Get to know Brenda & Troupe Sabba Zimora
Brenda (dance name Aiyana) has studied dance from a private studio since 1990, having placed well in many regional competitions. Her studies there have included jazz, tap and ballet, with her specialty in the art of Egyptian-American belly dancing. She has also studied ballet, jazz and modern dance in conjunction with beginning Arabic at the University of Michigan.
Brenda has attended many technique workshops as well as workshops for playing dumbek (hand drum) and has experience performing with zills (finger cymbals), swords, veils, and spinning fire poi.
During her ongoing studies, Brenda’s instructors have included well known dancers such as Bozenka and Amar Gamal of the Bellydance Superstars, Sonya from Chicago, Azziza Salem from Detroit/New York, Oreet from New York, Ruby Jazayre from Illinois, Sharifa from Michigan, Yasmina Amal, from Michigan, and Amara from Illinois.
Certifications include: Bachelor in Social Sciences Spencer™, Pilates fitness (mat and ball calisthenics), and Associates in Arts and Science
Brenda has directed "Troupe Sabba Zimora" since 2002, a mid-Michigan belly dance group that has also faired well at regional competition and performed all over Michigan.
She has instructed the art of belly dance at a number of institutions including Kathy’s School of Dance in Durand, MI, U of M-Flint recreation center in Flint, MI, Genesee County Parks in Flushing & Linden, MI, Beyond the Rainforest in Flint, MI Owosso Community Education in Owosso, MI. She has also performed at special events and parties throughout Michigan.
Brenda has been featured in Jareeda, an International Middle Eastern Dance magazine and is also a member of the Middle Eastern Culture and Dance Association (MECDA.)
Learn more
- Troupe Sabba Zimora
- Shira.net
- YouTube Videos