Once upon a time, a young woman happened upon a djinni trapped in a brass gaslamp. The djinni was obligated to grant her three wishes in exchange for its freedom. But the djinni's malevolent streak took hold as she made her final wish, and it all went awry. Now here I stand, bound in body, with a foot in the seen and one in the unseen, looking across the multiverse, constant witness to time weaving its futures through the fabric of life.
Where the Bosphorus and Nile intersect, between Istanbul and Thebes, near Marrakesh, along the Gulf - that's where I'm from, and that's where Mr. Bagdaddy found me. Telling fortunes in the cafe and bellydancing. He was exploring the Territory and lost his airship to the local Sheikh in a camel race. He didn't count on the Sheikh's camel having steam injection. I tried to warn him, but he didn't listen.
Two days later I won the ship in a game of hangman (the poor fellow), and asked Bagdaddy to fly it for me. We've been traveling ever since.
Specializing in Near East, Middle East, and North African steampunk bellydance, I fuse styles from across these regions to create mesmerizing movement, set to traditional, Mid East and Mediterranean influenced, and alternative music. Affectionately dubbed "the lighter side" of steampunk bellydance, this is not the usual tribal or fusion styles commonly seen at Steampunk conventions.
Performances
Stage shows, lounges, tea and coffee rooms, or anywhere else you want to "sheikh up" your convention. I work with traditional and non-traditional props, which may include finger cymbals, veil, sword(s), fan veils, or Moroccan candle tray.
Workshops
Bring a taste of the Near Middle East Territory to your convention with a one-hour workshop introducing participants to basic belly dance movements. Light-hearted and fun, induces shimmies and laughter.
Bare skin (scandalous!) and bare feet are not necessary for this workshop. Open to Ladies and Gentlemen (and everyone else) of all ages. *While movement may be somewhat restricted, corseted guests can still participate.
Panels
The history of bellydance as it gained popularity (and notoriety) during the 1800s, up to its scandalous arrival in the US during 1893. Myths, fantasy, facts, and its influence on 19th-century society. 1hr with Q&A.
I am also happy to participate in multicultural panel discussions, please contact me.
Fortune Telling
The Steampunk Genie is a fortune teller as well! Djinn's Tonic Fortune Telling can come to your convention, party, or event. Just contact Ruya at info@steampunkgenie.com for more information.