I took my first belly dancing class 20 years ago, and from the moment I began moving to the rhythms, I fell head over heels in love with this mesmerizing art form. The passion I felt propelled me to establish my own company, “Authentic Belly Dance By Lauren,” with the mission of not only celebrating the beauty of belly dancing but also inspiring others to find their own joy in expressing themselves through dance.

Throughout Michigan, Ohio, and even into Canada, you’ll find me teaching belly dance classes and taking the stage for performances. It’s a journey that has taken me to places I never imagined and allowed me to connect with incredible people who share the same enthusiasm.

A unique highlight was the distinction of being the sole belly dance instructor at both Lifetime Fitness and LA Fitness. The opportunity to introduce this art to a wider audience was exhilarating, and I cherished every moment of it. For five years, I had the privilege of teaching at Nafas Fitness in Royal Oak, and I also had the honor of hosting guest instructor workshops.

Reflecting back, I recall the formation of my very first performance troupe, the Shimmy Shakers. We were a diverse group brought together under the guidance of a single instructor. She imparted her knowledge, and when she moved on, those of us who remained formed a strong, tight-knit troupe. We spanned ages from 5 to 50, creating a wonderful mix of perspectives. Our bond grew as we established our own practice space, choreographed routines, and became a dance family. Those years were filled with countless performances across the dance community, each one filled with joy and camaraderie. The experience laid the foundation for my continued passion.

One of the defining moments arrived when I participated in the 2007 Michigan Renaissance Festival. This event marked the first-ever belly dance competition judged by legends Aida Al-Adawi, Princess Madiha, and Aziza Ammar. The thrill of taking first place fueled my dedication to belly dancing even more.

Building on this achievement, I embarked on a new endeavor with the creation of “LiQuiD Belly Dance.” This troupe embraced a fusion of belly dance styles, blending cabaret and tribal fusion into a unique expression of movement. With my choreography, creative vision, and the unwavering support of my troupe members, we’ve been able to present something distinct and captivating.

The journey has been one of growth, empowerment, and endless exploration. From my first class to the creation of troupes and the inspiring stages I’ve graced, belly dance has become not just a part of my life, but an essential piece of who I am. The passion and connection it brings are as strong as ever, and I’m excited to see where this dance will lead me next.

I’ve had the privilege of performing in a variety of settings, each experience adding its own unique flavor to my journey:

Festivals: The vibrant energy of festivals has allowed me to share my passion with diverse audiences, uniting people through the universal language of dance.

Weddings: The joy of celebrating love through dance is a memory I hold dear. Bringing my artistry to weddings has allowed me to contribute to the happiness of special moments.

Greektown Casino: Performing at such a prominent venue was a thrilling experience, where I had the opportunity to showcase the beauty of belly dance to a wide audience.

TLC’s “All American Muslim” Reality Show (2012): Being featured on this show was an honor, giving me a platform to share my artistry with a larger audience and allowing viewers to see the beauty of belly dance firsthand.

Arts Beats and Eats 2010 in Royal Oak: Taking the international stage at this event was a highlight, exposing me to a diverse crowd and showcasing the universal appeal of belly dance.

Zap Toro CD Release Party: Being part of a CD release party was a unique opportunity to infuse my dance into the music scene, bringing a visually captivating element to the celebration.

Middle Eastern Nightclubs with Live Musicians: The synergy between live music and dance is something truly special. Dancing in these nightclubs allowed me to connect with the authentic sounds of the Middle East and create an unforgettable experience for the audience.

International Symphony Orchestra and The Light of the East Ensemble (2015): One of the most remarkable moments was performing internationally with these ensembles. It was an incredible fusion of musical talents and dance, creating an experience that transcended borders.

Through all these performances, I’ve discovered the power of dance to connect people, evoke emotions, and create lasting memories. Each stage has taught me something new, helping me grow not only as a dancer but as a storyteller and an ambassador of this beautiful art form.

Belly dancing, to me, is an enchanting art form that has the power to elevate not just your body, but your entire being. It’s a dance that’s infused with passion, mystery, and a touch of sass. It’s a realm of movement that stands entirely on its own, a unique form of expression that I hold close to my heart. The essence of belly dancing resonates deeply with me. It’s a dance that embodies strength, fierceness, and an almost primal aggression. Yet, at the same time, it’s grounded in the natural, the earthly, and the profoundly expressive.

My dedication to both my students and this magnificent art form is unwavering. In my classes, I’ve crafted an experience that’s not only educational but also deeply enjoyable. I’ve brought my own unique style to the teaching, making sure that the learning process is dynamic and, most importantly, fun. Belly dance can be a dance of precision, control, and intricate isolations, but within that structure, there’s ample room for self-expression. It’s a dance that transforms not only your physical body but your mental state as well. The stress-relieving aspect is remarkable, reminding us of the innate beauty and power of womanhood.

Supporting one another in the belly dance community is paramount. I’m genuinely thrilled to witness the performances of other dancers. Their artistry ignites a fire in me, inspiring me to continually evolve as an instructor and performer. I firmly believe that we’re on an endless learning journey, and the insights we gain from each other are invaluable. The horizons of dance are boundless, limited only by the sky itself.

~Let The Music Move Your Belly~

Beyond my passion for belly dance, I’m also a certified 200 RYT yoga instructor and a Reiki Master. I see an undeniable synergy between yoga and belly dance, a harmonious blend of mind and body. Integrating yoga into my belly dance teachings and practice is a natural progression, a way to offer a more holistic experience. Both practices, to me, embody the essence of wellness and self-discovery.

-Namaste-