Vanessa of Cairo is an international performer, award-winning choreographer, and instructor specializing in Egyptian dance and folklore. A native Texan with a BFA in ballet, she honed her craft in New York City, studying with Broadway legends before moving to Egypt in 2008. As the first American woman to own a production company there, she performed and produced shows in Sharm El Sheikh and held a 30-month residency at Cairo's Sofitel El Gezirah. Vanessa has taught, performed, and judged competitions worldwide and is now the Artistic Director of Jawaahir Dance Company in Minneapolis, continuing to inspire students through classes, workshops, and her mentorship program, "Transform."

In this episode you will learn about:

• What is limiting your potential

• Vanessa’s decision to stay in the USA

• Learning at look at a bigger picture

• How to deal with criticism, rejection and self-doubt

• Mentorship program “Trasform”

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Veronika Shulkevich is a renowned Ukrainian belly dancer, choreographer, and educator from Odessa, celebrated for her contributions to oriental dance. Beginning her dance journey at a young age, she gained international recognition by winning numerous competitions and teaching at prestigious festivals like Ahlan Wa Sahlan in Egypt. As the founder of VEROSHDANCE, she trains aspiring dancers and conducts workshops all over the world, blending traditional and contemporary styles in her performances.

In this episode you will learn about:

• Teaching dance classes in Ukraine during the war time

• Managing her own clothing brand

• Working with professional models

• Tips for improvisation & improving musicality

• Veronika’s routine before going on stage

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Acia Legras comes from a family deeply rooted in the arts, having started her artistic career at a young age with the Folkloric Troupe of Réunion, which was directed by her family. This involvement allowed her to learn traditional dances like Séga and Maloya, as well as gain experience in various musical instruments native to her island. Her family's influence played a crucial role in shaping her passion for dance, particularly when she was introduced to authentic Egyptian folklore at just seven years old, sparking her lifelong dedication to belly dancing.

In this episode you will learn about:

• Childhood years in artistic family

• Touring and rehearsing shows vs attending regular school

• Finding passion with Egyptian dance

• Teaching postpartum dance classes

• Sharing her passion to dance with her own daughter and students.

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Cassandra Fox is a prominent Canadian belly dancer based in Ontario, Canada. She has garnered attention for her unique blend of belly dancing and Caribbean dance styles, reflecting her Jamaican heritage. Cassandra's early interest in dance led her to pursue a career that combines performance and education. She shares her passion through various platforms, including YouTube, Instagram and Patreon, where she posts videos showcasing her dance routines and offers tutorials on dance techniques and costume making. In addition to her dance career, Cassandra is known for her work as a costume maker, further enhancing her artistic expression in performances. Her vibrant dance style and engaging content have helped her build a significant following within the dance community.

In this episode you will learn about:

• Online boom during lockdown times

• Separating your dance activities from your self-identity

• Difficulties during a post-pregnancy recovery

• Dealing with a postpartum depression

• Approach to social media comments

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Zahra Zuhair is an internationally acclaimed performer, instructor, and choreographer celebrated for her authenticity, musicality, and dedication to Middle Eastern dance. With a foundation in raqs sharqi from a young age, she has studied extensively across North Africa and the Middle East, specializing in Egyptian dance with prominent teachers like Mahmoud Reda, Raqia Hassan, and Dina. Founder of the Ghazella Dance Company and PoNaNa Dance Theatre, Zahra has choreographed productions blending Middle Eastern stories and dance. She also co-founded DanceGardenLA studio and has led beloved retreats and study tours, fostering excellence in Oriental dance. Now based in Columbus, Ohio, Zahra continues to teach and inspire the global dance community.

In this episode you will learn about:

• Belly dance in the 1970 vs now

• How performance venues and audience influence the art

• Finding your personal voice in dance

• Interacting with trends in a healthy way

• Popularizing dance among kids

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Igor Kischka is a notable Brazilian belly dancer and choreographer, recognized for his vibrant performances and contributions to the art of belly dance. He has gained a reputation not only in Brazil but also internationally, showcasing his talent through various performances and workshops. In addition to performing, Igor Kischka is dedicated to teaching and sharing his knowledge of belly dance. He conducts workshops and classes that emphasize the importance of authenticity and personal expression in dance. His philosophy encourages dancers to stay true to themselves while exploring their artistic potential.

In this episode you will learn about:

• Dealing with body shaming

• Overcoming trauma and abuse influence

• Finding piece with your own mirror reflection

• Tips for teachers on how to approach students who don’t accept themselves

• Being vulnerable on stage

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Ciya, an artist since childhood, began her journey with ballet, later exploring circus arts and contortion. At sixteen, she discovered oriental dance, which became her true passion. Over her career, Ciya has performed at prestigious events, including for the Moroccan royal family and Gabon’s presidential family, and appeared in the film L'Immortel. She has danced with notable Parisian companies and created her own, Sheherazade’s, in 2009. Currently, she leads the Egypt'Ciya Ballet, selecting top dancers annually to represent her artistic vision. As a dedicated teacher, Ciya has run her own dance school, Espace R'Danses, in Montrouge since 2015, known for her technical focus and interactive, student-centered approach. Since 2012, she has also contributed to professional training at the Sultana Association, teaching aspiring instructors and expanding the reach of this rich dance form.

In this episode you will learn about:

• Pedagogy principles in dance

• How to get ready for the class

• Promoting belly dance classes and shows in France

• Changing stereotypical opinions about belly dance

• Coordinating dance groups

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Mahin is an internationally acclaimed dance educator, known for her expertise in Middle Eastern dance and her science-based approach to movement. She holds a B.S. in Exercise and Wellness from Arizona State University and is an ACSM Certified Personal Trainer, integrating her scientific knowledge of body mechanics into her dance instruction. Creator of the popular “Bellydance Quickies,” Mahin teaches workshops worldwide, weekly classes at her studio One World Dance & Music, and online. Celebrated for her musicality, classical technique, and exceptional zill playing, Mahin’s motto, “In the ears, out the hips,” reflects her deep connection to Arabic music and dance.

In this episode you will learn about:

• Different connection with the audience when performing at restaurant vs theatre

• Tips on how to overcome stage nervousness, and how to help your students

• Funny ‘disaster’ stories from performance experience

• The value of knowing how to make your own costumes

• Balancing teacher-student relationships

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Levana is an acclaimed Spanish belly dancer, performer, and instructor celebrated across Europe for her artistry and dedication to oriental dance. With over 20 years of experience, Levana’s background includes rigorous training in ballet and competitive gymnastics, which gives her an elegant, powerful presence on stage. She is not only recognized for her performances and teaching but also as the founder and organizer of the renowned Etoiles d'Orient festival in Palma de Mallorca, where she brings together top international talent in oriental dance each year. Levana’s work continues to elevate the art form, inspiring students and audiences alike in Spain and beyond.

In this episode you will learn about:

• Levana’s decision to become a full-time dancer

• Running a school and festival

• Bringing “Ukrainian” vibe to the competition

• Navigating stressful situations during the event

• Managing a team of people to work with

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Soraya Art Factory is a professional dancer, entrepreneur, and cultural mediator at Place des Arts in Montreal. She is celebrated for her vibrant energy, eclectic style, and professionalism. Soraya’s dance journey began in Morocco, where she took her first belly dance class in 2007. Inspired by Egyptian icons like Neima Akef, Tahia Carioca, Samia Gamal, Fifi Abdo, Dina, she pursued her passion for dance. In 2015, she left her law career to travel, share her love for dance, and train globally. Her unique style blends Afro, belly dance, salsa, and more, with a strong emphasis on musical interpretation. Today, she lives in Canada, continuing to share her passion for dance.

In this episode you will learn about:

• How Soraya started her dance journey back in Morocco

• Her experience of moving to a different country

• Learning different dance styles at the same time

• What is true body awareness during your dance

• Variety of Moroccan dances

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This is a best of episode! You will hear how various types of conditioning exercises are the integral part of their training.

You will hear from Hayal, Shahrzad, Jasirah, Dipika, Nabila and Heather (Henna) Louise.

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Check these full interviews with the podcast guests:

Ep 271. Hayal: Functional Training For Belly Dancers

Ep 214. Shahrzad: Changes in The Cairo Dance Life During The Last 4-5 Years

Ep 19. Jasirah: How to Practice on Your Own. Tips & Tricks

Ep 281. Dipika Vijay: Comparing Dance With Design And Geometry

Ep 105. Nabila: It's Never Too Late to Start and Succeed

Ep 291. Heather (Henna) Louise: Focus On The Experience You Wanna Have

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Christine “Shiraz” Şahin is a dance practitioner-scholar and ethnographer specializing in contemporary Egyptian raqs sharqi (“belly dance”) and other MENAT (Middle Eastern, North African, and Turkish) dance genres. She has a Ph.D. in Critical Dance Studies from the University of California, Riverside, and a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from the University of Delaware, and  is currently serving as Acting Assistant Professor of Dance in the Department of Dance at the University of Washington in Seattle. She also specializes in geriatric fitness and mind-body wellness. Her research has been published in Kohl: A Journal for Gender and Body Research.

In this episode you will learn about:

• Christine’s book “Core Connections. Cairo Belly Dance in the Revolution's Aftermath”

• Belly dance as a tool of empowerment

• The influence of 2011 revolution on the dance scene in Egypt

• Strong connections between art and politics

• How you can support Palestine

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Amina Goodyear began her performance career in the mid-60's at the Bagdad Cabaret dancing nightly in San Francisco's North Beach district during that city's golden era of Middle Eastern dance and until the Arabic clubs closed in that area. She founded her dance company, The Aswan Dancers, in 1975, and celebrates over 40 years of continuous performance and entertainment. She also founded the Cairo Cats, now a percussion ensemble led by her daughter Susu Pampanin, among many other music and percussion projects. Amina was inducted into the American Academy of Middle Eastern Dance (AAMED) Hall of Fame with a Lifetime Achievement award in New York in 1994. She also received a Humanitarian Award in 2001 from MECDA, a Lifetime Achievement award in 2003 from BDUC in Long Beach and a Lifetime Achievement award  in 2015 from Isis and the Belly Dance Chronicles in Texas.

In this episode you will learn about:

• Belly dance realities of 1960s

• Learning to dance under the guidance of musicians

• Giza Club project

• Sexualization of belly dancers now and before

• Biggest changes in belly dance industry over the last 60 years

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Aleksandra Kilczewska, known by her stage name "Apsara Afsanera," is a dancer, choreographer, and alternative model based in Warsaw. She is a pioneer in her country, specializing in Persian dance as well as other Silk Road styles, including Uzbek, Tajik, Afghan, Azeri, and Uyghur dance. In addition to her expertise in these forms, she is also a skilled Tribal Belly dancer. Before delving deeply into Silk Road dances, Apsara trained extensively in various Indian dance styles and has a strong foundation in ballet, modern, jazz, and contemporary dance techniques. She continuously seeks to create her unique form of expression by blending these diverse techniques, drawing inspiration from music, poetry, literature, and film.

In this episode you will learn about:

• Historical connections between Persian and Georgian dances

• Types of Georgian dance

• Benefits of training in various dance style

• The psychology of teaching kids vs seniors

• University degree for dancers

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Saida, born to Syrian parents in Buenos Aires, Argentina, immersed herself in classical dance from 1983 to 1991, training with esteemed masters like Olga Ferri and Ricardo Rivas. In 1991, she embraced Arabic dance, studying under Amir Thaleb’s guidance and performing with the Arabian Dance Company, where she became the principal dancer for over a decade. In 1994, Saida established her own belly dance school. By 2004, she joined the Bellydance Superstars for a major U.S. tour, thanks to an invitation from producer Miles Copeland. Collaborating with Mario Kirlis, she released two acclaimed instructional DVDs in 2005 and 2007. In 2008, UNESCO's International Dance Council honored her as Argentina's best Arabic dance performer.

In this episode you will learn about:

• How she met Amir Thaleb

• Starting her teaching career by hosting classes at her mom’s house

• Incredible collaboration with Mario Kirlis

• Saida’s experience at Bellydance Superstars

• Dealing with criticism and negative feedback

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Warda is a choreographer, instructor, and performer of oriental dance and folklore styles with 13 years of experience. She has organized over 15 international events and excursions to the Middle East, making her a key figure in Bulgaria's belly dance events. With performance experience in both Bulgaria and Egypt, she is deeply connected to Oriental culture, speaks Arabic, and offers workshops across the world. In 2017, Warda launched the international festival HEZZ YA WEZZ in Sofia. She established her dance school in 2018 and has taught and judged at various international festivals. In 2021, she fulfilled her dream of teaching at Egyptian festivals, and in 2022, she performed in Egypt and appeared in a music video for Mahmoud El Esseily.

In this episode you will learn about:

• Studying the Arabic language, and different dialects of Arabic

• Does age make difference in belly dance career

• How folklore dances are different from oriental

• Most important qualities the event organizer must have

• Warda’s experience of living and working in Egypt

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Roula Said is a multifaceted artist of Palestinian heritage based in Toronto, Canada. She is a singer, dancer, musician, actor, and poet, renowned for her distinctive contributions to the world and fusion music scenes. As an Arabic musician, Roula sings and plays the qanun. One of her notable projects is "Om Laila: Bellydance for Body and Soul," a holistic system for bellydance instruction. After more than 30 years of teaching Middle Eastern dance, she has distilled her extensive experience into a suite of offerings rooted in tradition and focused on what she calls Embodied Soul Attunement.

In this episode you will learn about:

• Incredible story of the universe guided Roula to the world of belly dance

• Dealing with constant pain during dancing activities

• Healing trauma and blocks through belly dance

• The concept of movement embodiment and seven waves

• How to find joy during dark times

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Brenda, born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, discovered her passion for dance at age 3, mastering Italian and Argentinian folklore, Salsa, Tango, Jazz, and later Raks Sharki. At 17, she starred at the prestigious "Al Shark" restaurant in Argentina for five years. After earning her Oriental Dance Professor Certification from Amir Thaleb’s School, Brenda's popularity soared, leading to TV appearances and international teaching engagements. In 2014, she was chosen for the Egyptian TV show "Al Rakesa." Her success in the Middle East prompted her move to Egypt, where she performed in top venues and appeared in movies and music videos. Since 2018, Brenda has released her own bellydance music. In 2022, she published "Belly Dance in Cairo," a guide for dancers and those wanting to live in Egypt. Currently, Brenda continues teaching and performing at major festivals, living between Italy and Egypt.

In this episode you will learn about:

• Brenda’s decision to change her lifestyle in Cairo

• Her move to Italy and how she continues her career in Egypt

• Health and nutrition tips

• The difference between teaching and performing activities

• Brenda’s current dreams and aspirations

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Sometimes it is beneficial to step aside, and dive into a different dance genre. Let’s discuss how exploring variety of dance forms can enrich and improve your belly dance.

Show Notes to this episode:

Follow Iana on Instagram, FB, and Youtube . Join the Iana Dance Club to have access to the Apsara Dream intensive mentioned in the episode.

Details and training materials for the BDE castings are available at www.JoinBDE.com

Find information on how you can support Ukraine and Ukrainian belly dancers HERE.

Podcast: www.ianadance.com/podcast

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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 shoots

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