Madelyn Farr 

(England)

"I loved "Shimmy Wonderland". In addition to the shimmering choreography and the breakdown of the shimmy variations, there was an assortment of video goodies that enhanced the program. The Bonus MasterClass “Shimmies as a Healing Tool” was particularly engrossing and useful. I completed the challenge to do a daily 20-minute shimmy session for a week to achieve clarity and grounding around a decision needed to be made and to facilitate the release of a belief or pattern of behavior no longer serving me. In all, this is a course that goes well beyond standard technical instruction and choreography. Like all of Joana's offerings, you're treated to a rich body of relevant information, in this case, on the merits of shimmies as a choreographic enhancer and as a tool for self-development and healing - plus all of the bonus treats that bring the student a wealth of insight into Egyptian Dance. I appreciate Joana's evident commitment to her students' progress. She added live classes to the curriculum to meet the particular learning needs of her students. Joana shares her time, her care and knowledge generously and as her students, we're all the better for it!

I reaped several benefits from the Course.

First, I've developed my stamina and dexterity through a daily practice of shimmies as instructed in the course. My participation in the Shimmies as a Healing Tool challenge revealed the power of shimmies to generate energy and resolve when I'm lagging or unfocused. As a result, I plan to continue the practice for that purpose. I particularly appreciated the lesson on creativity which was edifying as it strongly validated my own choreographic process. Last but not least, the course increased my appetite to learn more about ED which I plan to do once I submit this course survey.

I'd gladly recommend the course to other dancers who are interested in a multi-layered approach to learning. The application of shimmies beyond their execution strictly as a dance move is intriguing. This course is designed to engage the body, mind, heart, and soul. Any committed student taking this and other courses with Joana will always gain a great deal in more than initially meets the eye."

Chiharu Hotta

(Japan)

"Thank you so much for the amazing course “Shimmy Wonderland”!

I love this Course.
Learning shimmy with beautiful music was really fun and
I never experienced Tarab when I attended any classes (even in real life) before.
I learned not only techniques but all the possibilities that I can use shimmies for.
Also, Joana teaches how important it is to find our unique dance style, not to be a copycat.
It was a huge eye-opener for me and gave me the courage to start experimenting and creating!
Since I started to create and experiment my dance, I became more confident in real life.
I started to create new things and take actions to achieve my goals.
Ex.1-I volunteered as an English-Japanese translator at my company.
(I have been wanting to use my English for work but I was always scared of being judged by people before so I never used my English.)
Ex.2-I am finally organizing my small belly dance event!
(I have a dream to become a professional belly dancer. I used to just wait for somebody to make the dream come true for me.
but your words encouraged me and I decided to create my own show!
A big thank you, Joana.

I´d totally recommend this Course to dancers.
Absolutely yes! Your classes change dancers' lives!
I cannot thank you enough. Taking the course was the best decision I have ever made."

Heather Henna Louise

(USA)

"Taking online classes with Joana Saahirah has allowed me to fall even more in love with Oriental dance than I thought possible. As a teacher, Joana doesn't teach steps, she cultivates artists. She expects nothing less than your authentic self in every move, and she is a living example of that integrity. Don't get me wrong, she can break down a shimmy with the best of them, but connecting you to the purpose behind that shimmy is where Joana truly shines as a teacher. Whether in class or on stage, she is unapologetically creative and alive. Not only does she dance outside of the box, but she respects the hell out of that box, too! From our first class, Joana has pinpointed exactly what I needed and laid out exercises and inspirations to get me there. I truly look forward to my practice these days, which is often self-discovery. Learning from Joana is the most serious kind of fun. Thank you, Joana!"

Xenia Leontova

(Kyrgyzstan) 

"The best thing that happened to me in 2020 in the dance field was to discover Joana Saahirah's online dance school. Joana's teachings are what I will gladly carry with me into 2021 and further as I grow both in dance and on a personal level. When I first saw Joana's video performances, I was glued to the screen. I was captured by her presence, her unique style, and charisma. Intrigued, I decided to check out her online school courses. There I uncovered immense amounts of material, invaluable insights into dance and life in general, and a very rich, deeply caring, giving person. Joana's guidance has given me confidence in my path as a dancer and a human being. She has given me tools to achieve my dance goals. And in her magical ways, she has helped me find answers to profound questions. Joana leads by example and it shows in everything that she offers to her students. The material that she gives is always rich, captivating, and enlightening. I would highly recommend Joana's school of dance to dancers of any level and of any background. There is something special and highly useful in her teachings for everyone."

Seiko Endo

(Japan)

"I recommend Joana Saahirah´s Online Dance School to other students, for sure.
But only those who are really interested in the authentic Egyptian dance and the culture behind it.
I have learned beautiful choreographies, received many beautiful learning materials, tips for self-practice, and some Arabic.
I have also learned practical ways to be self-confident through your course, which is indeed life-changing.
The reason I cannot leave her school is that she doesn't force her students to be her followers (totally the opposite!)
She values each student's individuality and guides us to be "ourselves," in dance and in life.

Taking your courses in 2020 was truly a great help for me, both physically and mentally.
Literally, you saved my life...Thank you."