Sahara's Treasure is a professional dance company specializing in folkloric and modern interpretations in the rich tradition of Middle Eastern dance. The troupe hosts shows, teaches classes and workshops, and performs at venues out of Montgomery County, Maryland.

Since its formation in 2006, the troupe has taught and performed at international festivals, art shows, charity fundraisers, and theaters all over the East Coast. In 2009, Sahara's Treasure competed in the Northeast Bellydance Classics in Pennsylvania, earning second place in the troupe division.

As a hallmark of their commitment to their local community, Sahara’s Treasure became a registered woman-owned business and produced gala events to raise thousands of dollars for local community organizations such as The Dwelling Place and Sister to Sister Foundation.   In addition to large-scale fundraising events, the company also produces the annual Shiver Me Shimmies student hafla, providing dancers of all levels an opportunity to perform and build connections in the bellydance community.

In 2011, Basane and Basmah stepped into the roles of Executive and Artistic directors and opened the organizational structure to include Associate Level Members.  

Members of Sahara's Treasure have been featured in the Frederick News Post and the Silver Spring Patch News. The troupe continues to evolve into a recognized and respected presence in the Montgomery County community.

Belly dance, or Raqs Sharqi (literally 'Dance of the East' in Arabic), was commonly performed by both men and women at social and religious community events. While the exact origins and age of this beautiful art form are unknown, it is believed to be at least two-thousand years old.

A professional dancer is capable of complex muscle control and isolation to produce movements generally seen in the torso, arms, and hips. The dance intricately compliments the musical score and can emphasize a variety of emotional expressions.

Today, Oriental Dance is a growing and engaging performance art in many places around the world. The movements are valued for not only social and recreational purposes, but also for health and fitness.

Sahara’s Treasure is growing! The professional dance company would like to welcome Keslyn as their newest associate member. Please check out Keslyn’s biography on the new Members page. More members coming by winter of this year.

The troupe wishes Ananke well in the next chapter of her life as she leaves for graduate school in New Hampshire. Ananke will continue to study and teach Bellydance out of Keene, and will act as an executive member of the troupe  in absentia.

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