Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond!'s topics - tribe.net

Michelle Joyce in Portland June 12-13 2010!

2009-11-03T19:14:26Z

It's official! Michelle Joyce will be in Portland, ME, June 12-13, 2010.

SATURDAY 6/12:
- Professional technique workshop
- Private lessons available
- Evening SHOW!

SUNDAY 6/13:
- Improv workshop (all levels)
- Zills workshop (all levels)

Full info coming soon... www.raqsayperi.com

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 1 reply

Performers Wanted - The Longest Night: A Solstice Celebration

2009-10-20T12:25:10Z

We are putting together a variety style show, including a variety of dance styles...including belly dance.

Read on...

Performers wanted!

The Longest Night: A Solstice Celebration
December 12th, 7:00 – 9:00 pm
The Portland New Church: 302 Stevens Avenue, Portland
fundraiser to benefit Southern Maine Pagan Pride and Beans, Leaves & Deities

The winter solstice, the longest night of the year. The light begins its slow return just as we enter the coldest part of our Maine winter. It is a time of physical bundling up and spiritual emergence. We are looking for performers to celebrate the light’s return. Dancers, singers, performance artists, poets…help us to welcome back the sun and help support two Pagan community groups, Southern Maine Pagan Pride and the Beans Leaves and Deities coffee talks.

Here are the guidelines:

1.Performances must be solstice themed (calling back the light, emergence from darkness, the story of a solstice myth, etc…be creative!). It can be dramatic, celebratory or silly but it must relate to the solstice in some way. All types of performance are welcomed (dance, singing, poetry readings (your own work), snow ball juggling, etc.)

2.Pieces are limited to 6 minutes in length.

3.It must be family friendly.

For those who have not seen the Portland New Church, it is an intimate space. There is a small stage area and we will be set up for floor performances as well. Seating will be in the ‘half round.’ The stage area would be great for acoustic musical performances, poetry reading or a solo dancer. We will have sound for playing recorded music for performers..

If you are interested please send an email to darkfollies (at) gmail (dot) com and include the following:

Your name:
Your performance name: (if a group please include the number and names of performers)
Email and telephone number
A short description of what you would like to perform and an estimate of the time length.

We’d like to have responses by October 24th.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 2 replies

Hipnotech - October 23rd in Toronto

2009-10-14T23:36:46Z

Business as Usual proudly presents our inaugural bash: Hipnotech, October 23rd

Featuring:

Rosanna McGuire [Business as Usual | www.cleoflaptra.com]

Rosanna returns to Sounthern Ontario after spending 2 years studying and performing in San Francisco. There, she studied with a who's who of bellydance: Suhaila and Jamila Salimpour, FCBD, Jill Parker, Zoe Jakes, Rachel Brice, Mira Betz, Cera Byer, and Amy Sigil. In California, Rosanna also had the opportunity to expand her movement repertoir outside of bellydance, into vinyasa yoga, breakdance, house, and locking. She is known for her unique interpretation of tribal fusion, incorporating elements of vintage jazz dances as well as hip-hop, while referencing traditional styles of Middle Eastern dance. Rosanna continually strives to dance outside of her own box, and fully admits to having dance ADD.

Musical support from:

JD Mack [Business as Usual | Opulent Temple]

Opulent Temple heavy hitter JD Mack (aka Nick McAlister) steps in with his blend of bass heavy dancefloor stompers - everywhere from slamming breaks to slamming techno (see a pattern developing here?). Having played around the world from Bondi Beach to Burning Man (along side DJ Dan, Christopher Lawrence, and Carl Cox to name a few), JD is once again getting ready to unleash the best on Toronto's unsuspecting victims.

G Cue [Raw Soul]

Gerard Valdez, aka G Cue, has been playing his own brand of chunky, funky house in Toronto and surroundings for years and is a major threat on the decks. He is cofounder of Raw Soul and a regular at underground house jams put on by Nine, Boogie Inc., and Bounce. Gerard has been djing for 16 years of his life, learning and being inspired by Toronto locals as well as visiting stars like Mark Farina and Derrick Carter. Gerard has also played Harvest Festival, Promise Cherry Beach parties, Circa, and Footwork, to name just a few of his musical appearances and milestones.

Doors 830pm, First set at 930, Second set at 1030pm. Bring your dancing shoes.

$10.60 advance ($10 + paypal fee), $15 at the door if available, $5 after the bellydance performance (around 11:30). $10 virtual tickets available for me in person or by snail mail. I will not be issuing ANY paper tickets. You will receive email confirmation and just provide your name at the door. Tickets available at http://www.cleoflaptra.com

Bring your dancing shoes.

Held at Labspace Studio in the east end.
2A Pape Ave. at Eastern Ave.
Accessible by either the Queen Streetcar (24 hour), or by 72 Pape from Pape or Union Stations (runs 5am-1am on Saturdays)

Spaces are also still available in Rosanna's first weekend workshop intensive. This is an extremely rare, first time, maybe never again opportunity to study with one of Canada's most creative and technical tribal fusion dancers. For more details, please visit http://www.cleoflaptra.com

Friday October 23rd (Aurora Live Studios, 392 Queen Street E)
12-2pm: Yoga and fast technique.
Following a vinyasa warmup, we're going to drill drill drill. We'll be working on improving quality and speed of hip and upper body movements and adding footwork. Multiple level options will be given. Bring a towl and be prepared to sweat.

230-430: Technique contin. and flexibility training
More sweating. We will take advantage of our supple, warm muscles to safely and effectively increase our flexibility. We will be discussing techniques and practices specifically for helping those of us who were not born flexible!! Do you stretch and stretch but don't see any improvement? This is for you.

Saturday October 24th (Mad For Dance 263 Adelaide St. West)
1230-230: Fusion, movement invention, and creating choreography
We will be doing a combination of discussion and exercises on fusing dance styles, expanding your movement vocabulary, and creating solo choreography. Participants should bring "ideas in progress" for fusion, movements, and choreographies and be open to group discussion. This workshop is geared for dancers who either want to start performing solo, who want to improve their current solo choreographic work, and also for those who want to break out of using only a specific set of movements.

3-5: Flapper fusion
My dance-baby: a combination of vintage jazz dance and bellydance, completely fabricated from my own imagination. I will be teaching this style as an example of the principles discussed in the earlier workshop. Don't know what on earth this could be? See my video from Tribal Fest 2008:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqG-7DNB1No

Sunday October 25th (Mad For Dance 263 Adelaide St. West)
12-2: Funk styles for bellydancers - Funkifying your bellydance and bellydancifying your funk.
We will be going over how to utilize bellydance technique to create illusory effects in popping, contracting different muscle groups to create a hit, breaking down boogaloo rolls in bellydance terminology, and flipping arm waves inside and out. I will also be discussing different dance styles that are commonly performed with popping, and the distinction between popping and locking.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GYUOvjOlvg

230-430: Slow technique and flexibility.
This technique section will focus on drilling SLOOOOOOOWWWWWLLLLLLYYYY. We will also be doing yoga and other excercises to work on balance. We will end with more stretches (expanding on what we did on Friday).

430-5: Questions and wrap up

Cost
$240 before Oct 16
$45 per half day

Send registration via paypal (fees included in cost above) to blueberrysouffle@hotmail.com Registration will shortly be available via my website. For snail mail registration, contact me for a mailing address. You can also register in person at my classes or events. Class size is limited so register early to guarantee a spot. No refunds, but it is partially or fully transferable (ie. another dancer can take your Friday workshops if you can't make it).

Rosanna
http://www.cleoflaptra.com
cleoflaptra@gmail.com

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Excellent Rhythm learning CD's a Recommendation

2009-10-13T19:19:01Z

(Cross posted from my Facebook page and MEDIM)

I am doing my best to learn the basic belly dance Rhythms and in my journey to do so I fell upon these.

Each track is at least 14 minutes long so it's great to drill the beats into your head. I love that is isn't synthesized on a keyboard...the music is lovely to listen to and I would highly recommend the CD's. I e-mailed Mr. Delgado with some questions...he was quick to respond and I received my order in a few days.

http://www.vincedelgado.com/eternalcd.html

Volume I
Slow and medium baladi, medium six-eight, slow masmudi.
Volume II
Slow chifte-telli, medium karsilama (9/8), slow rhumba, slow Sa'udi.
Volume III
Medium and fast ayyoub, medium fast karsilama, medium Sa'udi.
Volume IV
Medium masmudi, fast baladi, six-eight, chifte-telli.
"ETERNAL RHYTHMS
OF THE MIDDLE EAST
These CDs feature a full hour of music perfect for listening, teaching, dancing, or practicing. Each CD features four rhythms, playing continuously in the same tempo for at least 14 minutes, with dozens of beautiful, authentic Middle Eastern melodies on each volume. Performed by Jazayer. Mimi Spencer on Kaunu, Devi-ja Croll on Violin, Vince Delgado, Mark Jaqua and Susu Pampanin on percussion.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

ATS Workshops - Early Registration Deadline One Week Away!

2009-10-09T04:18:59Z

A reminder - the early registration deadline for the ATS Workshops with Joy Herbst is Oct 1st. Send in your registration today!

Oct. 17-18: ATS Immersion Weekend!
with Joy Herbst of Celadon Tribal

Saturday, Oct. 17th: Tribal-Themed Hafli Featuring Celadon Tribal!
6-8 PM, World Arts, 65 W. Commercial St, Portland
$7-$10 sliding scale
Group-focused hafli with dancers from Portland and beyond! A few group-only spots are still available (choreography OK, doesn't have to be tribal). Email info@jaiyana.com FMI.

Sunday, Oct. 18th: ATS Workshops with Joy Herbst
All Tribal Bellydance - including tribal fusion - is rooted in American Tribal Style. Learn posture, movement vocabulary, and dancer communication from the original Tribal. All styles & levels welcome.

10am-1pm: Intro to ATS - basic movements, cues, and stylization. $50 before Oct. 1, $60 after.

2pm-4pm: Formations & Transitions - advanced combos & formations, including stage & performance considerations. $35 before 10/1, $45 after. Only prerequisite: the morning workshop.

To register, send check (payable to Jan Hanseth) to P.O.Box 7841, Portland ME 04112. Include name, phone number, and email address.

About Joy

Joy Herbst of Connecticut is a certified teacher of American Tribal Style belly dance - and is a very proud Sister Studio of Fat Chance Belly Dance. She has danced as a member of folkloric dance troupe Kadira Noor, led by Nerine Avital, and went on to direct her own troupe of rascally dancers in Melange Gitan, a dark cabaret theatrical fusion troupe. She is currently focusing on American Tribal Style belly dance and her troupe, Celadon Tribal. Visit joydances.com FMI.

Questions? info@jaiyana.com / 207-239-2728

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 4 replies

Class in Waterville Weds Oct 7th!

2009-09-28T23:26:27Z

Wednesday, October 7th: Amity in Waterville, Maine

A class because I miss my Maine ladies!

6:30-8:00 P.M.

Blue Wave Studio

Waterville, Maine

$15

To register-email Amity!

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Shimmies for Equality 10/4 - Tix available now!

2009-09-28T16:21:58Z

Join us for Shimmies for Equality and help protect marriage equality in Maine!

You can buy tix here: http://www.raqsayperi.com/events/shimmiesforequality/

Sunday, October 4, 2009 Shimmies for Equality flyer
7:00 PM | $10- Kids under 12 FREE
One Longfellow Square, 181 State St at Congress, Portland

Ayperi & Jaiyana present a host of fabulous dancers to raise funds for NO on 1.

Come see performances by the glittering, the dramatic, the glamorous belly dancers of Portland and beyond.

Featuring Adira, Anabee, Ayperi, Jaiyana, Jessani, Naya's Trance, Sabrina, and Sahar!

Bring cash for raffle tix--awesome prizes donated by local dancers and businesses--and henna by Nev of Remarkable Blackbird! Get yourselves decorated!

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Paraween II - Day workshop details and Evening event! Oct 24th.

2009-09-09T02:21:27Z

This year we are coming back with a full day and evening of fun, with special mooltipass pricing if you are interested in more than one event, and its all at spooky location where no one will hear you scream.

Last year.... well.. that was last year. Last year we had Black Magic Women, dark fae, circus acts, live marionettes, Jessica Rabbit, Bond girls, vampires, zombies and so much more. (srsly yo, there was even a didgeridoo)

This year we want MOAR, and its definitely what we got. Plan your costume because.... you remember what happens to the uncostumed... *crowd gasps*

PARAWEEN BRIEF LOOK AT OCT 24th

HOOP Workshop with Sennyo
DRUM Workshop with Shawn Russel
DRUM SOLO workshop with Shawn and Adira
Paraweenfli - event event including special performances, music and guests.

PARAWEEN IN DEPTH LOOK AT OCT 24th

HOOP WORKSHOP with Sennyo - 10am -12pm - $30 before 10/12 - $40 after

Hoop and dance artist Sennyo will cover tricks that can be picked up if you've never hooped before, but also new to current hoopers.

recent performance:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-2eJEkAY4c

DRUM WORKSHOP: Doumbek fundamentals from a new perspective (all levels)
with Percussionist Shawn Russell - 1-2pm - $20 before 10/12 - after $40

Workshop is doumbek-centric, however, many techniques can be easily converted to frame drum so feel free to bring one. Shawn will cover doumbek/darabuka fundamentals and basic rhythms. Topics covered include holding the drum, proper hand positions for the “doum” and “tek” stroke, and popular Arabic rhythms.

DRUM SOLOS WORKSHOP: Dancing with a Live Drummer (all levels) with Adira and Shawn 2:30-4:30 - $30 before 10/12 $40 after

Dancing with live music is one of the most amazing things about bellydance - the joy of creating a unique visual and audible piece of art with another is captivating. In this workshop you will learn many
things, how to interact confidently with the drummer (in this case Shawn) and the music, how to slow things down, speed them up, accent the music, inject pauses, at all times being conscious that you are co-creating with another artist. Shawn is an energetic, professional, friendly and surprising drumming partner who will make you feel great about yourself, your dance and your interaction with him.

http://emmaholder.com/bellydance/

If you are interested in more than one event a Mooltipass offers discounts

MOOLTIPASS DETAILS

Mooltipass ends 10/12

DAY Mooltipass - 3 workshops + 1 event tix - $75

DRUM Mooltipass - 2 drum workshops + 1 event tix - $50

DANCE Mooltipass - hoop + drum solo +1 event tix - $55

EVENING
October 24th 7-10 pm
Basic evening event show pricing, all ages, genders and immortal welcome. Please bring snacks for your zombies, as live food will not be served.

$15 - no costume (how dare you!)
$10 - so you picked up kitty ears to wear with your jeans.. cute.
$5 - you gave into your love and inner child and dressed up to come and play!!

$20 - family price - of 3 or more

EVENING TRICKS AND TREATS

The fit to Elix fabulous Dr Wilson. He Elixes your memory with his feats of magic. http://www.memoryelixir.com/

House Music by Bangor's touch of the U.K. - DJ LIMEY

Special performance music provided by Shawn Russel
Special Bellydance performances
Special not so Bellydance performances
and more... but you'll have to come to find out what else.

BIOGRAPHIES:

About Adira:

Adira has been belly dancing in her head since she was 6 and living in Turkey. Her body has been belly dancing for 12 years and she has studied with numerous teachers (Jamileh, Hadia, Amar Gamal, Zanbaka, Delilah, Bozenka, Tammalyn Dallal and others). She taught, choreographed and performed group and solo pieces all over New England. The name Adira is Arabic for powerful, and her style is direct, playful, fearless, mischeivous, honest and confident. These qualities are reflected in her interpretation of the dance. She is also DJ Adira of WMPG's radio show Shaken and Stirred (Fridays 10:30 - noon 90.9/104.1 FM). For more information on Adira's bellydance classes, exercise classes, massage practice and radio show visit www.emmaholder.com, email her at: adira@emmaholder.com or call (207) 415 7204.

About Shawn Russell:

Shawn has been playing drums and percussion for over 20 years. He specializes in percussion from around the world, with a strong focus on the Mediterranean and Middle East. In addition to being an accomplished doumbek player, Shawn has an extensive background in frame drums. He has studied with some of the world’s finest percussionists, including Glen Velez, Jamey Haddad and Ghatam V. Suresh. Some of the drums Shawn teaches and performs on include bodhrán, riq, tar, bendir, tamburello, kanjira, ghatam, doumbek, cajón, and conga. He also has a deep knowledge of the South Indian rhythmic system, and teaches konnakol, the art of South Indian vocal percussion. shawnpatric@yahoo.com

About Dr Wilson:

a magician, escape artist, and sideshow performer from Bar Harbor Maine and Theater of Marvels
www.memoryelixir.com
www.theaterofmarvels.com

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 1 reply

Ellsworth and Southwest Harbor Classes

2009-09-03T01:41:41Z

It's that time again : ) email me at lylaraqs AT gmail DOT com for further information or find me here http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lyla/124391381838?ref=share

MONDAY SEPTEMBER 21 – OCTOBER 26 6-7PM
@ INNER MOTION DANCE STUDIO IN ELLSWORTH (enter the parking lot in between the thrift shop Jalysa’s Closet and Key Bank on Water Street and head to the back of the parking lot the studio is on the left)

Wednesday September 23 – October 28 6-7pm
@ THE HARBOR HOUSE IN SOUTHWEST HARBOR (NEW BUILDING ON THE HERRICK ROAD ACROSS FROM THE CLINIC) HTTP://WWW.HARBORHOUSEMDI.ORG PH # 244-3713

$12 DROP IN OR $60 PREPAID FOR 6 WEEK SESSION

Learn the basics of this ancient dance form. This class will focus on traveling steps, isolations, shimmies, finger cymbals and veil work. We will concentrate on building strong technique and using core muscles. $12 drop in $60 prepaid for 6 weeks.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Kittery Classes! It's official!!!

2009-08-24T23:46:58Z

Wednesdays, 6-7:30 at The Kittery Studio on Shapleigh Road.

Starting NEXT WEDNESDAY!!!!!!

$10 per class

All levels welcome. This is a technique class, focusing on precision of movement and extreme muscle isolation. Yeah, but it's fun, too...

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Suhaila East Coast Certifications Level 1 & 2 Sept 2009

2009-08-24T17:03:38Z

September 2009
East Coast
Belly Dance
Certification Workshops
with
Suhaila Salimpour

Level One & Level Two
in New Jersey

at
The Drum & Dance Learning Center
The Barracks Trading Post Plaza
Rt. 206 & South & Elizabeth Street
Bordentown, NJ

Register Now!
www.drumdancecenter.com/events.html

September 16, 17, 18 & 19, 2009
Level One Workshop
Sept 16, 17 & 18
9am - 3pm
One Hour Lunch Break
No experience necessary.

$425 for 15 Hour Level One
($400 if paid in full by May 30, 2009)
Optional Testing on Friday Sept 18

Level Two Workshop
Sept 16 & 17 4- 10pm
Sept 18 6:30 - 10:30pm(no break)
Sept 19 10:00am - 4pm
45 min Meal Break
Must be Level One Certified to take this workshop.
$550 for 20 hours
($525 if paid in full by May 30, 2009)
Level Two Certification Choreography is included.

Optional Testing on Saturday Sept 19

@ The Drum & Dance Learning Center
The Barracks Trading Post Plaza
Rt. 206 & Elizabeth Street
Bordentown, NJ
No one - day rates available
Pre Registration Required
Optional Testing Fee is separate
SSSD CEC's are available

Visit website for details and to register:
www.drumdancecenter.com
Kim Leary (609) 324-7383
ddlcnj@gmail.com

@ The Drum & Dance Learning Center
Suhaila Salimpour is one of the world's most sought-after teachers of Middle Eastern dance. A second-generation belly dancer, Suhaila has developed a format combining her heritage with classical dance training. After touring the Middle East and Europe she returned to the US to open her school - offering a fully comprehensive Certification program in Belly Dance.

Suhaila creates instructional and performance DVDs for all dance levels, CDs for percussion artists and printed dance manuals. Suhaila has orchestrated Middle Eastern dance musicals and is director of both the Suhaila Dance Company and Bal Anat.

Experience training led by the world renowned performer, choreographer and instructor Suhaila Salimpour.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 2 replies

Call for Performers: Tribal-Themed Hafli, Oct. 17 (Please forward)

2009-08-24T16:46:50Z

Yes, it's another call for performers -- this time with a little twist. I'm bringing up Joy Herbst of Celadon Tribal for workshops on Sunday, Oct. 18 (more info: http://jaiyana.com/classes/joyherbst.php ), and we're having a hafli the night before! Oct 17, 2009, 6-8pm, at World Arts in Portland.

There's a twist, though -- this one is Tribal-Themed. No, you don't have to know ATS/ITS. But the original American Tribal Style showcases dancers working together, so let's see your groups!

Choreography welcome, improv encouraged. This is not first-come, first served. Preference given to any sort of group improv - Drum solo pass, mirroring, clumping?

A very limited number of solo slots will be available for fusion performances. Solo performances must reference classic improv tribal in some way -- movement, costuming, music, or some combination. (Please no flamenco or street shoes - be kind to the studio floor.)

Please email your concept & music selection (max 5 minutes) to info@jaiyana.com no later than 10/3 - the sooner the better, slots are limited.

Thanks, and happy dancing!

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

NEW!!! Classes in Kittery starting soon!

2009-08-23T18:22:48Z

Stay tuned for further details.

Or PM me, if this particularly rings your bell.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 4 replies

Can I join this tribe?

2009-08-22T20:47:59Z

Dear Fellow Mainers,
I have not lived in Mine for many years, but I was born there, in Kittery and spent a lot of my childhood in Sanford. I visited my relatives in Maine last year for the first time since I was 14. I hope you will let me e an honorary member of the Maine Tribe!! I LOVED coming home if I am officially live away now.
Regards,
A'isha
www.baharatdancers.com
www.raqsazar.com

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 26 replies

MIRAGE this Saturday!

2009-08-22T14:54:07Z

Saturday, August 22nd, 2009 at The St. Lawrence Arts & Community Center, 76 Congress St., Portland.
Doors open at 7:00 PM & the show starts at 7:30 PM

Tickets: Available in advance for a price of just $15 or $10 for seniors & students
Tickets can be purchased at Bull Moose Music or oneline at:
www.stlawrencearts.org

Tickets also available at the door for a cost of $20/$15
Get your tickets in advance and SAVE money!

Special Guests this year include:
Jaiyana & Friends
Lorien Wood
Paradigm East

Have questions? Contact us at: info@naystrance.com
http://nayastrance.com/mirage.htm

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 1 reply

Teacher Showcase this Sunday!

2009-08-19T21:06:43Z

Bellydance & Drum Teacher Showcase -
find your perfect fall class!

Sunday, August 23, 7 - 9pm
World Arts Studio, 65 W. Commercial St, Portland
$7 - $10 sliding scale benefits World Arts operational costs

Always wanted to try bellydance?
There is a perfect beginner class for you!

Seasoned dancers - looking to round out your technique or try a new style?
Lots of advanced classes for you to choose from!

Interested in Middle Eastern rhythms?
Come bang a drum with great local musicians!

Featuring Adira, Jaiyana, Jessani, Josephina, Kamileh, Nyiesha, Ayperi, Shawn Russell (drummer) - AND LOTS MORE!

Come and see what Portland's bellydance community has to offer!
And send this to anyone you know
... who may be interested in bellydance or Middle Eastern drumming
... who has ever been curious about shaking their thing
... whom you'd like to SEE shaking their thing!

Questions? info@jaiyana.com / 207-239-2728

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

NH/VT Updates: August

2009-08-19T04:16:02Z

Hi All!

The fall events are trickling in, and do we have a busy fall! All known events are posted at http://www.raq-on.net/events.html

August 30th: Choreo & Improv workshops by Amity in Lebanon, NH-need 6 people by August 26th

September 19th: Lotus Niraja of DC in Enfield, NH! Only 10 workshop spots remain. Shopping! Purchase your show tickets early (online or through me), they sold out last year! Teachers-sign up 4 students and come for free! Flyers attached!

September 26th: Erin presents Hipzotica Belly Dance Circus in St. J, VT

October 18th: Sahbah presents Katia of Boston in Stowe, VT. Flyer attached!

November 7th: Melina of Boston!

November 23rd: Gina's Sixth Annual Student Showcase Lebanon, NH

Still working on trying to find a fall/winter date: Raq-on presents a fundraiser hafla for Alumni Hall in Haverhill, NH

January 2010: Raq-on presents a day for dancers!

********************************************************************************************

Classes: I will be teaching an intro to BD class through FLIP at Dartmouth. See details at: http://www.raq-on.net/classes.html
Private lessons available upon request.

"Life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away."

www.raq-on.net

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Intensive in Toronto with Rosanna/Cleoflaptra

2009-08-14T05:34:29Z

After a 2 year hiatus from the East Coast, spent training in SF, I'm moving back to the great white north in September. Since its been SOOO long since I've either taught or performed in Toronto and I've done SOOO much since I've been in San Fran, I've decided to pull together an extravaganza eleganza of dance madness. I'm packing in as much as possible into 3 days of teaching, as well as throwing a party with performances by moi, and beats courtesy of 2 of my favourite DJs, Nick McAlister and Gerard Valdez.

Want to know more about my dancing? Please check out my website http://www.cleoflaptra.com

The details of the workshop have been sorted out and the schedule is as follows:

Friday October 23rd (Aurora Live Studios, 392 Queen Street E in Toronto)
12-2pm: Yoga and fast technique.
Following a vinyasa warmup, we're going to drill drill drill. We'll be working on improving quality and speed of hip and upper body movements and adding footwork. Multiple level options will be given. Bring a towl and be prepared to sweat.

230-430: Technique contin. and flexibility training
More sweating. We will take advantage of our supple, warm muscles to safely and effectively increase our flexibility. We will be discussing techniques and practices specifically for helping those of us who were not born flexible!! Do you stretch and stretch but don't see any improvement? This is for you.

Saturday October 24th (Mad For Dance 263 Adelaide St. West)
1230-230: Fusion, movement invention, and creating choreography
We will be doing a combination of discussion and exercises on fusing dance styles, expanding your movement vocabulary, and creating solo choreography. Participants should bring "ideas in progress" for fusion, movements, and choreographies and be open to group discussion. This workshop is geared for dancers who either want to start performing solo, who want to improve their current solo choreographic work, and also for those who want to break out of using only a specific set of movements.

3-5: Flapper fusion
My dance-baby: a combination of vintage jazz dance and bellydance, completely fabricated from my own imagination. I will be teaching this style as an example of the principles discussed in the earlier workshop. Don't know what on earth this could be? See my video from Tribal Fest 2008:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqG-7DNB1No

Sunday October 25th (Mad For Dance 263 Adelaide St. West)
12-2: Funk styles for bellydancers - Funkifying your bellydance and bellydancifying your funk.
We will be going over how to utilize bellydance technique to create illusory effects in popping, contracting different muscle groups to create a hit, breaking down boogaloo rolls in bellydance terminology, and flipping arm waves inside and out. I will also be discussing different dance styles that are commonly performed with popping, and the distinction between popping and locking.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GYUOvjOlvg

230-430: Slow technique and flexibility.
This technique section will focus on drilling SLOOOOOOOWWWWWLLLLLLYYYY. We will also be doing yoga and other excercises to work on balance. We will end with more stretches (expanding on what we did on Friday).

430-5: Questions and wrap up

Cost
$240 (CAD) before Sept 30
$275 (CAD) after Sept 30

Send registration via paypal (fees included in cost above) to blueberrysouffle@hotmail.com Registration will shortly be available via my website. For snail mail registration, contact me for a mailing address. You can also register in person at my classes or events (such as Rachel Brice in Ottawa Oct. 9th).

Half/full day registration will be made available (space permitting) a week or two before the workshop. Class size is limited so register early to guarantee a spot. No refunds, but it is partially or fully transferable (ie. another dancer can take your Friday workshops if you can't make it).

Performance and Partay
Friday October 23rd 9pm till late
Featuring all new choreographies (none have ever been performed in Canada!!) and new costumes!! First set flapper, second set hip hop and techno, with of course, some bellydancing. AND!!!!! My favourite dj's, Nick McAlister and Gerard Valdez.

Location and details forthcoming.

Other news and events:
October 9th - Fall Fusion Cabaret, Ottawa
Rosanna performing in Ottawa at the Fall Fusion Cabaret, with Rachel Brice The Arts Court Theatre,
2 Daly Avenue, Ottawa, ON
(contact Leslie for details leslie@shaktifusion.ca)

Classes in Toronto!! Wednesday and Thursday nights in downtown, starting around the week of Sept 21st (to be confirmed). Keep an eye open for updates, send me a note to be added to my email list for first notification cleoflaptra@gmail.com

Classes in Ottawa!! - details TBA.

Want me to teach at your location?
I'm currently available to teach workshops, privates, and possibly weekly classes (depending on location). For a list of workshop ideas, as well as rates, please contact me. To be added to (or removed from) my email list, please drop a note to cleoflaptra@gmail.com

Cheers,

Rosanna
www.cleoflaptra.com
cleoflaptra@gmail.com

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Bellydance Costumes From India

2009-08-06T01:17:06Z

Hi All,

This is Kajal from India(Mumbai).We are manufacturers and exporters of bellydancing costume since the last 12 years.We have all our products listed at

www.modemystique.com.

Please bookmark our website and keep checking back,as we list lots of great costumes on weekly basis.

Happy Shopping!!

Kajal

rd_ent@vsnl.com

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 1 reply

Lotus Niraja in Enfield, NH Sept 19th Early Registration Deadline!

2009-08-03T01:16:07Z

Lotus Niraja in Enfield, NH Sept 19th Early Registration Deadline!

Hi Everyone,

Just a friendly reminder that the early bird price for Lotus Niraja Sept 19th in Enfield, NH ends August 15th!

Sign up online or download a flyer and mail in:

http://www.raq-on.net/lotus.html

Thanks!
Amity

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Rose Harden Workshop August 1, 2009

2009-08-03T00:23:52Z

An active member of the San Francisco belly dance community since 1999, Rose Harden is passionate about this art form as both a personal practice and as a thoughtful instructor. Over 7 years of performing and teaching with Ultra Gypsy, the Barbary Coast Shakedown, and as a solo artist have given Rose a unique insight to sharing the essentials of great technique, dynamic presence and the joy of this dance form.

As assistant director of Ultra Gypsy, Rose taught with Jill Parker throughout the United States and Europe at major festivals, workshops, and private instruction. Festivals she is honored to have been a part of include Tribal Fest, Spirit of the Tribes, Northern Migration, Tribal Quest, Tribal Cafe, Tribal Con, and the International Belly Dance Convention.

Contemporary Tribal Fusion

You'll get the best of the best, a bit of my signature Dance Core, technique drills to build a rock solid fusion foundation, shimmies, layering, and unique combos to get you dancing. I will share with you my unique approach and philosophy on contemporary style belly dance. This workshop is great for all levels, abilities, and dance styles.

Ellsworth, Maine has made the opportunity for a workshop! She will also be bringing her Rosehips wear.

Limited private/semi-private instruction is available. Rose's experience with large group instruction and private/troupe coaching with a focus on professional performance makes her a versatile and articulate instructor. Reserve your space now.

Aug 1st. 4 pm. inner motion studio.

$30 prepay by July 15th , and $40 for afterJuly 15th

Checks, Cash, and paypal.

Checks must be received by JULY 15. (please email for address, plz do not use tribes messaging system)

PAYPAL Must be cleared by JULY 22nd. (paypal accepted at paradigmeast@gmail.com)

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 4 replies

Fall Classes w/Jessani of Naya's Trance

2009-08-02T13:04:46Z

Register & Pay Online at http://www.nayastrance.com/classes.htm#jess

TAKING FLIGHT: BASIC VEIL TECHNIQUE
Wednesdays 5:45-7:00 pm
09.09.09- 09.30.09; 4 week session $48

The flowing movement of the veil adds an elegant dimension to belly dance. Students in this beginner/intermediate level course will learn the basic dance techniques moving with a veil.This course will also include an introduction to the cultural and artistic history of veil work in belly dance. This course is suitable for beginner/intermediate belly dance students aged 14 and up with little or no experience working with veils. Students will need to provide their own veil consisting of lightweight material such as Habotai silk. Veils should be 3-3.5 yards long x 45-60” wide.

WELL ROUNDED: BALLET BASICS FOR BELLY DANCE
Wednesdays 5:45-7:00 pm
10.07.09- 11.11.09; 6 week session $72
The details make the difference!
We will learn basic principles of ballet and then integrate these concepts into the framework of belly dance. Improve your abilities as a dancer & watch your belly dancing take on a new dimension of power, grace, and beauty. Suitable for students with 6+ months of belly dance study.

BELLY DANCE ESSENTIALS
Thursdays 5:45-7:00pm
09.17.09-11.05.09; 8-week session $80
Experience the joy of this ancient art form & discover why it is so much fun. Students will learn the basic elegant movement vocabulary as well as an introduction to the music and history of this dance form. We will explore short combinations and improvisation as a means of incorporating our technique into dance movement.

TO REGISTER CONTACT: jessica@nayastrance.com

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

workshop/hafli August 16

2009-08-01T23:56:57Z

August 16, 10-2 mini workshops with Kashani of Oregon. Some of you may remember Kashani; she accompanied Mezdulene here a few years ago. A wonderful old-school, folklore and cab dancer, she will teach us 2 choreos that are easily adapted to groups and solos, tribal and cabaret. One is a zill routine to Abdo's Wadeelo Sallamy and the other is a tambourine routine to "Istanbul not Constantinople". Includes notes and if you don't have the music it's easy to get! No tambourine-no problem; use a pie plate! Cost is an easy $25 for both. Held at Valance Studio in downtown Bangor

Then, because a bunch of dancers getting together must dance-HAFLI! Fairly informal, free to performers, donation to the church (for use of space) for everyone else. At the undercroft of St John's Episcopal n Bangor. I'd like a full range of style and people here-so get something together and let me know. Seriously, I can't dance right now so someone needs to take up my time!

Finally, most of you know that when I sponsor workshops I bring in the big vendors. Not this time! Instead I want to celebrate US! So, if you are creative, if you make dance related items-from veils, to photos, to headpieces, to full costume-tell me you want a table and let's set you up.

On a personal note: after a lot of back and forth and doctor's visits and tests and procedures, I finally got the definitive word today: my left hip is beyond salvage and will need replacing as soon as possible. Which is why the late notice, here; my mind's been quite occupied. I can continue my classes until surgery (then I'll need a month or so off) but I can't perform or do workshops; there simply aren't enough drugs to let me work through the pain and mobility issues. So, I apologize for not being supportive of everyone else right now.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 1 reply

Website

2009-07-29T18:42:19Z

My new website is now up and running. Check it out!

www.bellydancingbyzaira.com

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Save the Date: Oct. 17, ATS Immersion

2009-07-20T00:34:55Z

Saturday, October 17, 2009 - Joy Herbst of Celadon Tribal will be coming to Portland!

Two workshops AND a tribal-themed hafli!
All are welcome -- all styles, all levels, all genders

Stay tuned for more details!
http://jaiyana.com

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

still looking to do a workshop in the Portland area...

2009-07-08T20:54:51Z

i'm super excited about coming to ellsworth on the 1st of aug. but am looking to book a workshop or semi- private/troupe coaching closer to portland if there's enough demand... i've got enough material that i can offer quite different workshops at the different locations too!

hit me up here or
info@rosehipsdancer.com

opa!
rose

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Paradigm Classes and Workshops June and July 2009

2009-06-30T14:46:59Z

Listed below is the current class list
WORKSHOP
BOLLYWOOD
CHOREO AND TECHNIQUE

WORKSHOP
FRI June 26 - 6:15- 8:30
Middle Eastern and Fusion dance class
bi weekly, intensive classes. Space is limited. Each session will have a different focus in a bellydance language and its extensions.
$25. 32 state street in Bangor for more info :paradigmeast@gmail.com

BOLLYWOOD CLASS:
All ages, and genders welcome.

A special choreo class coming in July based on the Academy Award-winning Hindi song composed by A. R. Rahman that became a hit through Slumdog Millionaire.

Its a fun dance and the title alone means "Victory to you", and its a beautiful song that is speculated to be inspired by Mozart's symphony No. 40.

And the choreo? A fun tribute to Bollywood. It is meant to bring out your inner Bollywood star. What they've done is take certain aspects of Indian classical and folk dance and then fuse it together with styles from the rest of the world.
Its fun to reuse at a party or wedding!

If you've seen the movie its the street dance performed at the very end. or get a sneak peek here!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xPvPUk96vb0

We ask that you commit to the full 3 classes, as to get the best instruction. There will be one make up class scheduled.

MON July 6th - 6:15-7:20
based on the Hindi song and Dance composed and performed through Slumdog Millionaire and modified by Paradigm, A fun tribute to Bollywood. It is meant to bring out your inner Bollywood star. All ages. $15-

MON July 20th - 6:15-7:20
Continuing the choreo. All ages. $15 -

MON Aug 3rd - 6:30-7:20
Continuing the choreo. All ages. $15 -

PARADIGM CHOREO/TECHNIQUE CLASS
This is a body moving, spirit bouncing, energetic choreo class that focuses on the strengthening of poise, posture, pops and locks, and mind and body control.

So get your glutes and deltoids ready!

As part of the Paradigm Petites summer schedule
This Choreo class falls right after the Bollywood class, sign up for the whole evening and get a discount!

We ask that you commit to the full 3 classes, as to get the best instruction. There will be one make up class scheduled.

MON July 6th - 7:30 -8:30 $15-

MON July 20th - 7:30 -8:30 $15-

MON Aug 3rd - 7:30 -8:30 $15-

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 2 replies

Thank you to all Autumn Ward particpants!

2009-06-26T23:20:56Z

Thank you to everyone who was a part of last weekend with Autumn Ward here in Portland! I couldn't have been happier with the way the weekend went. Autumn was a dream to work with business-wise and imparted so much useful info to us! (Don't squish the kitten in your armpit! :) It was a pleasure to share the weekend with you all. Cheers to our wonderful community!

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 2 replies

Bellydance 101 in Ellsworth

2009-06-22T00:09:38Z

Bellydance 101
June 22 - July 27

Discover the beauty and elegance of this ancient dance form in a fun and informative environment!

All ages, shapes and sizes welcome.
$60.00 for the 6 week session
$12.00 drop in rate

Location: Inner Motion Dance Studio in Ellsworth

PM me if you need more information : )

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 5 replies

workshops with Rose Harden

2009-06-19T16:04:25Z

rose harden, former co-director of ultra gypsy and founding member of barbary coast shakedown here.

i'll be heading to northern maine via boston this summer and am looking to share some of the best of the san francisco bay area technique and approach with you lovely ladies ...

any help in finding contacts/community would be much appreciated

dates are end of july- beginning of aug

www.rosehipsdancer.com
cheers!

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 13 replies

Lotus Niraja Enfield, NH Sept 19th Registration Is Now Open!

2009-06-18T22:24:04Z

Lotus Niraja Enfield, NH Sept 19th Registration Is Now Open!

First 10 dancers to sign up have first dibs on performance slots! (6 remaining as of 6/18)

http://www.raq-on.net/lotus.html

Saturday, September 19th
Enfield Community Building- Enfield, NH

Widely recognized for her dance style, dramatic energy, and vibrant interpretation and technique, Lotus Niraja is a professional Middle Eastern dance artists specializing in Urban, Contemporary and Modern Egyptian and Lebanese belly dance styles. Known for her drum solos, shimmy technique, and warm and giving spirit, her dance style is dynamic, infused with glamour and style!

As one of the top performers and instructors on the East Coast, she is rapidly gaining national and international recognition. As a dancer, her audience loves her energetic, personal elegance and her technique which is expressed with subtle nuances, movements, and emotional interpretation. In addition, Lotus is the Artistic Executive Director and a Principal Choreographer of the award winning, internationally known The NDC (The Niraja Dance Company). www.lotusniraja.com

Schedule:

10 a.m.-11 a.m. Registration and Shopping

11 a.m.-1 p.m. Sensational Layering Technique

1 a.m.-2 p.m. Lunch and Shopping with

Audrena’s (Margaret Slocombe)

2 p.m.-4 p.m. "Icing on the Drum Solo"

7 p.m. Show & Shopping!

Cost: $80 By August 15th, $90 at the door (show ticket included). One workshop available for $45

Single workshop for $45. Show tickets $10 each

Special Sunday Workshop Option- Performance Dynamics and

Staging for Semi-Pro and Professional Dancers ($30)

For more information visit the site or email raq-on@hotmail.com
If you're not on my email list yet, email amityraqs@Hotmail.com!

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Mirage 2009: Saturday August 22

2009-06-18T21:55:57Z

Mark your calendars for Mirage 2009
An evening of belly dance with Naya's Trance & special guests!
This year's guests include:
Lorien
Paradigm Fusion
Jaiyana & friendsMore information coming soon!

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 1 reply

October 24th!

2009-06-18T12:12:56Z

So much explosion!! so little to do, and so much time! Invention, my dear friends, is 93% perspiration, 6% electricity, 4% evaporation, and 2% butterscotch ripple. We Oompa Loompas are hard at work.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 1 reply

SAVE THE DATE: October 17th: ATS workshops in Portland

2009-06-18T12:10:09Z

I'm bringing up Joy Herbst of Celadon Tribal to teach two workshops in FatChance style ATS!

... followed by a tribal-oriented hafli with all welcome!!

More info coming soon...

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Workshop w/ Autumn Ward 6/21--spaces available!

2009-06-17T02:49:11Z

Dancers,

There are still a few workshop spaces available for next Sunday's workshops with Autumn Ward. Don't miss out on this fabulous teacher (and Rakkasah Festival instructor!) right in your own back yard!

Clean Lines & Elegant Artistry: Belly Dance for Theatrical Performance
Two workshops with Autumn Ward of NYC - Sunday, June 21, 2009 - Portland ME

$70 - Foundations 3-hour (11 AM) / $50 - Advanced 1.5-hour (3 PM)
Only $115 for both workshops!
Discounted 6/20 show tickets only $8 for wksp students IF you buy them from me in advance.

http://www.raqsayperi.com/autumn.shtml

Click the link above for full info and to register online--credit cards welcome. If you're sending a check, email ayperi@raqsayperi.com and drop it in the mail to Ayperi, PO Box 15174, Portland ME 04112.

Check out her videos and instructional DVD, too! All info on my website.

Let me know if you have any questions at all. Looking forward to dancing with you soon!

Ayperi

PS. Get your tix for the Saurday, June 20 performance online TODAY through One Longfellow Square.
$12 adv / $14 door. OR $8 through me ONLY for workshop attendees.
http://onelongfellowsquare.com/Details.asp?ProdID=557

________________
Ayperi
PO Box 15174
Portland, ME 04112
(207) 409 9540
ayperi@raqsayperi.com
www.RaqsAyperi.com
Belly Dance Performance & Instruction

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 3 replies

Solstice Spectacular THIS Saturday 6/20!

2009-06-14T22:39:49Z

Dear dancers & dance fans... and blues fans... and latin dance fans...

Don't miss the Solstice Spectacular this coming Saturday! Belly dance, blues, flamenco, latin dance and more...

Reserve your tickets online today! $12 in advance, $14 at the door.
http://onelongfellowsquare.com/Details.asp?ProdID=557
Get directions and FREE parking info on the One Longfellow website!

Saturday, June 20 - 8 PM
One Longfellow Square
181 State Street at Congress
Portland, ME 04101

So what do you get for $12? A show unlike any other Portland has ever seen!

- Star belly dancer from New York City, AUTUMN WARD is headlining.
- Globetrotting Portland favorite SAMUEL JAMES will treat you to his songsterism and acoustic slide guitar!
- AYPERI (that's me) will, in addition to producing this event, dazzle yer eyes with belly dance AND collaborate with Samuel James!
- Indescribable folkish siren and ukulele queen DILLY DILLY will knock your socks right off.
- Portland's tribal belly dance maven JAIYANA will bring you flamenco / belly dance fusion.
- Last but not least, ADIRA and her dance partner (he's a real live organic farmer!) will leave you breathless with some Latin dancing.

And maybe, just maybe, we'll have a bit of open dancing at intermission!

Date night? Solstice celebration? Good ol' fashioned variety entertainment? We've got you covered.

So zip on over to One Longfellow Square's website and get your tickets TODAY!
http://onelongfellowsquare.com/Details.asp?ProdID=557

One Longfellow doesn't use paper tickets--your name is on a list at the door! Same goes for you workshop students who bought your discounted tickets though me...

Shimmyshimmyshimmy,

Ayperi

PS. Catch Samuel James and me on TV newsmagazine 207 (WCSH 6) on Tuesday night! Or listen in to WMPG (90.9) on Friday morning about 10:30 for Shaken & Stirred, DJ Adira's excellent radio show!

PPS. There are still some spots left in the Sunday 6/21 workshops! Visit http://raqsayperi.com/autumn.shtml for secure online registration!

PPPS. Did I mention--get your tickets here! http://onelongfellowsquare.com/Details.asp?ProdID=557

________________
Ayperi
PO Box 15174
Portland, ME 04112
(207) 409 9540
ayperi@raqsayperi.com
www.RaqsAyperi.com
Belly Dance Performance & Instruction

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 1 reply

Summer belly dance classes with Ayperi - July 6 & 8 start!

2009-06-14T22:14:52Z

... And one last note before I leave you in peace!

Register online today! Summer belly dance classes with Ayperi are starting the first full week in July. So so soon, believe it or not...
http://raqsayperi.com/classes.shtml

I just got back from a teacher training workshop with superstar Tamalyn Dallal and I'm excited to incorporate some of her methods in to my classes this summer!

Beginning Belly Dance:
Mondays 6:30 - 7:45 PM / July 6 - Aug 24
Wed'days 5:30 - 6:45 PM / July 8 - Aug 26

Intermediate:
Wed'days 9:00 - 10:15 AM / July 8 - Aug 26
Wed'days 7:00 - 8:15 PM / July 8 - Aug 26

All classes:
$88 / 8-week session (make-ups available at any other of my classes during the same session)
$72 / 6-week class card... allows for summer flexibility!

Location:
Morning class - Maine Ballroom Dance, 614 Congress St., Portland
Evening classes - Ove Body Therapy, 614a Congress St., Portland
BONUS: Students registered for a class at Ove get $10 off massage appointments during the session!

Finger cymbals: Will be available to purchase at the first class ($25). They are optional, however they (really truly) will be used in each class.

Dress Code: Yoga/exercise clothes are recommended--comfortable clothing that allow the teacher to see the movements of your torso, hips and knees
Contact me if you have any questions at all. Which class is right for you? "What in the world am I thinking?" :)

Register online: http://raqsayperi.com/classes.shtml

Cheers!

Ayperi

PS. Catch me on 207 (TV newsmagazine - WCSH 6) on Tuesday night promoting the 6/20 show at One Longfellow!

________________
Ayperi
PO Box 15174
Portland, ME 04112
(207) 409 9540
ayperi@raqsayperi.com
www.RaqsAyperi.com
Belly Dance Performance & Instruction

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

The Always Fantabulous Portland Area Studio Show

2009-06-14T21:57:33Z

THE ALWAYS FANTABULOUS PORTLAND AREA STUDIO SHOW

Wednesday, June 17th, 7pm (doors open at 6:30pm,) at John Ford Auditorium, Portland High School, 284 Cumberland Avenue, Portland, $5 & a non-perishable food item to be donated to Preble Street Food Pantry/person, Free/children under 10.

FMI http://www.mainebellydance.com

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 7 replies

The Always Fantabulous Brunswick Area Studio Show

2009-06-12T15:50:12Z

THE ALWAYS FANTABULOUS BRUNSWICK AREA STUDIO SHOW

Thursday, June 11th, 7pm (doors open at 6:30pm,) at The Chocolate Church, 798 Washington Street, Bath, $5 & a non-perishable food item to be donated to Midcoast Hunger Prevention/person, Free/children under 10.

FMI http://www.mainebellydance.com

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 12 replies

New Bellydance Classes

2009-06-04T17:00:25Z

Paper Moon Dance Center presents

Zaira

www.papermoondance.com

Want to learn bellydancing?

Join Zaira every Monday and Saturday to bellydance for fun and performance. Enjoy a natural dance activity that tones the body, increases musical awareness, and adds grace, confidence and self-esteem.

Open to women of all ages, shapes, and sizes!

Come out and enjoy the spirit of the dance and the special people in our program. This class offers every student the opportunity to perform during local Haflas and other special events.

Zaira is also available for private and group sessions! Please contact us for special group and private lesson rates.

Classes are held at Paper Moon Dance Center, 515 Daniel Webster Hwy, Merrimack, NH 03054 or call 603.429.1100.

________________________________________
Summer Schedule for 2009

The following schedule is effective June 1, 2009.

Beginner Bellydance:

Monday Evening 8:15 – 9:15 pm
Saturday Morning 10 – 11 am

________________________________________
Tuition and Fees

Drop In Rate: $15 per class
Monthly Rate: $45 per month

Contact 603.429.1100 for more info.

________________________________________
Class Descriptions

Beginner Belly Dance: Beginner classes are structured to allow students to develop at their own pace. You will learn to develop a sound foundation for belly dancing. Zaira will explore different music and rhythms (i.e., Egyptian, Arabic, Turkish, etc.) that makes this dance so beautiful while learning simple dance combinations. You will build a stronger physical body with flexibility and endurance, learn dance history and feminine artistic expressions, and discover the joy of movement. You will need to master the steps outlined in the beginner classes before moving on to our intermediate belly dance classes. This class includes the introduction of the veil.

Intermediate Belly Dance: In this class, you will expand your repertoire of dance steps, rhythm knowledge, and music vocabulary. While learning graceful transitions between moves and fun combinations, you will also learn the framework for building exciting choreographies by enhancing your skills in layering movements, level changes, directional changes, and emphasizing and de-emphasizing movement to match the music. This class includes and introduction to the use of props such as candle, and sword. You will need to master this class before moving into our advanced belly dance class. Instructor approval needed for enrollment in this class.

Notice: There must be a minimum of 5 students enrolled in a class before the class can proceed. Call 603.429.1100 to sign up for the Fall 2009 classes.

Intermediate Zill Drill Class: This unique zill drill class, which is included in both intermediate belly dance classes, will help you become proficient in playing various zill patterns (i.e., beledi, kashlimar, chiftetelli, bolero, and other variations of the 4/4, 9/8, 6/8, and 2/4 patterns). You will need to master this class before moving into the advanced group.

Notice: There must be a minimum of 5 students enrolled in a class before the class can proceed. Call 603.429.1100 to sign up for the Fall 2009 classes.

Advanced Belly Dance: Get exposed to sophisticated steps and skilled layering techniques. Students in this class must have the fundamental ability to play zills while dancing. Strength building and mastery of transitions in footwork and body isolations is emphasized here. We explore the explosive, dynamic isolations required for drum solos! This class can be an aggressive workout. Advanced work with props such as veil, candle, and sword technique are taught. Instructor approval needed for enrollment in this class.

Notice: There must be a minimum of 5 students enrolled in a class before the class can proceed. Call 603.429.1100 to sign up for the Fall 2009 classes.

Performance Class: This class is for students who have demonstrated their dance skills in our advanced belly dance class. Members of this group will master advanced choreographies, performance skills, props, costuming, and the world of entertainment protocol and professionalism.

Notice: There must be a minimum of 3-5 students enrolled in a class before the class can proceed. Call 603.429.1100 to sign up for the Fall 2009 classes.

________________________________________
Class Attire

Proper dress for dance is extremely important as teachers need to be able to see a dancer's body in order to give corrections. Please wear close fitting tops and workout pants that allow for bellydance movements. A close fitting tank top, workout pants or dance skirts/pants, and a hip scarf are preferred.

Baggy T-shirts, dress clothes, and other restricting clothes/materials are not acceptable and should be avoided. Baggy T-shirts should be worn to and from the studio as cover-ups.

Bare feet or dance slippers are appropriate. No socks please!

We hope to see you there! Opa!

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Party Like a Raqs Star: Hafli

2009-05-31T17:17:32Z

ALTERNATIVE HAFLI hosted by NAYAS TRANCE BELLY DANCE
SATURDAY MAY 30, 6:00-10:00PM
Admission at the door: adults $10, seniors 65+ $5
North Deering Grange Hall, 1408 Washington Ave, Portland
student & professional Belly Dance Performances!
Open Dancing! Shopping!
Potluck! Bring a dish to share!

Join us for an evening of belly dance to everything BUT traditional belly dance music, including ACDC's legendary 'Back in Black'.
Jungle Boogie? Bring it!
Boot Scootin' Boogie? I guess so!
Its Raining Men? You betcha!
Free Bird? Yeah man!
Beethoven's Fifth Symphony? Why not!
As always, performers & vendors welcome!!

Interested in Performing? Please read:
Family Friendly Belly Dance Performances ONLY.
Music must be Famliy Friendly--music that contains profanity, or explicit content will not be allowed.
Musical selections may not be traditional belly dance music.
A limited number of performance slots may be requested in advance. Requests must be received by May 25.
Additional performance slots will be available for sign up at the door.
All spots are FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED
Musical selections, costumes, and at the door sign-ups are subject to approval before performing.
Vendors: belly dance & related merchandise only please!
Interested performers & vendors should contact info@nayastrance.com

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 3 replies

Tix available now for Solstice Spectacular show with Autumn Ward!

2009-05-27T19:10:15Z

Tickets are now on sale through One Longfellow! $12 adv/$14 at the door, so get 'em early while they last!

http://onelongfellowsquare.com/Details.asp?ProdID=557&category=2

This one-of-a-kind show features...
- Autumn Ward of NYC (belly dance)
- Ayperi (belly dance)
- Samuel James (acoustic rockin' blues)
- Dilly Dilly (indefinable folk siren)
- Jaiyana (flamenco fusion)
- Adira (last but not least--latin dance!!)

Saturday, June 20, 8 PM
One Longfellow Square, 181 State Street at Congress, Portland, ME

You don't wanna miss this!!

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Events reminder!

2009-05-21T17:04:09Z

Feel free to post your New England belly dance events in the topics and/or events section of this tribe! Email me (ayperi at raqsayperi dot com) a week before your event and I'll put your flier as the main pic! Mainers do get first dibs in order of request if there are multiple events on the same weekend.

Bellydancers unite!

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Workshops this weekend!

2009-05-20T01:38:48Z

Hi Everyone!

Room still available in both for those of you waiting on the weather (it's gonna be cloudy, yuck!) or the family. Take some time for yourself! I'm excited, hope to see you all! Private lessons available too :) Payment plans or subsidy's available if you just need a break and dance.Looking for a place to crash Sat night. Also need Marden's buddies!

Special Maine Workshops: May 23rd & 24th! Two days, 3 different workshops!
Saturday-Naya's Trance Hosts Amity in Portland, Maine
Sunday-Amity at Blue Wave Studio in Waterville, Maine
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
SATURDAY MAY 24th: SPECIAL WORKSHOP WITH AMITY PRESENTED BY NAYA'S TRANCE IN PORTLAND, MAINE

BASIC TECHNIQUE: LAYERS & GOO - 1:00 -2:30 PM
Yes, goo. Goo is internalizing movements, making movements flow, and using your core to clean up your technique. We will work on and drill gooey movements and practice layering till you melt. Basic core concepts and tips on working on movements such as shimmies, belly rolls and undulations, flutters,etc. will be introduced and explained in various ways using different teaching methods. WWW.NAYASTRANCE.COM

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Workshops in Waterville:

Sunday, May 24th 1-5 P.M.

Blue Wave Studio 33 East Concourse Waterville, Maine

Directions: www.bluewavedancing.com/

1:00-2:30pm Technique & Drills

A little rusty? Need some ideas for drills at home? This class will

focus on going deeper with basic technique (all styles welcome) and practice drills to build your repertoire.

2:30-3:00 Break & Chat!

3:00-4:30-Modern Egyptian/Oriental Technique

Of course, my favorite topic I'd love to share with you! From street-Shaabi to stage-worthy glam moves, we'll use short combos to build new dance vocabulary.

4:30-5:00 Just chat and hang! I miss you ladies!

Cost: $40 for both! Space is limited! Spots are first come, first serve.

"Life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away."

www.raq-on.net

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Last week for discount! Autumn Ward in Portland 6/20-21

2009-05-11T18:02:03Z

Don't delay! Early bird discounts available until Friday, May 15. Register online or by mail!

Autumn Ward of NYC in Portland ME - June 20-21
Clean Lines & Elegant Artistry: Belly Dance for Theatrical Performance
http://www.raqsayperi.com/autumn.shtml

TEACHERS--Sign up 5 students for the 6/21 SUN Autumn Ward workshops (in a bulk payment) and attend for free!
Contact me at ayperi@raqsayperi.com or 207-409-9540 to take advantage of this offer.

*******

In the literal spotlight of center stage, attention to detail becomes more important than ever. Learn skills to advance your technical excellence, develop commanding stage presence, take full advantage of opportunities to show formal work, and connect with the unique expectations of a general theater audience.

Autumn will specifically focus on the clean movements that read well in larger venues (large isolations; small isolations amplified with echoing arm technique; turns and traveling steps), highlighting the techniques that differentiate theatrical belly dance from nightclub performance, and showing the best strategies to create successful work in either venue.

Master teacher and in-demand NYC belly dance performer, Autumn Ward excels in oriental & folkloric belly dance, theatrical dance, and circus arts. She has taught at Rakkasah Spring Caravan and currently has two DVDs out through World Dance New York, with another on the way! Known for her graceful carriage, fluid precision, musicality, and unusual flexibility, Autumn brings her unique style to Portland, Maine!

*******

Sat. June 20 - 8:00 PM
Solstice Performance - One Longfellow Square, Portland, ME
Featuring ... Autumn Ward of NYC, Samuel James, Ayperi, Dilly Dilly, Jaiyana & Adira... $8 wksp students adv / $12 adv / $14 door
Belly dance extraordinaire, acoustic blues, super duper folk siren, flamenco fusion, latin dance... and more!

*******

Sun. June 21 - Workshops
Clean Lines & Elegant Artistry: Belly Dance for Theatrical Performance

11:00 AM-2:00 PM, ALL LEVELS Foundations Workshop - Maine Ballroom Dance, Portland, ME ($55 till May 1/$70 after)

3:00-4:30 PM, ADVANCED Workshop - Maine Ballroom Dance, Portland, ME ($35 till May 1/$50 after)

BOTH: $85 for both till May 1--$5 discount together!/$115 after

*******

FMI & registration: http://www.raqsayperi.com/autumn.shtml

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Looking for classes and dancing community near Orono or Bangor

2009-05-07T20:19:59Z

I'm a intermediate dancer that lives in NH, but am spending the summer near Orono. I was wondering about taking classes in the area of Orono/Bangor, and where I should look for bellydance related information. I'd appreciate any tips!

Thanks,
Stephanie

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 4 replies

Middle Eastern Dance Night At Holly's

2009-05-07T16:50:36Z

I'm happy to announce that the night will now be a monthly event!!

Please join us for the next big night, Saturday June 13, 6:30pm - 9:30pm. with Okbari
To help with the space issue, we will be holding this event outdoors, on their patio. And they will be offering a special Middle Eastern menu, with limited selections of their regular entrees. They do take reservations, so feel free to call ahead. 333-3041.

Anne

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

NH: Tamalyn Dallal, Lotus Niraja, and Melina!

2009-05-07T02:14:01Z

Shew!
I've finally finalized the 2009 Raq-On Workshop Schedule in Enfield, NH. Enfield is 15 minutes from the 89/91 connector in central NH/VT. Less than 2 hours from Boston, 3 hours from Portland, 2.5 from Burlington, and 45 minutes hour from Concord, NH. This is a lovely trip to the lakes region of NH and foothills of the White Mountains. Raq-On workshops are kept as small as possible for personal attention and for the benefit of the dancer.

As always, payment plans are available. Save your spot ASAP! Email Amity at AmityRaqs@Hotmail.com
Flyers, clips, and all information here: http://www.raq-on.net/workshops.htm Site will be updated as time gets closer to each event.

Saturday, June 13th: Tamalyn Dallal-
She trained BDSS Bozenka, Amar Gamal, and more! Tamalyn will be touring NH & VT with her new documentary, book, and dance workshops! Workshops on Saturday along with performances; limited number of private lessons available on Friday and Sunday. AS OF MAY 5TH: Only 10 spots remain! http://www.raq-on.net/tamalyn.htm

Saturday, September 19th: Lotus Niraja, Director of the Niraja Dance Company-
This woman has sass, spunk, and a great personality. She'll be back to NH for her 2nd workshop sharing her sensational layering technique and putting the "Icing" on your drum solos! Workshops & performances on Saturday with a limited number of private lessons available on Friday and Sunday (as well as a master class for pros and semi-pros on Sunday).

November 7th: Melina of Daughters of Rhea-
Melina’s performances are an awe-inspiring mix of amazing balancing acts and spunk. She’ll be visiting the Twin States sharing her magic medley of Greco-Turkish Gypsy-Flamenco fusion combos and secrets of floor work and prop balancing. Workshops & performances on Saturday only!

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 2 replies

Event cancelled!

2009-05-02T18:38:39Z

Boo-hoo! Due to low enrollment, Naya's Trance has cancelled Embracing Beauty on May 30.
We firmly believe that when life gives you lemons, make something tart & tangy!
We're replacing the originally scheduled evening showcase spectacular with a hafli so wrong, its right!
Join us instead for an evening of belly dance to everything BUT traditional belly dance music, including ACDC's legendary 'Back in Black'.
As always, performers welcome!! More info coming soon. Interested performers should contact me at jessica@nayastrance.com.
Jungle Boogie? Bring it!
Boot Scootin' Boogie? I guess so!
Its Raining Men? You betcha!
Free Bird? Yeah man!

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Intermediate/Advanced Classes with Jessani of Nayas Trance

2009-05-02T18:27:50Z

Drills, Zills, & Combinations $70
Thursdays May 14 - June 25, 2009 (no class June 4)
5:45-7:00pm
West End Dance & Yoga Studio
155 Brackett St, 3rd Floor
Portland, ME
Intermediate/Advanced technique classes. Just what the title says! We’ll take intermediate/advanced technique & drill it until we drop. Next we’ll add on a layer of zills, playing both standard belly dance rhythms as well as complimentary & contrasting patterns. Last, but not least, we’ll explore a variety of combinations from raqs sharqi to folkloric to fusion, all of which can be woven into choreography or improvisation. This class is suitable for students with a minimum of 1+ years of belly dance study.
A minimum of 7 students are needed to run this class.
PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY MAY 10.
Register today at http://www.nayastrance.com/classes.htm
FMI: Jessica@nayastrance.com

Well Rounded: Ballet Basics for Belly Dancers $70
Wednesdays May 13- June 24, 2009 (no class June 3)
5:45-7:00pm
West End Dance & Yoga Studio
155 Brackett St, 3rd Floor
Portland, ME
The details make all the difference!
Have you ever wondered what the terms arabesque, soutenu, chaines, port de bras, and second position mean? We will learn basic principles of ballet and then integrate these concepts into the framework of belly dance. Training in western dance technique builds the skills necessary for executing strong turns, complex footwork & floor patterns, graceful veil work, and elegant lines. Improve your abilities as a dancer & watch your belly dancing take on a new dimension of power, grace, and beauty. Suitable for students with 6+ months of belly dance study.
A minimum of 7 students are needed to run this class.
PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY MAY 10.
Register today at http://www.nayastrance.com/classes.htm
FMI: Jessica@nayastrance.com

SPECIAL OFFER: REGISTER FOR BOTH CLASSES AND SAVE 20%.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Grog show! close to ME border in Newburyport MA..

2009-04-28T23:32:49Z

Middle Eastern Night at The Grog
13 Middle Street , Newburyport MA
Wednesday, May 13 8 PM

Fundraiser for Newburyport Continuing Education

Featuring graduates of Leodunya's bellydance classses
at Newburyport Continuing Education, as well as
local and regional dancers performing various
Middle Eastern dance such as Turkish, Egyptian,
Tribal, and Gypsy.

First Dancer on at 8 PM, $5.00 admission,
performers in for free, 21 plus only

For more info call Janet Johnston at 978 462 2458
or Maria O'Connor at 978 388 4148

Hope to see you all there!

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Autumn Ward - Early reg. deadline extended to 5/15!

2009-04-28T14:21:15Z

Folks, due to advertising schedules (I'm putting a pretty ad in the MEDINE magazine--you should all subscribe!) I'm extending the early registration deadline for Autumn Ward's workshops to May 15. So that gives you two extra weeks to sign up at the discounted rate!

I'm also offering payment plans if you can't come up with the cash or credit right now. Times are a little tough, but we all wanna dance!

Autumn has been one of my favorite dancers from the time I started belly dancing. I came across some of her videos online and absolutely fell in love! Her grounded precise technique, personality and theatricality and incredible. Her zills are insane! She works with Djinn frequently, she has taught at Rakkasah festival, AND she has a handful of DVDs out through World Dance New York. My favorite is here...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DW-Kl8A2zE0

So... she will be visiting Portland for the very first time June 20-21 for a big show & two workshops. Don't miss out!! :D

http://www.raqsayperi.com/autumn.shtml

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 1 reply

Jamila Salimpour DVD's

2009-04-25T11:47:55Z

I accidentally duplicated two DVD's I already own so I would love to sell these so I can buy the ones I don't have : )

Jamila Salimpour's Archive Series Vol 3 Taqseem

Jamila Salimpour's Archive Series Vol 4 Folkloric Steps

I would like to get $20 each which includes shipping and i'll accept paypal balance transfers (i'm not set up for debit or credit cards)

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Middle Eastern Dance Night At Holly's

2009-04-22T14:13:54Z

The first Middle Eastern Dance Night at Holly's Restaurant in Auburn, Saturday May 2, 6:30pm - 9:30pm. There will be live music by a variety of local talent, including Okbari. And joining them will be, Joanne, Leigh, Josephina and Katie for some dancing!
We are hoping to get a large crowd there for the first night, and if all goes well, we will continue the night on a monthly basis.

Holly's is located at #84 Court St., across the street from the Auburn Court House, and next door to Little Orphan Annie's Anitiques. There is a small parking lot next to the building, or there is another free public parking lot about 1/2 a block from there, if you turn onto Mechanics Row St. (which Holly's is on the corner of).

Hope to see you then, if you have any questions, please get in touch...

Anne
www.bellydancingmaine.com

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Autumn Ward of NYC in Portland! Jun 20-21

2009-04-20T03:04:42Z

Registration is OPEN for Autumn Ward's workshops & show in Portland, ME. Don't delay! Early bird discounts available until May 1.

Autumn is one of my absolute favorite dancers. I was lucky enough to drop in on one of her classes in NYC when I was visiting--she's a wonderful teacher and an amazingly creative dancers. I can't get enough, so I'm bringing her to Portland!

Check out some of her incredible videos!
(From "Fantasy Bellydance" by World Dance New York) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DW-Kl8A2zE0
(From her new instructional "Beautiful Technique from Step One") http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PkfBJvcXOLg

********************
Master teacher and in-demand NYC belly dance performer, Autumn Ward excels in oriental & folkloric belly dance, theatrical dance, and circus arts. She has taught at Rakkasah Spring Caravan and currently has two DVDs out through World Dance New York, with another on the way! Known for her graceful carriage, fluid precision, musicality, and unusual flexibility, Autumn brings her unique style to Portland, Maine!

********************
Sat. June 20 - 8:00 PM - Solstice Performance - One Longfellow Square, Portland, ME
Featuring ... Autumn Ward of NYC, Samuel James, Ayperi, Jaiyana & more... $8 wksp students / $12 adv / $14 door

********************
Sun. June 21 - Workshops - Clean Lines & Elegant Artistry: Belly Dance for Theatrical Performance

11:00 AM-2:00 PM, ALL LEVELS Foundations Workshop - Portland, ME ($55 till May 1/$70 after)
3:00-4:30 PM, ADVANCED Workshop - Portland, ME ($35 till May 1/$50 after)
($85 for both till May 1--$5 discount together!/$115 after)

********************
FMI & registration: http://www.raqsayperi.com/autumn.shtml

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Dalia in Boston-or just outside

2009-04-20T02:53:57Z

Anyone else going down next Sunday for this? Emma C. and I are driving down from Bangor early Sunday and driving back after the show. We're both dancing in the evening show-live music! Freddy Elias and company-big yum.

Dalia's one of my absolute favorite teachers. She's doing the morning part in Turkish Rom-working in 9/8 with no skirtwork (since they dont!) and the afternoon in Latin fusion. I've taken both with her before and look forward to doing it again.

Who can I look forward to seeing there?

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 1 reply

Unity dance show

2009-04-16T09:15:22Z

Posting this for friend Emma (Shadiyah)

Time: April 25, 2009 from 7pm to 10pm
Location: Unity Centre for the Performing Arts
Street: 42 Depot Street
City/Town: Unity
Website or Map: http://www.unityme.org/thea...
Contact Info: (207) 948-3131 x212
Event Type: hafla
Organized By: Shadiyah
Latest Activity: Apr 13

Come and celebrate the end of the college semester with my bellydance students. I have spots for about 10 performances. If you would like to perform please let me know.

I also have some room for vending if you have anything to sell.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

I have renamed myself!!

2009-04-14T18:45:44Z

I am trying to say that with authority because I still feel weird about giving myself a new name.
I have chosen Nasreen. It is both Turkish and Persian in root and according to one source French, but I don't believe that. It means wild rose, like a beach rose. I love the way Nasreen sounds and I have always liked names that start with N. It also make me giggle because it remids me of that song "My Wild Irish Rose." Anyway someone once made a comment that I must be the only Irish belly dancer. I don't believe that either. Nasreen is a nod to my partial celtic heritage and, well... I like wild roses too.
So I have made buisness cards and have introduced myself as Nasreen a few times, but what do you all think?

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 8 replies

Gypsy Skirt set, harem pants, circle skirt and trumpet skirt set for sale

2009-04-14T12:18:24Z

Delete Discussion I've got a few odds and ends for sale on Ebay right now. Hopefully these links will take you there:

Gypsy set: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&item=270370826239

Harem Pants: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&item=270370833066

Pink Circle Skirt: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&item=270370839654

Hot Pink Trumpet Skirt Set: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&item=270371195054

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Special Workshop with Amity May 23rd 2009 hosted by Naya's Trance Belly Dance

2009-04-08T13:39:43Z

BASIC TECHNIQUE: LAYERS & GOO - 1:00 -2:30 PM

Yes, goo. Goo is internalizing movements, making movements flow, and using your core to clean up your technique. We will work on and drill gooey movements and practice layering till you melt. Basic core concepts and tips on working on movements such as shimmies, belly rolls and undulations, flutters,etc. will be introduced and explained in various ways using different teaching methods.

GOING DEEPER: PERFORMANCE DYNAMICS 3:00-4:30pm

Things for dancers to chew on. Sick of up, down, shimmy, hip drop? We'll get you thinking out the box as to how to compose your dance without being a cookie cutter. Whether you're improvising or creating chorography, we'll go over some tips and ideas to add spice and dynamics to your own dance style.

West End Dance & Yoga Studio, 155 Brackett Street, 3rd floor, Portland
Saturday, May 23rd, 2009
Cost: $25 for one or $40 for both
Space is Limited; Preregistration required.

www.nayastrance.com/classes

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Bazaar & Festival

2009-04-04T22:49:37Z

This is a reminder that the Belly Dance Bazaar & Festival is tomorrow (Sunday the 5th) at 3:00. There will be a mix of 10 performances and 6 mini-workshops from 3-5:30, then open dancing with Okbari til 7. There will be some interesting items and services for sale, as well as some great raffle items & door prizes. It's at the Elks Lodge on Park Row in Brunswick. $10.00/adult, $8.00 /students, under 10/free. Can't make it at 3?, come later!! I'll see you there.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Dark Follies - Call for Performers

2009-04-01T12:27:44Z

Those who participated last year remember how much fun we had!

Dark Follies is a vaudeville/variety show style street performance that will take place in Monument Square during the First Friday Art Walks from May to September from 8:00 – 9:00 pm. Our purpose is to celebrate live street performance and to showcase our local talent.

We debuted Dark Follies in September of 2008 we had a crowd of nearly 100 people who gathered to watch our dancers, drummers and fire performers. We are very excited to be able to hold the event again this year over the summer.

This is our official call for performers. If you juggle, dance, tumble, drum, play an unusual instrument, perform with fire or any other type of street performing you are welcome to take part! We especially need drummers to provide beats and rhythms for our dancers.

Please drop an email to DarkFollies@gmail.com, or reply to this post to let us know if you are interested and include the following details:

Name:
Stage name:
Type of performing:
Dates you are interested in taking part:
Email Address:
Phone Number (especially important as we will cancel if there is bad weather):

If you want to participate in the May Follies, please be sure to contact us by April 15th!

Please feel free to share this with others who may be interested.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Well Rounded: Ballet Basics for Belly Dancers with Jessani of Naya's Trance

2009-03-27T00:48:49Z

The details make all the difference!
Have you ever wondered what the terms arabesque, soutenu, chaines, port de bras, and second position mean? We will learn basic principles of ballet and then integrate these concepts into the framework of belly dance. Training in western dance technique builds the skills necessary for executing strong turns, complex footwork & floor patterns, graceful veil work, and elegant lines. Improve your abilities as a dancer & watch your belly dancing take on a new dimension of power, grace, and beauty.

Join me for this special spring mini-series!
Thursdays 5:45 to 7:00 PM
West End Dance & Yoga Studio, 155 Brackett Street, 3rd floor, Portland
March 26th to April 16, 2009
Cost: $50 if you register before March 5th ~ $55 after March 5th

Reserve your spot early! Register and pay online at www.nayastrance.com/classes.htm
This class is suitable for dancers ages 12+, with a minimum of 2 sessions of belly dance instruction.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 2 replies

Spring Belly Ball update

2009-03-24T09:08:51Z

Jamileh joins Josephina in presenting the Spring Belly Ball
Saturday, March 21, 8PM - Midnight
@ Bath Dance Works, 72 Front Street, Bath, ME

8PM til Midnight, featuring DJ TABLA (Karim Nagi) at 8PM and OKBARI
(Eric LaPerna & Amos Libby) at 9:30PM.

$15 per couple, $10 per person, $5 for kids, 12 & Under free.
$1, bottled water. BYOB.

Food Table Provided by Huntington's Truck Repair
Door Prize Provided by Erika's Chiquis
Henna by Mary of the Eye of Henna

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 8 replies

Embracing Beauty: Event

2009-03-23T13:36:02Z

Presented by Naya's Trance Belly Dance this is a day of workshops, conversations and guided activities designed to use the empowering art of belly dance to encourage girls and young women to embrace their individual beauty, increase self-acceptance & promote a healthy body image. The day long workshop will be followed by an evening showcase spectacular featuring performances from workshop presenters and participants.
Saturday, May 30th , 2009
Workshops: 10 AM to 4:30 PM
Evening Showcase Spectacular: 6:30 to 8:30 PM
North Deering Grange Hall, 1408 Washington Avenue, Portland

For girls and young women ages 8 to 18 ~ no previous dance experience necessary

We have a great line up for the day featuring several of Southern Maine's best Middle Eastern dance instructors. While their specialties vary widely in style each has experience as a teacher and is a true believer in the healing power of belly dance. Featured instructors include Jamileh, Jessani, Adira, Ayperi, Jaiyana, Kamileh, Sybil and Kalyani.

COST: $15 for the day of workshops includes 1 ticket to the evening show
OR $25 for the day of workshops includes 2 tickets to the evening show

Scholarships
A small number of scholarships are available for this event. The scholarships also include 1 (one) ticket to the evening show. If you would like to be considered for a scholarship please send an e-mail to Kimberly (kalyani@nayastrance.com) stating why you need a scholarship to attend this event. We do not need specific financial information but a brief overview of your financial need would be helpful. Please also explain why you want to attend this event. A small committee of workshop instructors and event organizers will make decisions on who will receive scholarships

Evening Showcase Tickets are $12 each at the door or $10 in Advance
Tickets can be purchased in advance on line at the discounted rate of $10 each through 6 PM Friday, May 29th
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Starting Saturday May 30, showcase tickets are $12 and may be purchased in the evening only at the door, starting 1/2 hour before the show starts. Ticket sales at the door are CASH ONLY. We are unable to accept personal checks and/or process credit or debit card sales at the door.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS EVENT, REGISTER & PAY ONLINE AT: http://nayastrance.com/embracingbeauty.htm

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 1 reply

Post yer pictures!

2009-03-18T19:01:06Z

K, just realized that my Raqs Borealis flier is still up. Oops.

So post your pictures and I'll put one of YOU up! Or post your event flier and I'll put it up (if you remind me) a week before your event.

Got a new costume? Shots from a recent performace? Goofing around with your, ah, belly buddies (sorry, couldn't resist!)? Let's see!!

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

UPDATED: Alhan Arabic Music Ensemble, with Jamileh and Friends in Concert

2009-03-18T18:58:41Z

ALHAN ARABIC MUSIC ENSEMBLE, JAMILEH AND FRIENDS IN CONCERT AT THE HISTORIC FIRST PARISH IN PORTLAND

ALHAN Middle Eastern Music Ensemble performs classical and popular Arabic and Ottoman music of the 17th to the 21st centuries. The group features musicians from Simon Shaheen’s Arabic Music Retreat and the Bardezbanian Middle Eastern Ensemble. They are Eric LaPerna; riqq and darbuka, Tom Kavocevic; oud, ney and vocals, Madeleine Hanna; lead vocals and frame drum, and Michael Gallant; violin. ALHAN’s repertoire is drawn from compositions of some of the preeminent composers of Lebanon, Syria, Egypt and Turkey. They also perform Muwashshahat, a classical song form developed in 10th century Andalusia and performed throughout the modern Arab world. This evening will feature selections of classical Arabic song, popular compositions of the Rahbani Brothers for the great Lebanese singer, Fairuz, and several pieces written for Raqs Sharqi (Belly Dance) by the Egyptian composer Mohammed Abdel Wahab.

Jamileh is delighted to be joined by the wonderful Erin, Josephina, Kamileh, Virginia, Sahar, Kendra, Ananda, MaraNajla & Dorothea for this truly beautiful concert of Middle Eastern music and dance.

• Saturday, April 4th, 8pm, at the historic First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church, 425 Congress Street, Portland, $12/person at the door. FMI http://www.mainebellydance.com

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 2 replies

Trying to find a belly dancer from the 80's and information about one from the 70's

2009-03-14T14:19:03Z

In high school, I had a friend whose mother was a professional belly dancer. I am trying to track her down. All I know is her son's name is John Rybicki (and I don't know if I spelled that correctly). We went to Brookline High in Brookline, MA together and graduated in 1991. He was the best man at my first wedding in 1991. Does anyone know of a dancer with a son by that name? Or is anyone that dancer?

Also, one of my mother in laws (yes, I have two, my husband's parents are divorced) was a belly dancer back in the 60's & 70's in the Boston area. She is in her late 60's early 70's now and was so wonderful to give me all of her costumes. She is suffering from a touch of memory loss and cannot remember all of the details of her dance years, but thinks her name was Athena. Her real name is Gail. I am uncertain what her previous last name was, she's a Wilen now too. She recalls dancing the George Abdo clan. Any information about either of these wonderful ladies would be very much appreciated.

Thanks,
Sybil

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 1 reply

Okbari Middle Eastern Ensemble Presents - Türkü: The Mystical Music of the Turkish Troubadours with Jamileh!

2009-03-12T01:39:53Z

Okbari Middle Eastern Ensemble is proud to present a very special selection of Sufi devotional songs from the mystical aşık tradition of Turkey and Central Asia on Friday, March 27th at 8 pm at the West Yoga and Dance studio on Brackett St. in Portland, Maine ($7 suggested donation). The wonderful Jamileh will join us in this performance.
An aşık (lit.‘one who is in love’) is a troubadour or traveling bard found in Turkey, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, and Iran, and many of the most well known aşıks have been associated with the mystical and highly influential Alevi-Bektashi Sufi sect of Islam. The aşık tradition in Turkic cultures of Anatolia, Azerbaijan and Central Asia has its origin in the Shamanistic beliefs of ancient Turkic peoples, and has been shaped by the unique form of Sufi Islam practiced in the region for over 1,000 years. Among their various roles, the aşıks play a major part in the perpetuation of oral tradition, the promotion of communal value systems and traditional cultures of their people. The songs we have chosen for this special performance date from the 12th to 17th centuries and are meditative and transporting both for listeners and performers, with texts that can be interpreted as worldly love songs or passionately mystical poems of religious devotion. We have included several folk dances from Armenia and the Black Sea region of Turkey in the program, along with a lively set of dance music for the authentic raks sharki dancing of the always amazing Jamileh. We hope you can all join us as we share this deeply moving music.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Mother & Daughter Belly Dance Workshop

2009-03-06T17:53:04Z

MOTHER & DAUGHTER BELLY DANCE

Belly dance is a celebration of women and life at all phases. What a wonderful thing to share with each other! Mothers and daughters can be birth, adoptive, grand, step, god, in-law, aunt, niece, sister, cousin, partner or just good friend. All experience levels welcome. Mother & Daughter Belly Dance Workshops are benefit workshops. 100% of your class fee will be donated to a local organization that also celebrates women. Past beneficiaries include Birth Roots, Hardy Girls Healthy Women, Planned Parenthood of Northern New England, La Leche League Portland/South Portland, Midwives of Maine, A Company of Girls, Preble Street Women's Shelter and a special to the Lebanese Red Cross.

• Sunday, 4/19, 1:00-2:30pm at Full Circle Synergy, 500 Forest Avenue, $25/couple to benefit Florence House. FMI http://www.mainebellydance.com

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

By Popular Demand, Karim Nagi Returns For 2 Fantastic Workshops!

2009-03-06T17:41:12Z

BY POPULAR DEMAND, KARIM NAGI RETURNS FOR 2 FANTASTIC WORKSHOPS!

WORKSHOP I, 12-2pm:
DANCER/DRUMMER COMMUNICATION: This workshop will help bridge the gap between the two disciplines. Translate sound into movement by aligning body parts and motions with drum sounds and riffs. Understand the six-part drum-solo theme by theme. Perform to any combination of these 6 major drum solo themes. Learn how to lead and follow the drummer by maintaining the common language. Hone your improvisation skills! Musicians welcome also!

WORKSHOP II, 2:15-4:15pm:
MAQAM FOR DANCERS: Maqam is the Arabic system of scales and melody creation. Classical, popular or dance, all songs are created in a Maqam, which dictates whether the song is happy, somber, uplifting, spiritual or sensual. Learn how to recognize, sing and move to maqams by studying famous song examples. Special attention will be given to Taksim, the art of instrumental solo improvisation. Practice translating instrumental music into movement and personifying the mood of the music. A vital workshop for dancers who wish to better interpret melody into movement.

• Sunday, March 22nd at the Deering Grange Hall, 1408 Washington Avenue, Portland, $35/workshop, $60/both in advance. (No discounts at the door.) FMI http://www.mainebellydance.com

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

PRESENCE. Portland workshop Mar 14

2009-02-28T03:53:04Z

PRESENCE.
A dance workshop with Aepril Schaile

pres·ence (przns), n.:
1. The state or fact of being present; current existence or occurrence.
2. Immediate proximity in time or space.
3. The area immediately surrounding a great personage.
4. A person who is present.
5. A supernatural influence felt to be nearby.
6. A person's bearing, the quality of self-assurance and effectiveness that permits a performer to achieve a rapport with the audience: stage presence.

What makes us authentically present, and thereby powerful and effective on the stage?

In this class we challenge ourselves to embrace a state of presence in our dance, in all the ways that the definition of "presence" implies. In a safe and supportive setting, we employ theatre and movement technique along with spiritual and emotional self exploration, delving into ways to achieve a fluid oneness and communion with our audience. Dancing on the liminal ground of technical precision *with* uninhibited expression, of control *and* letting go, we allow our energies to flow from the center with joy, wholeness, receptivity, strength, expression, and passion.

4-5:30pm
at the St Lawrence Arts Center, Portland, ME
$30
space is very limited, so please register now:
http://www.aeprilschaile.com/workshops.htm

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 1 reply

Spring Belly Dance Classes with Ayperi

2009-02-23T05:23:27Z

Belly Dance classes with Ayperi - Register by Feb. 27 for $10 off!
Register online at http://www.raqsayperi.com/classes.shtml
...or mail checks to Ayperi, PO Box 15174, Portland, ME 04112

Wednesdays AM - Portland
March 11 - April 22
9:00-10:15 AM | $70/seven-week session - $60 if paid by 2/27
at Maine Ballroom Dance, 614 Congress Street, Portland, ME

Wednesdays PM - Portland **NEW CLASS**
March 11 - April 22
7:00-8:15 PM | $70/seven-week session - $60 if paid by 2/27
at Ove Body Therapy, 614a Congress Street, Portland, ME

Mondays PM - Yarmouth
March 9 - April 20
7:00-8:15 PM | $80/seven-week session - $70 if paid by 2/27
at Fitness Sucess, 94 Main Street, Yarmouth, ME

Open to beginning dancers and those with experience, Ayperi’s classes delve into the belly dance movement vocabulary, finger cymbals and rhythms of Middle Eastern music.

Explore alignment, posture, musicality & technique while discovering a life-changing dance form.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Venue change ~ Festival

2009-02-07T14:16:27Z

The Belly Dance Bazaar & Festival will be in the Brunswick Elks Lodge, at 179 Park Row in Brunswick on Sunday April 5th. 3:00 - 7:00pm.
For more info check out the poster on the events or photos page.
Tickets available at the door. Save some $$ and get your tix now!
For info about Brunswick, go to www.brunswickdowntown.com

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 1 reply

Blue THIS Friday night!

2009-02-05T20:12:59Z

Okbari and Josephina and Dorothea (Dori) - OH MY!!

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 1 reply

$525 = Gorgeous Wine Colored Sim Moda Costume

2009-02-03T02:55:03Z

I just got this on Bhuz. It gorgeous but I could fit both "girls" in one cup and still have room for padding!
Here's the specs:
Bra-37" underbust
8 3/4" diagonal
6 1/4" vertical
7 3/4" horizontal
Skirt- 38-39" upper
36" length
Lower hip has quite a bit of stretch but unstretched is at least 40"
It is missing no stones that I can see.
It comes complete with Bra, skirt, headband, 2 arm gauntlets, choker and veil.
Asking what I paid: $525 plus shipping. Email jessica@nayastrance.com if interested or FMI
Pictures here:http://www.bhuz.com/forum/bellydance-swap-meet/24344-525-1-gorgeous-sim-moda.html

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

$45 Dahlal Unitard--NEW

2009-02-03T02:52:47Z

Size large Imperial flare leg unitard from Dahlal, 3/4 sleeve, mesh middle, never worn, paid $54, selling for $45 plus shipping. Just bought & its too long for me (5'3). Unwashed, unworn except to try on. Tags still attached.
Email jessica@nayastrance.com if interested.
Pictures here: http://www.bhuz.com/forum/bellydance-swap-meet/24345-dahlal-unitard-45-a.html

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Alhan Arabic Music Ensemble and Jamileh

2009-01-29T23:14:44Z

ALHAN ARABIC MUSIC ENSEMBLE, JAMILEH AND FRIENDS IN CONCERT AT THE HISTORIC FIRST PARISH IN PORTLAND

Jamileh is delighted to be joined by Erin, Josephina, Kamileh, Virginia, Susan, Kendra, Kimberly Clark, Mara Najla & Dorothea for this wonderful concert of Middle Eastern music and dance with the amazing Alhan Arabic Music Ensemble.

• Saturday, April 4th, 8pm, at the historic First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church, 425 Congress Street, Portland, $12/person at the door.

We have been working hard on the choreography for this event. It is going to be super-fabulous! Hope to see you all there!

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Unexpected benefits of bellydance

2009-01-29T18:57:45Z

After a year-plus of tribal, I have deltoids of steel and can change the water cooler jug at work like nobody's business.

Anyone else?

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 3 replies

Spring Belly Ball

2009-01-28T20:37:07Z

Saturday, March 21, 2009.
8:00 p.m. to Midnight
Please mark your calendars!

It'll be at Bath Dance Works, 72 Front Street, Bath, ME

Okbari will play plus there's more surprises with music- I will update as soon as I get the news.

Also, Huntington's Truck Repair will supply food again. woo hoo for food!!!

I also plan to vend my skirts down there and have a couple of door prizes from my etsy store.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 6 replies

Autumn Ward in Portland! June 20-21 - Save the date!

2009-01-27T21:28:54Z

It's official! Autumn Ward of New York city will be coming to Portland in June. Woo!

Saturday, June 20 - Performance
Sunday, June 21 - TWO workshops! 3-hr all-levels + 1.5hr master class (advanced-level!)

The workshop theme will be "Clean Lines: Belly Dance for Stage". Details to come, but you can get a sense of the workshop here:
http://venusuprising.com/workshops/index.html (scroll down...)

See video clips of Autumn: http://www.youtube.com/autumnward
Visit Autumn's website: www.autumnward.com

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 4 replies

Raqs Borealis featuring Aonochi! - Feb 20 in Portland

2009-01-19T21:20:37Z

Belly dance performances by Aonochi & Ayperi, live music by Okbari, henna by Remarkable Blackbird. Open dancing & mini lesson, too!

Friday, February 20, 2009
8:00 - 11:00 PM | $7

North Star Music Cafe
225 Congress St. (near Washington Ave.)
Portland, ME 04101

Portland's newest professional venue, Raqs Borealis takes place at the North Star Music Cafe every three months.
Future dates include July 31 & November 13, 2009.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Embracing Beauty & Evening Spectacular Showcase: May 30, 2009--save the date!

2009-01-16T22:19:52Z

Dancers, Teachers, and Friends:
Please mark your calendars and plant the seed amongst your students, supporters, & friends. We will be sending out promotional materials soon!

Saturday May 30, 2009
"Embracing Beauty": a day of workshops for girls and young women focusing on body-image & self awareness through belly dance, theater, and music. This exciting event will be offered to girls & young women at low-cost or no-cost. ETA 10am-4pm

Evening Spectacular Showcase: An evening of professional and semi-professional performances. Light refreshments, booths for local teachers/performers & vendors. Proceeds will sponsor the Embracing Beauty event. ETA 6:00-8:00p.m.

Both events hosted by Naya's Trance Belly Dance
Please mark your calendars & plan to join us. If you are interested in performing, donating your services for a workshop, or helping with this event, please contact Kalyani (Kim Sinclair) at kalyani@nayastrance.com.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Maine Bellydance Festival...?

2009-01-14T23:08:14Z

Hi all.

Has anyone heard whether or not the Maine Bellydance festival that Lisa Casselli and Steven Kouyoumjian put on in Saco in April is going on or not? I know that they cancelled it
in 2008 but it was held in 2007 , I cannot seem to find any contact info about it...

Anyone out there have any news?

Thankyou,
Maria

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Jamileh and Okbari in Brunswick...

2009-01-11T22:53:35Z

Just a quick note to let you guys know about another exciting show…
I know I just posted an epic message to you all, and forgive me for posting again, but I wanted to let you know that Okbari will be playing at MJ’s Grille and Tavern, 94 Maine St., Brunswick, ME, on Saturday, January 17th from 10 pm-12 pm featuring the lovely dancing of Jamileh (Jeanne Handy). As many of you know, Okbari has played every first Friday at Blue in Portland for three years, and this venue has the potential to become a similar monthly event for Middle Eastern music and dance in the Midcoast area. The cover for this show is $5, and we would love to see you all come out and help create a positive scene for the music and dance we love so much in Brunswick…Okay that’s all for a while I promise.
All the best regards,
Amos

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

A Very Special Event: The Debut of the Okbari Middle Eastern Music Ensemble!

2009-01-11T22:51:43Z

Hello Everyone,
I hope this message finds you all healthy and happy in the New Year. I am writing to let you all know about a very special event: the debut of the Okbari Middle Eastern Music Ensemble! This show will be held on Jan. 24th at 8 pm at the West End Yoga and Dance Studio (155 Brackett St., Portland, ME.) with a $7 suggested donation. The ensemble consists of Eric LaPerna (percussion), Amos Libby (ud and vocals), Mike Gallant (violin, formerly of the Alan Shavarsh Bardezbanian Middle East Ensemble) and Carl Dimow (flutes, a member of The Casco Bay Tummelers and the music faculty at Colby College). We will be presenting a unique and authentic program of distinct Turkish classical and dance music called fasil. Fasil music is commonly heard in the meyhane (nightclubs) of Old Istanbul, and The Okbari Middle Eastern Music Ensemble is delighted to bring this exciting and soulful music to Portland. The program follows the traditional Turkish fasil structure of presenting an entire set of vocal and instrumental compositions written in the same makam or melodic mode. The makam for this special performance is Nihavent and we will be performing music from the Ottoman era as well as well as early 20th Century Istanbul songs about love, longing, and loss. This music is introspective and emotional, irresistibly danceable, stirring, and just plain beautiful.
We have the privilege of being joined by the equally (if not more!) beautiful Middle Eastern dancing of Katy McCann. We hope to see you all there, and for those of you outside of Maine, please check out our website www.okbari.org for details for our upcoming out-of-state show dates around New England.
All the best regards and thanks for taking the time to read this,
Amos

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Autumn Ward in Portland? June 2009

2008-12-31T02:06:12Z

Hi folks,

I'm looking into booking Autumn Ward for a workshop in Portland in June 2009--perhaps during the solstice weekend!

Autumn is one of my favorite dancers. She's based in New York and I had the chance to drop in on one of her regular classes a couple of years ago. She's a fabulous teacher and a very nice person.

She has a lot of topics, but right now we're looking at something similar to her "Clean Lines" workshop, sponsored by Venus Uprising earlier this fall. http://www.venusuprising.com/workshops/index.html (scroll down a page or three)

Autumn has some performance & instructional DVDs coming out this winter so I'll keep you posted. In the meantime, you can visit her You Tube page... http://www.youtube.com/AutumnWard . As you'll see, she's also an accomplished performer of more circus-y genres... forgive my lack of technical terminology :) ... though the Portland workshop would specifically be a belly dance workshop.

Just wanted to get your thoughts on this! I'm very excited about the prospect. We'd also do a show, of course, in the vein of Mira Betz's event last year, AND Autumn may be up for offering private lessons! Any interest in this?

Cheers!

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 9 replies

Wanna swap DVDs?

2008-12-29T03:00:35Z

I have some DVDs that I've used & am ready to pass along. A few dance, and a few fitness. I'd love to swap with someone for something new. Email me if you have something to trade! jessica@nayastrance.com
I have:
1. Ecstatic Dance - The Wave Series from Gabrielle Roth - Triple DVD Set
Over 35 years ago, a young teacher at the Esalen Institute began experimenting with an ancient body-based spiritual practice all but forgotten in our time: ecstatic dance. Today that teacher, Gabrielle Roth, is acclaimed worldwide for her pioneering work with The Wave, a sequence of improvised movements to five rhythm patterns that the New York Post has called a "map for the entire creative process."
On Gabrielle Roth Ecstatic Dance Collection, viewers join Gabrielle for three complete dance workouts, each with its own special benefits:
The Wave - The original classic on video introduces Gabrielle Roth's revolutionary system of moving meditation. Teaches how five core rhythms can teach, catalyze, and heal our entire being.
The Inner Wave - A meditative trance dance journey to the stillpoint within. For calming the mind and body, and creating peace in our lives.
The Power Wave - Super high-velocity dance workout puts the psyche in motion and helps trigger spontaneous states of creative, intuitive power.

2. THE HEARTBEAT OF BELLY DANCE W/JENNA & RAQUY: DRUM SOLOS
About the Actor
Trained in ballet and modern dance, JENNA has studied middle-eastern dance since 1991 in California & New York, and lived in Turkey for a year. She performed with the Bellyqueen trio until 2002, as well as maintained a flourishing solo performance career, having appeared in many high profile events, dance theater productions, and TV shows (including "Sex & the City"!) Jenna taught weekly classes in NY, as well as workshops in Miami, Tokyo & Yokohama. She has studied Flamenco since 2000, and continues to train in other regional dance forms, such as Brazilian, Indian & African. In November 2004 Jenna moved her studio and residence to Los Angeles.

Product Description
A bellydance drum solo is actually a duet: Together, a dancer and a drummer create a unique piece of performance art. For the dancer, the drum solo is a uniquely exciting experience demanding a profound understanding of rhythmic patterns and a wide vocabulary of bellydance moves and accents, all necessary to enable her to interact at will with the music created by the drummer.

RHYTHM WORKSHOP: Raquy breaks apart eight popular bellydance rhythms: baladi, saiidi, maksoum, masmoudi, ciftetelli, malfouf, ayub, & semai. Acclaimed as a percussion performer, instructor and composer, Raquy teaches us how to recognize each rhythm. Then Jenna, a star dancer, instructor and choreographer, demonstrates effective dance combinations for each of the 8 rhythms. Accompanied by Raquy and Carmine, Jenna then also demonstrates the unique art of drum solo improvisation including the above rhythms.

CHOREOGRAPHY WORKSHOP: Jenna takes you step-by-step through THREE bellydance drum solo choreographies; beginner, intermediate, and advanced. Each instructional session takes place before the mirror, enabling you to follow Jenna as if you were right behind her in the studio. On screen, a beat counter accompanies choreographic demostrations. Choreography breakdown sections separate each dance into numbered combinations, and provide titles naming each move. The "Learn and Practice" section offers a step by-step breakdown of each combination and a presentation of the choreography "from the top" with practice repetitions inserted, so you can follow Jenna and learn the steps in real time.

The DVD also contains a warmup sequence recommended before learning or practicing, and Jenna's famous Shimmy Drills: the Shimmy Layering Drill, and her 3/4 Shimmy Drill. The drills are fun mini-exercise routines to help you learn and build on the art of the shimmy, one of the most colorful and vibrant bellydance moves.

3. The FIRM "Cardio Overdrive"
Cardio Overdrive taught by Alison Davis will kick your weight loss into high gear. Unique low impact cardio and body shaping exercises burn calories both during and after this dynamic workout. Tone your legs, arms and waist to the high-energy beat with easy-to-follow steps and Alison’s expert coaching. Cardio Overdrive is a 45-minute heart-pumping, fat-burning workout with a 25-minute “Express” option.

4. THE FIRM Burn & Shape
Lose unwanted flab and tone your body with this total body fitness DVD by The FIRM. Led by Master Instructor Emily Welsh, a business owner and mother of two young girls, this workout is perfect for busy women just like her and... you! Get in the best shape of your life, in your own home, with this and many other home weight loss products by The FIRM.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Event flier reminder - message me!

2008-12-19T20:29:14Z

Hi folks,

Here's the events policy for this tribe.

1. You may post your Maine/New England events in the Topics OR the Events sections here--your choice!

2. Upload your flier! If you remind me a week before your event, I'll put it up as the main picture... unless there are multiple events in the same week, in which case I'll try to do the best thing.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Bangor Belly Dance Winter show Dec 13th!

2008-12-10T14:16:50Z

http://medimforum.ning.com/events/bangor-belly-dance-holiday for more info and directions!

Join Belly Dance students and teachers from all over Maine for an evening of Middle Eastern music and dance.

Doors open at 7:00 PM, show begins at 7:30 PM.
Tickets at the door: $10/Adults and $5/Children under 10. Tickets can also be bought in advance from Lorien Wood (www.BangorBellyDance.com)

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Beginner/mixed level classes with Shahla of Naya's Trance

2008-12-10T13:13:45Z

I'll be teaching a beginner class at the Fiddlehead Center for the arts in Gray starting next month. Although the class is advertised as a beginner class, I am happy to accept intermediate dancers as well. I can adjust the work we're doing to provide an additional challenge for more advanced dancers.

I'll be offering two seperate five week classes. Session #1 runs from January 6 to February 3, and session # 2 runs from February 10 to March 17. Classes are held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday nights. The cost is $59 per session, or $99 for both. To register, contact Fiddlehead Center for the arts at (207)657-2244 or register online at http://www.fiddleheadcenter.org/gray/

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Audition for Naya's Trance!

2008-11-30T22:01:08Z

Naya's Trance will be holding auditions on Thursday December 4th, 2008.
Time 6-8 p.m.

Auditions will start promptly at 6 and will run until 8. Please plan to arrive on time and stay for the duration.
Location: West End Dance and Yoga Studio, 155 Brackett St. 3rd floor, Portland Maine 04102

Audition Information

Auditions are open to dancers aged 18+, regardless of gender.

Please wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing suitable for practice. Bring a scarf or wrap to tie around your hips. Costume pieces are not recommended.

Auditions will be held in a class format. Dancers will be shown & participate in activities designed to highlight various skills such as: improvisational technique, entrances and traveling steps, the ability to learn choreography, stage presence, as well as basic slow and fast belly dance skills.

Please provide a copy of your dance resume. This 1-page document should list your training, experience, and performance history in belly dance as well as any other dance forms, theater and other performing arts. Include any special skills or talents such as costume design, theatrical lighting, et cetera.

In addition, please prepare a 1-minute piece that best demonstrates your skill and expertise in belly dance
. This is your chance to show us what you love about this dance! This piece should be set to music which you provide and should highlight your talents as a dancer. (please be sure to bring your music on CD)

For more information please contact Jessica Jane Means, Artistic Director at jessica@nayastrance.com or visit our website at www.nayastrance.com

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 1 reply

Belly Dance for Health and Wellness with JOSIE CONTE!

2008-11-28T22:26:01Z

Experience the joy of moving serpentine style in an environment of laughter and support

The art of women’s belly dance is ancient and profound. It celebrates life and the feminine form in a way no other exercise or dance form does. You will awaken areas of your body you may not have thought about for years, increase circulation and flexibility, strengthen core muscles and improve fluid grace of expression. This time around my classes will have a bit of a different twist (no pun intended) and we’ll follow the motion deep into our bodies. All levels are welcome. Dress comfortably.

When: Tuesday nights, starting December 2, 2008 6:40-8pm
Where: West End Dance and Yoga Studio, top floor
Cost: $15 per class, $125 per class card of 10

10% discount for students and elders (65+)

Contact Josie to register: jconteheller @ msn . com

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 3 replies

Winter Tribal Bellydance

2008-11-25T18:27:58Z

Registration is open for 2009 Tribal Bellydance classes. We start up again the week of January 5th.

TRIBAL BELLYDANCE FUNDAMENTALS
Mondays, 7:15 - 8:30pm at the West End Dance & Yoga Studio
Tribal bellydance is a strong, proud, and graceful dance that draws movement from the Middle East, North Africa, India, and the Romany Trail. It is practiced in synchronized group improvisation, using cues and a shared dance vocabulary.

Learn the fundamentals of this powerful dance form: movement vocabulary, styling, leading and following, finger cymbals, and cues. All ability levels and genders are welcome.

TRIBAL BELLYDANCE COMBINATIONS & CHOREOGRAPHY
Thursdays, 7:15 - 8:30pm at World Arts Co-op
Learn advanced combinations and formations and refine your leading and improvisational skills. Open to dancers with experience in tribal format as well as those with significant experience (minimum one year) in other bellydance styles. All genders welcome. This class is followed by collaboratively-led drills & practice, from 8:30 - 9pm.

All classes are $65 for a 6-class card, usable at any regularly scheduled class from 3 months of purchase. 10% discount for full-time university students and anyone 65 or better. Drop-ins are welcome at $13 per class. Drills & practice on Thursday nights is $3.

For more information, including studio directions, class polices, and registration details (now accepting PayPal!), visit my website: http://jaiyana.com/classes

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Help Needed!

2008-11-20T19:21:06Z

Hi All!

I just talked to the Maine Children's Home for Little Wanderers (http://www.mainechildrenshome.org/) to see what they needed for items this year. I was sad to hear literally everything. There are less people donating due to the economy and more need than ever. For the past 3 years I spent hours with other Thomas college students boxing up gifts. This news brings tears to my eyes.

So, here's my challenge. To collect 500 items for The Maine's Children's Home for Little Wanderers by December 12th.

Top items needed per the director:
Thinsulate Gloves
Complete outfits

Things I've seen needed over the past:
Larger children's/young teens clothes and items
Interactive games (board games, hand held, etc.)
Game and toys (especially name brands such as Dora the Explorer, Spider man, Hannah Montana, etc.)
Books, crayons, etc.
Shoes, coats, etc.

So I'm asking the dancers and students of Maine to donate either funds (so I can buy large bulk lots off eBay of items) or to go to Mardens and other local stores and pick up items.

***Here's the deal***
I don't personally have much to offer, however if we meet the goal of 500 items I will come back to Maine for a weekend and teach a day full of workshops for free! The better bonus? I already have bids on 75 pairs of gloves-only 425 items to go!

Are you in the holiday giving spirit? Please email me and pledge your # of items!

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Paradigm Novice Series- basic beginners! Dec 2nd

2008-11-20T02:09:31Z

Zanjibal of Paradigm East is now offering Beginners classes starting Dec. 2, 9 and 16th 6:30-7:30, followed by a break for the holidays and resuming the in the new year Jan 6th, 13th, 20..

PARADIGM NOVICE SERIES 1 (PN1) - With Zanjibal Onde
Dec 2,9,16, then Jan 6, 13, 20

6:30- 7:30 pm - flat fee of $60 due at the sign up for the 6 week class series or $12 drop ins

Location:Gene's Place Dance studio
32 State Street
Bangor, Maine

on the corner across from exchange street. next to the coins and Thomas school of dance.

description: Beginners. No experience necessary. learn the basics of body movement and posture that can be applied to any style of belly dance, including Tribal and Cabaret. From slow, snaky moves, to the ever-favorite shimmy, this is the class for all your belly dance basics. Each week you will develop your basic belly dance vocabulary, learn combinations and how to put it all together in a choreography.

Also

The current Paradigm Transitions class on wed nights
are as follows, also at the new location:

Gene's Place Dance studio
32 State Street
Bangor, Maine

Nov 26, 6:30-7:30
Dec 3rd, and 10th 6:30-7:30

Then break for the winter show and Holidays!

Transitions classes will resume in January so stay tuned for new dates.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Rakkasah performance video posted!!

2008-11-18T01:32:18Z

Hi folks,

I've finally managed to post my performance video from Rakkasah in October.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zV06EQ8RKFI

(I had some technical difficulties... the sound didn't want to stick with the video on my first method so I put the whole thing on hold till now.)

Rakkasah was a great experience. I met a lot of folks that I've known only from Tribe, as well as a number of other dancers that I really admire. The workshops were all absolutely worth getting up for 9 AM after after-partying till the wee hours (I chose Jim Boz, Fahtiem, & Saqra). The after-parties alone were worth it... imagine a hotel ballroom overflowing with belly dancers just boogying all night to live, impromtu music led by Djinn at the core and anyone else who cared to pick up an instrument. I really hope some more Mainers will consider coming next year! :)

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 2 replies

New home for MEDIM.org forum

2008-11-16T03:19:51Z

From Ao...

The Middle Eastern Dance in Maine forum has moved!

http://medimforum.ning.com/

is the new address. Stay connected and chatting with other local dancers and events in the local Maine areas.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 0 replies

Gypsy Caravan film screening - Fri 11/14, 7 PM

2008-11-14T16:10:37Z

Manjula & I are hosting a screening of the documentary "Gypsy Caravan: Where the Road Bends". This is a super film follows a tour of North America by Rom musicians from many different countries, and it follows each group back home.

Bring a pillow or camp chair if you have one, and a snack... I'll provide popcorn & Manjula will provide her living room and a coupla couches.

FMI on the film: http://www.gypsycaravanmovie.com/

Friday, November 14, 7:00 PM
Eastern Prom, Portland
(Call or email me for the exact address - 207-409-9540 - ayperi@raqsayperi.com)

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 2 replies

Shahla at Jimmy the Greeks, Sunday November 9

2008-11-12T12:49:49Z

I'll be dancing at Jimmy the Greeks in Old Orchard Beach on Sunday for their weekly brunch. The brunch/performance goes from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The always enjoyable music of Okbari will also be there.

I'll be dancing in a new super hot backless pink dress and it'll be my first time wearing heels while dancing. Should be interesting.....

For more information: http://www.nayastrance.com/brunch.htm

Hope to see you there.

posted in Belly Dance in Maine--and beyond! - 4 replies