Helena Zahra

About

Helena Zahra as a belly dance performer and instructor. Belly dance is the American word used to describe the art of Raks Sharki also known as Oriental Dance or Middle Eastern Dance. In dance class, you will learn the basic movements of this ancient art form and it's ethnic origins. Women of all ages and body types are encouraged to attend. Please bring a scarf or shawl that can be tied around your waist. Wear comfortable clothing. Shoes are not necessary. Lessons typically run in 8 week sessions. Private lessons are available for advanced students only. Classes are taught at Louise Lamar Dance studio and The Route 10 Body Shoppe.

I am happy to give credit to those who have taught me what I know today. I first learned from two instructors that had studied with Marika-Kate and Shadia. Then I took several seminars with:
Z-Helene- TX, Valerie Rushmere- Philadelphia, Fleur Frascella-
Philadelphia, Azhia, Eva Cernik-CO, Nursel- Turkey, Yasmin- D.C.,
Drago, and Melina and Piper from daughters of Rhea. I have
studied privately with and performed in Greece with Rhea. I have
been working intensively with Artemis Mourat the last nine years
and this past year, have begun to work privately with Anahid Sofian-NY. I
have been studying this dance form for the last ten years.

My most memorable accomplishments are: having written two publishes articles for Zhagareet magazine (am exclusive belly dance magazine on the East coast), having performed in several restaurants and Kristo's night club in Greece, and being featured on Channel 69 news this New Year's and a NY TV show called "Spiritual Explorations".

Helena can be seen performing regularly at the Aladdin Restaurant in West Reading and the Casablanca Restaurant Warrington PA.

Influences

I have worked for years in the Renaissance circuit and so I am a very improvised dancer. This is where my experience with audience participation and interaction has been honed. Also, it is where I learned and practiced all of my stunt tricks.
As a professional belly dance artist, I have studied with all those who have influenced me. I enjoy the energy, laughter, and the life that this dance form has to offer. I am always studying and so new elements are added to my act all of the time. Currently, I am learning more of the folkloric dances of the Middle East. :)

What to Expect

Typical Gig Duration: 20 - 60 minutes

Hello there! Audience interaction and participation are both essential for a fun show that will enhance every party. I like to make people laugh and so there are small little "belly dancer party tricks" if you will, that I do during the course of my show. If there is a fun loving birthday guy, I can dress him up as a sultan and get him to do a few moves. Sweet 16 or Quinceanera? Then I would put a hip scarf on the birthday girl and have her and her friends on the dance floor showing off their new moves. Special event? I will custom tailor the show to meet your needs.
I am very easy to work with. I just need to room to freshen up in (or change in, in the case of a fire show). I am told that I am a very classy dancer. I do believe that this dance is sensual enough and so I like to make people smile and have fun.
I do splits and Turkish drops during my act. I also have experience dancing with many different props. These include but are not limited to: dancing on water glasses, cane dance, balancing two swords while dancing, playing zills and dancing, dancing with a veil and or Wings of Isis, candles, candle tray, fire fans, snakes...and more!
No hablo mucho espanol. Solamente un pequito.

Additional Notes:
Surface: The flatter the surface, the easier to dance on and therefore, the more I can do during the show. No worries, if the surface is less than flat, I can work around that. I need to know the type of surface I will be dancing upon so that I wear the appropriate footwear.
Space: I can dance on a "postage stamp" but the act would be limited. I have experience with every from small spaces to stage shows.
Music: Please let me know if you would like me to bring my own sound system. I do have one available. I am not IPod capable at this time. I burn my music onto Cds.
Ceilings: Please let me know how high or low the ceilings are in my performance space. This helps me to plan out balancing acts and wings of Isis or water glass dancing. I am 5'9" and so anything on my head, adds to my height.LOL!
Conduct: I am used to cheeky audience members and so I will work around them accordingly. If there is alcohol at your gathering, please be sure to keep an eye on inebriated guests. I do not touch anyone during my act. If someone would like to tip me, they may do so in the side of my belt, arm band, or they may just hand it to me. Tips are greatly appreciated.
Costuming: Let me know if there is a color theme to your event,I will do my best to match my costuming! If there are children involved or if your guests are of a more conservative nature, I do have very conservative costuming to fulfill your request.

Set/Song/Sequence List:
I have three types of show that I offer: Renaissance themed shows where I dress like a gypsy dancer, typical belly dance shows, and fire shows. There is a list of props on my home page and on my website. You may choose from any that are listed. I custom tailor the shows to meet your expectations!

Available for Your

Anniversary Party, Awards Night, Bachelorette Party, Bar/Bat Mitzvah Party, Bar/Lounge, Birthday Party, Casino, Casting Call, Club/Nightclub, Competition, Concert Venue, Convention, Corporate Event, Dinner Dance, Ethnic Celebration, Festival, Fundraiser, Graduation, Grand Opening, Hotel, Launch Party, Private Party, Prom, Restaurant, Sporting Event, Studio Session, Trade Show, Wedding Reception

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