Memphis
Raqs is a bellydance company that specializes in tribal fusion bellydance.
We are the only tribal fusion bellydance company in Memphis, Tennessee!
The
word raqs (pronounced rocks) is an Arabic term that roughly translates
to dance. The traditional term for the dance Americans have
come to known as "bellydance" is Raqs Sharqi, which means Dance
of the East.
Memphis
Raqs combines elements of traditional Middle Eastern, North African, and
Asian dance with a modern, urban American flair.
Member
Bios
 |
Nicci
Assistant Instructor
I picked up bellydancing as a way to exercise
and learn something new and eclectic. At the first class I wasn't
sure what to expect - would it be weird, silly, ridiculous and embarrassing?
To my happy surprise, it was none of these things.
Tribal fusion bellydance is artful, creative,
fun and addicting! It's a unique and beautiful dance I'm glad I discovered.
Going to class and performing at events is a great way to escape from reality
and just be yourself. |
|
Sherry
Instructor
I started taking
bellydancing classes to lose weight and stay fit but found so much more.
It has given me a boost in self confidence and a new sense of womanhood.
I have found bellydancing to be a great hobby that helps you forget about
everything else going on in your life and think about nothing but using
isolated body movements.
|
|
Liz DiMaggio
Troupe director, Head Instructor
I created Memphis Raqs in
2006 with the goal of promoting the joy of tribal style bellydance in the
Midsouth. By carrying on the dance traditions of those who walked before
us, I hope to not only further my own dancing skills and knowledge, but
to help other women discover the enjoyment and passion that this dance
has brought to my life and the lives of so many others around the world
throughout the ages. |
 |
Bellydance
Background
3+
years tribal fusion bellydance under Juli Downum of Chattanooga's Dandasha
Dance Company
Workshops
with Mira Betz, Rachel Brice, Zoe Jakes, Megha of Devyani, Jillina, Rachel
Lazarus-Soto, Amy Sigil of Unmata, Heather Stantz of Urban Tribal
Other
Formal Dance Background
9
years combined in traditional jazz, tap, lyrical ballet, classical Pointe
ballet, and hip hop
6
years performance & movement
2001
Member, Southwind Drum and Bugle Corps, colorguard & weapon
line
"Real
World" Education/Occupation
Associate
Zookeeper @ Memphis Zoo
2003-2006
Bachelors of Arts: major in Anthropology, minor in Biology
(U of Memphis)
2002-2003
Arkansas School for Mathematics and Sciences
