Shahla began belly dancing in 2003. She came to belly dance looking for an additional way to exercise to add to her physical fitness regimen. Since her first class, it has been love at first shimmy!

One look at her photos will explain why she chose her Persian name, Shahla, meaning dark-eyed woman. She has studied under a number of instructors in Maine including Josie Conte, Jeanne Handy and Jessica Jane Means.  She recently had the pleasure of studying with San Francisco based dancer, Michelle Joyce.  She is currently performing with Naya's Trance.

Shahla has performed at the Center for Cultural Exchange, St. Lawrence Arts and Community Center, Old Port Festival, Portland Dances, Mirage, and several charity events including Velvet. Dancing is no stranger to her having been a competitive ice dancer in the past. She was an active member of the Skating Club of Brunswick.