Our Staff

Tim Seitz:

Tim has a PhD in Engineering Science and Mechanics from Virginia Tech, and an executive MBA from Harvard. So what does he actually prefer? Call him Dr. Tango. He teaches Argentine Tango at the studio. He also is the webmaster for this site, and runs Safira's business. Tim also enjoys several forms of ballroom dance, including the smooth, rhythm, and swing forms.

Jared Rodgers:

If it was painted, nailed, sewn, lighted or stage-managed at our studio, Jared was most likely in the wings. He is our production stage manager, lighting designer and costumer, and creates the magic for our shows! As Haldoun, he dances Middle Eastern folkloric dance. As Pono Kapena, he dances Hawaiian forms with his wife, Leilani.

Allan Flesberg:

Almost from the start of our studio, Allan and his camera were with us, documenting our journey with his marvelous photos. See his work on our home page and in our gallery of shows. His specialty is the human interest that tells the tale, not only onstage, but behind the scenes as well. He's a great supporter of his wife, Tahirah, and we are joyful to be associated with them both!

David Staples:

David says he's a "technician," but he raises technique to art by meticulous attention to detail. For instance, what a sacrifice last summer, when he spent 2 hours photographing women with a snake! When not photographing belly dancers, he's a wedding photographer. See David's photos on our home page and show gallery as well.

Fatinah Hayat:

She's a great dancer and teacher, and boy, can she organize. Fatinah is our building manager, making sure the facility runs well and that our students have a smoothly-run organization which takes care of their needs, from chilled water bottles to rehearsal notices. If you're comfortable and well-informed, thank Fatinah!

Amy Geiszler-Jones:

When not dancing, Amy is the editor of Inside WSU, and lets the media know when we are up to something! When not writing and editing, she is Zahava Noor, and performs not only cabaret-style Middle Eastern dance, but also many types of folkloric dance, including guedra, ghawazee and debke.

Elaine Kinder:

Elaine's career is Massage Therapy, and her avocation is playing doumbek in the Big Bad Bagdad Band with Jayla and many Middle Eastern dancers from our area. She's there to greet students the first day of class and help them enroll, and she keeps our tuition orderly and organized. We are very grateful!

Jayla:

Jayla teaches Middle Eastern dance through the Parks and Recreation Department, and takes many classes at the Park Board and at Safira's. She is also a member of the Big Bad Bagdad Band, and dances with Johari and the Pussycats. At Safira's, she manages ticket sales, consignment goodies like zills and hip wraps, and helps Elaine welcome you to class! (She's pictured with a friend at the Renaissance Festival.)