cheapening their own ART, not heart. (though maybe it is a cheapening of the heart too, or a "squeezing of the heart" as I recently heard a Buddhist describe desires that lead to suffering). Its too early for me to try communicating and philosophizing :D

I have been very fortunate in that from my very first bellydance class, I have had a teacher (Lisa Myers) who is respectful and serious about all aspects of the dance. One of the many things we have discussed over the years is the unfortunate practice of novice dancers dancing for free or waaayy undercutting the standard rate. This has left me with the feeling that I should not even put myself out there as a paid (& thus at least semi-professional) belly dancer until I have solid foundation & skills in performing. I think perhaps what happens is the dancers realize they really aren't up to par as "real" belly dancers & mistakenly think by charging nothing or very little this does no damage to the belly dance community as a whole. This is unfortunate because from what I can tell, Mr. & Ms. Joe Average Public have no idea if what they are watching is a true representation of how intricate and wonderful the format actually is. In part this might also come from dancers being instructed by individuals who have taken a few classes themselves, learned a few moves & then proceed to teach without a proper foundation in heritage, music and technique. It's like a bad cycle.

The thing about the local shows and Haflas not charging a high rate though, I somewhat disagree with. Most of these shows, even if they have high level performers in them, also include a high number of very novice performers so asking people to pay a higher rate for what amounts to a recital just doesn't wash with me. That's a tough call. :)

I would be REALLY interested in some discussion of the ethics of fusing. I know this is not new, but I think it's still a hot topic. For example, I feel very comfortable fusing tango with bellydance because I study tango really seriously. Other forms of dance, not so much. I have a strong interest in Japanese dance, but I have never studied it so I wouldn't feel right trying to fuse it. On the other hand, the basic movements of fusion draw from places other than Middle Eastern Dance (like Indian dance and Flamenco) and we have no qualms about using those movements.

Mardi is curvy! Tammy and Mary are curvy! YIP!

Last reminder! Tonight is panel time! We hope to hear from a lot of you this evening! :-)

Did I sense some sarcasm with that "high standards" remark? I think I diiiiiiiiiid!! LOL!!

Thanks for putting up with us, Carol! I'll also be interested to see what makes it in.... :-P

YIP!

That's because Carol is super smart! You should've heard all the drivel that I said (and then edited out...ha ha ha!!!)