challenging conversations . It has dramatically increased my chances of arriving at a win / win outcome where there is more mutual understanding and the needs of both parties are held equally .
During this pandemic - what do you miss most ? In-person contact and traveling .
What do you miss about touring with Jillina ’ s BDE ( Bellydance Evolution ) and Miles Copeland ’ s BDSS ( Bellydance Superstars )? Touring with BDE and BDSS were incredible opportunities to travel the world and share the stage with world-class dancers . It really opened up my eyes to other parallel universes with exciting new foods , languages , and customs . I was also super grateful that someone else was in charge of producing to focus 100 % on the dancing .
What is one of your biggest accomplishments ? Touring the Bellyqueen company around the US , Canada , Asia , Europe , and Australia and staying in the black for 95 % of our shows without the aid of grants , corporate sponsors , or deep pockets .
Kaeshi and Bellyqueen , 2008
What have you learned from traveling the world ? In my travels teaching and performing in 47 states and 39 countries , I ’ ve been blessed to meet and dance alongside many incredible dancers who have a lot to offer , even if they are not known internationally . It has taught me that inspiration can be found everywhere .
Your biggest hope for the future of Oriental dance ? I hope that more commercial performance and teaching
Kaeshi , Ocean Stories at Rakkasah East , 2018 - photo by Carl Sermon
September 2021 � The Belly Dance Chronicles 11