Aziza

Aziza is an outstanding Oriental dance performer and instructor based in Portland, Oregon. She has been dancing since age three with a strong background in classical ballet. After twelve years of ballet, Aziza began experimenting with other dance forms including African, modern, lyrical jazz, and Tahitian. In 1988 she was introduced to Middle Eastern dance and found it to be an ideal medium. Since that time Aziza has devoted her life to learning, performing, and sharing this ancient dance form. Recently, Aziza traveled to Egypt to perform and study with master teacher Raqia Hassan. Aziza now travels and performs professionally throughout the United States, Mexico, Canada, and Europe. The fluidity and grace of Aziza's movements teamed with seemingly impossible hip locks, endless shimmies, creative veil work, and a captivating smile have earned her accolades world wide. She competes regularly and holds claim to these titles:

• 2002 Belly Dancer of the Year Competition, 1st Place
• 2002 Belly Dancer of the Universe Competition, 1st Place
• 2001 Entertainer of the Year. Reno, Nevada.
• 2001 Best Soloist
• 1998 Miss Bellydance USA
• 1995 Queen of the Bellydance

Aziza's special rapport with her audience keeps her in high demand. Her tasteful, enthusiastic style brings something special to any occasion. Aziza has bookings ranging from weddings to conventions, intimate parties to large gatherings. Aziza has also enjoyed giving her time and talent to many charity functions including; American Diabetes Association, Cascade AIDS Project, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Human Rights Campaign Fund, and others.

Not only a dynamic solo performer, Aziza also enjoys performing with her troupe, Banat Al Fez. This award winning troupe is a collaborative effort between Aziza and her longtime students, Magita Wahab and Vashti.

Together they perform regularly at corporate events, private parties, and bellydance community functions.

Aside from performing, Aziza brings a bounty of experience and many influences to her teaching style. Although she specializes in performance technique, her clear, concise teaching methods utilizing visuals can be applied to any level of dancer, from beginning to professional. As student Diana Vasilouskous says, "A class with Aziza is time and money very well spent!"

Testimonials

"Aziza's warmup is not to be missed. She taught creative veil techniques last year that are my favorite moves. I can't wait to take her class this year." -Terri Story

"WOW! Aziza is the quintessential bellydancer. Her spectacular performances are matched only by her warm, humble personality." -Maeve