A little about...

A graceful and skilled performer, known for her intriguing approaches, precise delivery and commanding stage presence, Amira's successes in this beautiful dance form have been rich and many. A groundbreaker and innovater, Amira combines a strong technical mastery with a true passion for her art.

Her first encounter with the art of Middle Eastern Dance came, ironically, not at the usual restaurant or ‘Arabian nights’ party, but in the midst of Professor Phillip Tobias’s now renowned lecture on ‘The Anatomy of Human Poise, Motion and Skill’. Inspired both by the dancers there, and the graceful on-screen artistry of Mayte Garcia, it wasn't long before she began to study this ancient art for herself.

 Like so many girls before her, Amira had studied Ballet, Modern and Tap dancing, all of which today continue to contribute their enriching influences to her performance style. Seeking more freedom of expression and movement, she has also studied and performed Flamenco and classical Spanish dance and Irish traditional step dancing at championship level. Additionally, she has studied in the arts of drama, theatrecraft and stage management, making a solid art background and potent performance combination. 

 With an established dance background and a natural passion Amira learnt quickly, and in addition to the skills and training provided by her first teacher, has studied her art further whenever the opportunities presented. To her delight, many have, both among South Africa's finest dancers as well as the unparalleled opportunity of further tutelage under several of New York and California’s Master teachers, including the ever-graceful Tanna of New York and the much esteemed Cory Zamora- to whom she remains grateful for expert tuition in the arts of floor and balance work as well as performance. Additionally, she has attended workshops, seminars and lectures with many notable names in both the Tribal and Raks Sharki fields. [For futher information on the inspirational dancers who have helped her master her art, please contact us below for her full resume.] She continues to further her knowledge and skills whenever opportunities arise, always striving  for personal development.

 Amira is skilled in multiple fire and belly dance props, with a signature sword style that is easy to recognise. She has made the often neglected art of floor work another specialty, and has also hosted her ever-popular workshops on the subject nationally and internationally. She has become a pioneer of the tribal belly dance style in South Africa, establishing one of Gauteng's first tribal performance groups, where she hopes to blend the disciplines of this form of belly dance with the passionate beats and influences of music and dance from her own homeland for a new and unique fusion flavor. Amira's continuing focus is on the evolution and development of her art for the 21st century audience, whilst making certain never to lose sight of the roots and rich history that helped form this captivating art.

Her performance troupe, In Harem's Way, have had much success in both local and international appearances, and she and IHW have fast become features of the South African belly dance scene. Their performances have been enjoyed by many, including the ambassadors of three Middle Eastern countries and South Africa's own beloved Madiba. They are known for their style, grace and passion, alongside the daring choreographic twists and slick routines that are  Amira's hallmark as a choreographer.

  In 2003, almost at its inception, Amira became part of the fledgling examination system for belly dance in South Africa, completing the B.D.A.S.A.’s teacher training and becoming accredited with national dance authority, the South African Dance Teacher's Association. The following year, she opened her own studio, where it is her privilege and joy  to pass on the techniques of this marvelous dance form to other women.