About Us
Sahara Silk is located in North East Florida, with most of its members from the Jacksonville and Orange Park, Florida areas. Troupe members are a dedicated and accomplished group of dancers taught by director and choreographer Julianne Battaglia. All have had years of training and experience in Middle Eastern dance from Julianne as well as from numerous other teachers and professional seminar instructors through out the country. Each member, in her own personal style can clearly be recognized as having the "it" factor. The "it" factor is seen when a dancer can embody, express, and demonstrate the intricate nuances and complexities of Middle Eastern rhythms and music.
When a dancer "becomes" the music and her kinetic expression makes the music visible to the viewer, she can be said to have the "it" factor. She possesses the rare and delightful ability to understand and articulate the spirit of the dances, not just the steps. Troupe members continually strive to refine their technique to accurately express the character and soul inherent in this lovely dance art.
Sahara Silk dancers are eager and enthusiastic about sharing their love and dedication to this beautiful ancient art form. They are sublime in their support and respect for each other as spiritual beings that are fortunate to have their paths meet through this joyous learning experience. Members feel they have been truly blessed with a delightful compatibility among uniquely individual personalities who are able to maintain a sense of harmony in their focus and direction. For this we are very grateful!