Sanura Nar

I have been dancing all of my life. I began studying ballet at the age of 5 years old. My classical training prepared me for a fulfilling career studying and working with Joseph Holmes, founder and artistic director of the Joseph Holmes Dance Theater, where I accomplished leading roles as a principal dancer and soloist.

My work in Joseph Holmes Dance Theater gave me the opportunity to meet and work with the world renowned dancer/choreographer Ruth Page. This collaboration eventually landed me the supporting role of "Nellie Bly" in Ms. Page’s ballet, Frankie and Johnny.

I found my true passion approximately 20 years ago when I discovered and embraced Middle Eastern Dance. My studies have introduced me to many local and internationally renowned artists, allowing me to take classes and perform extensively across the United States and Canada. I have performed with local Chicago based Middle Eastern Dance companies: Kalidah’s North African Dance Experience, Desert Moon, Ward El Sahar, and Opium Contemporary Middle Eastern Dance Theater.

Since 1989, I have studied and performed with such esteemed dancers as, Cassandra Shore - Minnesota, Dalia Carella - New York, Dahlena - NM, Horatio Cefuentes - Germany, Ibrahim Farrar - New York, Jasmin Jahal - Chicago, Khalidah Kali - Chicago, Leila Gamal - Indiana, Mahmoud Reda - Egypt, Nazaree - Chicago, Ruby Jazayre - Indiana, Virginia Davaran - Chicago, Yousry Sharif - New York and Maria Broom - Maryland, to name a few.

The crowning glory of my career thus far was my work as dance consultant for the Chicago Lyric Opera’s 2003 season for the opera "Thais". But I am not done rising nor am I done shining.

I have made it my own personal mission to empower others through dance. As a child, I was fascinated by pictures of the harem ladies in their seductive attire. I was intrigued by their beauty and mystique. I think this is at least part of the reason I was drawn to Middle Eastern dance. I have made it my own personal mission to empower others through dance. I teach women to be in control, to be beautiful, and to be living art. That is what I do.

I am Sanura