Kartana was introduced to belly dance by Karima Aliz in 2002 when she took a belly dance workshop in search of an alternative source of exercise. However, she, like many others, was quickly captivated by the thrill of this dance and the compelling sounds of Middle Eastern music. Kartana decided early on in her dance tenure that she’ll “never buy any costumes”, “never dance a solo” and “never dance in public”. Contrary to these often repeated statements, once she was immersed in classes and regular practices there developed much evidence in the troupe’s photo gallery illustrating the contrary. Kartana now has many costumes (word on the street is a whole closet full!), has choreographed and performed multiple solos and has performed publicly both with the troupe, in small groups, and as a soloist. Kartana continues to pursue the art of belly dance under the tutelage of a number of instructors through workshops and classes. Recent instructors include Yucy El-Banan, Marta, Asharah, and Latifa.

Through belly dance, Kartana discovered a side of herself that she previously did not really know existed. Working in the traditionally male-dominated field of aerospace engineering, she relishes the opportunity to dress up and interact with women of differing lives and backgrounds. She is drawn to multiple styles of bellydance including the more Folkloric and American Tribal Styles (ATS) styles of belly dance, however her primary schooling has been in the cabaret and more contemporary “tribaret” stylings. Her natural high intensity and energy is reflected in the obvious joy she radiates when she performs!