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A Beautiful First Edition of the New York Belly Dance Festival

The first-ever New York Belly Dance Festival (NYBDF) took place on March 15-16, 2025, and what an incredible weekend it was! From breathtaking gala shows to powerful workshops and heartfelt connections, our community came together to celebrate the art, soul, and diversity of belly dance in the heart of New York City. Here’s a look back at everything that made this event so special.

World-Class Workshops

We were honored to welcome three internationally renowned master teachers:

  • Tommy King (Egypt): Led two unforgettable workshops—"Romantic Oriental" and "Drum Solo"
    Tommy King (Egypt): Led two unforgettable workshops—"Romantic Oriental" and "Drum Solo"
    Oscar Flores (Argentina/Spain): Shared his artistry in his Double Veil and Theatrical Expression workshops
    Oscar Flores (Argentina/Spain): Shared his artistry in his Double Veil and Theatrical Expression workshops

    Jasirah (Poland): Brought her dynamic energy with her "Tabla Mastery" bonus class and "Oriental Raks Sharqi" class
    Jasirah (Poland): Brought her dynamic energy with her "Tabla Mastery" bonus class and "Oriental Raks Sharqi" class


Dancers from around the world joined us to train, connect, and grow together, making the workshops a transformative experience for all.



The Panel of Experts
The Panel of Experts

We opened the weekend with an insightful Panel of Experts, featuring:

  • Jehan

  • Dalia Carella

  • Kaeshi Chai

  • Samantha Diaz (Director)

  • Moderated by Phaedra, this session explored the evolution, art, and business of belly dance. Attendees had a chance to ask questions and gain wisdom from these seasoned professionals.

MC Queen Esma
MC Queen Esma

Gala Shows

Each night ended with a spectacular gala show:

  • Saturday Opening Gala: Theater-style performances featuring solos from master teachers, guest artists, and festival participants

  • Sunday Closing Gala: A lively celebration of the 20-year anniversary of Dance Soul Entertainment with group performances, live music, and special guest appearances



Thank You to Our Sponsors

We are deeply grateful to the sponsors who supported NYBDF:

Our Amazing Vendors

The NYBDF Marketplace was filled with beautiful products from passionate creators:

  • Hamza Designs

  • KLove Lip Gloss

  • Inspire Grace

  • Aida Boutique

  • Belly Dance America

  • Dangerously Alive

  • WellCharged Vegan Food


    Sheba Ambassador School
    Sheba Ambassador School

    Ambassador Schools

A heartfelt thank you to the amazing ambassador schools and teams that supported us and brought their students to the stage:

  • Bellyqueen (NYC)

  • Templo Anandi (Mexico/Spain)

  • Sheba School (NYC)

  • Raks Al Zahra (NYC)

  • Elizabeth Khard (NYC)

Your energy and presence helped shape the spirit of this event.


Thank You to Our Team

A huge shoutout to the dedicated NYBDF team:

  • Samantha Diaz (Director)

  • Stefanie Bradley (Production Director)

  • Ra' (Production & Stage

  • Alexandra, Esraa, Nadya, Sofia, Veronica, and everyone who worked tirelessly to make this happen

  • Our Wonderful MC's Queen Esma & Franklin Ayala



Looking Ahead

We are beyond grateful for the love and support received. Our hearts are full, and we are already planning for NYBDF 2026! Stay tuned for dates, announcements, and updates on our website and social media. And if you haven’t already, check out our official festival merchandise and share your photos and videos with us!

To all our attendees, performers, teachers, sponsors, vendors, and volunteers—thank you from the bottom of our hearts for making history with us in New York City.

Stay connected. Stay in community. The journey is just beginning.

With love, The NYBDF Team


 
 
 

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