This page has been updated multiple times and will continue to change. Expressing how I feel about myself and the message I want to convey is not easy. I am passionate about creating moments of beauty, health, empathy, and authentic connections with women who are curious about this style of dance. I find all bodies fascinating, especially those of older women, as they embody a richness that inspires me.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I fell in love with Raqs Sharqi (Middle Eastern dance, particularly the Egyptian style) in London during the late ’80s, influenced by one of the most extraordinary dancers I have ever met: the avant-garde artist Suraya Hilal. She was a pioneer in the study of Raqs Sharqi in Europe, bringing the dance to concert stages accompanied by a full orchestra, the Layaly ElSharq Ensemble, while living between Cairo and London. This experience provided a profound cultural immersion in the heart of Egyptian dance and music. Learning in that vibrant environment, performing, and engaging with both musicians and dancers gave me a solid foundation and a deep love for the essence of this dance. The company toured extensively across the UK and Europe for two years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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I would like every human being to dance, not to become a dancer but to dance.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Rudolf Nureyev<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Dance:<\/strong> Joy and health through movement<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Raqs Sharqi , <\/em>literally translated as Dances of the Orient <\/em>has ancient roots: originally dance was meant as a form of celebration, rite and prayer. However, despite its cultural bonds with the Middle East, anybody can open up to the language of Raqs Sharqi<\/em> by tuning in to our heartbeat and the joy of the body moving. The movements are natural and available to all body forms, backgrounds and ages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n My story: from dance to yoga and non-violent communication<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n I love to build a relationship of connection, inclusion and mutual trust with my students, where everybody feels welcome and can open up to the experience of movement as a path of joy, growth and healing. With several years of diverse artistic experiences, I have shaped my unique way of working and dancing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Raqs Sharqi<\/em> ignited a flame in my heart and soul, thanks to the extraordinary encounter with the great avant-garde artist Suraya Hilal<\/em>, and her company of outstanding musicians living between London, Cairo and Alexandria. The force of their art opened up in me a deep love for this dance, and music in their authentic roots far from clich\u00e9s and commercialisations. With Suraya Hilal, I became part of her company of dancers and musicians, a pioneering project in Europe and we toured majour venues in the UK.<\/p>\n\n\n\n