Bios

A founding member of the Women of Selket, Zitana (Fran Tribble) has been involved in the study, teaching, and performing of Middle Eastern Dance for over 30 years. Zitana creates an atmosphere of mystery, excitement, and joy of the dance with a special emphasis on stage presence in her performances and in the classroom setting. Having appeared in several Washington, D.C. and Virginia area nightclubs, television commercials, workshops, and local charity events, she is available for class instruction and private coaching. Contact Zitana at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Zaida (Jenny Desjean) was first introduced to Middle Eastern dance through an extracurricular dance class at the College of William & Mary in 1998. She has studied with a variety of teachers in Richmond and Tidewater and has also participated in many workshops with nationally known artists. Zaida has performed at many local festivals, charity events and restaurants. She is known for her graceful, fluid, precise style and loves to do drum solos. Zaida currently teaches through Hanover County Parks and Recreation. Visit Zaida's web site at home.comcast.net/~zaidadance.

Najia (Donna Vronek), who is known for her fast hip work and shimmies, performed for many years in clubs and restaurants in Richmond, Washington, DC and Williamsburg. She enjoys performing at parties and is a favorite with the Arabic community. Najia teaches through Chesterfield County Parks and Recreation.

Katia (Lisa Moss) discovered bellydancing in 2005 by taking classes with local instructors. In 2007 she traveled to Egypt and she has been completely hooked ever since. She takes every opportunity available to study with both local and internationally acclaimed dancers, creating an eclectic and unique style. She joined Women of Selket in 2009.

Dharva (Debby Reynolds) joined the Women of Selket in 2009 after having been a loyal fan and a student of Najia's for many years. Her strength, grace, and sense of humor come through clearly in her dance. She is an accomplished soloist and avid student of the dance.

Anala (Anne Kemp) has been studying Middle Eastern dance since 2001 with many of the teachers in the Richmond area. She performs regularly at “Tummy Tuesday” at the Positive Vibe Café, with the Jewels of the Oasis, and in student recitals. In addition, Anala writes “The Practical Dancer,” a blog full of organizational tips, costume “repurposing” tricks, and easy ideas to help dancers of all levels maximize their budget.

Alia (Alice Warner) has studied and performed oriental dance for 35 years. She has travelled extensively worldwide as well as the Middle East. Though she has taught for area recreation departments as well as privately for a number of years, she is presently enjoying a sabbatical. She believes that a dancer should have an understanding of and love for Arabic music in order to interpret it through dance. Alia is also noted for her costume designs.

Ameena (Joyce Garrett) is one of the newest members to add her charismatic personality and joyful smile to the Women of Selket. She has studied with several teachers in the Chester and Richmond area as well as participated in workshops with nationally known artists. The lively personality and her joy of the dance shine through in her performances!

Alaena (Eileen Williams) has studied many dance forms including ballet, tap, modern and flamenco. She has been bellydancing for almost 25 years. She joined the Women of Selket in 1989. She teaches for Hanover Parks and Recreation and for the School of Latin Ballet in Glen Allen. She specializes in body isolations, arm and hand movement and muscle control. You can reach Alaena at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Visit Alaena’s website at www.alaenaraks.com.

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