Abzahrah is a Professional Middle Eastern Dance Company based in Bethlehem who captivates and enlightens audiences throughout the tri-state area at various charities, festivals, theatrical shows, concerts, educational presentations, and cultural celebrations. The company’s sensational performances present modern, traditional, and folkloric Middle Eastern ethnology, music, and dance with flowing veils, rhythmic finger cymbals, dazzling canes, sparkling swords, feathered fans, and shimmering candles.
Abzahrah was founded in 2008 by Amala Gameela and is comprised of her most talented, enthusiastic, advanced dancers who are dedicated to preserving, studying, and sharing the beauty, culture, and art of traditional and authentic Middle Eastern Dance. Each member has their own individual flair, is a featured creative soloist, and participates in innovative small dance ensemble choreographies with other company artists in addition to professional performances with the entire company.
Whether you’re looking for a full staged theatrical show, a cultural lecture and educational dance demonstration, an entertaining belly dance lesson and vibrant performance, or an exquisite troupe of interactive dancers to spice up your celebration, Abzahrah will transcend your guests to a beautiful oasis through the art of Middle Eastern Dance.
Highlight performances include: St. Luke’s Hospital Charity Ball, First Night Hazelton New Year’s Eve Party, Touchstone Theatre productions, East Stroudsburg University’s cultural celebrations, Delaware Valley College’s Arabian Nights, Mayfair, Musikfest, and Middle Eastern educational shows at Penn State campuses, to name a few.
Allow Abzahrah to take you on an enchanted carpet ride with friends, family, and fun at your next special occasion!
Contact Amala Gameela to invite Abzahrah to your next event.
Amala Gameela, Founder and Artistic Director, is a sought after performer, enthusiastic instructor, and event producer who presents traditional Middle Eastern dance with beauty, passion, culture, and professional artistry. She strives not only to entertain, but also educate audiences of all ages with the company’s unforgettable performances. After every show she is thrilled with how Abzahrah has grown as a company, as individual dancers, and always looks forward to their next performance together.
Noorah is a fiery and captivating performer who draws her audience in with her warmth and obvious love of the dance. She has been studying Middle Eastern dance under Amala Gameela since 2007. As an original member of Abzahrah, Noorah has performed throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey and is very proud to say she has been onstage at Musikfest in her hometown of Bethlehem, PA! Noorah says that the things she most appreciates about her time spent belly dancing are her friendships made with fellow dancers and the sense of self-confidence that dance has instilled in her. She can't imagine a day without belly dance!
Daisy is a whimsical and graceful performer with mystical movements leaving audiences wanting more. She has been belly dancing since 2003 and is committed to keeping the traditional styles of the dance alive. Daisy is an English Major at Goucher College with some of her additional interests and talents involving writing, cooking, and especially eating. Dancing with Abzahrah has given her some of the happiest moments in her life!
Carmen is a delightful and compassionate performer who radiates happiness to all with every show. She has been an unequivocal member of Abzahrah since 2009 and has been studying under Amala Gameela since 2008. Carmen is a devoted dancer and looks forward to continuing to pursue her affection for belly dance. She is a graduate student at Chestnut Hill College and plans to graduate in 2011 with a M.A. in clinical & counseling psychology. Carmen currently works full time as a case manager for adults with mental illness, a challenging and rewarding career. She appreciates all the love and support from her friends and family who encourage her to follow her heart.
Detta is an expressive and dynamic performer who enlightens audiences with mesmerizing and fluid movements. She has been studying with Amala since 2008 and joined the company in 2009. Detta has a deep love of belly dance, truly treasures being a member of the company, and cherishes the friendships she has made. Detta holds a BA in Graphic Design and when she is not dancing she enjoys baking mouth-water concoctions for her scrumptious new business, Sugarmama's Cupcakes.
Serayah is an alluring and charming performer engaging patrons with sensual shimmies and contagious smiles. She has been belly dancing under the talented Amala Gameela since 2006, where her inspiration began with a desire to be enriched with the culture and beauty of this dance. Since her beginnings, this hobby has turned into a much needed creative outlet while pursuing a BSN in Desales’ accelerated Nursing program. Belly dance allows her to express her individual style while maintaining the authenticity and culture taught through her apprenticeship with Amala. Serayah is ecstatic to be a member of Abzahrah, and looks forward to expanding her dance education and continuing her commitment to this company with an amazing and talented group of women.