The Academy of Middle Eastern Dance was formed in 1989 by Susan Buntine and Maria Masselos. It is the oldest, largest, most well respected, and ,of course, the very best Middle Eastern Dance organisation in Brisbane. 

There are now 6 teachers in the school: Susan, Maria, Sharon Daley, Lorelle and Saghirah and Ambyr. All teachers are dedicated to presenting a high standard of the dance in performance and teaching, and are constantly updating their skills by attending workshops presented by both interstate and international teachers.

The professional performing troupe of AMED is The Oasis Dancers.
  

Susan and Maria

Each year, The Academy of Middle Eastern Dance hosts a number of events for the general public and belly dance students. These include:

The Annual Middle Eastern Dance Extravaganza - This huge concert is the highlight of our year and features approximately 275 belly dance students from all over South East Queensland.

Oasis Dreams Belly Dance Competition - An opportunity for students to perform their own choreographies and gain valuable feedback from a panel of judges.

Winter Warm Up - Sponsored by Maria Masselos, this is a week long workshop by an international master teacher. Past teachers have included Yousy Sharif, Dr Mo Geddawi, Denise Enan, Bobby Farrah and Aida Noor. In 2006, Dr Mo Geddawi will once again grace our shores.

Pyramid Pulse - Again sponsored by Maria Masselos, this is a day long concert and bazaar featuring belly dance schools from all over South East Queensland.

Raqs Festival - This popular festival is organised by Susan Buntine and comprises a weekend of workshops by AMED teachers, a guest teacher and a concert.

Details of upcoming events such as the ones described can be found on the events page.