Tanyeli began her obsession with bellydance in 1999. Since then, she has explored Classic American, Egyptian and Turkish... as well as Tribal, World and Gothic fusions... and draws from them all to express her love and passion for this dance.
Tribal bellydance is wonderful for collaborating and sharing the joy of dance with others. It is satisfying in that it allows you to find alternate forms of communication as well as build a sense of community that includes all body types, sizes and ages. American Cabaret (also known as Vintage Orientale) and Turkish-style bellydance are also very body-friendly activities and has their own benefits, such as an opportunity to find what you as an individual have to say to the world through dance.
Tanyeli feels happiest when she can share the bellydance love with others either through teaching or performing. She considers herself very fortunate to dance with long-time friends, Mandara, a world fusion bellydance troupe, and DOA, a "tribalternative" bellydance duet. She was also a co-founder of the former dance ensemble, Manipura.
She has traveled the U.S. studying with some of the best instructors this country has to offer and has developed a strong foundation in both contemporary and traditional Oriental dance. Her dance inspirations are Artemis, Aziza, Mira Betz and the Zafira Dance Company.
More Shimmy © 2009