These pages will grow as I continue to I sort through all of the questions that have been asked of me over the years-- and in these past few weeks particularly! Keep the questions coming...
1. How did you become involved with Middle Eastern Dance?
My initial encounter with Middle Eastern. Belly Dance was very much a chance encounter. Several years ago while still serving active duty in the military and training as an amateur kick boxer in CA (never a dull moment in my life:) a fellow soldier invited me to attend a belly dance class with her. Being the tried and true athlete that I was at the time I laugh and told her how belly dance really “wasn’t me,” (like I would know since I had never tried before, lol) but that I’d go check it out. Well many years, performances, triumphs and dreadful mistakes later, here I am-- a teacher, performer, choreographer and perpetual student of this wonderful dance. It is always interesting to discover the surprises that life has in store for you.
2. Why do you continue to dance?
Please take a look at My Philosophy to find out more.
3. What does your name, Aliyah Abir, mean?
Aliyah, is an Arabic name meaning “most exalted, noble, highest social standing or to ascend”. Abir means “beautiful, fragrant scent” in Arabic and “strong” in Hebrew.
4. Do I need a dance name?
Well, it seems that all a person really needs to do is pay taxes- every thing else is optional, lol. Seriously, it used to be the norm for all new dancers to take a Middle Eastern, i.e. Turkish or Arabic dance name, but now that is becoming less and less the norm and more of a personal preference. I took a dance name partially because the name I chose “fit me” and partially because I was a bit tired of having my given name (which I happen to like very much) butchered by announcers as it does look a bit intimidating on paper. But again I stress that it is a personal preference and it is ultimately up to you to decide if a dance name is right for you.
