10 Sep ShoFusion Dance Arts at Arts in the Heart
Shoshannah Estell is a multi-award-winning fusion dance artist and choreographer, renowned for blending eastern raqs sharqi (bellydance) styles with western dance forms to create a harmonious and seamless fusion. As the artistic director of ShoFusion Dance Arts based in Augusta, GA, Shoshannah brings over 25 years of experience to the stage, combining diverse genres such as ballet, jazz, hip-hop, and contemporary with traditional raqs sharqi. Her innovative choreography has garnered international recognition, and she has had the opportunity to work with esteemed companies such as Bellyqueen and Belly Dance Evolution on major theatrical productions across New York, Tokyo, and Thailand.
During her time with BellyDance Evolution (2014-2019) she worked on several multinational tours of Alice in Wonderland, Fantasm: 1001 Nights and the Wizard of Oz BDEx. Being a perpetual student herself, She is grateful to have been a part of each amazing opportunity that allowed her to share her love of theater through dance. ShoShannah continues to create and direct theatrical productions each year in Augusta GA with ShoFusion Dance Arts and she continues to collaborate with other performers and Artist. Most recently she collaborated with BoomBoom Shake for the Atlanta Renaissance festival 2023 and 2024.
ShoFusion Dance Arts offers students a chance to learn and present captivating fusions of folkloric and modern bellydance styles, contemporary movements, and global dance elements. As an instructor and choreographer, Shoshannah’s passion lies not only in performance but also in sharing her craft with students and fellow artists, constantly fostering creative collaborations within the vibrant Augusta arts community. She cherishes the opportunities that this supportive environment provides, noting how local artists continuously inspire and enrich the city.
In 2023, ShoFusion set up as street performers in the Family Area at the Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival where they allowed children and adults to join in on the fun and experience fusion dance. Including wings, coin belts, and more. Education is a fore-driver in ShoShannah’s career in dance and she often reflects on ways to involve young people in her classes to continue to foster an appreciation for movement and music in the next generation.
Recently, Shoshannah presented an intensive in Bedford, TX, hosted by Isis and the Star Dancers, where she conducted 10 hours of workshops as well as performing twice. This experience reaffirmed her belief in the importance of traveling for artistic growth, where new surroundings and diverse influences open up opportunities for collaboration and personal reflection. Her dedication to continuously learning and sharing is at the core of her artistry.
At the upcoming Arts in the Heart festival, Shoshannah is excited to present a captivating journey of raqs sharqi and fusion on the Family Stage, blending dance, history, and audience interaction with fun giveaways that all ages can enjoy. She’ll also be leading demonstrations and mini-classes to introduce the community to the beauty of belly dance. With more performances, including her family-friendly Christmas show on December 7th, Shoshannah and ShoFusion are gearing up for an exciting year ahead.
“I am grateful for the different opportunities presented to many artists in Augusta and the ever growing potential to create performance opportunities and events for everyone to enjoy. It is a passion of mine to share my Art and work with not only students but with audiences and other artists as well. I am in awe at how much talent resides within our area and how many magical artists we have in every field of the Arts right in our own backyard.” -ShoShannah Estell
You can find ShoFusion Dance Arts performing on the Family Stage on Saturday, September 21st at 12:55 p.m. or performing on the street in the Family Area on Sunday from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.. You can also follow Shoshannah Estell’s journey through her social media platforms on Facebook and Instagram or reach out for classes, workshops, and booking inquiries at shoshannahestell@gmail.com.