Enter Into My World
I've been dancing with the mystical and divine my entire life.
Dance is engaging the senses. Dance is the eternal embrace; an encounter deep within—some call this connection to Goddess energy. Dance provides authentic connection to self, to community and to spirit.
For over 23 years I've immersed myself in classical belly dance, fusion and fire performance, bringing these movement styles to intimate restaurant settings, large festival stages and everything in between. I bring versatility, professionalism and artistry to every show. From glitz and glamour to the dark and mysterious. Feather fans to fire fans. Classical elegance to contemporary edge.
Beyond solo performance, I specialize in producing curated variety shows and cabarets. From the opulent and elegant to the mystical and mesmerizing, the events I produce are theatrical, captivating and memorable.
Training & Credentials
DanceCraft
I am a Certified DanceCraft Teacher, having completed extensive training in Zoe Jakes' systematic methodology for fusion belly dance.
With over 1,000 hours of private study, workshops and intensive training with Zoe, I've developed a deep understanding of the technical precision and creative artistry that defines this evolving dance form.
I have performed in Zoe's Coven Dance Company and House of Tarot for 10 years.
Salimpour
I'm also certified in the Salimpour Format (SL1 and JL1), a respected, rigorous and highly technical methodology founded by Jamila Salimpour and her daughter Suhaila Salimpour.
I continue to study with Janelle Rodriguez, a Level 5 Salimpour instructor and director of Desert Dream Dance Company in Santa Cruz—where I also teach classes and workshops.
Somatic Practices
Beyond dance, I spent 25 years at Esalen immersed in somatic practices, yoga and experiential process-oriented bodywork.
This background deeply informs my teaching—I understand movement not just as external technique but as internal experience, a pathway to greater body awareness and self-discovery.
Honoring the Roots of Belly Dance
I am a student of the rich cultural traditions from which belly dance emerged. This art form has its roots in the MENAHT (Middle Eastern, North African, Hellenic, Turkish) cultures that developed and refined these movements over centuries.
I practice and teach with deep respect and appreciation for the source cultures that gave birth to this dance. I am committed to ongoing learning, cultural awareness and honoring the traditions that make this art form possible.
I encourage all students to approach this dance and the cultures from which it emerged with curiosity, respect and appreciation.
What It's Like to Work with Me
In the Dance Studio
As a teacher, I'm collaborative, knowledgeable, and deeply invested in your growth. My approach is both technical and exploratory—I believe in building a strong foundation through systematic training while leaving space for creative expression and personal discovery.
I foster an inclusive, supportive environment where students feel safe to take risks, ask questions and develop at their own pace. While my teaching is quite technical, it's always in service of helping you find your own unique movement style.
On the Stage
Working with me for your event is fun, flexible, creative, and helpful. I'm collaborative—I'll work closely with you to understand your vision, your audience and your event's unique needs.
With expertise in multiple dance styles, I can adapt to different venues, audiences and aesthetic preferences. I bring professionalism and artistry to every performance.
For venues up to 250 people, I can also provide complete production support and equipment: sound, lighting, décor, etc. I'm knowledgeable about technical requirements, venue logistics and performance timing.
Simply put: I make the performance aspect of your event easy and unforgettable.
