Her studies at the University of California, Berkeley, culminating in a B.A.
Honors degree in the combined fields of anthropology, psychology and
sociology enhanced an already keen interest in diverse cultures, leading to
extensive world travel and life abroad. Shireen's path led to Egypt, Turkey,
Morocco, Greece, Pakistan, Spain, Cuba and the Hawaiian Islands.
Shireen Malik, of Sephardic descent, pursues a vibrant career as a
multicultural dancer and independent scholar, and is a member of the
International Dance Council - CID UNESCO. Shireen's dance life has been
devoted to oriental dance (bellydance), flamenco, salsa, and hula, and she
now adds zumba fitness to her class offerings.
Studying dance at the source has provided valuable insights into cultural
influences and the collective spirit of the local people. While living in Oxford,
England she used the famed Bodlein Library as a starting point for the historical
dance research that has been an ongoing pursuit ever since.
An active instructor, performer, choreographer and producer, Shireen has
received grant support for her work from the Colorado Scientific and Cultural
Facilities District and the Boulder Arts Commission.
Along with her passion for dance and travel is her zeal for photography.
Several of her photos were included in the book Uncontained: Writers and
Photographers in the Garden and the Margins (Baksun Press, 2007), and
displayed at Norlin Library, University of Colorado, Boulder.
Shireen is a contributor to The Veil: Women Writers on its History,Lore,
and Politics (University of California Press, 2008). Based on research
for that book, she created a fascinating lecture/slide/video program:
Salome and Her Dance of the Seven Veils: the Evolution of a Myth,
which she presents at venues nationwide.
and Politics (University of California Press, 2008). Based on research
for that book, she created a fascinating lecture/slide/video program:
Salome and Her Dance of the Seven Veils: the Evolution of a Myth,
which she presents at venues nationwide.