Najia Marlyz

Najia Marlyz is likely the most profound and influential mentor and advisor I have experienced in dance. A master of the art of Raqs Sharqi (Eastern Dance), Najia's impact and influence can be witnessed in many of the bay area's (and beyond) best dancer's performances.  A legend herself, Najia is a highly sought after instructor and dance coach.  She is truly a pioneer of the art, as well as a veteran of the famous North Beach Belly dance scene in San Francisco, CA.  Full of information, wit, grace, style and poise and just good old fashioned horse-sense, I strongly recommend Najia's wisdom to anyone seriously persuing a career in Middle Eastern Dance.  Najia is also a trusted voice in the dance community, and serves as an advisor and columnist for Gilded Serpent magazine.  Her articles are truly informative, educational and entertaining! 



Lynette Harris

Lynette, also arguably my most profound mentor in dance, and also a former student of Najia Marlyz, introduced me to Middle Eastern Dance in my late teens.  She is responsible (whether or not she likes it) for opening this door and I remind her regularly.  A wonderful person and brilliant mentor, Lynette is a gifted dancer as well.  We both share a love for snakes and strive to correct public misperception about them.  Lynette is the Editor/Publisher of Gilded Serpent Magazine - the leading voice of the Middle Eastern Dance community.  Her magazine is a MUST READ for the most current information on the world of "Belly dance", and her writing is top notch.




Bert Balladine

How can one discuss Middle Eastern dance without discussing Bert Balladine?  Bert's influence in the world of "Belly dance" is like thick honey on baklava, or the scent of a rose and permiates throughout the art.  The mentor of my mentors, I have had the sheer priveledge of several workshops with Bert over the years and many entertaining conversations about the history of this style of dance as well as where it may be going.  Bert is especially skilled at bringing out a woman's inner beauty.  I pretty much consider him the Father of "Belly dance" in the USA - that is what he means to me.  Legend...hands down.  Bert is a also a contributing force to the Gilded Serpent Magazine.