Your North Texas Bellydance Artist & Instructor
Welcome! My mission is to provide, my clients and students alike, an outstanding professional bellydance experience that enriches and delights everyone! ~ Raena
Award-Winning Entertainer
My clients seek high-caliber, authentic entertainment, so I’m proud to be one of the most in-demand performers in North Texas.
I’m known for my playful, feminine energy, a fluid refined elegance, and the ability to capture the attention of every guest with my smile.
But being a great performer is more than just dancing well - it’s about connecting joyfully with guests and mesmerizing them with the magical atmosphere of silk, swords, and the mysteries of fire. See Raena's awards and certifications
Experienced Teacher & Trainer
Over the last 15 years, I’ve been honored to share bellydance with hundreds of amazing students.
The bellydance community attracts people who are looking for something special to enrich their lives. They want a unique, exciting way to move and celebrate themselves. They enjoy exploring culture and world music. Bellydance offers all of these benefits in a fun, social setting.
My own dance journey continues to inspire me to help others, teaching them the many benefits of belly dancing for mind, body, and spirit.
MY BELLYDANCE STORY
While I don’t remember exactly when my passion for Raqs Sharqi (aka bellydance) began, my “mom” hobby evolved into a rewarding career as a dance professional.
Today, I’m proud of my achievements but still consider myself a student of this beautiful dance.
As MY student, you’ll experience a learning experience that prioritizes authentic, culturally respectful lessons. Appreciating the Middle Eastern origins of this art is very important to me! I strive to make this clear in my professional performances, in teaching my students, as well as when educating those in my community.
My other goal? As a certified fitness professional, I want you to stay healthy while having a great time learning. Dance should be rewarding and empowering for everyone!
BACKGROUND
Bellydancing since 2003
Began teaching in 2006
Owner & Director of Mckinney Bellydance by Raena (formerly called Arani Bellydance)
Director of the award-winning competition troupe, Sisters of Arani
Director of student troupe, Raqsat Al Jamal
Founding co-director & member of professional DFW belly dance troupe Basbousa Bellydance (and member of former professional troupe, Nadi El Raks)
AWARDS
1st place, 2021, Diamond Diva, Yaa Halla Y'all (TX)
1st runner up, 2019, pro category, Heart of America (MO)
1st place, 2019, pro category, Orlando Bellydance Convention
1st place, 2019, pro category, RiverCity Raqs (FL)
1st place with NaDi El Raks, 2019 NY Cairo in the troupe category.
1st Runner Up & People's Choice, 2018 Yaa Halla Y'all (TX); her troupe Sisters of Arani won 1st runner up.
3rd Place, Pro category Heart of America (MO)
People's Choice, 2018 2nd Ahlam Al Raks Improv (TX)
4th Runner Up, 2017 Yaa Halla Y'all (TX) soloist category.
People's Choice Winner, 2017 Heart of America (MO)
1st Runner Up and People's Choice, 2017 live improv challenge at Ahlam Al Raks (TX)
CERTIFICATIONS
NASM certified, Personal Trainer; Behavior Change Specialist; Corrective Exercise Specialist
TRX Certified Instructor
Certified® Zumba Instructor