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LOCATION:
Grand Haven/Muskegon, Michigan, USA BIO
From NW Michigan, Lisa has been student of Arab dance for over 20 years. She now focuses solely on Egyptian dance styles, and has developed into a performer, instructor, and choreographer. “Let go of what is left or right, and lead with your heart.” That is Lisa’s approach Arab dance. Her love story with the dance began in 2000 at Footworks Dance Company in Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA, with American Cabaret/Fusion technique. Unfulfilled by the rules of Western styling, she slowly shifted to Egyptian-style Raqs Sharqi. In 2011 she began to study exclusively with Egyptian style artists and credits her experiences with source dancers for generously giving her the tools to make the connection between mind, body, soul, and music. BACKGROUND AND INTERESTS
I’m from a small town in Michigan, but since 2018, I have been living part-time in Egypt, where I immerse myself in Egyptian customs and culture; living with the locals in Cairo, taking in the language, the music, the rhythm, and improvisational way of life. My daily experiences show up in my dancing, from unpredictability, to connecting with the audience and music. In appreciation for all Arab dance has given me, I volunteer to feed, vaccinate, spay/neuter, rescue, and secure medical treatment for Egyptian street dogs and cats — including hand delivering a doggie wheelchair to very special girl named Whitey. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN PART OF THE SHIMMY MOB COMMUNITY AND WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO JOIN?
This is my first year with Shimmy Mob. I joined to share something I love (dance), with a cause I can relate to (domestic violence). Dance can help us work through trauma, and in helping others, we ultimately help ourselves. |
"My favorite thing about being part of Shimmy Mob is the positive, supportive community and my Shimmy Mob teammates."
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