Ameera Speaks!

I first got involved in the dance after being asked to attend a Middle Eastern themed event as a mehndi artist. There was a Tribal troupe performing, Yogini Kundalini. I was completely mesmerized by them. They transformed the modern street into an age and a way of life long forgotten.

One of the things that impressed me the most (aside from the elaborate costuming and jewelry) was that they were 'real' women telling stories with the dance, dancing for themselves and each other.

Their dances painted a portrait of strength, unity, and pride; the beauty of being a woman and being comfortable and confident in their bodies. I wanted to be like THAT. It took a while for me to find an instructor who was in my area and whose classes fit into my busy work schedule, but when I did - I jumped into the dance with both feet!

My friend who taught me the shimmy, taxim and other basic movements of the dance also encouraged me to perform as often as the opportunity presented itself. We did street fairs, parades, impromptu street performing at renaissance fairs, intercultural showcases at colleges and a gig that a mutual friend set up at a restaurant. I learned to dance not just in class but by performing.

My first stage performance as a solo artist came at a MECDA dance party in Redlands, six months after my first class. I was terrified throughout the entire dance. My peers, friends and people I looked up to were watching, including Politti - dance instructor and director of Yogini Kundalini! I felt like I wanted to hide after I got off the stage, but I found nothing but kindness and encouragement from everyone I knew.

The dance community proved itself to be a very kind and gracious group of people. To my complete shock and amazement, Dea and Politti approached me that same afternoon and asked if I would be interested in joining their troupe. Interested? This was the one group of dancers that made me want to dance and they asked me if I were interested! Of course, I said yes! Members came and went as Yogini Kundalini evolved into Tribe Bennu. I loved dancing with them as it was a caring, nurturing and fun environment to be a part of.

My husband, John, even got involved as our drummer. Eventually John and I left Tribe Bennu to pursue our own act as a duo. He has drummed for me for several performances, breaking the barriers and rules along the way and getting involved in my dance. I love performing with him as he seems to know what I am going to do before I do it - having my own personal drummer definitely has its perks!

We put on a unique, high energy show that the audience remembers and his drumming skills have put him in high demand. I feel very fortunate and very blessed having become a member of a community that I love so much.