SFmecca~immersion's topics - tribe.net

What parts are you FUSING?

2008-10-01T22:34:17Z

I"m curious right now about the fusion elements of tribal fusion bellydance. What makes it fusion? How far can we stray from the true tribal foundation of movements, and still--in our heart of hearts-- call is "bellydance"? And what makes it TRIBAL?? simply the costume we wear? The music we use? Or the rich foundation and study and evolution that comes out of the dance movements and foundational techniques?

If we have a solid movement vocab. in Tribal and Tribal Fusion bellydance, but wear a clownsuit on stage, is that Tribal Fusion?
vs.
what if we have little to none technical tribal movement vocab, but don a rocking 'tribal' outfit on stage... does that, in and of itself, make a 'legitimate' tribal fusion bellydancer?

Thoughts, anyone?
And where is your creative process going? What is inspiring you lately?
I'm finding, this fall, i moving towards a softer aesthetic... dare i say 'dainty!?" (see photo posted)

And you?

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 0 replies

how are your pieces comming?

2008-09-15T18:49:51Z

i'd love to hear updates on your pieces in progress!!!

share, share, share...

i'm working on a performance piece with a theme of "Desire"- i've got a great song picked out, now for the costuming and choreo...

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 11 replies

Movin to MySpace

2008-09-11T21:17:02Z

hi ya'll..
With tribe being so finicky lately, and the concern that it may be no longer,
i strongly encourage you all to also join the SF mecca immersion my space page as a friend.

I will be posting future updates there as well--for SF Mecca '09, etc.

happy dancing!
deb

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 2 replies

piece development

2008-09-01T17:33:56Z

ok ladies-

here are some of MY thoughts on developing a cohesive presentation-(consider this a guide, as part of a ciriculum developed by me, you may share it but please do credit me, thank you dahlings)- this in not presented as the end all, be all but just a system to help you formulate your vision and take your presentation to the next level...

here's the email you all got

i look forward to working with you and helping you find and define your voice in this exciting time of evolving contemporary belly dance.

I'll be leading you through a "lab" section where you wil be delving in to your personal process to create cohesion and intention in your dance presentation.

This segment will focus on YOUR creative inspiration and how to utilize those sources and turn them in to tangible elements of your dance.

This "lab" portion of the intensive will run in two segments on consecutive days with the intention that you will have time to sit with the material from section 1 and come to section 2 with new and developed ideas and concepts for your self.

Please come to the intensive with a "source book" for your self.

this can be similar to a journal but should focus on the things that inspire you, MAKE IT PERSONAL, find what resonates for you-

IMAGES-of costuming, makeup, haute couture, hair, paintings, jewelry, color palettes, etc...

MUSIC- that one piece that you just "HAVE TO" choreograph to

VIDEO CLIPS- DVD format please- of dance/movement

ACTUAL COSTUMING PIECES-

these are just suggestions to get you started but please bring anything that is personally relevant to your inspiration process and we'll talk about how to work from a place of cohesion and intention to ultimately create a style distinctly your own.

i wanted to get you all working with the concept that all your choices are intentional, your music, your costuming, your choreography and that all those choices are influential to the resulting presentation...
in other words- you're not just putting on a skirt and boots cause it's all the rage and then using a piece of music that doesn't relate-
you are honoring each element you choose to work with and highlight in a way that makes sense.

you have four important elements to consider in your presentation

* Emotional content or intention- that can be happy and light but even that is an intention
* Music- does your music reflect the above? music can also determine all the other elements
* Choreography- does your choreography relate to the music and emotional content, are you using your movements with the costuming?
* Asthetics/costuming- your costuming should reflect a consideration of all the other elements, it should highlight the movement vocabulary
you have chosen to work with. It should be a compliment to your intention

here are the excercises i led you through-
taking your "inspiration item" write down the first 5 words that come to your mind
give your item to someone else and have them do the same

once you begin to craft your piece-
2-4 words about each of the 4 elements,

for considering fusing 2 distinct elements-
start with a list- 2 columns, one for each element
list the things that resonate for you the most, simplify
try to find the things from your lists that compliment each other or will work seamlessly together

get and give feedback to your troupe/dance community, it's always great to get another view

i'd love to hear how all this going!

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 4 replies

Sharon Kihara & Deb Rubin HAWAII retreat registration now open

2008-08-29T21:15:59Z

Hawaii Retreat info and registration is now available!
To register, please visit: www.sharondebhawaiiretreat.eventbrite.com

Here is a condensed version of the info:
(we hope you can join us!)

5 day Yoga/Tribal Fusion Bellydance Rejuvenation Retreat
with Sharon Kihara and Deb Rubin
@ Ramashala retreat center on the Big Island, Hawaii
Dec. 12-16th, 2008. (fri a.m –Tues. pm)
www.ramashala.com

Come join us! Where lava meets ocean, fire meets water, jungle meets beach front, and the regenerative forces of Pele can’t help but inspire the creative juices to flow, and tension to melt away from your tired bones. Awaken your senses to the natural, raw paradise of Hawaii, as we immerse ourselves in 5 magical days of tribal fusion bellydance, yoga, organic healthy living, creative expression, and community. It’s a yoga retreat mixed with a tribal bellydance intensive— all done Aloha-style.

“If you have never been to the big I, Hawaii, you are in for a real treat. Tribal. Earthy. Powerful. Paradise. Fire-y. Gorgeous. Dolphin swims and jungle jaunts. Plumeria flowers whose fragrance will wow you. Eating lilquoi fruit right off the vine...
A perfect place to both immerse in tribal bellydance and rejuvenate with yoga/massage/rest/organic living/relaxation induced by being on the islands... Ramashala is a sweet ‘lil retreat center just across the street from the famous black sands beach, which is quite the tribal scene on Sundays..
I've spent a lot of time on the Big I, and am really excited to bring you all a rich experience of both hard-core dance technique, and fun relaxing island living!
Sharon and i have a lot of new 'never been done before' things up our sleeves for this retreat. come join us! (small group 20. )” –deb

Only 20 Spots Available!
Early bird discounts: $1395**** until 9/11/08
After that: $1495***

Retreat Package Includes:
* 5 days of retreat schedule (Friday 10a.m through Tuesday 6pm)
* 6 nights of lodging @ Ramashala retreat center. (Thursday night Dec. 11th, through Wedn. Morning Dec. 17th).
*23-27 hours of study
*organic, locally grown, vegetarian cuisine, 3 meals a day.
*Intimate group setting for maximum learning. Individualized attention, and supportive, nurturing learning environment.
*Daily core-integrated yoga practice that relates specifically to Bellydance
*Workshops on Therapeutics/Self-care for Dancers (with some partner yoga/thai massage techniques thrown in)
*Working labs and small group process focusing on creative process, advanced concepts such as musicality and creating choreography, and developing your own unique style
*Shared, co-creative community experience.
*And, of course, lots and lots of Bellydancing! Technique, combos, drills, and choreography.

Plus:
*Plenty of free time to relax and enjoy the island of Hawaii
*Sunday morning off to go to the farmers market, Ecstatic Dance, or the famous tribal drum circle at Black Sand Beach.
*Additional massage therapy and wellness coaching available at Ramashala Retreat Center. www.ramashala.com
*Additional island tours and outings available through Ramashala.

A rare opportunity for small group intensive study with Sharon and Deb. Group limited to 20 participants.

Aloha!
Deb & Sharon

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 2 replies

Pix of Deb and other Mecca Talent from Kosmos Camp 2008 Posted

2008-08-20T20:19:13Z

Nearly 300 pix of the 2008 Kosmos Music and Dance camp have been posted at http://taboomedia.smugmug.com/gallery/5751627_RtPHJ

This annual 4-day camp in Northern California features dance talent such as Zoe Jakes, Aubre, Mira Betz, Liz Strong, Vicki Virk, Cera Byer with Damage Control Dance Company and experts in Cuban, African, Greek, Flamenco and Hip Hop from around the world. Musical talent include Faisal Zedan, Dan Cantrell, Rumen Shopov, Fattah Abbou, and authentic Latin, African, Greek, Samba, and Flamenco greats as well. New talents are added every year and past teachers have included Jill Parker, Amy Sigil, Heather Stants, Kajira Djoumahna, among others. Deb Rubin (of Ultra Gypsy and the recent SF Mecca Immersion) teaches a morning yoga session under towering redwoods.

To learn more about the camp, visit http://www.kosmoscamp.com/

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 2 replies

SF Mecca--the Afterthoughts...

2008-08-19T18:48:25Z

sigh....

Well?
What to say to all of you? Not even a week after Mecca ended. I suppose Life is returning to 'normal"--whatever that means.
Tribe has gone back to her usual finicky nature, and my sleep is finally starting to return.
I am still buzzing from the whole experience, and have to keep pinching myself to remind myself that Yes, that actually happened.

i kind of forgot that you all don't actually live here! And we can't do that every single weekend. :)

A huge heartfelt thanks to all of you for coming out to SF Mecca, and making it all happen. It was so fun to have you all here!
I am humbled and grateful for all of your responses, enthusiasm, excitement, and feedback. I love hearing of your immersion experiences, and your post-immersion decompression and thoughts. keep em coming!

If you have photos, pls. post here on tribe, and/or send to me at deb@sfmeccaimmersion.com
For those of you that have not yet filled out eval forms, we would love your imput! I will email the form out to the entire email list. Pls. take a moment to fill out the eval, write a testamonial, and email it back to me at: deb@sfmeccaimmersion. Your experience is what is most important to me/us. So i'd love to know what pieces spoke most to you, and what areas you'd like to see more of/less of, etc.

I am honored that such an incredible group of women came together for this event. As i have said before, tribal fusion bellydance draws together an amazing caliber of woman, and artist, and SF Mecca was no exception. If anything, perhaps we took it up a notch. You ladies are spectacular! i was so inspired by your passion for dancing, your commitment to this art form and your own process and growth, your desire to learn and take your dancing to the next level, your maturity level, your community spirit, your dedication, your positive attitude, your ability for self-care, and your overall respect for eachother, the dance space, the teachers, and the flow of the event. I feel as though we have forged a new kind of community around the dance, and i do hope that we can all stay in touch and stay connected. It was very special for me to see all of those aspects emerging thoughout the week. Outside of simply learning high caliber technique, the underlying intention of SF Mecca Immersion, was to create a positive, supportive learning environment to explore many facets of ourselves and our dancing, and create community and support around what we love to do. It was a joy to see those aspects coming through in how you all related to each other and to the dance, and in your comments to me of what was standing out as highlights for you in the week.

For those of you in the 5 day track, who spent the last 2 days of mecca in smaller groups, giving and receiving feedback on your creative process, i invite you to keep that dialogue going here on tribe. Use this tribe. Use this community. If you're stuck on an idea, or want feedback on a costuming process, or a new song concept, or whatever, Feel free to post to this tribe, and ask our assistance. I would love to see those community aspects of the week continue here through the internet.

Big huge thanks again to all the helpers who made the week run smoothly. And all the help I had for the Sat. night show. (see Holly's 'let's play favorites' thread for more details on that.) There is no possible way in hell the week could have run as smoothly as it did, without these amazing and reliable women! And big thanks to all the fabulous teachers, the musicians, the venders, and yes, the store owners who gave discounts to mecca participants. This clearly was a community effort, and I'm pleased and honored by everyone's involvement and what they brought to the event. Also, big thanks to Rose for all she did for the Sunday decompression night at Amnesia! And to Frederique, Danny and Friends, AmySigil and Unmata, and Sol and the Amnesia crew for making that night happen.
I think a highlight for me was seeing Mardi get up in her jeans and sweatshirt on stage. She was just as lovely and captivating sans costume, and that moment was so inspiring to witness, and quite generous of her. Thanks Mizz Mardi!.

And, i just have to give a big thanks to our beloved lil town of San Francisco. i feel like she was a prominent figure in the creation of SF Mecca, and i hope ya'll had a good time soaking her in and playing here on our home turf.

So, to answer the $25,0000 question: YES! i do believe we will be doing this again. The ideas are brewing........ and more to come on that.
Please help us spread the word. And we hope to see ya'll again real soon.

much love, Deep deep gratitude,
and keep on shimmy-ing!
deb

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 2 replies

Let's play favorites!

2008-08-18T22:44:48Z

Ok, spill--who were your favorite performers from the show? Anything you saw that you weren't expecting? Anything you wanted to see but didn't? What was your favorite part of the night?

Here, I'll go first...

I have to say that I've seen all of these performers many times, and was once again so impressed with the general quality of most of the performances. All of the live playing was so awesome; Danny and his band are always a delight; Beats Antique keeps making sure the crowd is hoppin' (and it was so great to have Tommy on live drums!) and Brass Menageri...well damn I just don't think you could close a show with a more fun crew than that!

Linda from Lucent Dossier was fabulous...I wasn't sure how one person from that crew would work, but she was such a great performer and her characters were so much fun to watch. Makes me definitely want to see their whole act if one person could create such a great atmosphere all alone!

But the standout for me was Zoe's solo work during the Beats Antique set...I am inspired by her continued growth, especially when she could easily sit on her laurels if she felt like it. But no...I see her pushing herself into new things, new looks, new moves, etc. with nearly every performance I see. Kudos girl!

And I don't know how many people got to check out all of the vending, but it was all top notch...beautiful handmade work!

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 11 replies

shark beats ass....

2008-08-18T19:26:14Z

mecca decompression happy hour rocked

FREDERIQUE- (who i forgot to mention at the end of the evening, SORRY !!!!!) was lovely, the girls of UNMATA- f*%#in' fierce, and DAN CANTRELL and crew, thank you all for a fabulously san francisco happy hour!

and the laura/raven mc battle- hi-larious.... thanks for playing along!

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 8 replies

Wow.

2008-08-18T19:21:57Z

Deb,

I want you to know how special the Immersion was for me. The way the experience built on itself, how it flowed--was so meaningful. I can tell how much thought, time and love you put into it. Truly amazing.

Hope to see you again soon. My friend Vila and I would love to go to the Big Island in December...we're dreaming of that!

love,
jessica

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 1 reply

post Mecca decompression

2008-08-18T19:14:17Z

it was so great to meet and shimmy with all of you the past 5 days. Big thanks to deb and all the instructors for such a well-thought and detailed program. Let's definitely all keep in touch... I can't wait to see where all these new tools and tricks take everybody!

How on earth am I going to spend all day at a desk tomorrow ?!

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 7 replies

One quick question, I hope =D

2008-08-12T03:08:11Z

Last night was... all I can say is WOW! We had a total blast, the performances and music were fantastic.

Question:
Before the entertainment began, there was music playing. It had a sort of vaudville feel to it. Does anyone know the name of the artist??? My husband asked one of the guys there and he was kind enough to write down a list. My husband was excited with the venture of getting new music to our library, until we got home; the list contained the names of the performers and cd or live music. I don't think he understood, sigh.

Can anyone help? =D

Thanks

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 4 replies

Another amazing sale event on Sunday!

2008-08-08T22:46:04Z

Wow...all you out-of-towners are luuuuucky to be here this weekend...not only is the fabulous Five and Diamond having a special event from 5-9 on Sunday, there is THIS event, not too far away from there at all...

******************************************************
Please join us for a very unique sale coming up this Sunday August 10th @ Mighty! San Francisco's finest independent designers are gathering together to bring you the freshest design for both on and off the Playa. Special bike decoration station provided along with beats both inside and outside!

Beyond the Fence

August 10th, Sunday
2:00 - 8:00 pm
Mighty - 119 Utah, SF
FREE Admission

Featuring:
Bad Unkl Sista - badunklsista.com
Bunnywarez - bunnywarez.com
Chacabraka - chacabraka.com
Domini - clothingarchitect.com
E-Star Hats - estar.etsy.com
Ethereal Elemental
Fati Beloved - myspace.com/fati_ma
Fluidance Jewelry - fluidance.com
Gibbous Fashions - www.gibbousfashions.com
Invisible Hero Industries - myspace.com/invisibleheroindustries
Lucidawn - lucidawn.com
Medium Reality - mediumreality.com
Miranda Caroligne - mirandacaroligne.com
Miss Velvet Creme - missvelvetcream.com
Moda Sandrita - modasandrita.etsy.com
Pallas Ravae - pallasravae.com
Rocknsocks
S & G Clothing Company - sandgclothing.com
Silver Lucy Design - silverlucydesign.com
Siya Clothing - myspace.com/siyaclothing
Swirlspace Hemp Wear - swirlspace.com
Tamo Design - tamodesign.com
Vagadu - experiencevagadu.com
Many more tba....

Also featuring sultry grooves indoors to pique your creative instincts and bumpity-bumpin' beats outside to satisfy your urge to get down.. Delivered fresh by Shameless djs Robb Green, Recess, and Menami ;F'kir, Ernie Trevino, Influence, P-Dub, and more tba

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 0 replies

let's meet eachother!

2008-08-08T03:48:20Z

hi ladies..

well, I just returned from an incredible week of teaching yoga, Thai massage, and dance at a dance camp in the eastern sierra nevada mountains. Blissed out and inspired, i turned on my computer today for the first time in a week, to the smiling fact that:
yes! our numbers are growing, and SF MECCA immersion is shaping up to be quite an international event!
With dancers coming from the netherlands, spain, mexico, and all over the US.

I feel like we are truly creating a global community of passionate incredible women, who, despite our potential differences and unique skills and personalities, are all drawn together purely because of the love of this dance form, and all things associated with it.
In that way, it is, indeed, a tribe, and feels like the essence of tribal bellydance is all about. So for that, i am grateful.

In that spirit, i want to put it out there an invitation to use this tribe as a way to meet each other! build the community now, even before the event, so that we're not strangers when we see eye to eye or shimmie to shimmie in August.

I hope you all feel free to chime in, make a posting, etc.
i'm getting sick of hearing my own voice here! :) :)
i'd love to know you, and hear what you all have to say..

any requests?

deb

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 55 replies

Thursday AFTER meet n greet...

2008-08-07T00:39:01Z

This just in, from Amar.. who is a wonderful staple of the Bay area bellydance/dj scene:

Happy Birthday to CHEB i SABBAH. Tomorrow is his birthday and we'll be celebrating at his new weekly at Bollyhood Cafe tomorrow night. Come out to bollyhood and dance with us. There may be a surprise or two :). Bollyhood Cafe is at 3372 19th St @ Mission in SF.

For those of you who still have energy in ya, and are wanting to boogie to some great middle eastern beats,
Bollywood Cafe is a few blocks from the meet n greet at Casanova....

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 1 reply

Hi everyone!

2008-08-05T19:57:44Z

I'm Raven! Not to be confused with Deb. I'm the other Raven!

I'll be around at the SF Mecca Immersion helping out, and at the Mecca Revue, most likely glued to the merch table! I just want to introduce myself on here and see who all will be there! I can't wait to meet everyone in person. This whole event is going to be a phenomenal time.

See all of you soon!

~Raven

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 5 replies

Another cool thing on Sunday...

2008-08-05T19:01:25Z

Just got this in my emailz...thought folks might wanna check it out:

Skin.Graft @ The Five & Diamond August 10th!

That's right folks! You heard right. Skin.graft is coming to town! The cutting edge, couture designs of Skin.graft will be here in full force with their current collection featuring items for men and women and for all sexes in between! Don't miss out on one day only discounts and specials with exclusive samples from their 2009 collection. Special sale priced pieces will be abounding as well as drinks and revelry. Our very own Malakai will be bringing us sweet beats for the evening and don't forget to enter the raffle for some surprise goodies from Five & Diamond and Skin.Graft. We hope to see all our lovely Five & Diamond family in attendance!

Sunday August 10th
5-9pm

Five & Diamond
510 Valencia @ 16th St.
San Francisco CA 94110

http://www.wildcardcollection.com
http://www.fiveanddiamond.com
http://www.myspace.com/fiveanddiamondsf
http://www.skingraftdesigns.com

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 0 replies

quick update on info.

2008-08-05T07:28:45Z

Hi ladies!
Just a quick note to say i am in process of sending out a big phat email to all immersion participants with lots and lots of great info in it, to answer all of your pre-mecca questions and help you prepare for your journey here. You should receive it this evening.

In the past week and a half, a dear friend of mine died, my sister had a new baby, and i found out that i separated my shoulder (which would explain the extreme pain in my neck, back, and shoulder.) When it rains, it apparently pours!

I apologize for any delay in communication or imparting desired information over the e-waves.
I am grateful for your patience.

Let me know if there is anything else you need!

deb

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 5 replies

where are you staying?

2008-08-05T07:01:21Z

Hi Ladies..
I have been getting lots of emails about hostel/hotel recommendations. Wondering if you all could you pls. email me (off topic, or at deb@sfmeccaimmersion.com) the name of the hostel or hotel that you're staying at, price, and contact info.

I would like to add them to my recommendations list, and point newly registered participants towards places groups are already staying
thanks!

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 6 replies

Directions to studio from Bart

2008-08-04T04:08:58Z

This may be posted somewhere. If it is, sorry, of course I didn't see it!
I was wondering if you could give us the best directions to the studio if you are taking the bart???
What station to get off and so forth...
THANKS!
Daniela

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 9 replies

Thursday night meet n greet

2008-08-02T18:00:29Z

Please join us Thursday, Aug. 7th, for an informal, casual, meet ‘n greet at an authentic SF hot spot. Open house style format, from 6:30pm-9pm at Casanova Lounge, located at 527 Valencia Street at 16th Street (between 16th & 17th on the East side of the street), in the heart of San Francisco’s Mission District. Casanova is a swanky little lounge/bar, with comfortable booths, and great ambiance. It is next door to many shopping and food options. Feel free to dine at Ti Couz French bistro (corner of 16th & Valencia), grab a burrito at El Mariachi, or a slice of pizza across the street, and we hope you will pop on over to Casanova for a drink and a schmooze between the hours of 6:30pm and 9pm, and meet your follow dancers and teachers!

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 0 replies

Photographer from Santa Monica looking for lodging for Mecca!

2008-07-31T09:19:16Z

This is a posting from a friend who is trying to come to sf mecca immersion. Pls. contact her directly with any insights. it would be great to have her with us... Zagareet Magazine wants to do a piece about sf mecca!

Photographer from Santa MONICA SHOOTING FOR ZAGHAREET Magazine SEEKING
LODGING, please contact her directly at 310-990-9909, or a@skarnophotography.com, not thru tribe.net , if you know of lodging
avails for Friday and Sat pm during SF Immesion Mecca.
thank you!!

namaste,

a

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 19 replies

Saturday Night Show Tix?

2008-07-29T15:06:48Z

I can't seem to find where to buy a ticket from the website. Halp!

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 7 replies

Must-see stuff in SF!

2008-07-26T02:41:52Z

OK, all you SF natives! Share all of your must-see secrets with us :)

Great ethnic & healthy (inexpensive) food places
Places to see
Stores for browsing
Touristy things for dancers on a budget

...But don't limit your secrets to just these things... inquiring minds want to know! If I'm gonna be a tourist... no sense in hiding it, lol!!!!

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 22 replies

What's the Plan for Thursday Night???

2008-07-24T16:07:35Z

I know it said it wasn't required but, are we still planning a meet and great on Thursday or something...my flight gets in at like 6:30 so I couldn't realistically do much till like 8 or something but I still thought I would ask. I am soOo excited to meet all of you ladies that I just can't wait.

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 2 replies

more hotel ideas

2008-07-24T16:05:59Z

Here are some more hotel ideas:
A) ($) Budget Hotels:
Carlton Hotel - An intimate hotel offering great value in a central location.

1075 Sutter St
San Francisco, CA 94109
Phone: (415) 673-0242

http://www.jdvhotels.com/carlton/

B) ($$) Mid-Priced Hotels –

a. The PickWick Hotel – on the BART line, close to all the shopping malls & Union Square ,

85 5th Avenue

San Francisco, CA 94103

877.542.1809 toll free
415.675.1184 phone
415.243.8066 fax

www.thepickwick.com

b. The Sir Francis Drake - in Union Square, an old hotel with old SF Charm, an easy walk to Bart

450 Powell Street

San Francisco, CA 94102

(800) 795-7129

www.sirfrancisdrake.com

c. The Whitcomb (formerly the Ramada Plaza ) – a historic building, not the best neighborhood, but on the BART! And a pretty hotel! With good restaurant.

1231 Market Street

San Francisco, CA 94103

www.hotelwhitcomb.com

(415) 626-8000

C) ($$$) Higher & ($$$$) Higher Priced hotels

a. The Sheraton Palace Hotel ($$$)– old, SF elegance, right on the BART line, close to shopping, very grand

www.sfpalace.com

2 New Montgomery Street
San Francisco , California , 94105-3402
T 415 512 1111 F 415 543 0671

b. The Hotel Vitale – new, hip hotel, great bar/restaurant, some rooms have water views!, great spa! Very relaxing, on the BART line

www.hotelvitale.com

8 Mission Street

SF, CA 94105

Tel: 415.278.3700

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 0 replies

Here's the official Details for SF MECCA DECOMPRESSION

2008-07-24T03:52:59Z

Sunday August 10th, head on down to Amnesia for the happiest of hours, 6:30-8:30, for live music and dancing!!! We'll be hosting an intimate gathering for the San Francisco MECCA Immersion, a retreat in to the heart and soul of the Bay Area's Tribal Fusion Belly Dance scene. A peek in to the innovative and exciting belly dance scene wouldn't be complete without a night of drinks and dancing at Amnesia!

Dan Cantrell brings the noise with his latest conglomeration of musicians. Frederique performs her "voix de ville" and Amy Sigill, director of Unmata keeps it hot with belly dance like you've never seen it before.

SF Mecca Immersion Decompression Happy Hour
Sunday August 10th, 6:30-8:30 pm
Amnesia 853 Valencia St.
San francisco
door cover only $5

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 0 replies

Roomies For SF

2008-07-23T20:35:15Z

Hey eveyone, I'm coming along to the intensive by myself i guess, none of those other troupe girls wanted to go along so this is somehting I really want to do. i was hoping to find some cool chiccks up there to troom with preferably nothing too expensive and also not too hostely I am open to different arrangements but i just am putting it out there and seeing anyeone if they want to room with me. Im totally not mean or weird or anything? i'm just a bit crazy i have to admit heheee.

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 2 replies

Pre Mecca Networking!

2008-07-22T00:57:21Z

So in a stroke of luck my company sent me on a business trip down to Pittsburgh to handhold a client. Of course I had to see if my mecca roomie and travel companion for the immersion was free. So I got to meet Molly for coffee on a very hot and humid day in the 'burgh and talk about our plans and hopes for the Mecca experience! It was a great time, and now I'm even more excited about going because she's just a fabulous person. Hooray!

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 3 replies

tickets UP!

2008-07-19T20:21:41Z

on line pre-sale tix for the Sat. night show
now available at www.sfmeccaimmersion.com

get-cher-tick-ettes---here!

i promise you, this WILL sell out. ;)

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 6 replies

the Sunday of Mecca

2008-07-19T08:11:10Z

is lookin saucy!!
a happy hour evening at our beloved Amnesia...
Frederique..
and looks like some surprise guests from SACRAMENTO!! YAH!!!!

anyone wanna guess?

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 2 replies

new goodies..

2008-07-07T21:12:23Z

Hi Ladies..

this is your friendly monday morning check in. to pass along a few new goodies for SF Mecca and beyond:
1. Reminder: summer in San Francisco can get chilly. Bring layers! Esp. for night time.
2. Pre-sale tix are now available on-line. Also some VIP tix available if you'd like to further support the event. (all ticket sales profits go back into making the night happen, and getting all the fabulous talent on stage for your viewing and drooling pleasure..)

3. VERY excited to officially let the cat out of the bag:
Although sadly Sharon will be out of town for SF MECCA, you can catch her this Dec... with me in hawaii, for a super dooper dose of sharon's tribal fusion download.

save the date:
5 day Yoga/Bellydance retreat with Sharon Kihara and me (deb rubin)
@ Ramashala retreat center on the Big Island, Hawaii!
December 10th-14th, 2008..

If you have never been to the big I, hawaii, you are in for a real treat. Tribal. Earthy. powerful. paradise. fire-y. gorgeous. Lava meets ocean. dolphin swims and jungle jaunts. Plumeria flowers whose fragrance will wow you. eating lilquoi fruit right off the vine...
A perfect place (in my opinion) to both immerse in tribal bellydance and rejuvinate with yoga/massage/rest/relaxation induced by being on the islands... . Ramashala is a sweet lil retreat center just across the street from the famous black sands beach, which is quite the tribal scene on sundays..
I've spent a lot of time on the Big I, and am really excited to bring ya'll a rich experience of both hard core dance technique, and fun relaxing island living!
Sharon and i have a lot of new 'never been done before' things up our sleeves for this retreat. come join us! (small group 20. )

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 2 replies

REVOLUTION: THE PERFORMERS PAR-TAY!

2008-07-02T22:03:54Z

For those who havent heard the word yet, there is going to be an incredible show on 8/8 for an amazing cause: YOU! Ksea Flux of Vau de Vire has finally launched bigtopmagazine.com in which Revolution will benefit this innovative magazine designed especially for indie artists, photographers, musicians, performers & a plethora of entertainers worldwide.
Revolution has a star-studded line up including: Members of Lucent Dossier, Vau de Vire, Lapsus, Gooferman, The Wandering Marionettes, Bad Unkl Sista, The Tongues...and MORE!MORE!MORE!
It truly is the Revolution of all that is beautifully eclectic in our industry so come out and support it & give me love (it IS my welcoming par-tay as well);>
Heres the link...dont be the only kid in town out in the cold..wishing you had got that darn ticket in time!!!!!
bigtopmagazine.com
ISA

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 0 replies

the buzzz is growing..

2008-07-02T20:48:33Z

Hi ladies!
Just a quick note to let you all know that SF MECCA Immersion is shaping up to be truly a global community!
I am excited to report that lovely dancers from the netherlands, spain, mexico, the czech republic, as well as all over the USA will be in attendence. Just yesterday i got an email from a lovely woman in Italy, who wants to write an article about it for a yoga magazine, and also wants to do a documentary about the SF Tribal Fusion Bellydance scene, featuring SF Mecca Immersion!

It is very exciting, and i love that this feels like truly a grass roots effort, and a community co-creative affair!
There still are spaces available, so pls. continue to spread the word!
Tickets for the Sat. night show will be on sale this week. I promise. :)
And i will be sending out a big welcoming, informative email to everyone in a few weeks time, with last minute suggestions, last minute logistics, and more info about the Thursday night meet and greet. In the mean time, pls. feel free to continue to check the website for any additions.

That is the weekly check-in!
hope everyone has a great holiday weekend, and look forward to being together in just over a month!
deb

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 0 replies

Looking for a place to stay in Berkeley

2008-06-28T15:37:29Z

Me and my friend are looking for a place to stay in Berkeley for the first two weeks of August. Any recommendations or ideas???? Any help would be appreciated!
Thanks

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 0 replies

Special extended bellydance class--with LIVE musicians!

2008-06-24T02:43:14Z

Reminder: for those of you who are local:
tomorrow night
Tues. June 24th, 2008.
8-10pm

I'm teaching a special 2 hr. extended tribal bellydance class, with LIVE Musicians!
in collaboration with Peter Jaques (brass menagerie) & Dan Cantrell (the toids)….
Come join us!

Here's the description:

As we know, dancing to live music can be exhilarating, fun, intimidating, or inspiring. Whatever it is, it’s definitely a whole different ballgame!

Please join us for a 2- hour extended tribal fusion bellydance class, featuring the accompaniment of world famous LIVE MUSICIANS!
Class will include Deb’s signature Core Yoga for bellydancers, drills, and movement combinations, with a focus on musicality. We will also learn part of a choreography to a Brass Menagerie tune, that was performed live with the band, by deb and rose, march 2008. Experience the rare opportunity of learning it, while being accompanied LIVE by the world-class musical talent of Peter Jaques (of Brass Menagerie), Dan Cantrell, and others.

Tues. June 24th, 2008.
8-10pm

Temescal Arts Center
511 48th St. @ Telegraph, Oakland, CA.
www.temescalartscenter.org

Only $20 in advance!
$22 at door.
Paypal debrubin3@yahoo.com to pre-register.

Temescal Arts Center
511 48th St. @ Telegraph, Oakland, CA.
www.temescalartscenter.org

xo
deb

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 0 replies

The Sat. night MECCA performance event

2008-06-24T02:24:58Z

Hi ya'll...
there's been a lot of questions about the big night out, so i will try to answer here.

The website is still in evolving. Pls. bear with us, and keep checking it for updates. There are so many great new developments in the works, that we are trying to keep up with getting all the info on line for your viewing pleasure!

All the info. about the Sat. night performance event will be posted. i promise. Including a link to purchase advanced tickets through the website. The Sat. night show will be $20 in advance, on- line registration, or $25 at the door. We have an insane amount of world class talent on the roster, so let's all come out and support! It's a very rare opportunity to see so many of these fabulous dancers and musicians on the same stage all in one night. The sat. night show will be open to the public. and there will most probably be vending.

There will also be a sunday evening, more casual 'decompression', where there will also be performers and live music. and good ol fashioned frisco fun.

thanks!

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 10 replies

Special date for Immersion?

2008-06-24T02:22:25Z

I was wondering if the date for Immersion was picked intentionally? August 8, 2008 (8/8/08) is a very special/lucky date in some Asian cultures. I just realized this, then I was thinking Raven may have done this with that in mind. Just curious!

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 1 reply

LUCENT DOSSIER making guest appearance at MECCA

2008-06-13T04:07:10Z

ok, um, hello? i think this sat. night MECCA REVUE is getting more and more off the hook. i can hardly stay in my seat!!

This is truly truly a special treat. big time. Like, as in, 'pinch me, i must be dreaming'

just confirmed: Special appearence by LUCENT DOSSIER vaudeville cirque !!!!! in the sat. night show...

and surrrrrprize guests.
if you guess, you get a prize. :)

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 6 replies

Do it again !!!!

2008-06-03T22:42:45Z

I want to be part of this! do it again Raven, K?
Its full of gorgeous intention.

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 1 reply

we're cross pollenating!

2008-06-03T22:40:37Z

sf mecca has landed at myspace.

visit us over there too! and be a friend!
myspace.com/sfmeccaimmersion

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 0 replies

Mecca Journal

2008-06-01T23:16:59Z

I've never done any kind of immersion type thing like this, so I'm documenting it for notes and memories.
Would EVERYONE like to write their autograph in my book? I want to remember everything and everyone
I meet! You can draw silly pictures too if you'd like :)

XO
Tadpole

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 9 replies

City Center Hostel

2008-05-29T12:57:20Z

I just booked 4 beds (dorm style..yes we have our own bathroom) at the City Center Hostel.
At this time, I have 3 beds filled. One bed available. The cost is per night (per bed...so you would pay for your bed) it is about $28-$29 per night.
If anyone wants it, please let me know. I will be dropping the bed by August 5th. BTW- from what Rye told me at the hostel....lucky I called when I did, they are getting booked. So, if you haven't reserved a place to crash your tired, shimmied out hips, ya betta do it soon!

Tami =)

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 1 reply

Have you seen the schedule?

2008-05-29T07:01:21Z

daily schedule of events for MECCA is now posted online.
www.sfmeccaimmersion.com

and p.s. the venders are HOT!!! HOT!!! HOT!! Just added:
the lovely Mira Mania designs!

Lee Kobus (one of a kind pieces made with such care, artistry, and love.... Lee-a former UltraGypsy--you may have seen her as one hot robot in medusa and machine.. has been designing unique performance pieces for years and years... from feathered hair clips to glass beaded belts, her designs and artistry are not to be missed!) ;

Black Lotus Designs!~ This bay area designer i actually met up in portland, and i think i bought out her stash of one of a kind wrist cuffs! Such artistry in her work, and she personally sews every stitch. gorgeous bustles, vests, and tops. Custom orders available.

AND... some surprise visitors in the weekend. shhhhhhhhhh!

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 11 replies

travel discounts

2008-05-21T22:05:38Z

travelticker at hotwire.

just emailed me price savers. discounts on airfair and SF hotels.
i strongly recommend!

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 12 replies

Hostels

2008-05-19T13:32:55Z

Found this website.
http://sfhostels.com/

Not sure which one would be the best. But, if 3-4 of us share, we can get a dorm style room for about $29.00 per night (per person for 5 nights).

I don't mind the bottom bunk. Makes it easier to crash into bed =)

Tami

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 1 reply

A Typical Day for the Immersion

2008-05-15T01:15:02Z

Hey...I'm just curious on what a typical day will be like. My husband and I both love San Fransisco so I'm thinking of dragging him along but he's just afraid I'll be dancing 24/7 for the 5 days.

Any ideas on what the day schedule might be like? I so want to come!!!

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 6 replies

Locations and Cars..

2008-05-10T22:55:56Z

Quick question for the organizers..as some of us considering to go are weighing all the options.

Are the locations of the venues, etc for classes and other events going to be in easy walking or public transportation distance, or should we look into a rental car?

This affects where we stay (no rental means more money for a hotel so it can be closer) so I figured I'd post it here for general consumption :)

Thanks!

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 8 replies

Ride Share...hotel share....

2008-05-07T22:57:44Z

coming in from Portland Oregon- 8/7 around 7:44pm, if anyone is coming into SFO at that same time, lets share a ride in.

Hotel??? Anyone interested in sharing hotel space? I swear I don't snore or sleep walk (maybe dance...but I don't remember).

Looking forward to meeting some amazing creative people =)

Tami (aka- Raven LaFey)

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 0 replies

Beginner

2008-05-06T17:57:47Z

O_O I went for it. The 5-day option. I promise to do my best in keeping up. I'm sure I will benefit immensely from just throwing myself right in the middle of challenge. Currently taking weekly lessons with Cera and Gibson Pearl, I think I'll arrive with basics covered, hungry for more.

Can't wait to meet you all!

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 3 replies

Registration is officially up!!

2008-05-06T01:20:24Z

at www.sfmeccaimmersion.com

for all the latest and greatest info, additions, etc...
It is continuously unfolding, and more will be added between now and then..

come visit us!

posted in SFmecca~immersion - 0 replies