Keren Sper

Israeli-born and of Russian Jewish heritage, Keren is a ray of light, the literal translation of her Hebrew name. Her passionate expression and smooth technique make her one of the rising stars in the world of Middle Eastern Dance. At age five, Keren was already in her first pair of ballet slippers. She is classically trained in ballet, in which she has over 20 years of experience. Keren feels that her ballet training has given her a classic grace, strength and flexibility that make her belly dancing technique unique. Keren has also been trained in other forms of dance such as tap, modern, and yoga. She has performed in various dance performances, plays (as featured dancer), music shows, and dance troupes. She has studied with many great teachers and performers such as Helena Vlahas, Morgiana, and Mara, some of the most renowned dancers and teachers of Arizona as well as international ballet dancers such as Nina Marlow, Natalia Bessmertnova and Slawomir Wozniak. She has been invited to perform as a belly dancer for prestigious events including: 9th Annual Celebration of Dance – Scottsdale Center for the Arts, AZ; Guess Fashion Show with the Bellytwins – Hollywood, CA; The Bead Museum World Tour Fundraiser – Phoenix, AZ; Zoa House – Tel-Aviv, Israel; W.U.J.S. Artist Presentation – Arad, Israel; as well as performing in restaurants and belly dance shows. Keren lived in Israel for five months where she taught and performed the art of belly dance. She also recently traveled to Istanbul, Turkey to scout the bazaars for exotic costumes and music. She was inspired by the Islamic art and architecture and their local dancers. Her sense of musicality and emotion provide an experience that inspires and moves her audience and lead performance-goers to a newfound respect for belly dancing.

A skilled dancer of the art form known as belly dance (or Oriental dance), Keren enjoys improvising and innovating with a style all her own. After discovering the world of Oriental dance, Keren felt as though she had truly found her calling. “The music, the movements, the imagery, it just speaks to me,” says Keren. “The dance is primal, the most natural movements for a woman’s body. Earthy movements reflect elements such as fire, air, and water. Yes, there is an element of sexuality and seductiveness to belly dance. I believe it is important for a woman to tune into that part of herself. Not for the entertainment of others, but to feed her own soul. To bring out her inner Goddess of wisdom, power and divine femininity. No matter what your shape or size, the dance just makes you feel good. The movements flatter the female body. The anorexic bodies you see in today’s media are harmful for women’s collective psyche. Belly dance helps us learn to accept our curves. The more that jiggles the better!” Keren is also Art Director of Sper Scientific, and has worked many years as an accomplished web/graphic designer. She also is a talented fine artist. Keren is truly multitalented, yet she compliments her creativity with a sense of discipline and professionalism. Don’t let all this scare you, because most of all, Keren prides herself on being a down-to-earth person who connects with her students and audience. Her love of dance stems from her desire to move her audience. To express her emotions, entertain, and to celebrate life that is where her joy emerges —her inner ray of light! For more info, videos, and upcoming performances please visit her site at http://www.bellyartist.com