Shazia

Originally from England, Shazia’s interest in performing began with ballroom dance. While travelling and living in the Middle East, she developed an instant love of belly dance. She eventually settled in Knoxville and began studying in earnest with Sabylla and Shahira of Knoxville. Like her teachers, Shazia has found herself strongly influenced by the Ibrahim Farrah style of movement and choreography, in both the Oriental and folkloric styles for which he is known. Encouraged by her mentors, and in the interest of improving her own technique and style, Shazia has continued to seek out instruction from master teachers, including:

Aziza of Canada

Karim Nagi

Jehan Kamal

Momo Kadous

Yousry Sharif

Samara

Linda Riyad

Gina of Atlanta

David of Scandinavia

Shahira

Sabylla

With the members of Albi Belly Dance, and as a soloist, Shazia has performed at many events, such as birthday parties, weddings, community events, costume balls and haflas. Additionally, she has participated in cultural performances and lectures at local universities, galleries and museums. She loves incorporating her personality and dramatic flair to create a dynamic, memorable performance, and is skilled in the use of several props such as sword, wings of Isis, cane and fan-veils.

Shazia’s greatest joy is in sharing her love and passion for Middle Eastern dance, and seeing an audience charmed and engaged with this beautiful art form. She is exceedingly passionate about her role as an ambassador of this dance, preserving a piece of Middle Eastern art without compromising its cultural integrity.