Daphné Harbere, Queensland, Australia

How did you hear about World Belly Dance and what inspired you to participate?

A friend, and bellydance costume supplier, Dev, told me about the day, and asked if I was interested in participating. Of course I was! I relish any opportunity to promote and share this beautiful dance form. I attempt to educate the public about the origins of raqs sharqi – and to present performances with joy, dignity, and especially with respect for the cultures we represent.

What does Belly Dance mean for you?

Bellydance is my soul food. It is my passion. It expresses feminine beauty; it is nurturing, exhilarating, and sharing that special magic of the dance. It is the joy of seeing so many women blossom as the dance embraces them and transports them to their special places.

What message about Belly Dance would you like to send to those that have not started dancing yet?

Identify a teacher with values that respect you as an individual, and respect the dance portrayed. In the right environment, you should definitely feel special, encouraged, inspired. It can be daunting coming along to a first class, wondering what it will be like. Many of my students have commented about having felt apprehensive, but say they are sooooo happy they did come to class, because it has given them so much fun, joy, self-confidence, friendships, acceptance of body image – regardless of age, shape, size. Nurture the goddess within – you deserve it!!



I am principal of Bella Bellydance School in Maroochydore, on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland, Australia. Of the Sunshine Coast , it is said “beautiful one day, more beautiful the next”. I think this also applies to the goddesses who dance with me.

And me? I am passionate about this exquisite dance. In 1996 I was introduced to, and seduced by, raks sharqi (bellydancing). I have an extensive background in dance; initially as a member of a contemporary dance company (jazz and modern ballet), with forays into Latin, African, and Brazilian dance. I regularly attend dance workshops with internationally renowned teachers and choreographers in Australia , and overseas. I also travel to Middle Eastern countries, to develop a finer understanding of this beautiful dance form, as well as its cultural origins.

I teach a wide range of bellydance styles, including folkloric and cabaret, - (favoring Egyptian style), and tribal (ATS). Other dance styles I am currently teaching are Bollywood and Tahitienne (Polynesian).

I feel very honored to have so many beautiful women attending my classes, and sharing wonderful energy and camaraderie, as we embrace our femininity.

Thank you for inviting us to be part of World Bellydance Day. We had a bella day!