Taking online classes with Joana Saahirah has allowed me to fall even more in love with Oriental dance than I thought possible. As a teacher, Joana doesn't teach steps, she cultivates artists. She expects nothing less than your authentic self in every move, and she is a living example of that integrity. Don't get me wrong, she can break down a shimmy with the best of them, but connecting you to the purpose behind that shimmy is where Joana truly shines as a teacher. Whether in class or on stage, she is unapologetically creative and alive. Not only does she dance outside of the box, but she respects the hell out of that box, too! From our first class, Joana has pinpointed exactly what I needed and laid out exercises and inspirations to get me there. I truly look forward to my practice these days, which is often self-discovery. Learning from Joana is the most serious kind of fun. Thank you, Joana!

To study Egyptian dance with Joana Saahirah is to embark on an incredible personal journey — a journey of self-discovery, re-education and expansive growth. This is not a course of study for those who are game to join the “belly dance bandwagon” or those simply looking to spice up their exercise regimen. It is not for the weakhearted, you will find yourself nudged (gently, thoughtfully) outside comfort zones in order to ensure your progress. Warning: boldness and courage may be required! In two months of study with Joanna I have experienced as much growth as I have in the last two years of studio classes. More importantly however, is the unique synthesis, context and connections I now understand by learning in this special way. My very personal journey has purposefully, artfully meandered as easily from Bauhaus to Glenn Gould to the Dionysian Mysteries as it has from Baladi to Tarab to Mawal. As Joanna repeats like a mantra, “It’s all connected.” What an incredible ride… what an incredible gift.

She is a really *magical* dancer and teacher, my understanding of Egyptian dance (and my dance) has been trans-formative, deepened, since taking ONLY her online classes! She develops each class personal based on your needs that are visible (and invisible) to you. What you think you know, you really have no idea! I don't even know how to begin without writing a novel. I can only imagine what her live classes/workshops are like! Not only does she develop your dance, but your understanding of Egyptian history, the people and their culture, and learning the heart of it all... the great secrets to this dance you don't hear about in your normal classes. Time is spent in EACH class developing not only your dance, but your understanding of the magic behind it all. Sometimes in very unusual but exciting, and interesting ways.