FATIMA
Middle Eastern Dancer
Biography
Fatima performs Egyptian cabaret influenced by Lebanese style belly dance and modern Egyptian dance. Involved in dance for over 10 years, she continues to study under two of the most influential teachers in the Philadelphia area, Habiba and Valerie Rushmere.
Fatima is a member of the Habiba Dance Ensemble and performs with the Ensemble at a variety of cultural events at colleges and universities, as well as museums and cultural centers.
Fatima is a member of the Shake Charmers Dance Company, directed by Valerie Rushmere.
Fatima has also joined in a special collaboration with her friend and wonderful dancer, Khuzama, and they perform their duets under the name Hibat Allah, meaning "Gift of God."
She is a featured dancer at the Oasis Grill, in Cherry Hill, NJ and appears at a number of restaurants and haflas in the Philadelphia area. Find out where she'll be next on the Events page.
Fatima has performed across the tristate area in such venues as: The Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Franklin Institute, International House, University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archeology, the Free Library of Philadelphia, the Shubin Theater, and Stephen Starr restaurants.
Known for her light and playful style and expressive demeanor in her dancing, Fatima enjoys dancing at private events such as birthday parties and family events where she encourages audience participation and involving children and adults in the fun.
In addition to studying belly dance, and performing, Fatima also runs Philly Raqs - the website for belly dance news and events for the greater Philadelphia area, with over 3000 visitors a month.
(Photo courtesy of Ron Barber)