This year's winner is Cat Castellanos
Since 2006, Cat has belly danced as a hobby performing at various venues in the Las Vegas valley. Her studies began with Leslie Marston and Aradia of Las Vegas, learning the traditional styles of Egyptian, Lebanese, Turkish oriental dance, as well as many folkloric dances. Cat moved on to study with Aziza of Las Vegas, Mandanah, Angela Palmeri-Davis, and Noora. She has taken a wide variety of workshops from other local teachers and international dancers who have come to Las Vegas to share their knowledge of dance. In 2016, Cat embarked on her fusion dance adventures studying with Sara Lyn Anderson, founder of Vimana Fusion.
Around 2017, Cat began collaborating with her husband Bill, performing as Dyad. As a belly dance and drummer duo, they have combined their individual passions into one. Cat also enjoys challenging herself with the added elements of props including veil, zills, skirt, sword, cane, and poi veil. She sees herself as a jack of all trades but master of none, and dances for the pure love of it.
Cat has participated in Shimmy Mob since 2012 and has been a team leader since 2014. Her passion to bring unity within her community and host events that are free to the public has been an ongoing goal for her. Cat’s website promotes instructors, events, and establishments that wish to be recognized. She continues to be inspired by the work of Sabeya who is committed to raising awareness of domestic abuse and empowering women all over the world.
Remember that the choreography is only available to registered dancers, so be sure to register now!
