Ekaterini
Click here to find out about Ekaterini’s regular classes in Richmond.
Music and dance stands as Ekaterini’s first love. She has been dancing her whole life!
Ekaterini’s devotion to belly dance began with Underbelly in 2001 when she was asked to design and make costumes for one of their Melbourne Fringe Festival performances.
She was immediately drawn to the beauty and mystery of the ancient dance and has remained enchanted ever since.
Ekaterini later moved to Sydney to study a Bachelor of Arts in Production Crafts at NIDA .
In Sydney she continued to train in belly dance with several reputable teachers, all of which have remained influential in the development of her own unique style. After five years of intensive study she was offered professional work as a solo artist as well as a troupe member alongside some of Sydney’s top belly dancers. She went on to perform hundreds of shows at many high profile functions, private and public events.
In 2008 Ekaterini decided to return to her home town Melbourne, and soon after was asked to join the professional Underbelly dance troupe. She has come full circle!
In 2010 she travelled to Egypt and completed private belly dance workshops with master choreographers working in Cairo including Raqia Hassan, Randa Kamel, and Soraia Zaied.
Ekaterini’s expression of belly dance has been described as graceful, authentic and polished. Her style varies from classical and modern Egyptian, Greek tsiftitelli, gypsy and modern fusion.
Her performances utilize several traditional props including veil, sword, isis wings, saidii (cane), and zills (finger cymbals).
Ekaterini offers belly dance classes and workshops of the highest standard.
Her style of teaching is technique focused and fun. She cultivates a comfortable and nurturing environment where students may explore and develop their connection to the music and dance.
She also privately coaches beginners to professionals who aspire to advance their performance and technical skills.
Ekaterini has taught several belly dance therapy workshops in Melbourne. Previous participants include young women and intellectually disabled youth from the Juvenile Justice Centre in Parkville, and YMCA in Doncaster. She is also currently assisting the Creative Movement and Dance classes with intellectually and physically disabled adults from the Sussex Street Neighbourhood house in Coburg.
Ekaterini is dedicated to promoting the beauty and integrity of belly dancing. With its graceful control and discipline, belly dance is a magnificent expression of feminine power.