Bellydancing:

"The Universe respects us when we work,
but loves us when we dance."

-Sufi Proverb

Clanging symbols, flowing veils, the heartbeat of the drum…the mystical world of bellydance awaits you.

Bellydancing is an art from Egyptian temples, Rajasthani deserts and nomadic tribes. From the Guedra in North Africa to the Gitan people of Romania, bellydancing is an ever-evolving form of expression for people around the world. Its ancient roots lie in the spiritual, ritual and social traditions of tribes that live close to the earth.

Combining the backgrounds of American Tribal Style, Cabaret, Folk, Ritualistic, and Expressive movement Almine and Ahndine will delight the senses and transport you back through time. Utilizing props such as veils, zills, and swords you will see anything from beautiful floor work to adventurous Turkish 9/8 rhythms.

Ahndine, known throughout the local community for her graceful turns, mesmerizing floor work, and sassy kicks, has a rich history in performing and teaching bellydancing. She has delighted the audiences of Middle Eastern restaurants, festivals, showcases, and holiday parties to name a few. She has performed in Jane Archer's Neo-Tribal student troupe "Mandala" and was simultaneously asked to join Portland's Cabaret troupe, "The Tiger Lilies." She has taught classes at "Euphoria Studio," "Act 1 School of Dance," and "Full Spectrum Health Center." When asked what bellydancing meant to her she exclaimed, "It is a powerful force that can come through an individual dancer. It can be even more enriching to bring forth that same positive energy in numbers to foster a feeling of community within the dance." Ahndine has been touted as "an exquisite performer," and is a known to be seen dancing duets with Almine and performing solo to a variety of audiences.

"Ahndine is an exciting fresh face new on the scene deliciously
blendingTribal and Cabaret creating a vivacious style all her own!""

Nemra Khan, Portland, OR

"I have never seen anyone descend as smoothly as you, (Ahndine) in
performance"

Tamara Khan, N.Y., N.Y.

When Almine was asked what moved her to begin bellydancing, she explained: "When I was young, I used to watch my mom practice for hours. She brought bellydancing to a level of majesty. When you watched her, even though she was moving outwardly, you could tell inside she was perfectly still." Seen throughout Portland pushing her own limits with Turkish rhythms, East Indian ritual dancing and Spanish influenced pieces, Almine has made bellydancing a way of touching souls. You can't help but want to move in your chair when you see how much fun she is having.

Almine has performed in Jane Archer's Neo-Tribal student troupe, "Mandala" and has been seen dancing in Turkish weddings, local middle eastern restaurants such as Pasha's Mediterranean Grill, and was the previous director of the dance troupe, "Apsara." She has taught bellydancing at Full Spectrum Health Center, and Bally Total Fitness. Almine's joy not only comes out in her dance, but through her voice as well. Her toning has been heard on releases such as Tom Kenyon's The Gandharva Experience, and she has sung for teachers like Ammachi. She particularly enjoys singing East Indian kirtan and bhajans.

"When I watch Almine dance I am reminded of the power of the goddess within myself as well as the goddess within all women and men. I am mesmerized by the webs in which she weaves with her dance of passion and grace. Almine and her dance is an inspiration, exploration, and extension of female power."

Schamet Horsfield, LMT
Performance Artist, Fire Dancer, Film Maker
Wellington, New Zealand


For booking performances or further details, call (503) 750-0526 or (503) 756-5602