| Bellydance By Helena Zahra |
| I had been browsing through a dance magazine when an article written by a famous dancer called my attention. The article was well written but its message is one that all dancers and anyone looking for an entertainer should consider. The message was this: It does not matter, necessarily, how long a dancer has studied. It is more important to know who the dancer has studied with, what the student has taken away from the experience and how they practice the techniques that were taught. I am happy to give credit to those who have taught me what I know today. I first learned with a dance instructor named Kate who had learned from Marika. Then went onto Shadia of Reading and then took instruction from Z-Helene of TX, Valerie Rushmere of Philadelphia, Fleur Frascella of Philadelphia, Azhia, Eva Cernik, Nursel from Turkey, Yasmin from D.C., Melina and Piper from daughters of Rhea and their mom, Rhea of Greece. I have just returned from studying and performing in Greece with Rhea. I have been working with Artemis Mourat the last four years and have been studying this dance form for the last eight years. Each of these women have defined who I am as a dancer today. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to study with each of them. |
Check out my articles that have been published in Zaghareet! magazine in August/September and October/November. The articles are enhanced with pictures taken by Audra Evans. |