taking the old dance styling and adding a new element
to it. However, prior to adding that new element, I find
it important to understand the historic dances and to
continually study them.
Twenty years from now, I think that the online class
environment will be the standard for learning belly dance.
As technology expands and countries become more
connected, we will see more and more influence from
non-Middle Eastern countries. One recent example is
how the Russian/Ukrainian style changed romantic pop
choreography once YouTube videos started to surface.
Belly dance will continue to evolve as more regions
share stylistic features online.
M: What advice would you give the other dancers
considering a professional career as a dancer?
VT: Enjoy yourself, even when it feels like work.
Invest your time in the style of belly dance that
speaks to you.
Find your voice and don’t lose it.
Study the past and look for how you can contribute
to the future.
Be consistent in your training.
If you feel lost along the way, seek out a mentor.
Appreciate what others have given you and give back
to pay it forward.
And remember again, enjoy yourself ! This is what
you love!
M: Is there anyone you wish to thank who has contributed to
your personal growth, dance ability, experience as a dancer?
VT: The support I got from my family and dear friends
contributed to my growth and is more than I could ever
ask for. My family’s support gave me the confidence I
needed to explore the dance form without any self-doubt.
I started dancing when I was 16 and would beg my mom
to go with me to Las Vegas, Austin, Dallas, and California
for competitions. She never questioned my requests and
would make it happen, costume and all. My dad, sisters,
and mom would have to hear me play the songs on replay
probably thousands of times and they never complained.
None of my costumes would be possible without my mom.
I love that we can create a custom costume that brings the
whole picture on stage to life.
My dear friends, boyfriend, and family, all watch plenty
of my rehearsal videos, provide me with a fresh eye, and
put up with my constant questions. Without my support
group, I would not be where I am today.
For more information about Victoria Teel's
online classes, mentorship program, and
workshops, visit www.victoriateel.com.
MA*SHUQA MIRA MURJAN
Ma*Shuqa
Mira
Murjan
has
been
performing, teaching, and coaching Oriental
dance for over 40 years. Her Ma*Shuqa
Method gives dancers a structure for
developing improvised choreography while
performing with individualized styling. Her
Photo by Denise J. Marino
Diva Dancer Intensive workshop is perfect
for teachers and dancers who want to enhance performance dynamics
and styling. She has authored many articles on aspects of professionalism
and performance in Middle Eastern dance. As a dance photographer –
what she sees through the camera lens reflects a dancer’s professionalism.
www.MaShuqa.com
October 2017
The Belly Dance Chronicles
15