Katayoun Belly Dancer from Sterling, VA

Katayoun is a master instructor and professional performer of authentic Egyptian dance and the Persian dances of her Iranian heritage. She is especially known for her elegant and expressive dance style and dazzling technique! She is among the region's most experienced and expert Middle Eastern and belly dance instructors. She performs for exclusive events and select audiences as a soloist and with Troupe Eshveh, a professional dance ensemble who specialize in contemporary folkloric dance from the Egyptian and Persian cultural traditions. An engaging speaker and performer, Katayoun's performances are educational and entertaining, delighting audiences of all ages and backgrounds. She is available to speak and perform at your special events, including: Multicultural Festivals Women's Specialty Events Exclusive Gatherings and Private Events Networking and Professional Galas Social and Community Service Clubs Wedding Receptions and Holiday Celebrations Gallery Events and Grand Openings With a special interest in expanding the number of venues and types of events where Middle Eastern dance is presented, Katayoun creates a performance tailored to the audience and occasion, particularly for performances in educational and arts venues/events, corporate functions, and other large or upscale events. What can you expect from Katayoun's performance? Expect a polished, artistic, entertaining, and inspiring presentation of authentic Middle Eastern dance; an elegant and expressive performer, Katayoun's show will engage audiences of all ages and backgrounds. A respected member of the Middle Eastern dance community, Katayoun's expressive dance style is often described as elegant and earthy, powerful yet subtle with perfect musicality and interpretation: FEEDBACK "There it is! Real pure Egyptian dance - perfect!" Diana, audience member. "Organizations who are fortunate enough to secure you for a speaking engagement will be overjoyed with your presentation!" J. Nichols, Tiraz Dance Network "I have enjoyed your performances beyond words." Thomas, audience member OTHER PROGRAM OFFERINGS In addition to the following programs, Katayoun will tailor performances to your specific event. Dances of 1001 Nights (all ages) Go inside the imagination of Shahrzad, the Persian Princess who told stories to the Sultan Shahriar. She weaved tales of love, courage, fun and frolic to save her own life and break the spell Shahriar was under. She is known as the greatest storyteller of all time, but she was an equally captivating dancer. This program explores Shahrzad's stories through dance instead of words. Egypt Raqs(Rocks)! (all ages) From the time of the Pharaohs to modern day, dance and music have always been an integral part of Egyptian life. The Arabic word for dance is "Raqs" pronounced roughly as 'ROCKS.' Aside from fun play-on words, "Egypt Raqs" is a medley of dances which span the Arab world and culminates in modern-day Cairo, the cultural capital of the Middle East. A Medley of Persian Dances (all ages) Persian dances are characterized by the distinctive movements of the upper body, particularly the hands, arms and face. Once a revered and highly respected activity, Persian classical dance is an endangered art form. As the original form faded into the pages of untold history during the Arab-Islamic conquest, its essence was preserved in the social and folklore dances of the Iranian people. The classical form was reconstructed from a shared aesthetic vision. This program shows the diverse and beautiful dances of Iran, the country formerly known as Persia.