Ep 160. Aegela: Sharing Memories of Studying with Mahmoud Reda

Since 1978, Aegela’s love of Middle Eastern dance has taken her throughout the US and to the heart of the art—Egypt. It was on her first tour that Aegela was awarded the coveted Lifetime Performer’s license by the Egyptian Ministry of Culture, an honor held by only 11 foreigners. While working in Egypt, Aegela enjoyed the privilege of studying with famed dancer/choreographer Mahmoud Reda, of the Reda Troupe, and with Madame Busi, principal dancer with the National Folkloric Company. During her teaching career, Aegela has conducted classes for the deaf and hearing impaired, and devised a format for use in occupational therapy rehabilitation programs assisting women in regaining range of motion. Recently, she developed a dance program for women recovering from strokes. Aegela frequently lectures in major universities on the topics of Middle Eastern art and music. Speaking engagements have included Emory University School of Near Eastern Studies, Georgia State University, and Mercer University. Aegela is the recipient of the 2004 Stella Award for Lifetime Achievement in Middle Eastern Dance.