Wendy began her foray into dance in 4th grade when she auditioned for a singing part in a summer production of Fiddler on the Roof but was awarded a part as a dancer instead. Much to her surprise, it was quite fun and she has been dancing ever since. Not too suprising, however, as she is a fourth generation dancer - her mother, grandmother and great-grandmother used to win dance competitions in their day!

In 1990, Wendy was introduced to bellydance at a convention in St. Louis, MO and was immediately hooked. Her formal training includes studying with many instructors throughout the Midwest, most notably Jasmin Jahal in Chicago. When relocating to Chicago in 1994, she began studying in earnest with Jasmin Jahal after having met her at a seminar in Sedalia, MO. Later, in 1999, she heard about American Tribal Style (ATS) and signed up for classes under Stephanie Barto of Read My Hips. There Wendy found joy in perfoming at festivals, restaurants and other venues as a member of The Fringe Connection and as a guest of Read My Hips. Two years later, along with the other three original members, Wendy helped found The Blue Lotus Tribe, a tribal fusion bellydance troupe and new adventures began!

Wendy continues to study with Jasmin Jahal, perfecting her technique and improvisational style. In 2002 she was invited by Jasmin to perform as a member of her professional troupe, Ward el Sahara in a production produced and directed by Jasmin, "Kismet, one Man's Destiny".

"To dance is to feel alive! In this discipline, I have truly found my creative outlet. As an artist, the challenge of blending grace, beauty and technique brings me joy and the satisfaction that comes only from hard work. This dance continually pushes me to learn new things about both myself and the world around me. What I enjoy most is the opportunity to share it with others by teaching and performing. "

You can see Wendy dancing in restaurants and for private parties in Chicago. She can also be found teaching both classical Egyptian and ATS in and around the Chicago area. Click here for class information.

You can also visit Wendy's website for her solo Egyptian classes and performances by clicking here.