional oriental dancer in Alexandria. Later moved on to Cairo, and quickly became a performer at the Meridien hotel, sharing the stage with legendary Fifi Abdou. Today Randa appears in weddings, parties and in the Nile Maxim cruise when she is in Egypt. Her own orchestra consists of 28 musicians. She also travels extensively around the world teaching at festivals, and organizes her own winter course and summer dance festival “Raqs Of Course” in Cairo.In this episode you will learn about:- How passionate Randa was about dance since her childhood years- Her experience in Reda Troupe, and her decision to start a solo oriental career- How Randa’s choice of dance career influence her family relationships- What her training looks like today, and if she reviews her own dance videos- Randa’s message to other dancers about this art formShow Notes to this episode:Find Randa Kamel on Instagram, FB and her websites: Raqs of Course and Randa Kamel Music.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Sylvia Yssei began her dance training in 2000 with Jazz, and throughout the years she included Flamenco, Spanish, Classical and Contemporary dances in her training. Later she discovered bellydance, and eventually Tribal Fusion dance and Ori Tahiti (Tahitian dance). Both became a powerful means of expression for her in a complementary, but at the same time very different ways. Along with her dance explorations, she studied Psychology at the University of Barcelona, which has definitely helped her to learn the basics of Pedagogy and the dynamics of learning, as well as to understand her students in an active and holistic way.In this episode you will learn about:- What is Kundalini energy and where it is stored in our body- Why it is important to awaken Kundalini in us- How belly dance is connected to Kundalini energy- Ways how you can manifest Kundalini energy in you- How Sylvia became a Kundalini Awakening facilitator, and how it aligns with her dance activities Show Notes to this episode:Find Sylvia Yssei on Instagram, FB and her website. In the interview Sylvia refers to Pi Villaraza as a source of information about Kundalini energy and Inner Dancer practice.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Izel Kirana started her dance journey almost 15 years ago. Originally from Barcelona, she fell in love with belly dance, tribal fusion style, and eventually Indian culture and art. 5 years ago she embarked on multiple journeys to India in search of its classical dances and folklore, training in Rajasthani folklore dance, Kalbelia dance, Kathak dance and Indian fusion.In this episode you will learn about:- How Izel discovered tribal fusion, and eventual Kalbelia dance styles- Historical influences of Kalbelia dance- Izel’s experience of visiting India, and taking classes with local teachers- Fusion between different dance forms- Supporting the Kalbelia community by running a clothing & jewelry storeShow Notes to this episode:Find Izel Kirana on Instagram, and her Patreon page . Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Amanda Rose is an internationally acclaimed instructor and performer based in Barcelona, Spain. In addition to over a decade of teaching experience, and almost 2 decades of experience with Raqs Sharqi, she also has a master's degree in Dance Movement Therapy from La Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona. Alongside her background in sociology and language studies, Amanda Rose’s academic experiences greatly shape her approach to dance, art, culture, and pedagogy. She has received wide recognition for Amanda Rose Online, one of the first online dance platforms in the Middle Eastern dance community, hosting a variety of online dance opportunities such as online prerecorded series, one on one coaching, competition training, and personal feedback.In this episode you will learn about:- Switching focus from technical excellence to emotional expression in dance- How to find connections between movements and feelings- Tips for dealing with performance anxiety- What’s the difference between therapy and therapeutic experience- Amanda’s research on therapeutic capabilities of belly danceShow Notes to this episode:Find Amanda Rose on Instagram, FB, and her website . Check out her research work “Eastern Dance Meets Western World. The Therapeutic Effects of Belly Dance in Western Society”Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Raphael Cormack has a PhD in Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies with a focus on Egyptian theatre from the University of Edinburgh. He is currently Assistant Professor in Arabic Studies at Durham University. An award-winning editor and translator, Cormack is the editor of The Book of Cairo and the co-editor of The Book of Khartoum. His writing on Arab culture has appeared in the London Review of Books, Prospect and TLS, among others. Raphael Cormack is the author of Midnight in Cairo: The Female Stars of Egypt’s Roaring ’20s, an exploration of Cairo popular culture through personalities such as Rose Al-Youssef, Mounira al-Mahdiyya and Oum Kalthoum.In this episode you will learn about:- What’s the importance of 1920s in the Egyptian culture and entertainment industry- How he chose which exact female stories to highlight, and why Samia Gamal wasn’t featured in his book- His research methods- Comparing careers of Mounira al-Mahdiyya and Oum Kalthoum- What’s Raphael’s current focus on researchShow Notes to this episode:Find Raphael Cormack on Instagram, FB, and Twitter. Check your local bookstores for his book “Midnight in Cairo: The Female Stars of Egypt’s Roaring ’20s”.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Colleena Shakti is an artist of great subtlety and depth. Trained extensively in Odissi classical dance under Smt. Sujata Mohapatra and well-versed in many styles of dance from India and beyond, Colleena lives an artistic path steeped in rich tradition. Yoga, aesthetics and related philosophies are an integral part of her holistic vision of art inspiring her to bridge timeless values with modern expression. She has performed for former president of India (Pratibha Patil), royal families across Rajasthan, Indian Embassy at Cairo, Chidambaram Nataraj temple and arts festivals from Japan to Australia. Colleena is the founder and director of Shakti School of Dance located in the Rang Nath Venu Gopal Temple in Pushkar, Rajasthan India where she also annually produces The Pushkar Temple Dance Festival. Recently she has added a Summer school program and retreat center at Villa Shakti Crete, Greece and launched online curriculum at her virtual school.In this episode you will learn about:- Beginning of Colleena’s dance journey, her discovery of belly dance and later Odissi- Exploration of femininity through different dance styles- Indian fusion dance- Colleena’s training years in India- How you can study with Colleena in person and onlineShow Notes to this episode:Find Colleena Shakti on Instagram, FB, and join her newsletter via website.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Julia Farid, a professional oriental dance artist, instructor, and choreographer originally from Ukraine, is renowned for her elegant and feminine dance style. Her contributions extend beyond the stage, as she has organized prestigious events like the Isadora Cup Festival, "Dream & Dance" Intensive Course, and founded Tips4hips online platform. With deep knowledge of oriental dance and captivating performances, she has become an internationally acclaimed artist, annually giving workshops and performing at numerous belly dance events worldwide.In this episode you will learn about:- Julia’s pregnancy experience- How motherhood affected her life and dance career- Advantages of in-person vs online classes- Julia’s vision for Tips4Hips- Constant growth as a dance professionalShow Notes to this episode:Find Julia Farid on Instagram, FB, and Youtube, and website.Previous interview with Julia:Ep 52. Julia Farid: About Artistic Fulfillment, Individual Style and Teacher-Student RelationshipsEp 05. Julia Farid: Challenges of an International Dance CareerTake the Belly Dance Habits Quiz HERE.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Bellydance Superstar Boženka is an award-winning, internationally acclaimed dancer performing and teaching worldwide. Boženka hosts The Mediterranean Dance Lab, a dance intensive and cultural retreat on the island of Crete, Greece, where she currently resides. She has recorded several best-selling instructional and performance DVDs and has toured extensively with the celebrated “Bellydance Superstars” as a featured soloist. Through a professional dance career of 26 years, Boženka has been invited to teach and perform in over 50 countries. Boženka instructed and choreographed international superstar Shakira for her “Mongoose” world tour in 2004 and for her 2010 world tour “Shakira”, working with the pop diva side by side to help her hone and polish her innate skills. She performed on stage with world-music artist “Alabina” during her concert tour in Miami Beach in 2005. Boženka has entertained an assortment of celebrities including Sean Connery, Donald Trump, Hugh Hefner, Madonna, Alejandro Sanz and Enrique Iglesias, amongst others.In this episode you will learn about:- Boženka’s relationship with her own teacher, and how it influenced her career and teaching approach- Epic Ahlan Wa Sahlan 2006 competition, and reasons she decided to compete- Experience of working with Shakira for the last 20 years- Funny story during a performance for Sean Connery- The Mediterranean Dance Lab, and how it can help dancers growShow Notes to this episode:Find Boženka on Instagram, FB, or website.Take the Belly Dance Habits Quiz HERE.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Dipika Vijay is an academically trained designer, and a belly dance artist by passion. Her belly dance company is called Badass Belly Dance and her fitness classes fly under the name Firefly Aerial Fitness. She lives in Mumbai but grew up in multiple cities in India and as a result picked up folk dance forms like Bhangra, Garba, Bollywood apart from brief training in classical Indian dance styles such as Bharatnatyam and Odissi. She has a keen interests in popping, waacking, yoga and she recently started learning body control and mobility. Now Dipika practices belly dance not only as a sensuous dance form but as a powerful tool that generates awareness of the body, mind and spirit. She uses movement to create form and form to shape thoughts.In this episode you will learn about:- Belly dance in India- How learning design and geometry can make you a better choreographer- Improvisation vs choreography- What is the difference between creativity and art- Helping students discover their feminine side and sensualityShow Notes to this episode:Find Dipika Vijay on Instagram, FB, website, or email her to [email protected] the Belly Dance Habits Quiz HERE.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

As belly dancers we often use the term “Baladi” in reference to a particular dance style. Also, we sometimes call Masmudi Saghir rhythm as Baladi rhythm, which is common a mistake. But in Egyptian culture the word “Baladi” isn’t the name of a dance. So what is it? Discover in this episode!Show Notes to this episode:Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Join the Iana Dance Club to participate in the upcoming Baladi intensive.Take the Belly Dance Habits Quiz HERE.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFind information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Hend Elbalouty is a choreographer, performer and author. She holds a MA in Performing Arts from Kunsthochschule für Medien, a BA in Production Design from the Institute of Cinema Studies in Egypt and a 3-year degree in Contemporary Dance from Cairo Contemporary Dance Center. She works across mediums combining and mixing them in accordance to the project at hand. In the last few years, she collaborated and presented many multidisciplinary art pieces such as “FrauenGold'' Video Exhibition in Hamburg, “The Kitchen” Dance performance, Köln, “Absence” a group exhibition at CoCulture Art space, Berlin. In 2021, she created a performance inspired by the local street dance and music in Egypt called Maharagant, for which she was awarded the “kunstpreis der FREUNDE der KHM”. Hend strives to produce and participate in socially aware dance pieces, constantly exploring the role of art as a tool to empower the individual and bring out those neglected modes of expression.In this episode you will learn about:- Hend’s personal dance journey, and what led to researching Mahraganat- Professional Mahraganat dancers, and what it means- The concept of a street as private community space- Why would dance possibly turn into a fight- The process of writing and producing the bookShow Notes to this episode:Find Hend Elbalouty on Instagram and her website. Information about her book “Mahraganat in Egypt: Between Acceptance & Rejection” is available HERE. You can order it online via khanaljanub.com, or khm.deTake the Belly Dance Habits Quiz HERE.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

In today's episode, we're diving into a fascinating topic – using dance videos not just for social media posts, but as a powerful training tool. We'll explore why simply repeating choreography isn't enough and how to pinpoint and fix specific mistakes or weak spots in your dance. Plus, we'll chat about the importance of practicing without a mirror and how video recordings can be your secret weapon for self-analysis. So, get ready to learn some tricks for refining your dance moves, enhancing your technique, and getting performance-ready! Show Notes to this episode:Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out the Dance Habits intensive at the Iana Dance Club.Take the Belly Dance Habits Quiz HERE.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFind information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Sonya of Cairo is a professional dancer and choreographer. She has been immersed in oriental dance since childhood. Her mother, Marianne DS, founded The Sun Dance School 17 years ago in Paris, the largest association in the city. Sonya began her training with Marianne DS and has studied with some of the best Egyptian professionals. She stands out for her pure Egyptian style. Sonya currently lives in Cairo where she regularly performs. She also teaches at the largest festival in Egypt, "Raqs of Course”, organized by Randa Kamel. Sonya is considered today the rising star of the Cairo dance scene.In this episode you will learn about:- Being the daughter of a professional belly dancer- Sonya’s first professional performances, and dealing with stage anxiety- Funny stories of performing at weddings in Cairo- Bitter taste of dance life in Egypt- Dealing with managers vs being your own managerShow Notes to this episode:Find Sonya of Cairo on Instagram and Facebook.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comTake the Belly Dance Habits Quiz HERE.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Arielle is a passionately dedicated dancer from the USA who currently performs daily in Cairo, Egypt. She teaches and performs bellydance, samba, folklore, fusion, burlesque, hip hop and many other styles of dance full-time. Although Arielle is American, she grew up in Egypt and has been performing Middle Eastern Dance since the age of 10. Arielle is the winner of several competitions and was a finalist on Egypt’s first bellydance competition TV show, “Al Rakessa” in 2014. Arielle returned to Cairo in December of 2019 and has been gracing the stage all around Egypt ever since! She currently teaches online group classes every Sunday and offers pre-recorded classes as well. In this episode you will learn about:- Arielle’s childhood and school years in Egypt- Knee issues and belly dancing- The effect of fibromyalgia on Arielle’s lifestyle as a dancer- Decision to move back to Egypt to pursue a dance career- Changes in the modern dance scene in CairoShow Notes to this episode:Find Arielle on Instagram and Facebook.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

A well-known choreographer and dancer, Alla Kushnir has won many prizes and awards. She was a finalist at the TV show “Ukraine has talent“, silver medalist of the Lebanese TV show “Hizzi Ya Nawaem”, winner of Egyptian TV show ” Al Rakesa”, among many other awards and achievements. For Alla Kushnir Oriental dancing has opened a lot of previously unknown sensations. As a dancer and choreographer, she believes that this style of dance changes a woman’s whole attitude towards herself and her surroundings. Alla is a frequent guest in various talent search competition TV shows. In 2008, she appeared in the first film “Tales of Sand” about belly dancing. She also hosted the program “Oriental Dances” on MAXXI TV channel.In this episode you will learn about:- Alla’s multiple decisions to quit her performance career, and how destiny always brought her back to the stage- The importance of nutrition in a dancer’s life- How Alla practices and comes up with new movements- Lifestyle in Doha vs Cairo- Main elements of Alla’s daily routineShow Notes to this episode:Find Alla Kushnir on Instagram and website.Previous interview with Alla: Ep 40. Alla Kushnir: Not Only Luck Makes You Number 1Check Belly Dance Habits Quiz, free tool for belly dancers to enhance their training: www.ianadanceclub.com/quizJoin our 3-week intensive Dance Habits at the Iana Dance Club: www.ianadanceclub.com/intensivesDetails and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

This is a best of episode! You will hear a collection of tips and practices from the belly dance stars. Find out how they approach their own training, and see what you can implement it in your life too.You will hear from Jasirah, Cassandra Fox, Victoria Teel, Aziza, Nabila, Hayal, Jillina Carlano and Amar Lammar.Discover what is blocking your dance progress right now, and which exact dance habits you should improve first of all.Take the free Belly Dance Habits Quiz HERE.Check these full interviews with the podcast guests:Ep 19. Jasirah: How to Practice on Your Own. Tips & TricksEp 211. Jasirah: How to Find New Business Ideas as a DancerEp 15. Cassandra Fox: Healthy Does Not Have a FaceEp 198. Victoria Teel: The Story of Fan-Veil AddictionEp 130. Aziza: How to Be The Best Version of Your Dance SelfEp 105. Nabila: It's Never Too Late to Start and SucceedEp 271. Hayal: Functional Training For Belly DancersEp 31. Jillina Carlano: How Food Can Influence Your DanceEp 190. Amar Lammar: Adapting to a New Country & LifestyleShow Notes to this episode:Take the Belly Dance Habits Quiz HERE.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFind information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Improve those couple things in your dance habits, and unlock an amazing growth in your dance skills throughout 2024!January is time of planning and building hopes for the New Year. But often we make grand plans , and fail on showing up and performing them. Or sometimes we do show up but don't put 100% of our energy into the task. How to make sue that your list of New Year resolutions isn’t gonna be transferred to the next year, and you continue pursuing your dance goals beyond January…Take the Belly Dance Habits Quiz HERE.Show Notes to this episode:Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFind information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Chudney is a professional oriental dance artist who has competed and danced around the world. She opened her own oriental dance school in 2017, to give students easier access to her weekly in person classes, and share her unique personal style and technique on demand. Chudney was selected in 2016 as part of the international cast of Virginia’s “Reflections”. She was hand picked by Munique Neith to dance as part of the cast Ballet Internacional Munique Neith in Barcelona, Spain to perform at Egipto en Barcelona in 2018 and 2019.  Chudney was also featured as Dorothy, in Jillina's Belly Dance Experience production of the Wonderful Wizard of Oz. She has competed in top competitions and won many accolades as a troupe member of Hippy Chicks Raks and as a professional soloist. She is most proud of being crowned East Coast Classic 2015 Cabaret Professional Champion and People's Choice winner in her hometown.​In this episode you will learn about:- Why do we have anxiety of trying new things alone- The concept of coaching vs teaching regular classes- Common mistakes that dancer do during competition preparations- Performance anxiety- How to practice your eye gaze for stageShow Notes to this episode:Find Chudney on Instagram, YouTube, FB, and website.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Originally from Brazil, Hayal is a professional dancer who has been passionate about oriental dance since she was 17. She taught and danced all over the world, as a soloist and in collaboration with other dancers. She worked as a dancer and choreographer with the Portuguese company Mahtab and participated in several shows of the American troupe Bellydance Evolution with Jillina. Hayal has already worked in Brazil, Portugal, New Zealand, Egypt, Italy, Germany, Spain and of course in France, where she lives today (Lyon).In this episode you will learn about:- Comparison between Brazilian dances and belly dance- What is functional training for belly dancers- How to improve your balance, arms mobility, and knees-hips connection- Frequency of functional training and how it works- How Hayal managed to teach a group choreographies for her show via online classesShow Notes to this episode:Find Hayal on Instagram, YouTube, FB, and website.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Delya is a French belly dancer currently residing inn Switzerland. She has been involved in oriental dance for 20 years, and currently works as a full—time performer. She is the resident dancer at a 5 stars hotel in Zurich in collaboration with musicians. She does projects together with a Syrian musician Zaher Assaf who studied music at the conservatory of Damas, Syria. They regularly organize charity shows for Syria. Delya is a mother of a 4-year old daughter, who inspired her to write 2 children books: :Nour in Lebanon” (by Del Perrier), and  “Danse mon amour (dance my love)”.In this episode you will learn about:- How Delya got inspired to belly dance by Natasha Atlas- Persuading venues that belly dance can by classy and elegant entertainment for their audience- Pregnancy and motherhood as a belly dancer- Writing belly dance books for small children- The idea of creating a dance podcast.Show Notes to this episode:Find Delya on Instagram, and FB. Also, check her books Nour in Lebanon, and Danse mon amour (dance my love), as well as her podcast.To book your stay in Cairo at Yasmina’s Bellydancers B’B, email [email protected], or contact via Instagram.Details about the Bellydance Bundle are available on Instagram, and website.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Pedro Bonatto is an internationally acclaimed photographer and drummer. Born in Brazil and based in Canada, Pedro works in fine art and fashion photography, with works published in Elle Arabia, Fashion Canada and a number of magazines and books. As a drummer, Pedro focuses on Middle Eastern music and its relationship to cultures from aroundd the world. He is also the creator of the world music and dance group The Blue Dot Ensemble.Show Notes to this episode:Find Pedro Bonatto on FB, Instagram, YouTube, and website. Artist Date show is available HERE. Also, check our special Cairo Dance Guide intensive at the Iana Dance Club.Previous Interviews with Pedro:Ep 171 - Pedro Bonatto: How to Approach a Drum Solo Improvisation & Stop Being Afraid of ItEp 112. Pedro Bonatto: Drummer, Photographer & Husband of a Belly DancerTo book your stay in Cairo at Yasmina’s Bellydancers B’B, email [email protected], or contact via Instagram.Details about the Bellydance Bundle are available on Instagram, and website.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

We fall in love with belly dance for many different reasons. One of those reasons is freedom, and vast opportunities for creativity. But we may get carry away with dance experiments. Let’s listen to the stories of Jillina Carlano, Meher Malik , Mohamed Shahin and Aubre Hill on why it is important to study the roots of this dance form.Show Notes to this episode:Full interviews with our guests:Ep 22. Jillina Carlano: Building Community Around the GlobeEp 27. Meher Malik: Fusion, Confusion and Female ObjectificationEp 94. Mohamed Shahin: When Egyptian Dance Becomes Something Else...Ep 131. Aubre Hill: Transnational Dance FusionTo book your stay in Cairo at Yasmina’s Bellydancers B’B, email [email protected], or contact via Instagram.Details about the Bellydance Bundle are available on Instagram, and website.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Farah Nasri is a UK qualified teacher in dance and foreign languages. She began her belly dance career when she was a college student in London, and in 2014 she moved to Cairo. Today her Farah Nasri Dance Labs is the place to find the highest quality classes in Egyptian dance, theory, history, language, and culture! She is an active performer in Cairo, organizer of special course Belly Dance on Location, creator of her training wear brand 3youni, among other projects.In this episode you will learn about:- How Farah was fired as a school teacher in UK because of her belly dance activities - Moving to Cairo to perform at famous Nile Maxim boat- Differences between boat, club, and cabaret shows- Producing designs locally in Cairo- Filming dance videos as a central educational point of Farah’s course Show Notes to this episode:Find Farah Nasri on Instagram, FB, and website. Also, check pages of her design brand 3youni, and course Belly Dance on Location.To book your stay in Cairo at Yasmina’s Bellydancers B’B, email [email protected], or contact via Instagram.Details about the Bellydance Bundle are available on Instagram, and website.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Tiffany started the Bellydance Bundle in 2017, bringing together dancers who had content online to create one massive showcase for what was available at the time. Now, year over year she brings together teachers and builds communities around the idea of an at-home practice. From lectures on language and culture to dances of all different MENAT & fusion styles, Tiffany brings together groups of teachers each year to help dancers study more often, with less stress, at home, for an affordable price. A total nerd for the business side of dance, she loves to work with teachers to help them find new students, and as a total nerd for dance, she loves to study with as many teachers as she can. How fortunate to be able to combine both in each year's Bellydance Bundle! Stay tuned for this year's offering, available November 2nd - 10th.In this episode you will learn about:- Learning business models from other industries- What’s the use of having virtual assistant- Tips for hiring virtual assistant- Marketing tools that work in online space- What is Belly Dance Bundle, and how it benefits dancersShow Notes to this episode:Find Tiffany and Bellydance Bundle on Instagram, and website.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comTo book your stay in Cairo at Yasmina’s Bellydancers B’B, email [email protected], or contact via Instagram.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Shining is a performer, instructor and researcher of Egyptian traditional dances, whose work emphasizes the cultural and historical influences on the medium of dance in and from Egypt. She is the founder of http://www.banatmazin.com, a website dedicated to the legacy of the famous Luxor-based family, created in cooperation with Khyria Mazin to provide recorded lessons, interviews, song translations, family bios, streamable music and more, as learning resources for dancers around the world. She continues to perform, research and teach online and abroad since her move to Egypt in the summer of 2021.In this episode you will learn about:- The idea of documenting classes with Khyria, and how Shining moved to Egypt- The importance of studying ghawazee style- What the term ‘ghawazee’ actually means- How to differentiate music appropriate for ghawazee style- Different ways you can support Khyria MazinShow Notes to this episode:Banat Mazin Links & Contact Info:http://www.banatmazin.comhttps://www.facebook.com/KhyriaMazinhttps://www.instagram.com/thebanatmazin/Khyria (Arabic) Tel: +20 106 379 7012 Heba (English/Arabic) WhatsApp: +20 102 730 0494Shining (English) WhatsApp: +1 503 504 8774Visit Khyria's Home for Lessons: Sharia Salah Salem; Building 2, Luxor City, Luxor Governorate, Egypt 85951 (PM43+MM Luxor)Find Shining on FB, Instagram, and website.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

This episode includes Iana’s lecture that was recorded specifically for the upcoming intensive at the Iana Dance Club “Cairo Dance Guide”.You will hear about Iana’s experience of attending a bunch of dance festivals in Cairo during summer 2023, and her observations about current trends present in the Egyptian dance style.Check the entire collection of available intensives at www.ianadanceclub.com/intensivesShow Notes to this episode:Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFind information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Charafe is not just a dancer, he is one of the few, if not the only, male belly dancer in Morocco. He tries to lead a life as normal as possible in Casablanca. He teaches dance, makes choreographies for belly dancers, and participates in modern dance performances of his friends Ahlam and Wajdi. Charafe managed to establish dance classes in Casablanca, spreading awareness and education of various dance styles, including oriental and Moroccan folklore, within the country, as well as abroad.In this episode you will learn about:- Being a male dancer in Morocco- Seeking formal oriental dance classes- Variety of Moroccan dances, including Moroccan classical style- Cultural connections with Andalusia- Working with celebrities and TV showsShow Notes to this episode:Find Charafe on FB, and Instagram.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

We all love belly dance. But there is so much beyond oriental, in the field of folklore dances. Let’s listen to the stories of Apsara Afsanesara, Nada El Masriya , Samantha Burnstein and Gigi Dilsah, who found joy in exploring various folklore dances of the Near East and North Africa.Show Notes to this episode:Full interviews with our guests:Ep 20. Apsara Afsanesara: What Do You Know About Persian Dance?Ep 28. Nada El Masriya: How Studying Folklore Can Make You a Better Belly DancerEp 244 - Nada El Masriya - Prioritizing Quality Over QuantityEp 38. Samantha Burnstein: Can Folklore Be Authentic on Stage?Ep 70. Gigi Dilsah: What Does It Take to Be a Belly Dancer in TurkeyDetails and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Zara is an Egyptian dancer currently based in Cairo. She has worked professionally as a dancer for over 17 years, including last 6 years specifically in Egypt. Zara has stared in various music videos and Bollywood films. Most recently she was featured in a film together with famous shaabi singer Shaaban Abdel Rahim and in a Ramadan special TV drama featuring Dina and Haifa Web. Her dancing has taken her around the world - Zara has performed not only in the UK and Egypt but also at a vast number of East African countries including: Kenya (in both Nairobi and Mobassa) and Tanzania (in both Dar Es Salaam and Zanzibar). Other countries she has worked in include Pakistan and Malta.In this episode you will learn about:- Being a belly dancer as an Egyptian woman- Different types of cabaret venues in Cairo- Personal insecurities and confidence on and off stage- Another way of seeing Mahraganat, or why it got such a bad reputation- How she started her magazine and belly dance storeShow Notes to this episode:Find Zara on FB, Instagram, and website. Join her magazine subscription HERE.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Having a multidisciplinary background and an unending thirst for all things dance, Diana Soto has performed in belly dance companies as well as flamenco and modern dance companies. She believes that the best innovation is rooted in tradition, so she has travelled to Egypt, Turkey, Spain and lived for a while in Beirut to study in depth the roots of the dances. Originally from Puerto Rico, Diana is currently based in Houston, and fully involved in active gigging life.In this episode you will learn about:- Using belly dance as a distraction during cancer recovery- The experience of living in Beirut- Pivoting from teaching to performing industry- Getting into corporate jobs after full-time belly dance career- Tips for solid marketing strategiesShow Notes to this episode:Find Diana Soto on FB, Instagram, and website. Join her newsletter HERE.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Khaled Mahmoud is an Egyptian dancer from Cairo, currently based in London, UK. He specializes in oriental Raqs Sharki style, although his knowledge is also deeply routed in all kinds of Egyptian folklore. His style is very energetic and graceful at the same time. Khaled was a star at the International Bellydance Congress in the UK, and he is very much in demand teaching and performing in various festivals around the world.In this episode you will learn about:- Who are Egyptian women called ma’lema, kodia zar and el-osta - Practical example of why you should learn folklore as a belly dancer- Finding his own path as a dancer- Separating personal and artistic life- Khaled’s decision to retire from dance as his main professionShow Notes to this episode:Find Khaled Mahmoud on FB, and Instagram.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

This episode includes Iana’s lecture that was recorded specifically for the upcoming intensive at the Iana Dance Club “Cairo Dance Guide”.You will hear about Iana’s experience of attending a bunch of dance festivals in Cairo during summer 2023, and a collection of practical tips that would be useful for your future activities at festivals.Check the entire collection of available intensives at www.ianadanceclub.com/intensivesShow Notes to this episode:Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFind information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Meet Passant Gemeay, a self-taught Egyptian bellydance teacher, choreographer & ladies-only performer. She has fiercely joined the world of dance. not knowing that it would become her ultimate passion in life. Having a great experience by attending classes and connecting with star dancers, she managed to have her own attractive style mastering all types of this art, and aiming to teach women who think they can’t dance.In this episode you will learn about:- Different kinds of belly dance classes in Cairo- The popularity of belly dance classes at gyms- Benefits of belly dancing- Teaching belly dance to Egyptians and foreigners- The influence of dance festivalsShow Notes to this episode:Find Passant on FB, and Instagram. Video version of this interview is available HERE.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Mohamed Shahin is an inspirational instructor, world-renowned performer, and challenging choreographer of Egyptian Oriental Dance. A native of Cairo, Egypt, Mr. Shahin discovered his passion for Egyptian Dance at the young age of fifteen. Throughout Shahin’s childhood, he was fascinated by all forms of dance, and after receiving his degree as Mechanical Engineer, he was at cross road to choose between becoming a full-time engineer or pursue his life as a professional dancer / dance teacher. Shahin decided that he would dedicate himself to the Egyptian Dance. After many years of the intense study of various Middle Eastern styles of dance, Modern dance, and Ballet- Shahin developed a complex methodology of instruction that has made him a Master teacher beloved to his students worldwide, today. Shahin currently lives in New York City but has been touring the world full-time since 2004.In this episode you will learn about:- The story of Cleopatra festival, and its first successful edition in Egypt- Differences between dance festival and intensive- What is typical Egyptian show, and communication between dancer and musicians- Challenges in organizing festivals in USA and Egypt- Mohamed’s new music album, and the process of creating songs for dancersShow Notes to this episode:Find Mohamed Shahin on FB, Instagram, YouTube, and website. Events: Cleopatra festival, Dance Like An Egyptian intensive, and NYCairo.Previous interviews with Mohamed Shahin:Ep 94. Mohamed Shahin: When Egyptian Dance Becomes Something Else...Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Marta Korzun is an internationally recognized bellydance teacher from Ukraine. She is acknowledged for her unique teaching method and clear and concise explanations, and regularly holds training workshops worldwide. She started her career in 2006 by taking part in many competitions in Ukraine and abroad, including Cairo. She has been titled the Bellydance Champion of the World (2011), European Bellydancer (2011), and 2nd winner at “Nile Group Cairo" (2010), just to name a few. Today Marta is a respected judge at many prestigious belly dance competitions, and coach of the World Champions in oriental dance.In this episode you will learn about:- How lockdowns forced Marta to review her self-identity as a dancer, and as a person- Dealing with inner critique, and overcoming the struggle of constant comparison- Why she decided to travel less than before in her dance career- The decision to move to Canada- Comparing belly dance scenes in Ukraine and CanadaShow Notes to this episode:Find Marta Korzun on Instagram, FB, Youtube. Previous interviews with Marta:Ep 01. Marta Korzun: About Competitions and Individual StyleEp 77. Marta Korzun: How to Become a Dance TeacherDetails and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

As much as dance brings happiness to your life, sometimes there are moments when you need to take actions and do some changes. Let’s listen to the stories of Luna of Cairo, Joana Saahirah, Anjelica Scannura and Aradia of Las Vegas on how they pivoted their lives and artistic adventures.Show Notes to this episode:Full interviews with our guests:Ep 17. Luna of Cairo: Is Belly Dance Life in Cairo Always a "Fairy Tale"?Ep 165. Luna of Cairo: Life Beyond DanceEp 76. Joana Saahirah: Egyptian Dance As The Tool For Self-Knowledge And EmpowermentEp 172. Joana Saahirah: Running Dance Courses OnlineEp 79. Anjelica Scannura: From Flamenco to Belly Dance to Stand-Up ComedyEp 101. Aradia of Las Vegas: How to Succeed as a Full-Time PerformerDetails and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Kareem Gad is an Egyptian master teacher, co-founder and co-director of Bell’Masry Dance Company based in Paris, France. Since childhood, his curiosity about art led him to discover and study the art of singing, music, poetry, percussion, acting and dance. He was a solo dancer, coach and choreographer at the official troupe of the Egyptian Ministry of Youth, solo dancer at the Egyptian National Theater, member of the teachers team in Tawasol Foundation of Arts, choreographer for the Higher Institute for Dramatic Arts's Graduation Projects in the Egyptian Academy of Arts. Kareem has a Bachelor of Arts and History of the Civilizations of Ancient and Modern Near East. He did a lot of research in Egyptian folkloric heritage and oriental dance. Kareem also wrote and composed many successful songs for the oriental community.In this episode you will learn about:- How Kareem got involved in dance activities- His years at the troupe of the Egyptian Ministry of youth- Being in Egyptian folklore and contemporary dance fields- Transition from Egypt to France- The concept of new classical songsShow Notes to this episode:Find Kareem Gad on Instagram, Facebook, and website. Information about Bell’Masry Dance Company and dance tours is available HERE.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Morjana is a professional dancer, choreographer, researcher, teacher, as well as a percussionist (darbuka). She is currently based in Egypt, although she also travels extensively all around the world. She is a winner and award-recipient for many dance competitions, as well as a participant of several music projects in Cairo, including Estabena, a music project playing folk music from the Mediterranean area, Ehna Talata and Said El Artist music group. Morjana also organizes a specialized tours to Egypt for dancers interested in exploring local culture, music and dance.In this episode you will learn about:- How Morjana learnt Arabic language- First visit to Egypt: expectations vs reality- Various local traditions and how they stay alive in Egypt- Studying Tahtib practices- Morjana’s guided tours for dancersShow Notes to this episode:Find Morjana on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

This episode includes Iana’s lecture that was recorded specifically for the new intensive at the Iana Dance Club “Archetypes of Egyptian Goddesses in Dance”.Feel like a goddess on stage with the help of Egyptian mythology! It's about your stage presence, and how the power of stories and myths can help you feel more confident, open and connected during your dance.Check the full intensive on Archetypes of Egyptian Goddesses in Dance at www.ianadanceclub.com/intensivesShow Notes to this episode:Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Check the full intensive on Archetypes of Egyptian Goddesses in Dance at www.ianadanceclub.com/intensives. This intensive was inspired by and created in collaboration with the Museu Egípcio e Rosacruz in Curitiba, Brazil. To learn more about the museum, visit their website at https://museuegipcioerosacruz.org.brFind information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Today we are having a conversation with the team of Taqseem Institute of Cairo.Taqseem Institute is an integrated dance institute/lab with the main objective of providing increased access to culture (Egyptian Music and Dance), improve the environment where those expressions can thrive and contribute to social cohesion, targeting females; the segment most compromised in the sector of art. Aiming to generate a tangible impact on the influence of heritage dance in modern Egyptian society.Amie Sultan is the founder and dance program director of Taqseem. The team also includes Safaa Saeed, Aya Saada, Menna Emam and Fagr Amien.In this episode you will learn about:- The current team of the Taqseem Institute, and how they got involved in the project- Hesitations regarding choosing dance as a career in Egypt- What is the real Egyptian dance- Struggles in the research process- The educational process and structure of the Taqseem Institute.Show Notes to this episode:Find more about Taqseem Institute on Instagram, and website. Previous interview with the founder Amie Sultan is available HERE. Connect with the team of the Taqseem Institute via Instagram: Safaa Saeed, Aya Saada, Menna Emam and Fagr Amien.Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Yasmina, sometimes known as 'The English Rose of Cairo', has over twenty-five years of experience in the field of Egyptian oriental dance. Originally from the UK she spent many years travelling and dancing her way around the Middle East before settling in Cairo in 1995. Here she performed with her orchestra for eight consecutive years, appearing at major Cairo venues such as Meridien Heliopolis, Safir, Pyramisa and the Semiramis Intercontinental hotels, the Nile Maxime, Tivoli Heliopolis, as well as hundreds of weddings and parties in Cairo and around Egypt. She has also worked extensively as a photo-journalist in Cairo and writes regularly for several Egyptian and foreign publications. Based at her home beside the Giza pyramids she is the coordinator and co-host for several international belly dance tours each year, and provides back-up to both groups and individuals in their adventures in Egypt.In this episode you will learn about:- Differences between dance contracts in Gulf area and work in Cairo- Yasmina’s decision to stop active performance career, but still be based in Egypt- The evolution of Cairo dance scene since 1995 till now- Where can you do belly dance photoshoots in Cairo- Yasmina’s unique Bed & Breakfast accommodations for dancers.Show Notes to this episode:Find Yasmina of Cairo on Instagram, Facebook, and website. Classes and tours with Yasmina via bellydance-now.com. For details regarding Yasmina’s Belly Dancers B&B email to [email protected] and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Amie Sultan is an Egyptian belly dancer and classical ballerina. She was born and grew up in Singapore to an Egyptian family that was working extensively in South East Asia. Having established herself first as a successful ballet dancer, she has toured across the world dancing in Swan Lake, La Dame Aux Camellias, Jeune Homme Et La Mort, La Bayadere and Raymonda. In her quest to add a new layer to her dance repertoire, it is Amie's goal as a performance artist to restore the glamour and brilliance of the belly dance technique that was at its height in the 1940's and 50's. In this episode you will learn about:- How Amie transitioned from a professional ballet career to the belly dance world- Difficulties of being a dancer in Egypt- Bringing this dance to institutions such as museums.- Creating the Taqseem Institute and Tarab Collective- Relationships between belly dancers that affects the reputation of the danceShow Notes to this episode:Find Amie Sultan on Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube. More info about Taqseem Institute HERE.Join SharQui - The Bellydance Workout at sharqui.com/onlineDetails and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Eva Charkina is the winner of the DariyaM Cup 2018 in the category “Youth. Lovers.”, winner of the competition “The way to the stars” 2018, and many other Ukrainian and international dance events. She has a university degree in modern choreography from the Kyiv University of Culture. Currently living in Kyiv, Eva stays as an active dancer and teacher both in Ukraine and abroad.In this episode you will learn about:- Her first belly dance performance after the beginning of the war in Ukraine- Creating choreographies for competitions- The importance of a dance repertoire- Finding individuality as a dancer- Teaching classesShow Notes to this episode:Find Eva Charkina and her events on Instagram, Facebook, Youtube.Join SharQui - The Bellydance Workout at sharqui.com/onlineDetails and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

We haven’t had many of best of compilation episodes this year so far, so it’s time to fix it! Let’s talk about the nutrition.. You will hear from Cassandra Fox, Jillina Carlano, Alla Kushnir, and Mercedes Nieto.Show Notes to this episode:Full interviews with our guests:Ep 15. Cassandra Fox: Healthy Does Not Have a FaceEp 31. Jillina Carlano: How Food Can Influence Your DanceEp 40. Alla Kushnir: Not Only Luck Makes You Number 1Ep 163. Mercedes Nieto: Finding Home Inside Your BodyJoin SharQui - The Bellydance Workout at sharqui.com/onlineYou can find details about Joana Saahirah online school and available courses at www.joanasaahirah.comFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Check out her online classes and intensives at the Iana Dance Club.Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast