Renee Szudy
Renee began studying Arabic Dance in 1996 under Cassandra Shore. She danced with Jawaahir Dance Company from 2006-2024; this unique experience allowed her access to regular training at The Cassandra School plus rich performance experiences dancing for countless private events and in Jawaahir's annual concerts, regularly featuring live, world-class musical accompaniment.
From 2008 until it closed in 2021, Renee was a regular teacher at the Cassandra School, known for her joyful, energetic approach. Passionate about sharing her love for dance, Renee currently teaches weekly at Hothouse Studio in NE Minneapolis and at The Beautiful Studio in the Creative Enterprise Zone of St. Paul. She believes strongly in the importance of consistent training for dancers of every experience level--beginner to advanced, recreational to professional--and she seeks to create an inclusive school that supports this.
Active in leadership for the Guild of Middle Eastern Dance since 2018, Renee initially served as First Chair, now serves as Treasurer, and has continuously served on the Event Planning Committee. Instrumental in keeping the Guild's tradition of providing educational and performance opportunities for dancers, she and other Guild Officers have worked tirelessly to build the Guild community and put on a variety of dance events throughout each year.
Renee continues to perform as a soloist, with her students, and, most recently, with Baratok Belly Dance Company. She has a particular love for Raqs Sharqi, veilwork, finger cymbals and Raqs al Assaya (Saidi Cane Dance). You can find Renee dancing at most Guild shows, occasionally at Renaissance Festivals, always with her students in her classes and workshops, and, inshallah, at your next event!