Ak'Ana began in 2005 as a gothic bellydance experiment, weaving a fusion style by using the strong and sinuous forms of tribal-style improvisation with gothic music and costuming concepts. The troupe's signature event, Raqs Gothique, was integral in showcasing the gothic and fusion bellydancers of the mid-Atlantic region.

Although Jaz and Christiane have shifted their main focus away from the gothic element of fusion, they continue to perform their own distinct tribal fusion bellydance choreographies and improvisation, and have been working tirelessly as instructors, developing new moves and directing their tribal-style student troupe Devi'ance.

CHRISTIANE

Christiane

Music has always been part of my life - as a child and as a teenager performing in classical and madrigal choirs and school musicals, and later on as an adult as a rhythm guitarist and singer in a band. Musicality and rhythm I had, but I still yearned to dance, and to be a dancer.

As an adult, I found bellydance. And with the first beats of a beledi rhythm and the melody of an oud, there was the soulfulness that Western forms of dance lacked for me. The movements were more natural and easier to do, and perfecting each brought a marvelous sense of accomplishment. My musician skills came in handy as I learned zills. Additionally, the women who studied the dance with me were all sizes and shapes and ages, teaching me that bellydance was not just for the very young and perfect of body. Through our classes, we all grew stronger, more graceful, and more confident together.

As instructors, Jaz and I want to share those same feelings of strength, grace, and accomplishment, to encourage people to grow beyond their perceived limitations. You can dance. Let us show you how, and cheer for you along the way.

JAZ

Jazz

Fusion is something that comes naturally to me. I have always had a penchant for finding the common ground, shape-shifting between, and blending elements of that which would appear incongruent to most: Western and Eastern, Modern and Ancient, Sanctified and Irreverant...

Upon discovering bellydance - and being both deeply spiritual and passionate - I found that the combination of the music, the movements, and the intent created a perfect outlet for my artistic self-expression.

In my youth, I studied ballet, tap, and jazz styles. Once introduced to cultural expressions of dance, I found my comfort in a combination of American variations of Middle Eastern styles, as well as the classical and folkloric styles of the world. I now seek to combine, refine, and where possible -innovate in the realm of Triabal Style Bellydance.

When teaching and dancing with my partner Christiane and our students, I am inspired, awed to witness, and honored to take part in the development of a deeper self-confidence and renewed strength in both our bodies and our spirits as we share the non-verbal language of this ritual. In dance, I find poetry, beauty, and the voice the Soul.

Come, discover what inspires you, and see what personal treasures await within!