Dance is far more than performance for Laman; it is a lifelong passion rooted in discipline, culture, and self-expression. With a background spanning ballet, traditional Azerbaijani dance, contemporary styles, and belly dance, she has cultivated a unique artistic identity that blends technical precision with emotional storytelling. Today, as a performer, choreographer, and instructor, Laman continues to honour the rich traditions of belly dance while embracing its evolution, creating performances that celebrate both heritage and individuality. Enigma’s Salma Owis sat down with Laman to discuss her journey, the importance of staying true to the art form, and what dance has taught her throughout the years.
Originally from Baku, Azerbaijan, Laman’s relationship with dance began at just six years old. After training in traditional dance, she spent more than eight years studying ballet at the Baku Dance Academy while also exploring tap dance and commercial performance. Although belly dance entered her life later, it would eventually become the art form she is best known for.
Moving to the United States marked a new chapter in her journey. She continued her training with the San Diego Ballet before earning a BFA in Choreography with honours from the University of California, Irvine. It was after relocating to Los Angeles when her professional belly dance career truly took off.
“I think during the school years, I already knew that I wanted to be on stage. Dancing was never just a hobby,” she says. Her diverse training continues to define her artistic style today, allowing her to blend influences from different cultures while letting each piece of music shape the performance. “Because I trained in various genres, my style is more eclectic. When it comes to belly dancing, I switch styles: I let the music guide me.”
That same versatility is matched by an unwavering commitment to technique and audience connection. Every performance is carefully tailored to the event, combining strong technical foundations with high energy, interactive moments, and an experience designed specifically for each client.
Preparation, she explains, goes far beyond costumes and choreography. Understanding the event, warming up properly, and mentally stepping into performance mode are all essential parts of her routine. Yet once she takes the stage, there is only one thing that truly matters.
“It’s the energy exchange. It’s so fulfilling to dance for the crowd and get that energy back.”
As belly dance continues to evolve, Laman believes innovation should never come at the expense of tradition. While she welcomes modern influences, she emphasises the importance of staying connected to the roots of the art form through continued education and respect for its history.
One lesson that has also stayed with her is learning to celebrate achievements along the way. From graduating with honours from UC Irvine and receiving the Fred Astaire Award to performing at official FIFA events and mentoring the next generation of Azerbaijani dancers in Southern California, she has built an impressive career, even if she admits she is often focused on the next goal.
Looking ahead, her dreams continue to grow, with aspirations to perform on stages such as the Grammys and the Olympics, and even alongside artists like Shakira.
Laman hopes every audience leaves feeling the same joy she experiences every time she steps on stage. “Dancing is my life; it makes me very happy,” she says. “When I dance, I don’t do it to show off; I am enjoying the music and flow, and I’m hoping to evoke positive emotions to my audience as well.”
