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2009 MEDLS TEACHER OF THE YEAR

MAYSAMEH OF RHYTHMIC ESSENCE

Maysameh owns and operates one of the largest Belly Dance Schools in the South now teaching more than 100 students. Recently I was honored to be the Guest Star at her Stars of Egypt Concert with more than 70 dancers onstage.

This is the second award for Maysameh "Graphic Artist" 2007

Meet Maysameh the Belly Dancer


Photo by L&M Photography - Newton, NC

Maysameh has been belly dancing since 2000.  She started by attending weekend workshops where she learned a variety of mid-east dance styles. She soon incorporated the moves into her aerobics classes she actively taught.  The more she studied, the more she focused on mid-east dance and decided to make it her full repertoire.  In 2003, Rhythmic Essence was started in her basement with 10 girls.  Over the years, Rhythmic Essence has grown into two studios in Newton and Mooresville, NC.

Certificates, Honors & Associations
Maysameh is a member of an international organization called Middle Eastern Dance Leaders Society (MEDLS).  She was honored by being named Belly Dancer of the Month for August 2007. 

In June 2009 she was awarded MEDLS "Star Belly Dance Teacher of the Year."

MEDLS is dedicated to preserving cultures of the world;  retaining heritage, contributing to a better understanding of other cultures, enhancing communication, respect, and peace among the peoples of the world.  MEDLS was founded by Amara Al Amir.

Maysameh received her American Tribal Style General Skills Certificate from the founder of ATS dance, Carolena Nericcio, also founder/leader of the popular FatChanceBellyDance. (Oct. 2007)

Maysameh is the founder of the "Pharaonic Dance Society."  The 'Pharaonic Dance Society' is a fantasy dance ensemble that experiments with theatrical interpretation of ancient dance in Egypt.  PDS strives to research ancient Egyptian worship, culture & dance to express the art in a 'new-age dance fantasy.'

Maysameh is the founder/director of the annual "Unity Hafla."  In 2007, Maysameh had a vision of creating a Unity Hafla to mix her Newton and Mooresville students so that they could come together in friendship and unity in dance.  Since then, the annual Unity Hafla has grown into a multitude of participating troupes across the state.  Each year, Maysameh chooses a charity event to raise money for that day.

Maysameh also had the privilege of studying under Momo Kadous, internationally acclaimed artist and
instructor of Cairo, Egypt, during his stay in Raleigh, NC in September 2008.
 


Momo Kadous of Egypt and Maysameh

Why Dance?
Ladies are realizing that belly dance is a great alternative to high impact aerobics and is a total body workout – incorporating mind, body and spirit.  The abdominal, hip and arm movements provide a wonderful workout while focusing on posture, stability and muscle control.  The classes are set in a positive atmosphere with ladies of all shapes, sizes and ages.  Belly dance promotes higher self esteem, increases circulation, lowers blood pressure and is easy on the joints.

Maysameh teaches the basics and choreography to ancient interpretive (pharaonic dance), classic, folkloric and modern Egyptian style belly dance.  An array of dances offered are:  beginner dance, belly dance fitness mix, pharaonic candle dance, sword, cane, tray balancing, American veil, wings, pop, feather fan, melaya leff, hagalla, fellahin, ATS, fusion, chinese silk fan, bollywood, bhangra, hula, world dance and much more!

In addition to weekly classes, Maysameh is also available for professional performances at community events, schools, festivals, multi-cultural fares, parties, belly grams and corporate functions.

Prior to owning her belly dance studio, Maysameh was a certified Personal Trainer and certified in Cardio Kick Boxing, Stability Ball, and other fitness programs. She instructed various aerobics classes, toning classes, Women on Weights and pre-natal water aerobics.