"The Uzumé is sleek, sexy and innovative. They bring a level of
integrety to Tribal Fusion Belly Dance that elevates the artform."
Olivia Kissel / Co-Artistic Director of Zafira Dance Company

Since the founding of The Uzumé in early 2005, Tjarda is the inventive force behind this innovative and charismatic dance company. She is the founder, artistic director and choreographer and has been performing and teaching throughout Holland and abroad since the early beginning of The Uzumé. In 2006 Renate (Maya Acid) joined the team to complete the on-stage chemistry. In 2011, after years of being the core of The Uzumé, they decided to go their separate ways, as life unfolded in different ways. Throughout the years The Uzumé has been and still is working with several (guest)dancers. The Uzumé has been collaborating with Arya, Minka, Aziza (NL), Nadiya, Matthias Lauwers and more to come...stay tuned! In the meanwhile you can stay updated about Tjarda's work through The Amano Project and various collaborations with UNMATA, Samantha Emanuel and Anasma.

In 2010 Tjarda founded her second troupe The Amano Project, which is a new tribal fusion & contemporary bellydance initiative under her direction. An everchanging mix of professional and advanced dancers.

Tjarda has received several awards for her innovative choreography. In 2008 she was nominated by The National Institute for the Voluntary Arts for Most Promising Upcoming Choreographer with Exquisite Skills. In 2009 Tjarda featured on Tales of Desire 2, a performance DVD produced by Hollywood Music Center with the most influential tribal dancers of today, such as Mira Betz, Liz Strong, Unmata, Sabrina Fox, Cera Byer and many more. Tjarda is well known for her powerful performances and broad minded instructional approach towards belly dance. Her work inspires many in finding their own path. She regularly collaborates as an honorary member of USA based dance company UNMATA.

"Grace personified, The Uzumé flow seamlessly from one fluid moment to the next, completely symphonic with each other and their music. Their innovative choreography and captivating stage presence transcends their audience to a world of beauty and synchronicity."
Na'la - Shakra