Interview with Elena

February 12, 2009 09:57 AM

Name: Elena

What is your role within the Sahara Dance community? Company Member, Studio Assistant

Childhood ambition: To be a performing artist! :)

First job: Front desk person and aerobics instructor at Body Works Fitness Studio, Ann Arbor, Michigan.

What’s playing on your iPod or CD player? Let it Rock - new Kevin Rudolf CD. Love it.

Indulgence: Beaches. Definitely. Oh - and Andre Chreky Salon Spa. I could spend an entire day there spoiling myself.

What’s your favorite belly dance moment or experience? Wow, that’s a tough one - there are many! I will never forget my first show (UDM 2007). As far as a challenge? Definitely balancing a sword and playing zills at the same time. Most memorable? Probably our Raqs West candle piece. I really felt connected to the entire group. One more - my first time in Repertoire - UDM 2008. I was in the front row for a very difficult piece and I was terrified! But I did it, and it felt great. It was the first time my smile came naturally to me. :)

Current inspirations: I like all types of music - surprisingly, not all of it is belly dance inspired. I love rock and heavy metal - (yes, please laugh!) and often that is what is on my play list on my iPod. I am always inspired by any type of dance, I love all of it. I am mesmerized by a talented artist - whether it be music, dance, voice, or even artwork. I am known to wander around museums - impressionism and photography are my favorites. All of that said, my biggest inspiration is taking care of myself. Whether it be working out, sleeping in, eating well, or just a yoga class, hot bath, or a glass of wine, I always try to make that a priority.

How did you get interested in belly dance? I was salsa dancing, and I wanted to perform! It was difficult to find a partner that would commit to frequent practices, so I thought … what type of dance could I do solo? Belly dance came to mind. My mother used to take me to many performances when I was little. So - I Googled “belly dance washington dc” and Sahara came up.

What is your dance background? I started teaching fitness and aerobics classes when I was 15. I also took gymnastics, ice-skating, and jazz dance lessons. I have taught fitness classes for about 17 years. I just started belly dance with Sahara in 2006.

Finally, what do you love most about Sahara Dance (other than Hip Talk, of course!)? Sahara is a wonderful community filled with fabulous, talented people and, most importantly, positive energy. I feel blessed to have been a part of all of it these past few years. It has inspired me as a person and as an artist.

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