Who We Are...
Bennu-Bast is a Milwaukee-based fusion bellydance troupe. Bennu-Bast is currently made up of the two founding members Maria Karena and Tarilyn. Together, we have almost 30 years of dance experience!
Our name, Bennu-Bast, has traditional roots and meaning: BENNU derives from the Egyptian “phoenix,” rising from the ashes of previous troupes, and BAST is the Egyptian goddess of music and dance.
more on Maria Karena ---- more on Tarilyn
What We Do ...
Our roots are based strongly on traditional Turkish bellydance and American Tribal Style, but we draw from many dance styles from around the world. We perform a theatrical style of fusion Tribal dance, using belly dance to tell a story. Our ability to perform both choreographed and improv styles allow us to tailor a show to fit any occasion or venue.
Story Corner ... by Maria Karena
The Move to Washington. Sadly, I had to leave Rhea’s troupe and all my lovely dancer friends because my husband was transferred to the Washington D.C. area, so we moved to Gaithersburg, MD. Of course, the first thing I did was look for a teacher in the area.
Photo from Maria Karena's archives
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