Queen Esma: The Legendary Mistress of Ceremony for the Saturday Gala Show at NYBDF 2025

Samantha Diaz
Mar 5
3 min read

The New York Belly Dance Festival is beyond honored to have Queen Esma as our Mistress of Ceremony for the Saturday Night Gala Show on March 15, 2025, at Manhattan Mirage. A true pillar of the belly dance community in New York City, Queen Esma has dedicated her life to the art of Raqs Sharqi, bringing elegance, passion, and wisdom to generations of dancers.

A New York Treasure and Belly Dance Icon

She has become one of the most respected and admired figures in the belly dance world, not only for her skill as a dancer but also for her ability to uplift, mentor, and inspire others through her work. — She has become one of the **most respected and admired figures** in the belly dance world, not only for her skill as a dancer but also for her ability to **uplift, mentor, and inspire** others through her work.

Born and raised in New York City, Queen Esma carries a rich cultural heritage, with Egyptian and Russian roots that deeply influenced her artistic journey.

Her career spans decades of performances, from dancing in prestigious Las Vegas hotels to gracing the stages of Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Long Island, and beyond. She has had the privilege of dancing for the Ambassador to Morocco, performing aboard a cruise ship down the Nile in Egypt, and appearing at some of the most well-known venues in the world of belly dance.

Queen Esma is known for her deep connection to traditional Egyptian music and dance, yet she is never afraid to explore and experiment with new artistic expressions. However, at her core, she always returns to the soulful roots of Egyptian Raqs Sharqi, staying true to the essence of this beautiful art form.

A Passion for Education, Community, and Giving Back

Beyond her stage presence, Queen Esma has made an impact as a mentor, educator, and advocate for the dance community. She holds a Master’s degree in Education and has served as a teacher at various levels throughout her early career. Today, she continues to share her expertise through her highly regarded course, The Wow Factor, which she teaches nationally and internationally, guiding dancers in discovering their own unique artistry.

Queen Esma is also deeply committed to giving back to the community. She has led numerous charity initiatives, particularly in bringing dance to hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. Her ongoing project, Esma and Friends, brings joy and entertainment to those in need, uplifting spirits through the power of movement and music. Before the pandemic, she even managed the dance program at the Henry Kravis Cardiovascular Center at Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan, integrating dance into wellness programs for patients.

Beyond Dance: A Life in the Arts

Esma’s talents extend far beyond belly dance. In the 1980s, she was a sought-after model and actress, appearing in numerous magazines and ad campaigns. Her experience in front of the camera led her to the world of photography, where she owned and operated a top photography agency in Manhattan, representing some of the finest international talent. Through this work, she collaborated with prestigious publications such as Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, Essence, and Glamour.

A True Leader for Our Community

Having Queen Esma as the Mistress of Ceremony for our Saturday Night Gala Show is not only an honor—it is a celebration of her incredible legacy in the dance world. She embodies everything that makes the New York Belly Dance Festival special: artistry, passion, community, and the power of dance to connect and uplift us all.

As she takes the stage to introduce our master teachers, guest artists, and festival participants, we know she will bring her signature warmth, humor, and storytelling, making this evening truly unforgettable.