Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Mahira.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’ve always loved to be on a stage, since I was a child. I started dancing, singing, and acting as a very young child, around 6 years old. Started out in tap, jazz and ballet and continued through childhood into my teen years. I even dabbled in modeling. I was in many school productions, dance teams, cheerleading, and a few choirs. I was in many community productions. Over the years I explored many different styles and genres of dance until one day I took my first Raqs Sharqi dance class. Americans call it BellyDance. I was hooked immediately. I took from as many instructors as I could. I took classes, workshops, private lessons, attended events, and researched. It quickly became a huge part of my life and has been since then. I became Mahira. Mahira is my stage name, but has become a part of me, another side of my personality.
I’ve appeared on Chicago’s WGN morning news “Around Town” and have been interviewed for three Chicago Tribune articles. I was an extra in the movie “Just Like A Woman” starring Sienna Miller. I’m an Ensemble Cast Member of the Chicago longest running, and only all female cast late night variety show, Beast Women. I have been performing and hosting my own showcases for over 20+ years. One of my most recent showcases is “BellyDance in the Burbs”. A free showcase of local talent including students, hobbyist’s, and professionals. My passions are maintaining and uplifting the community, and being a huge LGBTQIA+ Ally is near and dear to my heart. All of my classes and events are welcome to all.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It certainly has not been a smooth road. This community struggles, especially as any world or political events tend to sway peoples ideas and thoughts of this community. We have our ups and downs, and have had some big positive spikes in interest when celebrities like Shakira dance and everyone wants to dance like her.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I have been called Chicago’s Best Ziller, and most recently God-dess-zilla. Zills are also known as finger cymbals. Something I am definitely known for and sought out to teach. Playing finger cymbals while dancing can be difficult for many and is sadly a dying art and I refuse to let it die.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I encourage everyone to try a BellyDance class or go to a local show and show support. You just may get hooked, like I did.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mahirabellydance.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mahira.bellydance/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mahirabellydancer
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MahiraRaqs
