SAHARA DANCE RESIDENT TEACHER; RAQS SAHARA MEMBER

Julie is a professional belly dance performer, teacher, and member of Raqs Sahara. Before undertaking her journey into belly dance, she studied and performed Latin and ballroom dances as well as Mexican folklore for several years. During that time she also developed a strong foundation in music. Inspired by her Lebanese heritage Julie commenced her belly dance studies in Mexico in 2004 where she found a passion and started her soloist formation under Dinarza. After arriving in the US, Julie found a new source of joy and inspiration in Sahara Dance, where she continued her studies with Rachel Kay Brookmire and the Sahara Dance Community.

Julie has more than 12 years of experience teaching belly dance. She has taught Oriental style, props, and Latin Fusion and has performed at several events in Mexico, and the DC area. She is also proficient with zills, cane, veil, fan veil, Isis Wings, poi veil, and sword.

She feels passionate about both the Egyptian style and fusion belly dance and has studied with renowned artists of both styles like Yousry Sharif, Virginia, Aziza of Cairo, Sahra Saeeda, Sadie Marquardt, Jillina, Karim Nagi, Bozenka, Amar Gamal, Ansuya, Petite Jamilla, Sonia Ochoa, Zoe Jakes, Rachel Brice, Amy Sigil, and Kami Liddle. Julie has also studied other dance forms like flamenco under Estela Veléz.

She finds in belly dance the most graceful and beautiful way of feminine expression. It represents a great source of personal and collective joy. She expects to transmit this joy to her audience and students.