Janelle Issis

Janelle Jalila Issis is a internationally touring Palestinian-American artist, choreographer, performer, and founder of JBelly’s School of RAQ, where her mission is simple yet revolutionary: EveryBODY is a Bellydance BODY. With a contagious laugh, sultry elegance, and magnetic stage presence, she first captured America’s heart as the top 6 female finalist on So You Think You Can Dance Season 9—the only classically and fusion-trained bellydancer to ever grace the FOX stage. Janelle’s bellydance journey began at age four under the mentorship of “Aziza of Birmingham,” igniting a lifelong devotion to Classical Egyptian dance. After 17 years of multi-genre training, she earned her BA in Dance Performance and Nutrition from the University of Alabama, studying under legends including Cornelius Carter of Alvin Ailey. This deep foundation would later inspire the creation of her signature JBelly Style—a radiant blend of Egyptian technique, modern artistry, and empowered feminine expression. Her career spans international commercials with J Balvin, appearances on Good Morning America, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, The Wendy Show, and performances all over the world! She has served on faculty at Broadway Dance Center, the Alvin Ailey Extension and Showstopper on Tour, and continues to teach in NYC monthly and worldwide. Through JBelly’s School of RAQ, Janelle guides dancers of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to unlock confidence, joy, and emotional wellness through the transformative art of bellydance. EveryBODY is a bellydance BODY—and with Janelle, every dancer is celebrated.