The glitz and dazzle of the 1960s gave us many unforgettable names, but few shimmered with the same elegance and creative fire as Tanya Lemani. Known for her mesmerizing dance performances and her magnetic screen presence, Tanya has lived a life that defies simple labels. She is a dancer, actress, producer, and writer—a woman who turned every twist of fate into a new act of artistry. Her story isn’t just about glittering costumes and graceful moves; it’s about courage, reinvention, and the relentless pursuit of passion.

From Iran to the American Dream
Born Tatiana Soleimani-Zadeh on March 17, 1945, in Iran to Russian parents, Tanya’s childhood was steeped in both culture and upheaval. Her parents had fled the turmoil of post-revolution Russia and built a life in Iran, but political unrest pushed the family once again to start over. At twelve, Tanya arrived in the United States, unable to speak English but armed with determination and a love for dance.

The adjustment wasn’t easy—imagine being a child caught between two worlds, learning a new language while holding on to her family’s traditions. Yet dance became her anchor. She trained in ballet with fierce dedication, inspired by legends like Bette Davis, and set her sights on a life of performance.

Video : Tanya Lemani George Belly Dancing. 1986 film “Legacy Of Rage”

An Unexpected Turn: The Belly Dancing Breakthrough
Sometimes destiny has a sense of humor. At sixteen, Tanya was hired for a show at the Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas, expecting a ballet performance. Only when she arrived did she realize it was a belly-dancing gig. Instead of panicking, she embraced the challenge and discovered a style of movement that felt like second nature.

That one bold “yes” changed everything. Tanya quickly became a headliner in Las Vegas, her fluid moves and storytelling grace enchanting audiences. She didn’t just perform—she created an atmosphere, weaving emotion and rhythm into every show.

Hollywood Steps In: From Stage to Screen

It wasn’t long before Hollywood noticed Tanya Lemani’s unique charisma. Her striking beauty and multilingual fluency made her a natural for television and film. In the 1960s, she became a familiar face on popular shows, her exotic flair making each appearance memorable.

Her most iconic role came in the Star Trek episode “Wolf in the Fold,” where she portrayed Kara, the captivating Argelian dancer whose life is tragically cut short. Tanya filmed for only one day, yet decades later, fans still remember her performance. Her sultry presence left an imprint that has become part of Star Trek lore.

She also brought her magnetic energy to series such as Get Smart, I Dream of Jeannie, The Man from U.N.C.L.E., and The Flying Nun. One unforgettable highlight was her performance as Little Egypt in Elvis Presley’s 1968 “Comeback Special,” where she added a touch of playful magic to an already legendary moment in music history.

Behind the Curtain: Expanding Her Creative Vision

While many performers fade when the spotlight dims, Tanya Lemani simply shifted her artistry. By the late 1960s, she began working behind the scenes as a choreographer, location manager, production manager, and associate producer.

Video : Tanya Lemani George(Star Trek) at Wonder Con 2012

From 1987 to 1999, she contributed her creative expertise to projects with Hyde Park Entertainment. She even co-founded American Theater Arts in Hollywood, nurturing the next generation of playwrights and performers. Whether entertaining dignitaries like the Shah of Iran or managing productions, Tanya proved she was as gifted behind the camera as she was in front of it.

The Pen Becomes Her New Stage

Today, Tanya’s stage is the page. Her memoir Have Belly, Will Travel captures her extraordinary life—from her childhood in Iran to the glamour of Vegas and Hollywood. She shares not just the highs, but the struggles and personal triumphs that shaped her journey.

Her book Passport to Freedom dives even deeper, chronicling her parents’ escape from Communist Russia and their daring quest to build a new life. Through her production company, TanaVision Productions, Tanya continues to write screenplays and develop projects for film and television.

She’s also a beloved figure at fan conventions, including Star Trek gatherings, where she reconnects with audiences who still cherish her unforgettable roles. Even after losing her original Kara costume in a tragic fire, Tanya wears her legacy with pride—proof that the spirit of a performer never fades.

Where She Is Today: Creativity Without Limits

Now in her late seventies, Tanya Lemani lives in Los Angeles, the city that once gave her a stage and now nurtures her creativity. Though private about her personal life, she remains professionally active and continues to inspire both fans and fellow artists.

Her passion for storytelling—whether through dance, acting, or writing—still drives her. Tanya may not be spinning across stages anymore, but her spirit continues to dance in every word she writes and every story she shares.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Grace and Reinvention

Tanya Lemani’s journey is a testament to resilience and boundless artistry. From a young immigrant girl learning English to a Vegas sensation, from a beloved TV actress to a producer and author, she has reinvented herself at every turn.

Her life reminds us that true stars don’t simply fade when the lights dim. They adapt, evolve, and keep creating. Tanya Lemani remains proof that with courage and creativity, you can keep dancing through every chapter of life—no matter the stage