Copyright © 2010, Najla Dances. All Rights Reserved

An ancient art form with a modern twist.

Like many women, Najla took her first belly dance class on a whim—purely for recreational purposes.  She did not realize that the class and this dance would profoundly impact her life.  She has been performing since 1998 and teaching since 2001 in the Austin area.  Najla is strongly influenced by traditional Egyptian styles and music; however her dancing is a mix of classic and contemporary in the style of an American Cabaret dancer. 

She is a former member of Troupe Mirage, and currently directs the Baharat Belly Dance Ensemble.  Najla teaches beginner, mixed-level and performance level classes, as well as Mother-Daughter belly dance workshops and other speciality classes. 

Najla dances at a variety of local bellydance  venues  as well as hosting Cafe Shimmy, a monthly belly dance show held at Hot Mama's Cafe.  She participates in annual workshops and local Austin Belly Dance Association events and also co-produces the Hip Circle Hafla, a student showcase, with Bahaia, Stacey-Lizette and Lily.

Check out the calendar for a list of venues where you can watch a live performance or sign up for classes.