Belly Dance by Sahira

Sahira - B.Kinesiology, B.Sc in Engineering, AFLCA, NCCP I & II

Sahira has performed at many venues in Calgary including Global Fest, IASEC events, Africa Days, and the Glenbow Museum's Egyptian Exhibit. She currently dances for private functions and hosts an annual dance show featuring the Shu'la Dance Ensemble.

Sahira has been an instructor of this beautiful artform since 1999. Her instruction includes detailed breakdown and progression of all movements for easier learning. Her curriculum has been designed to only include movements which are biomechanically safe, or have been modified to possess safe biomechanics, to ensure no harm to the body’s joints. Her solid technique and thorough knowledge of human anatomy allow her to give accurate instruction and feedback. Her background in fitness and human performance allow her to tailor the class to increase muscle strength and endurance as well as muscle tone. This knowledge also allows her to structure her classes to prevent and correct poor posture and muscle imbalances.

Sahira has studied from many different oriental dance artists, including 4 years of weekly classes with the internationally acclaimed Hadia. Her vast knowledge of oriental dance includes technique in Egyptian, Turkish, Greek, Tunisian folkloric, and Moroccan dance. Her Egyptian technique training includes Raks Esharqui, Raks Beledi, and Cane dance. Sahira continues to study with internationally renowned artists to continually further her growth as an artist, performer, and instructor.

Sahira's background in dancing, her knowledge of human biomechanics, and her experience in instructing make her an exceptional instructor of this beautiful art form.

Aramira

Aramira fell in love with dance at a young age and has dedicated herself solely to the beautiful art of Belly Dance since the summer of 2000. She is particularly fond of the earthy, sensual rhythms of Rom and the technical beauty of Oriental.

She has spent five years studying under Hadia, successfully completed her Level 1 Instructor Training and looks forward to finishing levels 2 and 3 when they are available.

She has been studying with Sahira since 2005 and been an active member of the Shu’la Dance Ensemble since its inception in 2007. Under Sahira and Hadia, Aramira is well versed in anatomy, body-conscious technique, proper posture and how to apply them to both dancing and teaching.

Aramira has also taken part in numerous workshops including, drumming, zill work, technique and choreography to broaden her experiences and has recently been fortunate enough to study with Hindy Haymour. She has explored Cane, Veil, Turkish, Rom, Greek, Folkloric, Raqs Esharki and Raqs Beledi.

Aramira has taken her study on the road as well, traveling to Turkey to further her studies and commune with a culture of dancers. She is dedicated to helping new dancers build a safe, solid and joyful base to use on their journey into the amazing world of this ancient dance form.