Tava is a lifelong dancer who began her training in middle eastern dance (bellydance) as a New Year's resolution in 2000. Now, as a highly regarded instructor, choreographer and performer in the tri-state area, Tava has choreographed for theatrical productions, ranging from Fantasy Bellydance to Shakespeare. She teaches an average of 8 weekly classes, including an academic course on bellydancing and it's history, and has performed at many prestigious theaters, clubs, restaurants and cultural events. Appearing on television, in print and on DVD's, she is known for her fluid and expressive style. As director of her student troupe, The Manipura Dance Collective, Tava choreographs numerous dances per year that are showcased in her highly succesful bi-annual events. She has also given lectures at colleges and symposiums on the history of the dance, and regularly contributes articles to dance-related publications. Tava can be seen on 2 Fantasy Bellydance performance DVD's, produced by World Dance NY, and choreographed for Curtain Call's "Shakespeare on the Green."
Tava has had the privilege of studying with her longtime teacher and mentor, Andrea Anwar (aka Beeman), and continues to supplement her training with classes and workshops from some of the top dancers in the world. Through her dedication and training, Tava has learned an authentic style of dance which incorporates Turkish, Folkloric, Moroccan and Egyptian influences, and includes a rich understanding of the intricate rhythms used in the dance. Tava regularly exposes her students to live music and drumming, thanks to her supportive network of musicians. As a teacher, Tava is dedicated to sharing her knowledge and shedding the many misguided myths of middle eastern dance. She works with her students to not only teach the movements, but also to foster a sense of community and create a supportive atmosphere for self-expression. Currently, Tava's students range from ages 10 to 80 years. With her background in counseling, Tava is keenly aware of the need to embrace a positive body image and uses the dance as a tool for building self-esteem.
While dancing is a form of entertainment, it is also a relationship between music and movement. The freedom to interpret sound with the body is therapeutic and emotional. Audiences have described Tava's dancing as "soulful, playful and contagious, with clear movements that express her passion and enthusiasm for the music."
Tava regularly performs at restaurants, nightclubs, birthday parties (children & adults), weddings, bridal showers, and corporate events. Tava is also available for bellydance parties, where guests participate in a group lesson followed by a performance. Duet performances are available with Tava and her dance partner Kazja, featuring choreography with a wide array of props.
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TESTIMONIALS:
Tava's dancing was just beautiful and she kept [the girls] moving their bellies all evening! It is so hard to come up with party ideas for teen girls that are just right and bellydancing provided the perfect theme! The girls learned about a new culture, experienced exotic movements that freed their spirits, and laughed all night long. Tava has such a grace and elegance and truly gave my daughter and her friends a sense of her passion for bellydance. I wholeheartedly encourage anyone to hire Tava for bellydance performance, parties, lessons...she is an exquisite, energetic dancer and has a wonderful way with girls.
Karla (Wilton, CT)
Tava, apart from being a truly great, creative, unique dancer you have an amazing talent to bring people together and charge them with great energy. I do not know how you do it, but you made every one of us [your students] feel very special.
Marina (Westport, CT)
Tava, first of all it was a pleasure knowing you and having you as our teacher. Thanks for the compliments and confidence you built in us. In addition to the skills I picked up, the class has taught me to be brave enough to do such a dance and to my surprise to do it as a public performance. I have come a long way here.
Student (Norwalk Community College)
To book Tava for your event (serving Fairfield, New Haven, and Westchester Counties as well as New York City), contact dancingtava(at)yahoo.com. To learn more about the history of bellydance, click here to read Shira's comprehensive writings.
