Berna is a respected instructor, choreographer and performer of Middle Eastern Dance who is based in Fairfax, VA, a transplant from Pittsburgh, PA. A lifetime student of art and
performance, she has enjoyed many forms of dance since the age of four. The magic of Middle Eastern dance caught her eye nearly a
decade ago, and Berna's been shimmying ever since. Blending cultural and stylistic elements with traditional movements, she is
honored and ecstatic to share her art with the community. Utilizing choreographies or improvisation, Berna performs dances in multiple styles, from educational re-creations of traditional folk dances, to modern fusion-style blendings of the oriental style. Adept at using props as well; she has amazed audiences with performances using canes, baskets, skirts, veils, and candles.
Berna has danced with the award winning troupe, Khafif Music and Dance, and has taught and performed in numerous public and private events throughout the US and Canada. Berna currently teaches weekly classes at the Bodiography Studio in Squirrel Hill.
Berna has been a featured dancer in numerous restaurants in Pittsburgh, including Gypsy Cafe, Khalils, Your Inner Vagaond, Istanbul and Jasmine. She has graced the stage of the Byham Theater for Haute Pink Pittsburgh, Hard Rock Cafe, the Rex Theatre, University of Pittsburgh, Greensburg and many other local universities, Washington Symphony Orchestra, Pittsburgh Children's Festival, Silk Screen Red Carpet Gala and the South Side Works Summer Arts festival among many performers.
Often working with the Beledi Bellies, a co-operative group of friends and professional dancers, she is pleased to work with Ishtar, Pittsburgh's Belly Rock Band, and other live music groups and can be found dancing at venues in and around Pittsburgh.
Berna is also pleased to direct her Troupe, La Belle Sultana. The ladies of the troupe make numerous annual performances at community and charitable events throughout Pittsburgh and the Tri-State region.