Dancing Bellies's topics - tribe.net

back on tribe...

2007-12-31T06:03:12Z

Hi ladies
since Facebook, this tribe has gone very quiet... so let's revive it.
How about posting your belly dance highlite's from this year? I'd love to hear your stories... Amy, what you said in class last night was so lovely, maybe you could share it here....

posted in Dancing Bellies - 1 reply

Desert Sin dance company, mermaid dance.... wow

2007-12-10T15:21:46Z

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8krBELgibZc

posted in Dancing Bellies - 1 reply

Feminine Divine promo video

2007-12-10T10:34:49Z

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

posted in Dancing Bellies - 0 replies

show pics

2007-09-06T15:25:44Z

hey guys
I put some of the pics my sister took at the dress rehearsal on Facebook, in the Feminine Divine group album. Take a look.

posted in Dancing Bellies - 0 replies

Studio Show

2007-09-05T09:09:21Z

Hi Ladies
Just wondering how you are feeling now that the show is only 2 weeks away? I must say i am starting to feel a bit nervous, extremely anxious but still very excited. Its like the highlight of the year.... I know it gets bigger every year but for some funny reason it just seems that this year is going to be extra special.... What are your thoughts and how are you feeling?

posted in Dancing Bellies - 7 replies

for the tribally inclined....

2007-09-03T21:59:54Z

Hi guys
Kathy very kindly passed on the following info - If you want more cowrie shells to make a tribal belt, then she can suggest going to Bead Merchants in Long Street or the Bead Boys at the Old Biscuit Mill (same company). She got a tub of cowrie shells (2 holes drilled in each) for R19.50 - it says about 60 shells (100 grams).

Anyone else got any suggestions for interesting "tribally" things with which to decorate a belt?

posted in Dancing Bellies - 1 reply

Dance Fan

2007-09-03T21:43:51Z

I am looking for a dance fan for Spanish tribal fusion. I should prefer a cerise pink one, or failing that, black with no pattern. Does anyone out there have such a fan, or know where in S.A. I can obtain one? Anita

posted in Dancing Bellies - 4 replies

Stage Makeup - any suggestions for products?

2007-08-27T07:26:47Z

Hey guys,
I know we have the tribe for makeup and hair for dancers, but I find that we dont get a lot of the cosmetics they reference here in SA.
So I was hoping we could share tips, tricks and top products for stage/performance makeup.
What products could you not live without? what would be in your top 5 (if you had to choose)
I would like to go and treat myself to a few new things, but haven't a clue where to start, so suggestions would be welcome!

posted in Dancing Bellies - 36 replies

Veils

2007-08-15T11:20:34Z

I've decided that I want a silk veil, but I'm not sure where's the best place to get them from? and what size? Cos I think the veil that i currently have is too wide, so even when i tuck it in it still drapes onto the floor!

Any ideas/suggestions?

posted in Dancing Bellies - 7 replies

Woman's Day Performance at Noordhoek

2007-08-10T13:43:27Z

To all the ladies who danced at the Noordhoek Woman's Day expo yesterday:

Crystal and Jade
Kathy
Nathalie
Beryl
Widaad
Amy
Erika
Deo Lindie
Teena
Astrid

THANK YOU!!!

You were, as usual, absolutely beautiful.
It was so lovely to be able to sit and relax and enjoy your performance.
I was, as always, very proud of all of you!

Unfortunately I forgot my camera at home, but hopefully we'll be able to see the pics that the studio took soon.

with love and thanks to all of you...

posted in Dancing Bellies - 2 replies

oh my goodenss

2007-08-08T13:09:57Z

I just got an email from Petite Jamilla from the belly dance superstars!! How groovey is that ladies!!! She is keen to come to SA, and could teach us double veil, which is absolutely stunning... Very exciting, I'll keep you all posted.
with love
T

posted in Dancing Bellies - 10 replies

P.U.R.E

2007-08-07T12:13:09Z

Check out this site: http://www.puredance.org/about.html

I love what these women are doing. Its sort of like guerilla theatre but so much more beautiful.

posted in Dancing Bellies - 1 reply

FD Studio Show programme

2007-08-02T21:13:54Z

Show – performance schedule - Saturday 1st September

Tentative Programme - please check and let me know if I have spaced everything appropriately....

1. Fun Does not exist
2. Walk like an Egyptian
3. Spirit of Serenity
4. Cristal solo
5. Azure Sky
6. Mom’s and daughters dance
7. Tenille’s Saturday drum solo
8. Alexis, Wednesday intermediate dance
9. Gypsy Rhapsody
10. Justine’s class drum solo
11. Alvina Solo
12. Snake Charmer
13. Crystal New beginners

Interval

14. Alexis live drum solo
15. Path to Goa
16. Genevieve solo
17. Bounce
18. Gypsy Caravan
19. Alexis solo
20. Stellemara
21. Jay solo
22. Mom’s and daughters short drum solo
23. Turkish Groove
24. Justine class dance 2
25. Cairo Blues
26. Finale

posted in Dancing Bellies - 0 replies

Meniscus tear

2007-07-23T09:20:29Z

Hi ladies
I have some very depressing (for me) news...

I have a meniscus tear (cartelidge in the knee has been torn and is stuck between the bones) which means that my knee is locked and needs to be opperated on.

I go in for the surgery this afternoon at 3pm and will be out of action for a week, and then can slowly start moving again. I will not be able to dance or perform for 3 months... I will try to start teaching again as soon as possible and the studio show will still happen, although now I don't think we'll do the matinee show, just the main evening show... I am confident that you will all be beautiful and radient!

Crystal, Alexis, Justine, Jay and Genevieve will be running the studio while I'm off, so please give them your support since in order to pay for this op, I desperately need the studio to continue running as normal.

please say a prayer that the op is successful and that I have normal use of my knee afterwards...

with love and thanks

Tenille

posted in Dancing Bellies - 4 replies

Costumes - Tips, Suggestions & Handy Hints

2007-07-19T10:06:19Z

Hi everyone,

I think its that time of the year when everyone's starting to think about making their costumes for the show. I was looking for 'tribal-y' things yesterday, and found a pair of fish net knee highs (the ones with lace trim on the edges), that work perfectly as 'gauntlets!'. They were R20, and cos they're relatively cheap, they dont end up squishing ur arms and making all the wobbly bits bulge out the top! :)))

Will bring them to class tomorrow so that you guys can check it out.

posted in Dancing Bellies - 3 replies

Goals for 2007

2007-07-10T12:54:29Z

What are your goals for 2007? Belly related and otherwise...

Here's my list:

Since drinking hot chocolate for breakfast, lunch and supper everyday during the holidays has rewarded me with an extra 2 kg's... my first task is to get rid of those....

I hope to have a Feminine Divine social atleast once every 2 months....
So far I've got the artists network planned for the 27th Jan, then a combined FD social with my birthday party on 23rd March, hopefully at Star Dusts...

Figure out how to accomodate (hopefully) more than 1000 people at this years show... (which I'm planning for about August)

Incorporate more veil work and improv into classes... (I know you all LOVE to improvise....)

Travel to Egypt in June to complete teachers training with Egypts oldest and most revered teachers, Mahmoud Redda and Farida Fammy....

Bring back LOTS of costumes from Egypt!!!!

So what are your hopes and goals for this year???

love
T

posted in Dancing Bellies - 15 replies

i think i have a bug................

2007-07-10T08:31:02Z

the FD bug !!!!!!! I woke up this morning feeling like it should be Satuday - belly dancing day, make-up day and costume day. It's scary cos I also wanted to wear my false eyelashes to work but after 2 attempts I gave up. I took it to be the sign that it was not appropriate.

I wonder if it is contagious. Let me know if you've ever had it.

love & FD hugs
VF

posted in Dancing Bellies - 2 replies

Home sweet home...

2007-07-03T07:56:35Z

Yay! I'm home, after 30 hours in transit, with Trygve vomiting all over the airport from food poisoning...

so home feels even better than usual!

I have lots of stories to share, but will do that later, for now I have posted some pictures in the gallery.

lots of love to you all and see you soon. will probably be teaching again from Wednesday, just clearing my head and catching up...

posted in Dancing Bellies - 4 replies

Online shopping for DVD's - website

2007-06-28T10:44:31Z

Hi guys

Just thought I would post this link - I was talking about it in class last week.
www.take2.co.za
They have LOTS of bellydancing DVD's (as well as other DVD's, books, music etc) and their prices are really good. Shipping is only R29 for as many items as you order, or you can collect from Milnerton. I've had great service so far.
nats xxx

posted in Dancing Bellies - 2 replies

Next Moms & Daughters Course in Parow

2007-06-20T08:13:27Z

Classes for mom’s and daughters!
(Aged 7 to 13 years) (daughters must be accompanied by their mom’s for this class)

Saturdays from 3 to 4pm – Caroline Coetze Dance Studio – Parow North
Fees R360 per 6 week course (for the ‘couple’)

Class structure will differ from regular classes in that classes will be divided into 2 x 25 minute sessions, with a ten minute break in between, to give the little ones a chance to gather their thoughts.

Next class starts on Saturday 16th June 2007. Please book your space in the class soon, as we’ll accept a maximum of 10 ‘pairs’ per class.

posted in Dancing Bellies - 1 reply

Egypt

2007-06-16T14:38:04Z

Hi everyone!!!
well, I miss you allready! there really is no place like home and the special people there...

here is some news from me

well, another day down, almost... and today was easier, but also sad, because trygve leaves tomorrow for the red sea, and I'm going to be here alone... so far I have not managed to find our hostel on my own, so I can imagine myself sending desperate sms's to trygve, help Help HELP!!!anyone got a gps I could borrow next time???

oh well, we have booked for our nile cruise and I'm looking forward to that, it should be a more relaxing experience than that of downtown cairo... I'm sipping whiskeys in the evenings, to try and calm the nerves, and downing rescue remedy during the day so I'm feeling pretty spaced out. don't know if it's still a bit of jet lag or if my blood pressure is low, but I'm feeling quite dizzy most of the time. it might just be the heat. the local drink of choice is karkaday tea, hot or cold, which is hibiscus tea that's deep burgundy and very sweet. delicios and supposedly very good for the blood pressure...

we have eaten kesheri which is a mixture of rice, lentils, noodles, spagetti and tamato sauce with lemon sauce or an extreeeeeeeeemly hot chilli sauce. so far that's ALL we've eaten...my tummy is twice it's usual size... trygve and I are farting up a storm... he laughed so hard when I told him I'd been farting all day... I'd never normally admit to such a thing...
and I can't admit I'm going to put that on tribe!!!!!d

I even drank coke today, just to get a bit of a sugar rush, and then poor Trygve couldn't keep up with me when we were walking back to our hostel!

booking our nile trip and flights from cairo to aswan took the whole day... truly, a whole day just to book a trip. at home we could make a 5 minute call and it would be done.

For every nice person you meet here, there are atleast 2 who try to rip you off... yesterday we paid 60 pounds for a sim card, and today at another store they charged us 20... at one restaurant we paid 11 pounds for a meal, and at another we paid 40 for the same thing.... and everyone can think of a brilliant reason why you should not do what you are doing, and should rather go with them, inevitably to their perfume shop where you are embalmed with all sorts of essences, some lovely, some disgusting, but all overwhelming. the good thing is that my galabaya still smells lovely, even in this heat and after wearing it for 2 days. (I must go and buy another one, I don't know how long the perfume will last...) this morning when we were trying to draw money the excuse was that the atm would swallow our card and this guy would show us a better atm, but the atm was in El tarhir street, and he took us down tal ha taab street... hopefully we have wisened up to their tricks.

the egyptian women still wear about as much make up as they did back in pharonic times, and if you think I wear alot of make up you should see these ladies!

there is internet access at the hostel where we are staying, so atleast for these few minutes infront of the pc, I feel relatively at home... so you'll be hearing from me frequently.

I LOVE you all sooooooooooooooooooooooo much. I can't wait to see you all again in July, Insh Allah!

with love
your bewildered teacher and friend

PS< my course starts tomorrow... 7 hours of dancing and lectures a day for 7 days... hectic. I hope I'll be half the size when i return...

posted in Dancing Bellies - 14 replies

daily practice regime

2007-06-13T06:40:19Z

do any of you have a daily practice regime? Ideally I'd like to be able to say I practice belly dancing for 1/2 hour every day (or maybe every second day; more realistic). I'm looking to do a bit of stretching, some isolated dance moves and maybe practice one peice of a choreography. Does anyone do this already? I'd like to read what your 1/2 hour looks like.

posted in Dancing Bellies - 5 replies

Some interesting tips

2007-06-10T15:37:23Z

Step the rhythm with your feet
Step the rhythm with your feet. Everything comes back to rhythm - it is the pulse, the base, the groundwork for your dance. You primarily feel the rhythm with your feet and lower body - legs and hips. When your feet 'feel' the rhythm and pulse or step on the 'doms' and raise for the 'taks' your body understands the rhythm. Apply this principle whether dancing on the spot or travelling with your steps.

Relax your jaw, relax your hands
Relax your jaw, relax your hands. Dancing with a slightly open jaw will relax your whole body. The jaw in yoga is linked with the pelvic area, so by relaxing the jaw, throat and neck will actually help release the flow of energy in the hips! Egyptian dancers always have their mouths slightly open. This is why lip-synching will often make your dancing very relaxed. Also relax your hands, let them feel and flow with the music. To test this, try to shimmy with clenched fists and jaw, then relax them.

Be present, be IN tune the music
Be present, be in tune with the music. Totally immerse yourself in the music the way your body dictates. You must understand your body, instinctively knowing its timing and techniques. The analytical mind must take a back seat so the creative mind can take over. The secrets here are a) listening, b) breathing, c) focusing, d) flowing. These are the easiest ways to centre yourself and engage wholly with the music and movement.

Simplify
Simplify. In dance, less is more. Keep your moves simple, clear and clean. Follow the beat and accent the beats that asked to be accented. Don't double time or throw in accents where there are none. Let the body respond to the instrument in the way it is being played, held and felt by the musician - arms to flutes, shoulders to violins and req, chest to accordian, belly to oud, lower belly to qanoon, hips to tabla, feet to base tabla.

Vary your movements with space, level, timing
Vary your movements with space, level, timing. Soheir Zaki mastered the art of using only several simple moves, but made them look like many. The same move keeps its hypnotic momentum when the level is changed, ie: the knees bend to make it appear lower or the dancer raises herself on the balls of her foot to lift the move. The move can be doubled when the tempo increases or the beats occur in more rapid frequency. It can be halved and slowed down to create accented beats. Lastly, become a master of space when you dance - learn to turn well, step into balanced floor patterns and train yourself to turn sharply so that you face the front and then the back with ease.

See the music, let your eyes light up
See the music, let your eyes light up. Arabic dancers use their eyes in a very relaxed yet powerful way. They see the music. Do the same when you dance. When the melodies get high and light, look upwards, as the Persians did, believing dancing was for the Gods. For dynamic earthy drums, look down at your hips and enjoy the movement. During 'question and answer' sections within the music, be two different personalities engaging in 'conversation' - one is demure, the other robust. Let the changing character of the music fill your body and express it with your eyes - be sultry, triumphant, melancholy, passionate, coy, mischievous.

Practice WITHOUT a mirror as much as possible
Practice WITHOUT a mirror as much as possible. Get used to feeling the music, generating a mood, being totally present as you dance. What you see in the mirror is the reverse of what you actually look like. A video is a more accurate image of yourself, that's why we sometimes feel our dancing on video looks 'foreign' to us! When dancing infront of a mirror, you tend to look forward and the head, shoulders and chest don't relax like they should in natural dance.

Technical challenges when learnt well, later become creative tools
Technical challenges when learnt well, later become creative tools. Technical steps and 'routines' require total focus as they are being learnt. It even seems to go against the grain of 'organic' dance. But the body has an incredible cellular memory. Practice, practice, practice. Logical dance steps, turns and transitions first engage your analytical mind, like riding a bike or cooking a new recipe. However once mastered, the experience later becomes a creative and enjoyable one. You begin to forget the mechanics and enjoy the senses. Once your body learns the technicalities of bellydance, they become second nature and part of the creative process.

Detach and focus at the same time by surrendering to the music
Detach and focus at the same time by surrendering to the music. Dance is a kind of meditation - a very integrated, present-moment experience. With meditation, you must detach from the rambling mind thought process and remain clear and open by focusing on breathing and posture. The same applies for bellydance. By surrendering to the music and letting it 'guide' your body, you release mental blocks that stifle creativity. When you are fully engaged in the flowing, creative process of dance you detach from the judgmental mind that constantly assesses if you are doing well or poorly, right or wrong. Instead, focus on the purity of each move; your merging with the music. In this meditative state, the mind does not interfere with judgement and you produce your most authentic dance expression.

posted in Dancing Bellies - 1 reply

Widaad's question - Hair do's (or donts?)

2007-06-08T11:35:31Z

Widaad posted this under the makeup post, but I though it deserved a post of its own as I'm in exactly the same boat.

"Does anyone have any suggestions for pretty (and easy to do!) hairstyles? My hair's mid-length and layered, which is a bit of a pain cos it never stays in plaits, it only makes a dinky little bun, and if I wear it in a ponytail it looks like high school! So I always end up wearing it loose :( "

Wearing my hair tied back makes me feel as if I was still at school! Anyone got any other suggestions - other than a head band or a turban????

posted in Dancing Bellies - 5 replies

Tribal Workshop

2007-06-07T12:23:41Z

Hello everyone,

So once again, its the 'morning after' the Tribal workshop, and boy am I feeling it! Had to do a little sideways roll out of bed this morning because my stomach muscles just refused to let me sit up! :)

I loved every minute of it though, and can definitely not wait for next week! I'm starting to see (and feel!!) the differences between the tribal style and our 'normal' style of dance, and I'm really starting to enjoy it. So thanks to Tenille for arranging it, and thanks to Elisha for having patience with us!

I would definitely not mind if there were more tribal classes in the future, not sure if anyone else agrees?

posted in Dancing Bellies - 4 replies

Cuppa for Cancer

2007-06-06T21:21:08Z

Hi Ladies
Hope you all had a good weekend as from what i heard you guys were wonderful on Saturday. I got a frantic call from my mom who was in Cape Gate at the time who said you guys were amazing. So well done ladies, even in her absence you made Tenille and the rest of the Feminine Divine proud.

WELL DONE!!!

posted in Dancing Bellies - 2 replies

Welcome

2007-06-04T05:35:00Z

Hi Chantal, nice of you to finally join the rest of us.....

posted in Dancing Bellies - 2 replies

Studio Social Event

2007-05-31T21:14:09Z

Hi T
The last social event everyone really had a fantastic evening, anything on the cards for the next one?

posted in Dancing Bellies - 12 replies

Rania workshop

2007-05-23T15:47:00Z

Hi

just wanted to know how the rania workshop was?

hopefully curiosity doesn't kill the cat.:)

ciao

posted in Dancing Bellies - 1 reply

Strength training

2007-05-18T05:38:03Z

So the sword floorwork got me thinking about strength training, and how I need to do more of it!

If anyone hasn't seen this site, its excellent: http://www.stumptuous.com/cms/index.php. Its all about womens weight lifting, but not in an insane body-builder sort of way.

posted in Dancing Bellies - 0 replies

Suggestions for my shopping spree in Egypt

2007-05-11T10:00:02Z

I will be doing some serious shopping while I'm away and will be brining back goodies to sell through the Belly Boutique. I'll have an open day at the studio where everyone can come and view all the goodies...

Does anyone have any suggestions for exciting goodies to bring back?

posted in Dancing Bellies - 15 replies

Crystal - how was teaching your first class???

2007-05-10T08:15:13Z

Hi Crystal
Sorry I didnt get a chance to chat last night, but just wondering how you found teaching your first class? Tell us all about it!

posted in Dancing Bellies - 9 replies

SA Belly Dance Festival - Thank you!

2007-05-02T13:00:13Z

To all the performers, there were over 30 of us!!! Thank you so much for your hard work and the time and energy you invested into the performance on Saturday. You were all absolutely wonderful, and I felt so proud of all of you!!!

Thank you to Jay and her wonderful girls as well as Justine and her tribal beauties!

and thank you to everyone who came to support us, it was wonderful seeing your friendly faces in the crowd...

Please post your feedback here... what did you think of the performances you saw... costumes, anything of interest... workshops you did...
tell us your tales..

with love
T

posted in Dancing Bellies - 1 reply

Improvising!!

2007-05-01T20:16:33Z

Wondered if everyone enjoyed class as much as i did last night, especially the improvising in the dark bit. Any thoughts?

posted in Dancing Bellies - 12 replies

Good dance days, or not...

2007-04-29T15:52:50Z

Does anyone else find that some days are really good dance days, and other days just aren't?
I'm finding that on the days when I'm really busy at work, stressed etc, it's much harder to pick up new moves in class (or even perfect old ones).
I wonder if its a left brain/ right brain thing? I work pretty long hours (most days 8-6 and then straight to class) in a fairly stressful job, so I think perhaps by the time I get to class my brain hasnt has a chance to switch over into the creative dance/music side of things... I definitely find its easier and more fun to dance when I'm relaxed. Anyone got any thoughts on this?

posted in Dancing Bellies - 4 replies

The wonders of modern technology... :)

2007-04-26T13:14:14Z

How cool is it that I'm sitting at a hair salon, with colour on my hair...surfing the net!!! :) It sure beats having to read an outdated Hair magazine :)

p.s: if you can ladies, you should really check out the La Senza factory warehouse sale if you can! At the River Club in Observatory. It was like a madhouse when I left earlier...they had a lot of pretty things...sale's on until the 29th i think, but I'm not sure how long all the good stuff'a gonna last so hurry :)

posted in Dancing Bellies - 2 replies

Distortion of beauty...

2007-04-20T12:00:05Z

a friend sent this to me... Very interesting and so true... We are all striving towards an ideal that doesn't exist... Here's to truly beautiful women who shine from the inside!

http://www.campaignforrealbeauty.com/home_films_evolution_v2.swf

what do you think?

posted in Dancing Bellies - 5 replies

Speaking of costumes...

2007-04-20T11:33:58Z

How's this for a wedding dress?

http://www.snopes.com/photos/weddings/beaded.asp

posted in Dancing Bellies - 9 replies

Thank you

2007-04-13T22:12:31Z

Thank you to my dancers....

Alexis, for your fun, creative dancing

Elisha, for your commitment and beautiful veil work

Jay, for your unique, inspiring style

Justine, for your goddess personalilty

Crystal and Jade, for your special family energy

and to everyone who came to the show and made it a wonderful success....

and to my Monday ladies who listened to my stories, after a glass of wine too many....

I love and appreciate everything you bring to the studio

You are all truly awakening... The Feminine Divine

posted in Dancing Bellies - 0 replies

the feminine divine

2007-04-12T14:21:59Z

unfortunately all my teachers have never gone much into the spiritual side of bellydancing. from your name "the feminine divine" it seems like you are more into that. so what actually is the feminine divine? i've found it difficult to get in touch with the spiritual aspects of the dance cos i'm always dealing with drunk arabs, haggling with clients etc. any info or ideas ?

posted in Dancing Bellies - 5 replies

Sisterhood????

2007-04-04T07:55:20Z

I was sitting in the office today and overheard a conversation that was pretty much meant to be over heard by me. It went something like this:

A: Oh I was at this restaurant one day and there were bellydancers

B: oh really that must have been interesting!

A: Ja REAL bellydancers (so what am I a fake?)
And they wanted us to join in and dance also

B: Oh so why didn’t you

A: Are you kidding it was in a public place

B: Oh that’s right, you must show decorum (yes this word was actually used and why it doesn’t apply to bellydancers is beyond me, how about the decorum shown of most women dancing in public places such as clubs etc, young girls dressed in belts disguised as mini skirts and pieces of material just covering their boobs disguised as actual tops grinding their hips and dancing with each other to entice men – Decorum – oh yes definitely)

A: Ooh and the men though they had just hit the jackpot
All of them were half drooling over the bellydancers

B: Oh yes I can imagine
Just like pole dancing

A: Yes yes and lap dancing!

Well I just wanted to say to all of these ignorant women who keep bringing us down when we work so hard to shatter these images of bellydancing as part of the sex-trade– where is the sisterhood we so often brag about to the opposite sex – “oh yes women should rule the world – they are so much more sensitive and kind and will end wars)

Well with attitudes of viciousness and jealousy aimed at other women I don’t how that is true

Why are we always trying to bring each other down? Why is that that women are so threatened by each other and we will never stick together?

Do we really lack that much self-confidence/ why are we the worst critics of other women and never one to applaud successful women?

I find this behavior so sad – the maliciousness of it all.

It has affected my life so much that most of my friends are guys

Anybody else feel the same? Or have anything to add?

posted in Dancing Bellies - 11 replies

Daily Practice Moves...

2007-04-02T11:03:04Z

ok, so here's a list (in progress) of daily practice moves... I'm going to be highly origional and go by letters of the week, and then find daily activities to put with the moves...

Monday - Maya's

Practice maya's while hanging up the washing! Your lifted arms will remind you to lift your hips!

Feet flat on the floor, lift your right foot and hip, push up out and down, flowing through the centre and to the left side. Once you master the movement, make it flow, like an infinity symbol...

Tuesdays - Travelling steps

Fishing - Stand in first with your right heel raised, do hip bumps to the right, and then travel to the right as you do the hip bumps... you can press on the ball of the right foot to help make sure you travel WITH the bump, not before or after... Arms in archers, looking where you
re going...
and you can do this whenever you go up or down the passage

Wednesday - Walking...

with a book balanced on your head! then practising a variety of moves like this, to ensure that you are getting the isolations correctly... you should even be able to shimmy with a book balanced on your head!
you can do this while walking the dog! (and amusing the neighbors)

Thursday - Tribal undulations

Standing in first. Sink your chest down, then push forward, then lift up (lengthening the spine) then drop your heart idown nto your chest, aiming for a full lay back. Make sure your abs are contracted, to help support the spine.
I can't think of a daily activity to go ith these, apart from adriring yourself in the mirror!

Friday - Facial expressions!

Think of the persona you wish to project when you dance... and the 'vibe' of the different movements. Sensual slow movements like fgure of 8's and maya's need a sensual, mysterious expression... while fun playful moves like shimmies and hip lifts are best complemented by fun, cheecky expressions!
Practise your looks on your colleagues at work!!! (and on your teacher please! all I ever see are pained expressions!)

Saturday - Shimmies

Yay, you 've waited all week for these! practice your shimmies, both vibrations and hip shimmies while washing the dishes and brushing your teeth. careful not to get toothpaste in your eyes though! Once you can shimmy continuously for 3 minutes, start layering with other movments...

Sunday - Suntanning!! (and belly rolls)
while suntanning, practise your belly rolls in both directions... you can do this while admiring your tan, sipping cocktails and reading your favourite novel

well, that's my first list...

Please add your own, in any shape or form! it will be fun to see what you all come up with

much love
T

posted in Dancing Bellies - 4 replies

Classes for Mom's and daughters! with Crystal and Jade

2007-03-28T08:12:18Z

NEW!!! NEW!!! NEW!!!

Classes for Mom’s and daughters!

Crystal Simpson will be teaching classes for mom’s and their young daughters from the beginning of May.

Crystal has an 8 year old daughter, Jade, who nagged and nagged her mom to let her join in the fun, and eventually Jade joined belly sweat, where she put us all to shame with her energy!

Crystal and Jade have since been working on a performance piece as well as a syllabus suitable for young girls.

Crystal says she is amazed by the increadible bond that has formed between her and her daughter since they started dancing together. Not only do they argue less, but Jade is far more accepting of her developing body, and the two of them are very excited about sharing this with their friends.

Classes for mom’s and daughters! (aged 7 to 11 years) (daughters must be accompanied by their mom’s for this class)

Saturdays from 11am to 12 at Meadowridge Girl Guide Hall.

Fees R200 per month.

Class structure will differ from regular classes in that classes will be divided into 2 x 25 minute sessions, with a ten minute break in between, to give the little ones a chance to gather their thoughts.

Teen classes (age 12 to 16) (teens can attend without mom for this class)

Saturdays at 12:30 at Meadowridge Girl Guide Hall

Fees R120 per month.

Considering the benefits you’ve gained from belly dancing, don’t you think it’s great that your daughters will now be able to reap the same benefits, only NOW, before they are brainwashed into disliking their bodies! Yay!

Classes will start on Saturday 5th May 2007. Please book your space in the class soon, as we’ll accept a maximum of 8 ‘pairs’
per class.

posted in Dancing Bellies - 1 reply

Naughty?

2007-03-23T05:14:36Z

I received this email from a friend of mine, inviting me to this event. Not really my kind of thing.

But I did notice that bellydancers are mentioned in the same sentence as lapdancers and pole dancers. Hmmm...

Any thoughts on this? Why is belly dancing included as a naughty sexual activity?

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

Calling all the Naughty Ladies out there!

Come join Distraction @ the Bang Bang club for their first official
Ooh La La - Naughty ladies night
What you gonna get:

A Naughtywares Night for Naughty and Fun loving ladies looking to have the ultimate girl’s night out!
A professional Naughtyware Party Agent will guide you through all the naughty wares out there today, which include Sex Toys, lotions, potions and lingerie – whilst you sip on cocktails and drinks with your girlfriends.
Demo’s from various professionals – lap dance instructors, belly dancers, pole dancing and more – find out more about these things, where to get lessons or have a Naughty party of your own with the gals at home.

For more information or to make a booking (preferable) please contact Tarryn:
Cell: 082 572 2463
Email: tarryn@distraction.co.za

-Distraction -
Parties for Naughty ladies

posted in Dancing Bellies - 3 replies

Get Well Soon Alexis

2007-03-16T11:33:32Z

Alexis has chickenpox!!!!!!

We all hope you get well soon and have a good rest.

love
T

(Genevieve and I will be teaching Alexis's classes this week)

posted in Dancing Bellies - 2 replies

Amy, Astrid, Charne, Claire....

2007-03-13T13:54:34Z

why are you ladies so quiet... Tell us something about yourselves

Lets start with your favourite color and describe the costume of your dreams...

dying to hear from you

T

posted in Dancing Bellies - 9 replies

Lorna, Siobhan, Ursula... and all the rest

2007-03-11T08:08:56Z

Silence is golden I know, but lets have some discussion from you ladies...
Please post topics you'd like to discuss...

you could start by answering the question in the previous post...

with love
T

posted in Dancing Bellies - 3 replies

life of a wannabee belly dancer

2007-03-09T13:33:18Z

awake with the rising sun, give thanks to the feminine divine for another day
spend time in the garden, nurturing all that lives in it and breath the fresh air, listen to the sounds around me
bath in milk and rose water with rose petals drifting across the surface
nourish my skin with natural oils and wrap up in a silk kimono

have breakfast of fruit and yoghurt
read a book for an hour or so, hopefully doze off for a bit
freshen up, practice choreography/stitch outfits/source inspirational music
teach a class
spend some time with students, chatting, etc - maybe over some coffee

have a light lunch
run errands: source inspirational venues for performances, put up posters of upcoming shows, fine tune things needed for evening performances

teach a class
transform into a performing goddess
inspire everyone with my performance (just like Tenille does)
return home

hot milk & chocolate
sleep

weekends
lay naked in the sun.......................

posted in Dancing Bellies - 1 reply

GOOD LUCK T

2007-03-07T11:38:29Z

Just wanted to wish you all the best for Monday. All of us might not be able to be there with you physically but will be there in spirit. I have faith that all will go well.

posted in Dancing Bellies - 3 replies

Cape Women's Show! Thank you

2007-02-05T19:36:12Z

Thank you to all the girls who danced at the show this weekend! It was a really lovely experience and as usual, I am very proud of my
Feminine Divine representatives! Thank you all for being so willing to perform and rehearse!
And thanks to all the ladies who came to support us, it was great seeing your smiling faces in the crowd.

posted in Dancing Bellies - 5 replies

which moves do you practice during the week?

2007-01-01T13:15:42Z

since the tribe has suddenly gone deathly silent, let's chat about which moves you go home and practise... do you make time to practise? do you shimmy behind your shopping trolley?

lets hear your stories...

posted in Dancing Bellies - 5 replies

Studio rules and regulations explained

2006-12-10T17:30:42Z

Studio rules and regulations explained

Most of the rules that govern the studio are fairly obvious, but I would like to explain them here, incase there is anyone who is unsure about what they mean and why they are in place.

If you disagree with any of the rules and regulations, please speak to me directly.

TUITION FEES:

A lot of people assume that because we are doing something that we love and are passionate about, that it’s not a ‘real’ job. It is important that students realize that although they may be dancing for fun, we are teaching to earn a living and that we rely on the fees they pay to pay our salaries. At The Feminine Divine, I believe you are getting much more than your fee’s worth: Weekly newsletters that take time and energy to prepare, extra studio activities where you are able to get to know fellow dancers and see your teachers performing, teachers who are not only skilled, but who are passionate and caring… to name but a few.

Tuition fees are payable in cash or by eft at the beginning (in the first week) of every month.

As I’ve said before, the assistant teachers and I rely on you to pay our salaries. We also have bills to pay and can’t afford to wait until the middle of the month to get paid. Imagine if your boss decided to pay you whenever they felt like it or whenever they remembered…

No remission or reduction of fees will be accepted for non-attendance, irrespective as to whether absenteeism is due to illness, vacation or religious festival.

Class numbers are limited. This means that if you don’t attend class, we lose a part of our income. We are there to teach, whether you attend class or not and so it is only fair to pay your fees in full.

Missed classes may be made up by attending extra classes at the studio within the same month.

To be fair

A Notice Period of one month is required - Class fees are fully payable during the notice period.

This enables me to offer your space in the class to someone else and gives us time to fill your spot without losing income, which is what happens if you just stop attending classes.

STATUS OF DANCER:

All enrolled pupils have amateur status. This means that, except for remuneration paid via the principal of the dance studio, no pupil may receive direct monetary remuneration for performing in public.

This is an important one to understand…

Firstly, belly dance is already regarded with less esteem than it deserves, and when students who are not ready to perform professionally go out and dance for paying clients, it does more damage than good. Apart from the standard of performances being an issue, it is also important to note that students who go out and perform for free, or for very low fees, are ‘stealing’ business from the professional dancers in the area. Most people would rather pay R100 than R600, and they don’t know the difference between a really amazing dancer, and someone who wears a pretty costume and shakes her body up and down the isles.

If you are considering performing, come and discuss it with your teacher who will give you her honest opinion regarding your abilities. It is only fair to be courteous and respectful of your teacher and her profession.

Pupils may not perform in any show without the prior knowledge/permission of the principal.

Often pupils assume that they are free to go out and perform dances they learn in class at events, parties etc. Please note that the music supplied by your teacher, and the choreography taught in class belongs to the studio, and may not be used without your teachers permission. It is only fair to give credit to your teacher if you use her choreography and music.

Pupils who participate in the annual studio show will not be paid for their participation, but will receive a gift from the studio.

The studio show is an opportunity for you to get on stage, without the pressure of a professional performance. The audience is made up of friends and family who are supportive and appreciative of the time and energy you have put into your performance.
The studio show should be viewed as an opportunity to be enjoyed. Money raised from the show is reinvested into the studio, mirrors, soundsystems, teacher training and workshops etc… A Portion of the funds raised are also donated to charity.

Pupils who are repeatedly absent will not be taken into account for outside performances.

There is nothing more frustrating than trying to prepare for a performance when students are absent from class. It is important to have all performers present in order to make it work.

Any student who wishes to begin teaching belly dance classes will have to leave the studio as soon as they begin teaching in their own capacity.

This rule is best explained by an example.

I had a student who decided to open her own dance studio after attending classes with me for only 4 months. She wanted to continue attending classes with me, while teaching in her own right. I felt that this would not work, as I didn’t feel she was sufficiently experienced or qualified to teach, and my feeling was that she would be attending my classes only to take what she had learnt that week, and present it as her own in the classes she taught.

I believe that if you wish to go out there and teach, you must be sufficiently prepared and experienced, so that you no longer need to rely on the classes you attend, to give you material to work with.

What I am trying to get across with this explanation, is that many people look at what we do, and think, ‘I could do that! It’s easy, and look how much fun…’
But teaching requires not only that one be a beautiful performer, but that one has an understanding of the body and how it works. An ability to communicate your knowledge and be compassionate and passionate… It requires dedication and hard work and it is not something to be taken lightly. If your teacher gives you something that you value, you owe it to her to show her a degree of respect that excludes using her in the way I mention above.

I hope that this clarifies the reasoning behind the above mentioned rules and regulations. If you have any questions, please don't be afraid to ask.

If anyone has any comments(whether you agree or disagree), you are welcome to post them here and I will respond to them as soon as I can.

thanks for taking the time to read this.

Tenille

posted in Dancing Bellies - 0 replies

Desert Roses Show @ Finkel & Koljander

2006-12-06T12:16:53Z

Wow, what an amazing evening... We had such fun backstage, sipping wine, touching up make up, peeping through the curtains to get a glimpse of the other dancers.
The venue is beautiful, the stage looked amazing, with beautiful colors framing our performances. Thank you to Jay who co-ordinated the show and brought us all together. The feedback I've had from the show has been very positive.

Try not to miss the next show, Mystical Enchantment, on 13 and 19 December.... and check out the pics in the gallery...

posted in Dancing Bellies - 0 replies

Justine

2006-12-05T09:44:26Z

Hello there little goddess
now that you're on tribe, please share your belly dance story with us... when did you start dancing and why....

posted in Dancing Bellies - 1 reply

This years highs and lows....

2006-12-01T13:24:05Z

What was your belly dance highlight this year?

For me, it was definately the opening of my new studio. It is the biggest, most valuable thing that I own, and it brings me such joy (and pride) to be teaching from there. Sometimes I just wander around in the studio feeling happy!

My low was having the neighbor complain and make life difficult....

then there was the show.... Yipee!!! it was amazing.
it's been an increadible year!

thank you all for sharing it with me.

posted in Dancing Bellies - 2 replies

Spirit of the bear belly camp over

2006-11-01T11:31:34Z

Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th October 2006

Feminine Divine Belly dance performance at 11:30am on Sunday morning
Feminine Divine Beginners belly dance workshop at 1pm on Sunday - R30 per person

My idea is for a group of us to go out there on Saturday afternoon and just chill out, maybe catch a workshop or two. Then to set up camp and get a big bonfire going, where I will teach a complimentart sword workshop for those who come along. I'm also hoping that Ursula's man, Carl will come along to tell us some wild woman stories around the camp fire.
In the morning we can get up and get dressed and made up together and do our performance at 11:30.

The more of us that attend, the more fun it will be....

you are welcome to bring your man along, to do the dirty work if you wish....

Let me know who's keen

posted in Dancing Bellies - 3 replies

Oriental Festival performance

2006-10-22T21:14:04Z

Thank you to everyone who performed at the Oriental Festival this weekend! It was lovely spending time with all of you in a different environment. I am so proud to call you members of the Feminine Divine family. Your good manners and friendly attitudes stood out amoungst the dancers at the festival and I am very proud of all of you.

Also to those who attended the after party and enjoyed a few snacks and some 'normal' dancing at Asoka - it was great to get to know you all a little bit better!

with lots and lots of love
T

posted in Dancing Bellies - 0 replies

What do people say when you tell them that you are a bellydancer?

2006-10-17T19:15:04Z

share your stories....

posted in Dancing Bellies - 10 replies

Which is your favourite move?

2006-10-12T11:59:00Z

which move do you like most?
And which do you find most difficult?

posted in Dancing Bellies - 12 replies

Belly dancers needed for portraits

2006-10-09T14:26:02Z

I'm thinking of putting together a coffee table book with the beautiful essays I've received from my girls, and beautiful black and white (and color) images of the belly dancers in the studio.

I would ask each dancer to pay for the film and processing, which would come to about R200, then they could keep the photo's and I'd have the rights to use them for the book.

Who's first?
Pictures will be taken in my studio, and maybe some outdoors. Some in full costume and others in everyday wear...

Exciting....

posted in Dancing Bellies - 7 replies

my belly debut

2006-10-09T11:58:20Z

the tribe is a safe space right, so hear I go jumping off that platform with the faith that someone/someones will catch me...................

a saturday like most other saturdays, waking up, cleaning house, looking for anything that can be incorporated into my belly dance class. I come across some of my mom's sari blouses and next thing I know I'm trying them on. A beautiful tourqoise one fits almost just right. It's a bit too lose and the sleeves have hideous gathers at the shoulders. My sister gives her approval and since I am running late there is not much time to analyse the situation.

A quick iron as it is rather creased, some borrowed jewellery from my sister and of course a big t-shirt to hide it all as I get in and out of the car.

I arrive at class and without too much thought I remove my t-shirt to reveal my less than perfect belly. I felt a bit awkward for the first 10 minutes or so but soon it was okay and I was even able to look at myself in the mirror.

In a community where women are encouraged to cover their bodies and in a society where perfection is deemed to be a flat belly, it is nice to know I have a space where I can be who am, imperfections and all

To the rest of the women who shares this safe space, go ahead and make your belly debuts, if nothing else, it will improve your dancing as there is no place to hide incorrect posture or badly executed moves.

posted in Dancing Bellies - 4 replies

Alexis

2006-10-06T09:47:10Z

Hello there... that got your attention...
still waiting for your posts...

We'd all like to know what got you belly dancing. tell us your story...

posted in Dancing Bellies - 6 replies

Stage Make up workshop

2006-10-06T09:27:45Z

Would anyone be interested in doing a stage make up workshop?

So many of you got into a panic about your make up for the show...
I'd love to host a workshop one saturday evening, and then maybe all go out and do a fun performance somewhere....

Let me know who's interested

posted in Dancing Bellies - 4 replies

INTERNATIONAL ORIENTAL DANCE FESTIVAL

2006-10-05T06:55:35Z

Wow this lis going to be an amazing show performers include top South African belly dancers with guest stars from Germany, including Amun Colleen, Inta Omri, Jazira Malu and Nizrin. What is even more exciting news is that all proceeds will go to the Saartjie Baartman Women and Children's House that is just absolutely amazing.

posted in Dancing Bellies - 3 replies

Where did it all begin for you!

2006-10-04T19:19:38Z

Tenille, hope you are well and enjoying this beautiful day. Ive been meaning to ask you, where did it all begin for you. When was it that you knew that you want to become a Bellydancer.....Who taught you your very first lesson.

posted in Dancing Bellies - 4 replies

Cant believe its over

2006-10-03T18:05:18Z

I cant believe the show is over..... I miss the buzzzzzzzz and the nervs and excitement. Im glad you remembered the once a month costume class. I think its a brilliant idea. I know im pussing it a bit but maybe we should include some candles too (refering to the Bergvliet studio). Attending classes at both Bergvliet and Tokai there is a distinct difference as to the vibe and atmosphere but the Tokai studio has a specific calmnes and such a soft and beautiful feel to it that it makes you feel more relaxed and at ease... i know i tprobably sounds a bit corny but its only my opinion ......... it feels so cold and empty in Bergvliet and i remember what a stunning evening we had with the time of the Blackouts that we had to dance using candles. It just creates such a vibe maybe we can include it in our monthly dress up class.

posted in Dancing Bellies - 1 reply

Morning

2006-10-03T15:18:55Z

Hope you are well. We must really try and promote this site. It is such a brilliant way of communicating. So have you seen the dvd yet. I was so excited to watch the video recording my husband made and your solo was absolutely breathtaking. Watching you dance is like watching a masterpiece being created infront of your eyes, every stroke every movement is so gracious and smooth..... perfect. Wow you are an absolutely amazing performer.

posted in Dancing Bellies - 4 replies

A speach that wasn't read at the show but I woul like to share with you all...

2006-10-03T13:44:59Z

This is a letter I received from Koryn, my mom’s best friend from school. She has known me forever and I hope you enjoy what she has to say.

Dearest Tenille
Congratulations on an amazing show! You deserve your success wholeheartedly and hard work, effort, innovation, style and having goals will most certainly take you wherever your heart desires that you go. Follow your dreams!

The ‘short speech’ I was going to make at the show, but felt that the timing was inappropriate goes like this. Perhaps you would like to share it with your 100 dancers before their classes and also the other 100 who didn’t opt to dance in the show.

Tenille is an accomplished dance teacher who excels at all she does. At a very young age, she has established her own business, the Feminine Divine Dance Studio and virtually introduced a brand new discipline of dance to Cape Town in a very real way. About 6 years ago, Tenille bravely left the quiet town of Sedgefield as a shy 18 year old, to share her amazing dreams and talents with the rest of the world, and she came to live in Cape Town. The Feminine Divine was started about 2 years later once she had settled and her career, more importantly, her purpose in life took off into a whole new world of women, women and their femininity, grace, poise, balance, tone, confidence, enthusiasm in celebrating their creativity and their own curves, exploring the unknown and seemingly ‘unforbidden’ territory, allowing and teaching women and girls of all ages, shapes and sizes to find the beauty within themselves for themselves and to share all this with their families and friends.

Because Tenille is such an open, honest and loving person, she has inspired those around her to push the boundaries as she has done, inspiring them to reach the heights they thought unattainable. Tenille is also very energetic and driven in herself and will stop at nothing until the job is done, relentlessly producing the required results. As you see her now, a very successful belly dance teacher with 3 studios in Cape Town, trips overseas to develop her knowledge of the art and ability further, public appearances on TV and all the press cuttings in local newspapers, is not the way it always was. Nobody just handed her a business which was running smoothly and a successful operation. She has done it all herself, treading unchartered waters in an almost foreign land.

When Tenille was a little girl, she was always helpful, enthusiastic, responsible and willing from day one. She readily looked after all the other babies and toddlers in her midst, assuming an almost ‘mother’ role from the age of about 2! And she was always polite and respectful of others, caring, sharing and obedient and kind. She was also patient and understanding.

After leaving Hout Bay where she lived as a child, and moving with her family to live in the garden route, Tenille responded well to the environment of a small town where she quickly adapted to a fairly Afrikaans community. Initially life was a bit of a struggle for the Lindeque’s and Tenille grew up very fast indeed. Without Granny and Oupa Viljoen around (who lived in Cape Town) Mama Verity was able to ‘crack the whip’ as much as she pleased and Tenille was made to do the washing for the family, cook the food and look after her little sister Tamsyn as well on a regular basis. Every time I sojourned t o Sedgefield on holiday and stayed with the family, I’d look for Tenille and she was always busy, not playing like other kids of her age (about 10), but busy doing housework, hanging washing or something else. Yes, Tenille grew up very fast indeed. Her mother was strict and tough to refuse! But besides teaching her eldest daughter to run a home, Verity also taught her eldest daughter how to live, to touch the hearts of people, to listen to their cares and woes, and also to have fun, enjoy nature, seize every moment to live life to the full and to bring atmosphere and ambience into everything she does and every place she is, to find happiness and to reach for the stars.
To this day Tenille has every respect and admiration for her mother and loves her dearly. They are best friends and have a very unique and special relationship where they are still both just girls at heart, sharing secrets and keeping confidences, doing crazy things together and supporting on another in an unbelievable way.

In Sedgefield Tenille did well in school and fast became on of the best in her schoolwork and sport. She learnt to enjoy the simple things in life like making up her own games to play instead of going to the movies, and of course always everything involved dancing! When she was 11 years old her youngest sister, Tiffany was born. By then she and Tamsyn were at times the best of friends and at other times at loggerheads! Both girls were taught how to look after the new baby and so Tenille was changing nappies, feeding baby and so on, the list is endless.

I distinctly remember Tenille wanting to go out one day and having to stay behind to ‘quickly’ sew an outfit for Tiffany to wear for a fancy dress party before she could go. Tenille was about 15 then and as a teenager I felt she was amazing. She dutifully and loving sewed a beautiful garment in no time at all. She is a very selfless creature who simply gets on with her life and does what she has to do without moaning or complaining.

I just wanted to give you an idea of how Tenille really is and where she’s come from to make her the person she is today. I am so proud of her for giving so much happiness and joy to so many, for her amazing talent in belly dancing and her breaking new ground in Cape Town with her career. Belly dancing has grown here and taken off like a rocket with her efforts and she deserves all her success and the loyalty of her dancers. She will never cease to inspire, create, imagine and do the impossible and I wish her well for the future in compiling her books and videos and documenting all the belly dance techniques in the world. Yes, Tenille had a dream and her dream has been realized and now it is time for her to dream on again and go global!

Lots of luck Tenille in everything you do, keep on dreaming and following your heart. The world will be better for it.

Much love
Koryn Stone

posted in Dancing Bellies - 1 reply

A brilliant Show

2006-10-03T10:25:42Z

Wow!!! The show was absolutely stunning.....

Thank you Tenille this was an amazing experience and a night i wont forget. You truly outdone yourself and im sure none of us can even begin to imagine what you went through but believe me we could all see it on Saturday night when it all came together so beautifully, smoothly and professionally. Not to mention the attention to detail.

Thank you Tenille for everything you have done for us. You are truly an inspiration to all of us.

posted in Dancing Bellies - 1 reply

Studio Show - How are you feeling?

2006-10-02T09:17:34Z

To everyone who will be performing in the show on 30th September...
How are you feeling about the show?

Nervous?
Excited?

I'd love to hear your thoughts!!!

posted in Dancing Bellies - 8 replies

Costumes

2006-09-22T12:06:32Z

I need some advise on where to get costumes from. I would like to get full costumes or even those beautiful bra and belt sets. Ive been surfing the net and found beautiful pics and ideas but am so useless at sewing and not the most creative person. Please can you help : (

posted in Dancing Bellies - 4 replies

Invitation!!! Studio 2 Opening Celebration

2006-09-20T21:44:13Z

You are invited to the 3rd Anniversary of The Feminine Divine Oriental Dance Studio and the opening of the much awaited Studio 2!!!

Saturday 16th September 2006 @ 7pm.

2 Gild Lane Tokai

Please bring a beautiful candle as a blessing for the studio.

There will be performances by Justine, Alexis, Ava and Tenille, as well as fire dancing by Jon and Tamara!

Please RSVP by the 9th September!

posted in Dancing Bellies - 1 reply

Belly dance costumes

2006-08-27T15:22:31Z

Do you prefer to make your own costume or buy one?

What do you think of the lates fashion, lycra skirts that cling to the body??

Describe your ideal costume....

posted in Dancing Bellies - 4 replies

Why Bellydance?

2006-02-24T09:27:37Z

Please tell us why you dance? I am collecting stories...

posted in Dancing Bellies - 5 replies

Current inspiration

2006-02-10T18:40:07Z

Who is presently inspiring you?

I have just discovered Rachel Brice (where have I been I know) and I am feeling so inspired and motivated. I am in absolute awe of every movement of her body... So exciting to know that there's still so much to learn and experience!

www.theindigo.com

posted in Dancing Bellies - 3 replies

Belly Dancing - Sensuality or sexuality

2006-02-02T08:37:25Z

The age old debate. How do you feel about it?
I'd love to hear your thoughts.

posted in Dancing Bellies - 8 replies

Belly dance Links

2006-01-27T20:26:37Z

Please post links to sites related to belly dance here.

www.femininedivine.net - my studio website

http://blogspace.mweb.co.za/default.aspx?alias=lila&init - my studio/personal blog

posted in Dancing Bellies - 1 reply

beautiful main photo!

2006-01-26T08:52:32Z

posted in Dancing Bellies - 1 reply