About the Instructor

I started just like you. I saw an advertisement for a class and thought it sounded like fun. I was hooked from Day ONE! Since then I’ve been taking lessons off and on for over 10 years. I continue to take classes with as many instructors as I can. I’ve been teaching in Essex since January 2006. Bellydance has become a passion for me and I’ve learned that there is nothing as enjoyable as being able to share something you love with others.

I hope to see you soon. - A.

My Philosophy on Dance

Dancing should be fun. Yes it can be difficult, physically demanding and mentally challenging - but if you aren’t having fun - what’s the point?

With this in mind I try to make my classes as enjoyable as possible while providing a solid foundation in movement and technique. It takes time and practice to learn. If you are enjoying yourself you are more likely to put in the time and effort needed.

Continuing Dance Education

I love learning - I attend as many workshops as I can. I also spend a lot of time researching the history of bellydance and have been invited several times to speak on the subject. Want to talk history? I’d love to! Check out my new history page - just added.

Dance Workshops Attending/Attended

  • Carnival Mijnoon Summer Hafla - July 2010 ! Field Trip - some of my students are attending with me!
  • Detroit Raqs May 2010
  • Carnival Mijnoon Spring Hafla April 2010
  • Ishra’s Boa Burlesque Feb 2010
  • Sharon Kihara/Amel Tafsout April 2009
  • Valizan  April 2009
  • Great Lakes Belly Dance Conference November 2008
  • Meera July 2008
  • Kami Liddle May 2008
  • Audra Simmons February 2008
  • Princess Farhana June 2007
  • Ava Fleming April 2007
  • Aziza April 2006
  • Rachel Brice April 2006
  • Kaeshi Chai Nov 2005
  • Bozenka April 2005
  • Cassandra April 2005

 

Taking a Dance Name

Many dancers choose to perform under their own names. However, some like to choose something new, a little different, maybe something that is more in keeping with the dance style they prefer, reflects their personality or is simply more exotic. Choosing a dance name gives them the freedom to be an entirely different person on stage.

I have chosen a dance name. - Aiyanna.

There are different spellings and meanings for this name and mixed origins. Maybe that’s why I like it. The name is evolving just as my personal dance style is also.

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