Coming from a background in instrumental and vocal music and dance styles for the musical theatre, Phaedra Darwish was mesmerized by belly dancing and Arabic music after studying different types of dance from around the world. She now regularly performs and teaches workshops and classes in Chicago, hoping to spread enthusiasm and respect for Middle Eastern dance as more and more people get acquainted with its health benefits and enchanted by its beauty.
www.BellydanceByPhaedra.com for pics, videos, and class/performance schedule
With its lively music and rich historic tradition, belly dancing, otherwise known as oriental dance or raqs sharqi, brings with it more than just dance moves. By examining the music, regions, and cultural aspects behind the movement in her classes and performing Arabic dance at a professional level both inside and outside of its traditional environment, Phaedra seeks to fulfill her mission as an artist: to increase cultural awareness, appreciation, and understanding by sharing the dances of her heritage with as large a population as possible.
For weekly belly dancing classes in Chicago, see current schedule of classes at BellydanceByPhaedra.com.
