Director: Faten
Members: Blythe
Kiyaana
Sama
Tesia
Zaira Al Zahara
The “Al-Massraweya Egyptian Folkloric Dance Group” is directed by native Egyptian world-renowned master instructor Faten, who is currently based in Arlington, Virginia. In her teens, Faten was selected to become a member of the National Folkloric Troupe of Egypt (the "Kowmey
a"). The Kowmeya went on to tour and teach all over the world including many stops in the US such as the Egyptian Embassy in Washington, DC. Faten now teaches weekly Egyptian bellydance classes at Saffron Dance in Arlington, VA and is frequently invited to teach workshops worldwide. Al-Massraweya has produced various shows that include a mix of Faten's group choreographies, solos from professional bellydance artists within the troupe, and invited guest artists. Shows include the Al-Massraweya Gala at Artisphere in Rossalyn, VA in March 2013 with guest star and fashion show by Hungarian dancer Katalin Schafer; and annual concerts at the Jack Guidone Theatre in DC in 2009 and 2010. The group has also performed the Rossalyn Theatre; the Asian Heritage Festival in DC; the 2010 Bellydance Nationals Competition Gala show in Baltimore, MD; Casablanca Restaurant in Alexandria, VA; Alf Laylah wa Laylah in Tyson’s Corner; Fez Tones Hafla; a Gala Show for Madame Raqia Hasan; and for Randa Kamel’s first ever show in Virginia in 2010. Devoted students of Faten who share a deep love for Egyptian dance and music, Al-Massraweya is comprised of skillful dance artists with distinct personalities, possess many talents and who have intensive training with multiple dance teachers under their collective hip belts. Blythe is a soulful and passionate dancer, seamstress and costume designer who has created many costumes for Al-Massraweya; and is a teacher at Saffron Dance. Kiyaana, known for her warm and generous style, performs and teaches throughout Northern and Central Virginia. Tesia is a joyful and loving dancer who is a part of the faculty at Saffron Dance and is also a Yoga teacher. Zaira al Zahara is an engaging and brilliant performer, yoga enthusiast, and music editor who can also be seen performing with dance partner Leyla Fahada in their duo Indra Lazul, that often accompanies the Baltimore-based rock band Telesma at concerts and festivals.
