Click a button below to read a short biography of your favorite belly dancer or discover a new teacher. Each bio page has links to instructional DVDs and online courses from the dancer.
But first here are some remarkable dancers who have left their indelible mark on the world stage. From the ancient corridors of the Middle East to modern stages around the globe, these belly dancers have shaped the art and culture of their times.
1. Badia Masabni (1892–1974): Hailing from Lebanon, Badia Masabni is often referred to as the “Mother of Modern Belly Dance.” She opened the iconic nightclub “Casino Badia” in Cairo, Egypt, which served as a hub for dance, music, and entertainment. Badia fostered a fusion of Western and Middle Eastern dance styles, nurturing the careers of numerous dancers and musicians.
2. Samia Gamal (1924–1994): Samia Gamal, an Egyptian dancer and actress, graced the silver screen with her elegance and charisma. Her exquisite performances in films like “Aida” and “Doa al Karawan” brought belly dance to international attention, contributing to its popularity worldwide. Her graceful and emotive style made her an icon of the Golden Age of Egyptian Cinema.
3. Tahia Carioca (1919–1999): Another luminary of Egyptian cinema, Tahia Carioca, known as the “Queen of Egyptian Dance,” was celebrated for her vibrant and joyful performances. Her charismatic presence and dynamic movements solidified her status as one of the most beloved belly dancers of her time.
4. Nagwa Fouad (1937–2021): Renowned for her versatility and innovation, Nagwa Fouad elevated belly dance to new heights. From folkloric-inspired dances to modern choreography, her ability to adapt and experiment showcased her mastery of the art. She contributed significantly to reshaping the landscape of Egyptian dance.
5. Fifi Abdou (born 1953): Fifi Abdou, an Egyptian dancer and actress, is a living legend in the belly dance world. Her magnetic performances, coupled with her dynamic stage presence, have earned her an enduring place in the hearts of audiences. She’s known for her fusion of classical and contemporary elements.
6. Suhaila Salimpour (born 1953): Hailing from a family of dance innovators, Suhaila Salimpour is a prominent figure in the fusion belly dance scene. She developed the “Salimpour Format,” a rigorous training system that fuses traditional belly dance with modern techniques. Her contributions have elevated belly dance’s technical precision and choreographic complexity.
7. Shakira (born 1977): While not a traditional belly dancer, Shakira’s fusion of belly dance with pop music has introduced the art form to a global audience. Her iconic performances, notably in the music videos for songs like “Hips Don’t Lie,” have showcased the allure and vibrancy of belly dance on the international stage.
8. Randa Kamel (born 1974): Randa Kamel, an Egyptian dancer, is celebrated for her impeccable technique and improvisational skills. She has an innate ability to convey emotion through her movements, making her performances captivating and deeply expressive.
9. Jillina Carlano (born 1973): A prominent figure in the contemporary belly dance world, Jillina Carlano is known for her fusion of traditional Middle Eastern dance with modern influences. Her dynamic choreography and theatrical productions have pushed the boundaries of belly dance, captivating audiences globally.
10. Amar Gamal (born 1977): Amar Gamal is an American belly dancer of Egyptian heritage who has gained international recognition for her skillful fusion of traditional and contemporary dance styles. Her performances emphasize storytelling and emotional expression, adding depth to her artistry.
These belly dancers, each with their unique style and contributions, have played an integral role in shaping the evolution of belly dance. Their dedication, creativity, and ability to captivate audiences have left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire dancers and enthusiasts across the world..