Jim Boz has been performing for family and friends since a very early age. He has performed solo vocal and dance performances throughout his elementary school years, Shakespeare in High School and has fronted several bands through the 80's and 90's as a guitarist, vocalist and keyboard player. In the late 1990's, Jim Boz gained a small worldwide following as a solo gothic/industrial artist under the stage name of Fell Head and with the experimental music duet Tension Factor. Additionally he has engineered and produced these recordings in his own digital studio.

Following a successful career in the software industry in Silicon Valley, CA, Jim Boz moved to Portland, OR and began to pursue his musical dreams. He discovered belly dance in 1994 on whim and a tongue in cheek attempt at regular exercise. A year later, he expanded his dance training to include many folkloric and authentic techniques, taking up to 6 classes a week from several instructors while pursuing a variety of workshops, private instruction and personal research. Shortly after his first performance in 1997 it has been the classic tale of 'life happening while you're busy making other plans.'  

Beginning formal instruction in studios and parks & rec locations in 1999 under the careful mentorship of two of his instructors, Jim's classes were highly sought out for the clear breakdowns and progression of concepts in his course plan. Shortly thereafter, Jim began sharing his knowledge and passion in other parts of the NorthWest as a workshop instructor.

Bringing years of classical and jazz music training, composition and performance, Jim Boz approaches dance with a musical sensibility that allows him to express in concise and clear ideas of movement, grace and power.

 Jim Boz was director and choreographer for the Lost Ghawazee and Sons of the Padisha tribal bellydance troupes for several years, in addition to his student troupe Maalehsh, which continues to perform in the Pacific NorthWest.

"...a true professional in our industry." - The Belly Dancer Magazine

His solo performances include a variety of tempos, textures and rhythms, bridging the emotional spectrum of the dance style. He often uses sword work (single or double) or other balancing techniques for solo performances, to complement his strong presence. He has also studied Moroccan tray dance and is also adept at a variety of veil and cape dance techniques, in addition to many folkloric mens and womens stylings.

"Jim Boz is a dancer to the core." - Rachel Brice

Each performance is an exploration in drama, style, strength and intrigue. From the whimsical and fun party atmosphere, thru the large stage, Jim Boz is comfortable, confident and able to connect to an audience and join them in an exotic journey. From improvisation through choreographed performances, from soulful and introspective to powerful and dramatic to playful, Jim Boz draws the audience in with his gaze and takes them on a journey of music, movement, form and festivity.

"A fantastic presentation!" - Raqia Hassan

Jim Boz lives in San Diego, CA where he teaches beginning through advanced levels of Middle Eastern dance and also travels internationally to perform, teach and share his love of the art. His professional dance troupe SANDSTORM has been hired coast to coast for their innovative stage presentations of Middle Eastern Dance styles. He was the founding president of the Middle Eastern Dance & Culture Associations San Diego Chapter, and has produced Hafla San Diego - San Diego's largest Middle Eastern Convention in addition to the international MEN of Middle Eastern Dance showcases.

Visit his website at www.jimboz.com