About Us
Our academy began in 1997 under the direction of world-renowned artist Samay—specializing in the Egyptian style and folklore-inspired dances. Since 2013, we are proud to still offer a wide range of courses, which continue to be available through the School of Continuing Education & Professional Development at Miami Dade College.
For almost 30 years, our academy has brought elegant and authentic Middle Eastern dance to South Florida. By providing sophisticated, professional, and award-winning instructors and performers, Mid East Performing Arts Academy has become synonymous with professionalism and quality.
We pride ourselves in teaching dancers the most diverse Middle Eastern dance styles. Now with a professional team of 4 award-winning instructors, our school provides you with patient, fun, and challenging classes to push you to the next level.
photo by Denise marino
“Amara delivers a heartfelt performance on stage with great elegance, emotion, and fluidity. It is refreshing to witness a dancer that reflects back to the authentic roots of belly dancing.
She showcases herself in a way that takes you back to watching some of the Egyptian legends within her own personal, creative style.”
Hind Haymour
Amara Sayid - Artistic Director & Instructor
Amara Sayid specializes in Egyptian (Golden Era, classical, and modern) and folklore-inspired dance, and is recognized for heartfelt performances that embody elegance, creativity, and musicality. She began her dance journey in 2001 under the mentorship of Samay and, in 2013, was chosen to continue her mentor’s legacy as the Artistic Director of the academy.
Her extensive training includes studying with world-renowned masters: Mr. Mahmoud Reda, Raqia Hassan, Zaza Hassan, Dr. Hassan Khalil, Hassan Afifi, Aladin El Kholy, Tito Seif, Yousry Sharif, Tamalyn Dallal, Kareem GaD, Hind Haymour, Julia Farid, Lubna Emam, Nesma Al Andalous, Ahmed Hussein, Oxana, Wael Mansour, Shahrzad, Esmeralda, Mona Farouk, Azad, Ehab Hassan, Nesrin, Nani, Dandash, and more.
Amara’s artistic mission is to preserve and honor the cultural richness of Arabic dance by sharing her knowledge through performance, education, and mentorship. “Only a deep-rooted admiration and dedication to this rich and magnificent culture can preserve the elegance and respect that its artform truly deserves.” Amara Sayid
Awards
1st Place with Azhar Dance Ensemble, Troupe Category, 2013 USA Belly Dance Queen Competition (Arizona, USA)
1st Place, Pro Soloist Category, 2014 Lelah Masriya Festival (Cairo, Egypt)
Amara’s Socials: Instagram YouTube Facebook Page
Danna Yasbet - Instructor
Danna Yasbet is an award-winning dance artist celebrated for her elegance, theatrical presence, and authentic Egyptian-style technique. She began her training in 2008 under world-renowned mentor Samay and has since built a career as an instructor with Mid East Performing Arts Academy.
Danna has studied with legendary masters including Mahmoud Reda, Raqia Hassan, and Yousry Sharif. She is a RAKSTAR International runner-up and USA Belly Dance Queen Competition (troupe category) champion with Azhar Dance Ensemble. Danna has performed internationally, opened for renowned Arabic singers such as Najwa Karam, and remains dedicated to preserving and promoting appreciation for this timeless art form.
Danna’s Socials: Instagram
Mermaids Of The Nile Student Dance Group
Jihan Jamal - Master Instructor
Jihan Jamal is a Master Instructor specializing in the traditional, theatrical, and folkloric dances of Egypt, as well as regional styles from the Levant and Arabian Gulf. An educator, ethnologist, and cultural advocate since 1979, she has spent over four decades promoting Near and Middle Eastern dance arts internationally.
In 1982, Jihan founded ADORA World Dance Productions to support education, performance, and collaboration with master teachers and musicians in Arab dance traditions. She is also a published writer with Yallah Magazine, founder and director of Women of the Silk Veil (WOSV) Middle Eastern and Asian Arts & Cultural Club, and a longtime board member and supporter of Miami’s Arab-American Cultural Center.
Jihan’s teaching approach blends authentic ethnic traditions with classical technique, emphasizing cultural context, historical understanding, and respect for the rich heritage of Middle Eastern dance.
photo by: Jay Lopez Photography
Kelly - Instructor
Kelly is a Miami-based belly dance performance artist, instructor, and choreographer who has captivated audiences in the U.S. and internationally, including performances in Spain, Japan, Argentina, Egypt, France, and the Caribbean. She began her training under master instructor Virginia of Miami and founded Belly by Kelly in 2012.
Her youth troupe, The Gems, earned 1st place at the 2014 RAKSTAR Competition (Teen Group Category) and won the People’s Choice Award. Kelly is also the owner of BBK Bellydance Boutique, a global resource for costumes, accessories, and dancewear.
Dedicated to preserving Raqs Sharqi for future generations, Kelly is passionate about teaching and mentoring students through detailed instruction, dynamic combinations, and meaningful connection, both in person and online.
Kelly’s Socials: Facebook Instagram BBK Bellydance Boutique
Maya Lamil - Instructor
Maya Lamil is an award-winning dancer and one of Miami’s most celebrated performers, renowned for her vibrant artistry and deep connection to cultural traditions. With nearly 20 years of experience, Maya's journey exemplifies the transformative power of dance, through personal growth.
As the founder of Dance & Traditions, Maya has created a unique space that blends the enchanting rhythms of Bellydance with the soulful sounds of Mayan Marimba. This initiative serves as a welcoming haven for individuals of all genders, encouraging them to come together to explore movement, share experiences, and connect with their bodies in a supportive environment. Through her work, Maya continues to inspire and empower others, celebrating the beauty of diverse dance forms and the joy of communal expression.
Maya’s Socials: Instagram