Ilona teaches oriental dance at Flama.
Ilona is a popular teacher, choreographer and performer of Egyptian style. She is inspiring and dedicated; a professional who respects the traditions of the dance and is able to take into account the level of her students in her teaching. The classes are captivating, versatile and varied, introducing you to the different styles, techniques and rhythms of Egyptian dance. Ilona’s knowledge of the dance is extensive, and she shares all that knowledge with others and constantly develops her skills as well.
Ilona writes: “Over the years I have experienced so much love and joy through Egyptian dance that I cannot put it into words! I think it’s particularly important that I continue to develop myself as a dancer. I have been fortunate, having learned my trade from Mohamed Kazzafy, Khaled Mahmoud and Zeina have had the biggest influence on the kind of dancer I am today. Of course, the Master of dance; the late Mahmoud Reda and, back home, Hannele Lindgren are behind my strong Egyptian dance technique.
The main focus of my teaching is primarily on proper dance technique, but I also focus on the mind, the joy of dance and body care. My choreographies always respect the traditions of dance and the deepest essence of dance: oriental dance is still, in my opinion, the most beautiful solo female dance in the world. I direct several groups as well as my own dance group which is a performing group with different configurations. The group’s mission is to promote Egyptian dance and they are actively studying dance under my direction. I have had the honour of performing solo and with a group of top dancers around the world, and it has given me the courage to believe in myself as a performer, director and choreographer. Performing with a live band has also been one of the most important moments of my life as a dancer.
