Belly Dance Life

Vadim Kolpakov is one of the most prominent and renowned Russian Roma 7-string guitarists in the world. He was a lead musician of the Moscow Roma (Gypsy) Theatre Romen, where he performed as a guitarist, composer, vocalist, dancer and dramatic actor. Vadim graduated from the Roma performing arts school Gilori and studied guitar with his uncle Alexander Kolpakov who served as the musical director of the Romen Gypsy Theatre for over a quarter of a century. At the age of 15, Vadim began work at the Romen Gypsy Theatre, where he worked for 8 years and was the leading guitarist for 7 years. In 2008, as a member of the Kolpakov Trio, Vadim went on the world tour "Sticky & Sweet" with Madonna. They performed in many European and South American countries, as well as in North America and Mexico, including venues such as Wembley stadium in London, Madison Square Garden in NYC and Maracana stadium in Rio de Janeiro.In this episode you will learn about:- The history of the Russian Roma 7-string guitar- Vadim’s approach to the term ‘Gypsy’ vs ‘Romani’- Similar elements of the Romani dance and music across the world- The use of skirt in Russian Romani female dance - Touring with MadonnaShow Notes to this episode:Check My Inner Dancer, online store for belly dancers: www.myinnerdancer.com.Find Vadim Kolpakov on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and website.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .For more information about BDE’s class donation for studios/teachers search for #2getherWeMove or write [email protected]: www.ianadance.com/podcast

It’s a mini-episode with Iana!Let’s talk about dance improvisation, and a top secret of how to avoid panic attack while improvising for the audience. :)Show Notes to this episode:Check My Inner Dancer, online store for belly dancers: www.myinnerdancer.com.Find Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Alex Marković holds a Ph.D. in Anthropology from the University of Illinois-Chicago. He spent 17 months conducting ethnographic field work on Romani ethnic identity and musical performance in Vranje, Serbia, for his doctoral dissertation. His general research interests involve music, dance, and ritual in the Balkans, ethnic identity and nationalism, the anthropology of performance, and ethnomusicology. Currently, Alex is co-instructor and performer with the Greek dance group “Ellas,” and a guest instructor with the Orpheus Hellenic Folklore Society of Chicago. He also offers public dance workshops and presentations on his research in dance and anthropology. He recently contributed a fascinating article to EEFC’s Forum Folkloristika: “Beat That Drum! Exploring the Politics and Performance among Roma Brass Musicians in Vranje, Serbia.”In this episode you will learn about:- What the Balkan region is- Historical connections between the Ottoman Empire and Balkans- Cultural practices vs national borders- Dances of the Black sea- The role of Romani culture in the Balkan regionShow Notes to this episode:Check My Inner Dancer, online store for belly dancers: www.myinnerdancer.com.Find Alex Marković on Facebook, or via email [email protected]. Also, check videos kindly provided by Alex Marković to compliment this interview HERE.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Rabia found her love of music and dance at a young age in Turkey where she started dancing, drumming, and performing at traditional celebrations and social gatherings. Growing up listening and dancing to the complex rhythms of Turkey’s beautiful Aegean region was to her benefit during her formal dance education. Her unique dancing and teaching style is rooted in Turkish culture and tradition. She is an internationally acclaimed performing artist, researcher, instructor, choreographer and specialized in 9/8 dances of Turkey. She believes and advocates for the healing power of music and dance in a person's physical, emotional and mental well being. She performs and teaches nationally and internationally. In addition to being a registered nurse, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education with an emphasis in athletics and dance, a Master of Science in Nursing Education and studying for her Nurse Practitioner degree. She integrates her formal educational background into her dance instructions to benefit her students.In this episode you will learn about:- The concept of Haflas in the belly dance community vs Turkish tradition- The tricky task of teaching 9/8 rhythm to a Western ear- The variety of 9/8 rhythms in Turkey, including the richness of Karsilama regional styles- Intricate nuances of Roman Havasi rhythm, and different ways to dance to them- The Historical roots of Turkish belly danceShow Notes to this episode:Thank you for your support via Iana Dance Club: www.ianadanceCLUB.com.Find Rabia on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their BDExperience program at www.JoinBDE.com.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

It’s a mini-episode with Valerick Molinary!We are going though some challenging times right now. Many artists struggle because of their lost jobs, frustration and stress of uncertainty. And if most of us aren’t very excited about putting together the business side of their dance activities even during the calm times, then now it’s even more crucial to remember that self-promotion is a must have for any working dancer, and you should not resist it.Show Notes to this episode:Thank you for your support via Iana Dance Club: www.ianadanceCLUB.com.Find Valerick on Instagram, FB, and Youtube. Full interview is available here: Ep 11. Valerick Molinary: Different Ways to Develop Your Belly Dance CareerFind Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Originally from Argentina, master teacher, artistic director and dancer Oscar Flores began his artistic career very early. His training is very varied, including ballet, flamenco, oriental dance, theater and musical studies. From 1995 till today, he has been working in the world of theater, dance and fashion. In 2001, he founded his first dance school, where he worked for 3 years before moving to Buenos Aires and continuing his studies with renown masters such as Amir Thaleb and Saida. In 2010, he founded his dance company where he worked until 2016, when he moved to China to become a part of the Bellydance China project. Over the years, he has worked in the most important international festivals in the world as a dancer, teacher and competition judge; he has also participated as a guest and performer in several television programs in Latin America, Mexico, USA, Canada, Europe, China, Egypt, Turkey.In this episode you will learn about:- Dealing with health issues, and navigating the stress of a busy artistic life- How to refill joy and enthusiasm towards your art- The importance of proper rest and play time- What role social media plays in the life of a professional dancer today- How COVID-19 is influencing Oscar’s life and the belly dance field in generalShow Notes to this episode:Thank you for your support via Iana Dance Club: www.ianadanceCLUB.com.Previous interview with Oscar Flores: Ep 25. Oscar Flores: I Needed an Opportunity to Live My DreamFind Oscar Flores on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. His website: http://www.oscarbellydance.com.arFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their BDExperience program at www.JoinBDE.com.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Mohanned Hawaz is a dancer from Iraq currently living in Sweden. He has trained both ballet and Iraqi folklore since childhood and was a member of the Iraqi International Dance Company. Mohanned has played an excellent role in bringing Iraqi folkloric arts and dance to European and international audiences. He is determined to bring Iraqi style dances and culture to the international dance community and, more importantly, to preserve the work of the Iraqi National Troupe and its founders, Hannah Abdullah and Fouad Thanoon. The troupe Enkidu, an all-female, 12-person dance troupe, was founded by him in 2010 in Gothenburg, Sweden.In this episode you will learn about:- Mohanned’s childhood dream of becoming a professional dancer- Today’s reality of Iraqi dance cultures, and limited opportunities to study from the source- Various rhythms of Iraqi dance styles- Iraqi National Troupe: before and now- Most common mistakes that we see at belly dance competitionsShow Notes to this episode:Thank you for your support via Iana Dance Club: www.ianadanceCLUB.com.Follow Mohanned Hawaz on FB, and Instagram. Also, check videos kindly provided by Mohanned to compliment this interview HERE.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their BDExperience program at www.JoinBDE.com.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

It’s a mini-episode with Iana!Today the world is changing so rapidly. Let’s talk about the current events and their impact (immediate and in a long term) on belly dance industry.Show Notes to this episode:Thank you for your support via Iana Dance Club: www.ianadanceCLUB.com.Find Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Jessaiah Zure began bellydancing in 1997, studying primarily with Katarina Burda, and later with Jamila Salimpour. In 2004 she began her 10-year journey of living and studying on and off in Istanbul, where she studied Turkish Roman Dance primarily with Reyhan Tusuz. Jessaiah was Reyhan’s second ever “student”. As the years progressed, she met more people and danced and studied with many more dancers, including professionals, women in the kitchen, Anadolu Atesi dancers and more. The locals in Istanbul were amazed at Jessaiah’s natural familiarity with the music and dance. While she was there, Jessaiah was a featured dancer at many local events, weddings, shows, as well as written about in newspapers and asked to be in movies as a dancer.In this episode you will learn about:- Studying folklore as a part of belly dance classes- How do we define ‘traditional’- Jessaiah’s learning experience of Turkish Romani dance without knowing the language, and having an audience observing her at each class- We all start as beginners- The importance of individuality in dance.Show Notes to this episode:Thank you for your support via Iana Dance Club: www.ianadanceCLUB.com.Follow Jessaiah Zure on FB, and Instagram. Also, check her Fb group The Rhythm & Belly Revival (International Dance Collective).Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their BDExperience program at www.JoinBDE.com.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Pedro Bonatto is an internationally acclaimed photographer and drummer. Born in Brazil, Pedro works in fine art and fashion photography, with works published in Elle Arabia, Fashion Canada and a number of magazines and books. His fine art project, The Orientalist, features dancers and musicians in scenes inspired by Orientalist paintings, photographed in 6 countries in 3 continents. Pedro's unique style is applied to his belly dance photography, having photographed a number of stars including Aida Bogomolova, Khaled Mahmoud, Marta Korsun, Julia Farid and many others. Pedro is also a drummer focusing on Middle Eastern music and the leader of the world music and dance ensemble Blue Dot.In this episode you will learn about:- How Pedro got involved in Arabic drumming, and how he started working with dancers- What is the difference between playing for a dancer and accompanying a singer with a band- Pedro’s most memorable shoot from the Orientalist series, in the ‘’ghost’’ city with a broken car, no Internet connection, and upcoming flight in a few hours- Life of a belly dancer’s husband: behind-the-scene reality of glittering shows- Some ideas on how to deal with partners who do not support your belly dance passion.Show Notes to this episode:Thank you for your support via Iana Dance Club: www.ianadanceCLUB.com.Follow Pedro Bonatto on FB, Instagram, and YouTube, his website with useful tips for preparing for shoots, and his podcasts.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their BDEmpower program at www.BellydanceEvolution.com.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Some of the best moments from our previous episodes! Today we are talking about such an important topic as health: health and dance in general, and health as a dancer’s health specifically. Learn from Cassandra Fox, Jillina Carlano, Alla Kushnir and Aradia of Las Vegas.Show Notes to this episode: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 101. Aradia of Las Vegas: How to Succeed as a Full-Time PerformerThank you for supporting the Belly Dance Life Podcast via our Iana Dance Club page!Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their shows at www.BellydanceEvolution.com or audition for the cast at www.JoinBDE.com.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

After extensive training in gymnastics and ballet, at age 19 Eva Cernik was first introduced to belly dance by Anahid Sofian in New York. Eva worked as an Oriental dancer in London, Paris, Istanbul, and Cairo, and in-troupe in Baghdad and Spain. She also traveled in Iran, Afghanistan, Syria, Morocco and 14 other countries. Returning to Egypt 26 times, Eva developed a friendship with families in Upper Egypt, and studied with Khairiya Maazin, and So'ad Maazin. She also returned to Turkey 11 times, to really grasp the very strong contrast of the Turkish and Romani styles to the Egyptian and American styles. In 2008, Eva was presented by Denver Lyric Opera Guild in a performance of Strauss' "Dance of the Seven Veils" from his opera "Salome”. She also spent 14 years fully immersed in Sufi dance practices.In this episode you will learn about:- How Eva got involved into belly dance thinking that it was an Armenian folk dance class- Performing with injured knee- Studying Ghawazi dances from Khariya Maazin- Interviewing the legendary Samia Gamal- Where did the misconception of using big skirts in Turkish Romani Dance come from.Show Notes to this episode:Thank you for your support via Iana Dance Club: www.ianadanceCLUB.com.Follow Eva Cernik on FB, Instagram, and YouTube.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their programs at www.JoinBDE.com.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Having performed in over 21 countries, Amaya was the first to introduce the passion of Flamenco with the sensuality of Arabic Dance through her interpretation of the song "Amayagueña", composed especially for her by top composer Ibrahim El Samahy. Her fusion work in the early 1990s sparked many dancers to follow on her path. She credits her mentor and dance partner, the late Roman Balladine, for opening many dance doors around the world for her (Europe, Australia, New Zealand…). Amaya ran away and joined the circus! Her circus work in Salome Traumtheater and Circus Conelli in Germany and Switzerland were milestones in her dance career. In 1978 she got 1st Place Winner of Egypt Dance Competition in Sheraton Hotel (Cairo), and later she received the Giza Award for her documentary, “Gypsy Fire, Part One” 1988. She also got the 2014 Lifetime Achievement Award, Santa Fe, 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award, National Isis Foundation, Dallas, and many other acknowledgements.In this episode you will learn about:- Different stages of Amaya’s career, and working together with a male dancer- How to stop feeding negativity, and deal effectively with gossip and conflicts in your dance circle- Common threads in personality of all successful dancers- Amaya’s documentaries about the history of belly dance in the USA: why? how? who?- Why Amaya truly deserves her title of Wise Woman.Show Notes to this episode:Thank you for your support via Iana Dance Club: www.ianadanceCLUB.com.Follow Amaya on FB, Instagram, and YouTube. More information about her documentaries and retreat at her website.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their programs at www.JoinBDE.com.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

After relocating from the UK to the USA, Sara Al-Hadithi got involved in the Middle-Eastern dance world and discovered an interest in Iraqi dance that has swept through the bellydance community. As an Iraqi, this area of performance was very surprising and personal to her, not just as a performer, but also as the daughter of one of Iraq's most well-known and respected vocalist and authority on Iraqi folklore. After partnering with dancer Uza of NYC, the collaboration of the Court of Morjana was born, the first English-language website dedicated to all subjects relating to Iraqi dance. Also, Sara has founded Autism Care Los Angeles (ACLA) to address the difficulty and frustration many families experience when seeking caregivers for family members living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).In this episode you will learn about:- Being the daughter of a well-known artist, and experiencing resistance from society and family towards her own artistic dreams- The female role in Iraqi culture and society, and why Sara was surprised to discover dancers interest in Iraqi dance- Navigating life, motherhood, autism diagnosis and an artist’s path- Finding support in the belly dance community- Why Sara refused to actively teach dance classes, and how she found a way to contribute to dance education in the most authentic way for herShow Notes to this episode:Thank you for your support via Iana Dance Club: www.ianadanceCLUB.com.Follow Sara Al-Hadithi on FB, Instagram, and YouTube.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their programs at www.JoinBDE.com.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

I’ll be honest: it was very tempting to title this episode as “From Egyptian Traditional Style to Burlesque Dancer”, but our conversation with Katalin Schäfer was much wider than just these two dancer styles on an incredible artistic arc that will definitely challenge your understanding of the art.Katalin is an accomplished international performer, choreographer, instructor, and costume designer from Hungary. In 2004, together with three other master teachers, she established a dance company called Art of Orient, and soon after she established her own dance company with Arab boys and Hungarian girls. In the same year, she had come second at the Ahlan Wa Sahlan World Competition in Egypt, but later a meaningful artistic journey has begun that has effected her life on both professional and spiritual levels. Her wide range of interests has motivated her to create a very unique, personal style that she would call (if definition is necessary at all) Oriental Jazz.In this episode you will learn about:- Falling in love with Egyptian traditional raqs sharki and folklore, and later transitioning into fusion and burlesque dance- The importance of feeling your body and hearing your soul’s calling- How Katalin describes her own dance style- Dealing with stigmas and judgements about being a belly dancer and a burlesque dancer- Pregnancy and motherhood while being an active dancerShow Notes to this episode:Thank you for your support via Iana Dance Club: www.ianadanceCLUB.com.Follow Katalin Schäfer on FB, Instagram, YouTube, and website. Check her costume designer HERE.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their programs at www.JoinBDE.com.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

It’s a mini-episode with Julia Farid!Such a valuable insight on how to use competition experience to your best interest, what are the traps, and what are the tools for your dance growth there.Show Notes to this episode:Full interview with Julia Farid: Ep 05. Julia Farid: Challenges of an International Dance CareerJulia’s upcoming event in June: Summer Beats.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Nabila is a worldwide known Oriental dancer, characterized by her appealing elegance and soulful music interpretation. As a member of Jillinas Bellydance Evolution Team Nabila has been involved in all three previous productions of Bellydance Evolution Theatre Shows in Europe (2010 – 2015), including the leading role of “Cheshire Cat” in May 2015 in Dornbirn, Austria. Her great ability to bring the emotionality of egyptain expression of the oriental dance on stage leads her to be one of the few of Randa Kamel choosen European guest dancers on the stage of the closing gala at Randa’s Raqs-of-Course Festival in Cairo.In this episode you will learn about:- Starting belly dance at the age of 32, and reaching professional success and recognition- Nabila’s very first performance on the stage, and the nature of nervousness- The importance of the strength training for belly dancers- Benefits of complimentary yoga practice- How to motivate your students to keep going even when their progress is painfully slowShow Notes to this episode:Thank you for your support via Iana Dance Club: www.ianadanceCLUB.com.Follow Amel Tafsout on FB, Instagram, YouTube, and website.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their programs at www.JoinBDE.com.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

It’s a mini-episode!January is typically a month of new classes for beginners students. Many struggles may appear in teacher-student relationships, that’s why in this mini-episode I’m featuring two topics:- How to set up boundaries in your relationships with students, and- How to structure your class if you have both intermediate and beginning students.Show Notes to this episode:Thank you for your support via Iana Dance Club: www.ianadanceCLUB.com.Submit your questions for ASKianaDANCE show at www.ianadance.com/askFind Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Raised in Algeria, Amel Tafsout grew up around traditional healing practices of her native country. In the mid-1970s, Amel moved to Germany where she founded the Pan-Arab dance company called ‘Banat As Sahra’ (Daughters of the Sahara Desert), and in the late 80s Tafsout moved to London, U.K, where she performed at various dance and music festivals and created a new dance company called ‘The Tafsoutettes’. She was also active member of the Latin Jazz band ‘Chakchouka’, the North African music ensemble ‘Mambo Duniya’, the Arab-Turkish band ‘Noor Shimaal’ and later the North African music ensemble ‘Saladin’s Orchestra’ with her husband, drummer Salah-Dawson Miller. Currently living in the U.S.A., she is an in-demand dance artist and musician. With a research in dance anthropology and coming from a Sufi spiritual tradition, Amel combines traditional healing with sacred dance, with her learning experience in Sound healing and Zikr, breath work, whirling and trance.In this episode you will learn about:- Amel’s childhood in Algeria, and the contrast between home environment and French school - Orientalist’s stereotypes about the dancers of Maghreb - Differences between Amazigh (Berber), Maghreb and Arabic cultures - Healing powers embedded in the North African culture and traditions - Releasing emotional blocks through dance and soundShow Notes to this episode:Thank you for your support via Iana Dance Club: www.ianadanceCLUB.com.Follow Amel Tafsout on FB, Instagram, YouTube, and website.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their programs at www.JoinBDE.com.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

It’s a mini-episode with Shahrzad!A great reminder about the beautiful aspect of our belly dance profession! Exactly what you need to hear approaching the end of the year.Show Notes to this episode:Full interview with Shahrzad: Ep 03. Shahrzad: Inside Cairo Dance LifeFind Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Aradia has performed as a soloist throughout the United States, Canada, Barbados, Egypt and Switzerland. She has danced at many of the top hotels, restaurants and clubs in Las Vegas, performed for Celine Dion's wedding, BlockBuster's premiere opening for "The Mummy", and Maxim Magazine's party in Las Vegas. She has appeared in several TV spots on Discovery, Bravo and the Travel Channel. Her love for Middle Eastern dance began at the age of 7 as a second generation belly dancer. Aradia is a sought after instructor and choreographer, and her professionalism and friendly personality makes her one of the most requested dancers in Las Vegas.In this episode you will learn about:- Being the daughter of a professional belly dancer- Changes in the belly dance education and shows over the past 40 years - Differences between Egyptian, Turkish and Lebanese styles - Secrets of a successful and long-lasting performance career - The importance of thinking about retirement options in advanceShow Notes to this episode:Thank you for your support via Iana Dance Club: www.ianadanceCLUB.com.Follow Aradia of Las Vegas on FB, Instagram, YouTube, and website.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their programs at www.JoinBDE.com.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

It’s a mini-episode!Reflecting on our recent Instagram challenge, and sharing all behind-the-scene insights of what was going on. Thank you for being a part of our podcast community! Let’s celebrate our episode #100 together. :)Show Notes to this episode:Find Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Elmira Sarkisian is a professional dancer, teacher and choreographer from Ukraine. She is a respected judge at many dance competitions, and beloved mentor for her numerous students. Her Armenian charm, Ukrainian work ethic and Egyptian soul will definitely inspire you to keep moving on your belly dance journey.In this episode you will learn about:- What makes Elmira to be in so much demand as a choreographer- Costume misfunctions may happen to anyone- Listening to the music and all its nuances- 2-min performances at the competitions- What is the most important aspects in teaching belly danceShow Notes to this episode:Follow Elmira Sarkisian on FB, Instagram, and YouTubehttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002047977878https://www.instagram.com/elmirasarkisian/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCylOFccshvlMZzkbtNYTnAwBellydance Evolution and information about their programs at www.JoinBDE.com.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

David Abraham has exceptional charisma and overwhelming personality. He definitely knows how to captivate and dazzle the audience with his unique and bold style. David graduated from the Arabian Dance School (ADS) from Master Amir Thaleb in 2011, and since then he has managed to carve a prestigious and unblemished career with more than 20 gold medals in different competitions under his belt, and traveling all around the world giving workshops. In this episode you will learn about:- How David was traveling 24 hours by bus every month in order to take belly dance classes- The importance of learning from other dancers- What does it take to be a man in the belly dance industry- Kids and their parents in belly dance- How to build a successful international careerShow Notes to this episode:Belly Dance Life Podcast CHALLENGE: www.ianadance.com/challenge Follow David Abraham on FB, Instagram, and YouTubewww.instagram.com/david_abraham_bd/www.facebook.com/DavidOrientalwww.youtube.com/user/DavidOrientalBellydance Evolution and information about their programs at www.JoinBDE.com.Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

It’s a mini-episode!Let’s talk about success in belly dance. What does it really mean? Do you have a clear understanding what are your goals, and ultimate success in this industry? Tune in right now!This is an excerpt from the webinar hosted by Joana Saahirah where I was a guest speaker. Find more information at Joana Saahirah´s World Webinar Series available at www.joanasaahirah.com.Show Notes to this episode:Find Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcastFind more information at Joana Saahirah´s World Webinar Series available at www.joanasaahirah.com

Some of the best moments from our previous episodes! Today we are talking about such complex topic as social media, and its influence on belly dance world and individual careers. Learn from Sadie Marquardt, Cassandra Fox, Mercedes Nieto and Carmen Fragoso.Show Notes to this episode:Belly Dance Life Podcast CHALLENGE: http://www.ianadance.com/challengeEp 14. Sadie Marquardt: Before & After Social Media Hit: https://www.ianadance.com/bellydance-life/episode14Ep 15. Cassandra Fox: Healthy Does Not Have a Face: https://www.ianadance.com/bellydance-life/episode15Ep 45. Mercedes Nieto: Social Media Traps: https://www.ianadance.com/bellydance-life/episode45Ep 81. Carmen Fragoso: Things Happen When You Are Ready For Them: https://www.ianadance.com/bellydance-life/episode81Follow Iana on social media at @iana_danceBellydance Evolution and information about their new program at http://bellydanceevolution.com , or audition for the cast at http://www.JoinBDE.comPodcast: http://www.ianadance.com/podcast

Safia is an international belly dance instructor and performer from Argentina. She is know for her powerful performances and she is one of the most popular dancers of our time, and organizer of the Feidac Festival in Cordoba. Discover her story of how she started her belly dance journey at the age of 3, and what are her next dance dreams in this artistic field!In this episode you will learn about:- How popular belly dance is for kids in Argentina- How Safia gets ready for her shows- How to deal with a cold audience- How to influence your students in the most thoughtful and empowering way- How to make sure your festival grows year after year.Show Notes to this episode:Belly Dance Life Podcast CHALLENGE: www.ianadance.com/challengeFollow Safia Diaz on FB, Instagram, and YouTube. Festivals: FeiDac Festival in Cordoba.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their shows at www.BellydanceEvolution.com or audition for the cast at www.JoinBDE.com.Thank you for supporting the Belly Dance Life Podcast via our Patreon page!Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Mohamed Shahin is a world-renowned master instructor, performer and challenging choreographer of Egyptian Oriental & Folkloric Dance. A native of Cairo, Egypt, originally trained as a mechanical engineer, Shahin discovered his passion for Egyptian Dance at the young age of fifteen. Mohamed currently lives in New York City but has been touring internationally full-time since 2004. He is co-organizer, director & instructor of the Annual RAQS, OF COURSE Egyptian dance festival in Cairo - Egypt as well as organizer and owner of Annual NYCairo Raks Festival in New York City – USA. Shahin produced “Dance Like An Egyptian” instructional DVD series, that are great asset for those whom study Egyptian dance but are unable to attend Shahin’s workshops.In this episode you will learn about:- If foreign dancers can dance like Egyptians- Why Egyptian teachers prefer to use term "oriental dance", and what meaning they put in it- How to be innovative but respectful to the traditions- Beledi, and all modern misconceptions around it- The process of music creation, and sneak peek into Mohamed’s new upcoming CD!Show Notes to this episode:Belly Dance Life Podcast CHALLENGE: www.ianadance.com/challengeFollow Mohamed Shahin on FB, Instagram, YouTube, and website. Festivals: Raqs Of Course, and NYCairo.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their shows at www.BellydanceEvolution.com or audition for the cast at www.JoinBDE.com.Thank you for supporting the Belly Dance Life Podcast via our Patreon page!Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

It’s a mini-episode with Marta Korzun!Listen to very useful suggestions from Marta Korzun on how to develop personality or individuality in your dance. Tune in right now!Show Notes to this episode:Full interview with Marta Korzun: Ep 01. Marta Korzun: About Competitions and Individual StyleFind Marta Korzun at Instagram, FB, Youtube.Patreon support: www.patreon.com/ianadanceFind Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Sharon is a French, Tunisian, and Algerian bellydancer living in the South of France. Her artistic influences are mainly Egyptian. In 2002, Sharon created her oriental dance school “Les danseuses du Sinai”. When teaching, she stresses on the importance of music interpretation and charisma. For more than 14 years, her talent and determination led her to perform and teach in many countries. She has also initiated many oriental dance events in the South of France, among them the Oriental Marathon Festival, which she organizes every year since 2012.In this episode you will learn about:- Finding your own voice in dance instead of copying someone else’s- Constant unsatisfaction with your performance- Students’ mentality in different countries- What is the most important thing to teach your students- How to push and develop your dance careerShow Notes to this episode:Follow Sharon Mesguich on FB, Instagram, YouTube, and website. Oriental Marathon Festival: website.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their shows at www.BellydanceEvolution.com or audition for the cast at www.JoinBDE.com.Thank you for supporting the Belly Dance Life Podcast via our Patreon page!Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Serkan Tutar is an international award winning Turkish bellydancer & teacher, “Male Bellydancer of the world 2008” and winner of “Brandon Oasis 2006”, and organizer of the Rakkas Istanbul International Oriental Dance Festival. Serkan currently lives in Belgium, where he is renown for his Middle Eastern dance instruction and performances. His teaching methods are clear and concise, delivered with kindness in a supportive environment. Students from across Belgium and around the world seek him out as a dance instructor and mentor.In this episode you will learn about:- Similarities between Turkish and Egyptian dance styles.- Terminology nuances: ‘gypsy’, ‘Roman’, ‘belly dance’, ‘oriental’ and ‘raks sharki’- Difference between dance festivals and dance events.- How to check if you are ready to teach, and how to approach your teacher on this topic.- Are style and personality the same thing?Show Notes to this episode:Follow Serkan Tutar on FB, Instagram, YouTube, and website. Rakkas Istanbul International Oriental Dance Festival: website.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their shows at www.BellydanceEvolution.com or audition for the cast at www.JoinBDE.com.Thank you for supporting the Belly Dance Life Podcast via our Patreon page!Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Zomzom Mustapha is a dancer and choreographer specializing in Arabic Folklore (Egypt, Morocco and the Middle East in general). He was trained in modern jazz and later in theatre and dance in Casablanca, Morocco. This knowledge has made Zomzom Mustapha a famous artist and dance teacher, not only in France where he currently resides, but all around the world. Throughout his career, Mustapha has taught and performed at various international festivals in the United States, Morocco, Ukraine, Colombia, Kuwait, China, Russia, Lebanon, Argentina, Egypt, and other countries.In this episode you will learn about:- Different Moroccan dances and their connection to flamenco.- Street shaabi and mahragan.- Important differences between Al Rakessa and Al Rakassa.- Reasons why belly dance got banned in one region of France.- Terms ‘belly dance’ vs ‘oriental dance’.Show Notes to this episode:Follow Zomzom Mustapha on FB, Instagram, YouTube.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their new program and casting: bellydanceevolution.comPodcast: www.ianadance.com/podcastThank you for supporting the Belly Dance Life Podcast via our Patreon page!

Raïssa Leï is the founder and director of the Kif-Kif Bledi group. Originally from Morocco, she started her dance journey with modern jazz and hip-hop training, and all sorts of underground dance styles such as locking, popping and waacking. Today she is also known for her deep exploration of traditional dances of North Africa, experimental fusion between dance styles and active social work activities to help communities and spread awareness about important issues.In this episode you will learn about:- Links between Berber culture and Egyptian dances.- Tips on how to be critical to historical resources and documents.- What is the situation with Muslim culture in Europe.- How rich and varied is the dance repertoire of Morocco and other North African countries (with a list of dance styles)- Most common misinterpretations that we see on belly dance stage.Show Notes to this episode:Follow Raïssa Leï on FB, Instagram, YouTube and Kif-Kif Bledi website.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Bundle and information about the Instagram challenge: thebellydancebundle.com & @thebellydancebundle .Bellydance Evolution and information about their new program and casting: bellydanceevolution.comPodcast: www.ianadance.com/podcastThank you for supporting the Belly Dance Life Podcast via our Patreon page!

It’s a solo mini-episode!Are you wondering how to boost self-discipline and motivation when practicing on your own? Or maybe you are looking for any accountability online groups to boost your dance training? In this mini-episode I’m sharing my two ASKianaDANCE editions where I address these questions!Show Notes to this episode:ASKianaDANCE: www.ianadance.com/askPatreon support: www.patreon.com/ianadanceFind Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Are you a fan of online belly dance classes, or are you on the skeptical side? In either case, this episode will bring you so much positive energy and laugh that you will immediately fall in love with Tatyana Gavrilova and her online platform for dancers, Sola Dance. Tatyana has already produced over 200 videos of belly dance workshops, and in this conversation she takes us behind the screen of Sola Dance.In this episode you will learn about:- How the idea of Sola Dance appeared.- What are the advantages and disadvantages of practicing belly dance online.- What was the funniest moment of recording classes with teachers at Sola Dance.- How online resources can help you develop your own unique style.- If there are any differences in mentalities of Russian-speaking and English-speaking dancers.Show Notes to this episode:Follow Tatyana Gavrilova and Sola Dance on FB, Instagram, YouTube and website.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Bundle and information about the Instagram challenge: thebellydancebundle.com & @thebellydancebundle .Bellydance Evolution and information about their new program and casting: bellydanceevolution.comPodcast: www.ianadance.com/podcastThank you for supporting the Belly Dance Life Podcast via our Patreon page!

This is one of the most honest and straightforward conversations of the podcast! Please welcome the absolutely amazing Mexican beauty based in the UAE, Tatiana Avila. After burning up Dubai's most prestigious nightclubs with her energy, charisma and super dance techniques, she is currently focusing on developing dance classes and workshops in Dubai. In this interview, Tatiana talks about her path from being a student to becoming a professional in-demand dancer, as well as differences between what we learn in dance schools, and what we see in real life of the belly dance entertainment industry.In this episode you will learn about:- Tatiana’s path as a student, her teachers, struggles and inspirations- Our beloved “BellyPolice” :)- The differences between dance in academic and entertainment worlds- How folklore dabke is transformed in cabaret settings- The structure of a typical belly dance show in DubaiShow Notes to this episode:Follow Tatiana Avila on FB, Instagram and YouTube.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Bundle and information about the Instagram challenge: thebellydancebundle.com & @thebellydancebundle .Bellydance Evolution and information about their new program and casting: bellydanceevolution.comPodcast: www.ianadance.com/podcastThank you for supporting the Belly Dance Life Podcast via our Patreon page!

It’s a solo mini-episode!Do you know how to dance just for yourself, or are you constantly in a marathon of preparing for some events and performances? In this mini-episode I’m sharing my recent breakthrough and realization of where I’d like my artistic path to go in the future.Show Notes to this episode:Find Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

This is the most surprising belly dance story you’ve ever heard. Discover how Malema (Maria Aya) got introduced to belly dance at the age of 30, then started receiving requests for private classes from well-established professional dancers, and how one simple YouTube video recorded for pure fun brought her first international teaching gig. And this was just the first chapter of her dance story.Today, after a harsh year of being diagnosed with lupus (an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack the body's organs), surviving 14 heart attacks, 5 brain strokes, and fully recovering from these diseases, Malema is ready to start a new chapter. She is back to teaching classes, but she is also passionate about developing a dance therapy practice based on oriental movements, and using the vocabulary of belly dance to help women recover after sexual abuses and war traumas.Malema (Maria Aya) is founder and co-organizer of MOSAIC Oriental Festival in Athens, founder & artistic director of “Hamsa”, International Center for Culture & Arts of East Med Countries, and creator of the "Hamsa International Oriental Knowledge Certificate". She is a leader and main choreographer of “Malema’s Banat” oriental inspired theatrical dance group, international multi-awarded choreographer, and a renowned teacher of oriental and folkloric dances.Show Notes to this episode:Follow Malema on FB. Her FB dance page, and Hamsa - Oriental Art House page. YouTube video that she mentioned in the interview is available here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=aY6hBS5YNRoFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Bundle and information about the Instagram challenge: thebellydancebundle.com & @thebellydancebundle .Bellydance Evolution and information about their new program and casting: bellydanceevolution.comPodcast: www.ianadance.com/podcastThank you for supporting the Belly Dance Life Podcast via our Patreon page!

Some of the best moments from our previous episodes! Today we are talking about such complex topic as musicality in belly dance. Learn from Esmeralda Colabone, Alida Lin, Sandra Kahloun and Kamilia. Aim for more!Show Notes to this episode:Ep 13. Esmeralda Colabone: Music as Your Guide & MentorEp 37. Alida Lin: How to Control Your Music As a DancerEp 47. Sandra: Rules Of ImprovisationEp 62. Kamilia: Dreaming of a Big Supportive CommunityThank you for supporting the Belly Dance Life Podcast via our Patreon page!Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their new program and casting: bellydanceevolution.comPodcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

I literally had goosebumps several times during this conversation: from months at an ICU and wheelchair recovery, to an active dance career, marathon running, and becoming a crossfit athlete! Are you ready for an incredible story from a phenomenal woman? Please welcome Katerina Shereen, who performed at the most glamorous events with such guests as Elton John, Sharon Stone and royal families who came to London every summer. Katerina became the special dancer for the birthday of Her Majesty the Queen of Brunei. The biggest benefit though was to work with amazing Arabic musicians who worked with Oum Kalthoum and Abdal Halim Hafez or played for legends such as Fifi Abdo and Nagua Fouad.In this interview you will hear about:- The scene of belly dance education: festivals vs intensives, and what goals each type of event serves,- Tips on how to choose wisely which dance event to invest your money in- Katerina’s story of a leg injury due to a doctor’s mistake, and her recovery path- The importance and power of the mindset to never give up- What skills you are missing to get a successful, joyful and long-term dance careerShow Notes to this episode:Thank you for supporting the Belly Dance Life Podcast via our Patreon page!Follow Katerina Shereen on Instagram, FB, Youtube.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their new program and casting: bellydanceevolution.comPodcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Carmen Fragoso is a Mexican choreographer & dance coach specialized in Belly dance, Khaleeji and Iraqi dancing, with a thriving career as a contract dancer based in Dubai. Listen to her incredible story on how she brought her main dance dream to life, and achieved the lifestyle that she wanted.In this interview you will hear about:- How facing dance frustrations and seeking more from life led to a complete change of lifestyle- How Carmen got involved in Iraqi dancing- How her 2-month vacation got transformed into a full-time job in Dubai- What was the most surprising thing she discovered during the first year of working in the Middle East- The importance of a dancer’s image on stage, and off stage- How her dance videos became viral on social media, and what it brought to her life.Show Notes to this episode:Thank you for supporting the Belly Dance Life Podcast via our Patreon page!Follow Carmen Fragoso on Instagram, FB, Youtube.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

It’s a solo episode!Sharing my experience of being a judge at the Dance Weekend in Warsaw competition: from what goes in the judge’s head during evaluations, to most common mistakes that caught my attention from performance to performance.Show Notes to this episode:Download free tips for your 20-min belly dance program here: www.ianadance.com/podcast/tipsFind Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Anjelica Scannura is a highly accomplished dancer, choreographer, actress, and comedian. She has performed and taught flamenco and belly dance all over the world, including the USA, Europe, Caribbean and Middle East.Anjelica has been the recipient of many dance awards, including The Marty Award for Oustanding dance artist in 2018, Bellydancer of the Universe Winner 2013, Bellydancer of the Universe Hall of Fame Inductee 2014, Paula Citron Fresh Blood Award, Finalist at the Certamen de Coreografia de Danza Espanol y Flamenco in 2013, Eastern Canadian Irish Dance Champion 2006, among others. Anjelica is also the face of ZoomerMedia’s health and fitness channel, ONE Get Fit TV, where she has her own critically acclaimed dance-fitness show “Anjelica’s Dance Workout.”In this interview you will hear about:- Historical connection between flamenco and belly dance- Tips for your fusion choreographies- Insights into a gigs life and theatre shows of a solo dancer- What’s similar and different between stand-up comedy and belly dance show- Transitioning from one chapter of creative career to anotherShow Notes to this episode:Thank you for supporting the Belly Dance Life Podcast via our Patreon page!Follow Anjelica Scannura on Instagram, FB, Youtube.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their new program and casting: bellydanceevolution.comPodcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

I’m happy to feature Darya Ryzhkova, the winner of Cairo! Fest Budapest 2019!Dariya is a professional dancer and teacher. Her awards include dance competitions in Russia, Spain, Kazahistan, France, Israel, Hungary and Greece. She is certified judge by the Russian Liga of Professional Belly Dancers, as well as teacher at Eshta studio, and director of her own dance school Baheya.Show Notes to this episode:Thank you for supporting the Belly Dance Life Podcast via our Patreon page!Follow Darya Ryzhkova via Instagram, FB, Youtube.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their new program and casting: bellydanceevolution.comPodcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Drum rolls please! We have the fantastic Marta Korzun back on the Belly Dance Life Podcast! Marta Korzun is internationally recognized as one of Europe’s leading performers and teachers of Oriental dance. She started her career in 2006 by taking part in many competitions in the 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. Marta is the artistic director of one the largest Schools of Oriental dance in Eastern Europe, “Tiara” and the ensemble “Tiara Stars”. She is recognized for her unique teaching method and clear and concise explanations, and regularly holds training workshops worldwide.In this interview you will learn about:- When are you ready to start teaching, - How to help your students develop teaching skills, and how not to be afraid of their transition to the teaching world, - What to do if your teacher doesn’t support your teaching dreams, - How to get ready for your first class, - The importance of business education for dancers, and tips on promoting your classes.Show Notes to this episode:Thank you for supporting the Belly Dance Life Podcast via our Patreon page!Follow Marta Korzun via Instagram, FB, Youtube. Marta’s educational video for bellydance teachers and dancers is available HERE. Also, check a previous interview with Marta at Ep 01. Marta Korzun: About Competitions and Individual StyleFollow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their new program and casting: bellydanceevolution.comPodcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

This is one of those episodes that I have marked as "must listen again"!Joana Saahirah is a world-renowned dancer, teacher and choreographer specialized in Egyptian Oriental and Folkloric dance, an actress and an author. After almost a decade of life and career in Egypt, presenting shows on a daily basis with her own orchestra, Joana has created a unique style of teaching, choreographing and performing that unites East and West. She has studied and worked as a choreography and teaching assistant with Mahmoud Reda, and studied with legends of Egyptian Oriental Dance, such as Shokry Mohamed, Souhair Zaki, Nagwa Fouad, Azza Sherif, and Mona el Said, just to name a few. She has also written and published two books: ”The Secrets of Egypt – Dance, Life & Beyond” and“Behind the Curtain”, among her other projects.In this interview you will learn about:- How Joana quit a promising acting career and became a belly dancer without even realizing it,- Why did she leave Egypt at the peak of her performance success,- What makes her think that Egyptian dance is a tool to reveal a person’s true dreams,- How to have a bigger vision for your dance career,- What is the balance between acting and being yourself on stage,- AND SO MUCH MORE!Show Notes to this episode:Thank you for supporting the Belly Dance Life Podcast via our Patreon page!Follow Joana Saahirah via Instagram, YouTube, FB, and www.joanasaahirah.com. Join Joana Saahirah´s World Newsletter, where you´ll receive news, inspirations, and gifts, and become a part of Egyptian Dance Revolution HERE.Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their new program and casting: bellydanceevolution.comPodcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Historian and musician Dr. George Sawa is the author of multiple books. He has published over 50 articles on Arabic music in journals and encyclopedias, and is frequently invited to give lectures and concerts worldwide. In 2005, he received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the Egyptian Ministry of Culture for his research in Arabic music history. His CD, The Art of the Early Egyptian Qanun, Vol. 1, was nominated for a JUNO Award in World Music in 2009. His Egyptian Music Appreciation and Practice for Bellydancers has won international acclaim and is an invaluable companion to bellydancers all over the world, having been translated to multiple languages.In this interview you will learn about:- Similarities and differences between Western and Arabic music in 10th century and now,- Different meanings of the term "tarab",- Why popular interpretation of muwashahat dance is wrong from a historical point of view,- What is maqam,- How to interpret and dance to different instruments in songs.Show Notes to this episode:Find Dr George Sawa on his website, YouTube, and FB. The video of Taheyya Carioca mentioned in the interview is available HERE.Find Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their new program and casting: bellydanceevolution.comPodcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Prof. Dr. Hassan Khalil lived in the time of the great oriental dancers like Naima Akeef, Samia Gamal, Tahiya Karioka, and even lived in the same neighbourhood with some of them. Later he also worked with Nagua Fuad and Suheir Zaki and many other famous dancers. He is a master teacher and choreographer for many of the most well known Oriental dancers all over the world. Khalil was the director of the Balloon Theatre, the general director of the Oum Kalsoum Theatre in Cairo, as well the general supervisor for folklore in the Ministry of Culture in Egypt. He is also the founder of the famous folk dance group, the National Ensemble of Egypt.In this interview you will learn about:- The nature and roots of dance itself,- Differences between Pharaonic and folklore dances of Egypt,- Influence of the Turkish Ottoman harems in oriental dance,- Behind-the-scene stories of the Golden Era period,- How the ancient history of this dance influence current belly dance trendsShow Notes to this episode:Find Prof Dr Hassan Khalil on his website, Instagram, and FB. Video about life and work of Prof Dr Hassan Khalil is available here.Find Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their new program and casting: bellydanceevolution.comPodcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

It’s a MINI episode!Short and sweet: today I’m sharing my key secret of growing an online audience, which doubled my Instagram in less than half a year.Show Notes to this episode:Download free tips for your 20-min belly dance program here: www.ianadance.com/podcast/tipsFind Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

Mario Kirlis is an Argentinian musician and composer that is known for his extensive work in Arabic Music. He has been a mentor for a number of South American musician and belly dancers to approach the Middle Eastern art, and he has inspired artists all across the world.In this interview you will learn about:- Mario Kirlis’s most memorable music-dance collaboration - The story of creating “modern baladi'“, also known as “Mario Kirlis baladi” - Most common mistakes dancers do in music interpretation - Logistics of directing a music orchestra - Why Arabic musicians never play a song the same way twiceShow Notes to this episode:Find Mario Kirlis on his website, Instagram, YouTube, and FB.Find Iana on Instagram, FB, Youtube, website .Bellydance Evolution and information about their new program and casting: bellydanceevolution.comPodcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast