M.E.D. aze

Belynda Azhaar's 2012 SEA workshops

2012-01-19T19:18:00.003+08:00

Belynda Azhaar is returning to South East Asia for a series of workshops in February and March 2012.

25 n 26 February 2012 - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Saturday, 25 February 2012

10am to 12pm - Middle Eastern Rhythms: Zills Thrills!

Add the magic of music to your dance! Students in this workshop will learn how to identify rhythms in music, as well as a variety of finger cymbal patterns and dance combinations for several Middle Eastern rhythms. Dancer of all levels can benefit from this workshop as a variety of technique will be presented; dance movements will be adjusted depending on the level of the participants.

Required props: Participants are to bring their own set of "ready-to-play" finger cymbals/zills/sagat.

12.30pm to 3.30pm - "Azhaar Style" Andalusian Choreography

This choreography, set to a famous muwashah and featuring Belynda Azhaar's unique Andalusian dance, takes the audience on a journey to Al-Andalus (medieval Muslim Spain). A full analysis of the music will be presented, and costuming will be discussed. A variation of the choreography involving finger cymbals and/or two hankerchiefs will be demonstrated and discussed - these props are not required for learning the choreography in this workshop, however please bring them to the workshop if you have them.

Optional Props: finger cymbals/zills/sagat and two hankerchiefs.

4pm to 6pm - How To Choreograph

Why copy when you can create your own choreography? In this open-level workshop, Belynda Azhaar will share her unique ARMIR methodology for creating choreography. Arabic music and musicality will be discussed, and participants will be given the opportunity to work together to create their own work of art. Guidance and feedback will be provided. This is a rare, not-to-be-missed workshops!!!

Sunday, 26 February 2012

10am to 1pm - Megance Choreography with Veil

Start your show with a bang! This megance (Oriental entrance dance) choreography is set to fabulous classical Egyptian music, and showcases a variety of travelling moves, isolations, and scintillating shimmies guarantee to have your audience on the edge of their seat! This choreography is designed with troupes in mind, but can also be used for solo performances - the perfect addition to your repertoire.

Required Props: Participants are to bring their own Veil.

2pm to 5pm - Fan Veil Choreography

Learn a dynamic choreography packed full of musicality and fan veil tricks designed to "wow" your audience! Set to Arab-Spanish music with lots of lovely energy changes, this choreography is the perfect addition to your repertoire. The choreography can be performed solo or as a troupe; troupe variations will be discussed if time allows.

Required Props: Participants are to bring their own pair of fan veils.

Vebue for all workshops: KLPAC

Enquiries, Registration and Payment terms direct to amethystsharqi@hotmail.my

3 'n 4 March 2012 - Bali, Indonesia

Enquiries, Registration and Payment terms direct to babe@poisonbabe.com

Welcome back to Indonesia, Hadia

2012-01-18T17:48:00.002+08:00

Bellydance Jakarta is bringing Hadia of Canada back to Jakarta, Indonesia, for a performance and workshops from 5 April 2012 to 8 April 2012.

Thursday, 5 April 2012 - The Hafla

Friday, 6 April 2012 to Sunday, 8 April 2012 - The Workshops

More details will be posted once firm.

Nath keo is coming back to Penang

2012-01-18T17:39:00.002+08:00

Zero Fitness Dance Studio is bringing Nath Keo back to Penang, Malaysia, for a performance and workshops.

18 Feb 2012, Saturday - The Hafla

The action starts at 7.30pm at the Straits Quay Stage 1. Tickets available from Zero Fitness Dance Studio.

19 Feb 2012, Sunday - The Workshops

2.30pm to 4.30pm - The Secret of Shimmies

6.30pm to 9.30pm - Fusion Choreography

Enquiries and registration directly to Zero Ftiness Dance Studio at 61-4-658-0046 or visit their website for full information.

Katerina Shereen workshops in Singapore - 2012

2012-01-10T20:05:00.002+08:00

Katerina Shereen will be back in March 2012 to conduct just 3 workshops, organised by myself.

Sunday, 18 March 2012, 1pm to 5pm - Beledi - $140

This workshop covers Beledi technique & choreography, and is only open to Intermediate/Advanced practitioners. Basic rule of thumb, level-wise, you should have a firm foundation in basic technique, including travelling and walking shimmies.

Technique covered in this workshop is more specific to the Beledi style and assumes that participants would already have a firm grounding in basic technique.

Max Pax for this workshop = 14 persons only
At the time of posting = about 8 spaces left

Thursday, 22 March 2012, 1pm to 4pm - Tarab Choreography - $105

This Masterclass is only open to Professional (Performers/Teachers) and Advanced practitioners.

Max pax for this Masterclass = 10 persons only
At the time of this posting = about 4 spaces left

Friday, 23 March 2012, 1pm to 4pm - Shaabi Choreography - $105

This Masterclass is only open to Professional (Performers/Teachers) and Advanced practitioners.

Max pax for this Masterclass = 10 persons only
At the time of this posting = about 4 spaces left

Venue for all 3 sessions = Dance On Us @ Carpenter, Topaz Studio, 38 Carpenter Road, #03-01 Hui Seng Building

Payment Terms = Cash Only; First pay first get.

Registration to me at threeagurl@yahoo.com or text me at 9670-3687 (please remember to identify yourself).

These sessions are kept deliberately small, pax-wise, for a more condusive learning experience. These sessions are also priced at what I would term a reasonable rate given the small class size. As such, preference will be given to Singaporeans who secure their spot with advance payment. :))

Khaled Mahmoud in Singapore - 2012

2012-01-10T19:57:00.002+08:00

Khaled Mahmoud will be back in town in Feb 2012 to conduct a series of workshops, organised by Claribel's Raks Sharki studio.

Friday, 10 Feb 2012 - 7pm to 9.30pm - Modern Egyptian - $130

Saturday, 11 Feb 2012 - 2pm to 4.30pm - Oriental - $130

Saturday, 11 Feb 2012 - 5pm to 7.30pm - Cane - $130

Sunday, 12 Feb 2012 - 1pm to 3.30pm - Veil - $130

Sunday, 12 Feb 2012 - 4pm to 6pm - Khaleegy - $100

Fee Package for all workshops = $530

Venue for all workshops = 31A & 33A New Bridge Road (opposite Clarke Quay MRT & Central)

Enquiries and registration to info@bellydanceinsingapore.com or call 6536-8394 or 9797-2261.

Akan Datang - February and March 2012 - Singapore

2011-11-21T20:16:00.002+08:00

A quick post on what's coming up in Singapore in the first quarter of next year. Full details will be posted once confirmed.

Friday, 10 February 2012, to Sunday, 12 February 2012

Workshops by Khaled Mahmoud organised by Claribel's Raks Sharki Studio . 2 hours for Friday, 5 hours each for Saturday and Sunday (to be confirmed)

Sunday, 18 March 2012
Thursday and Friday, 22 and 23 March 2012

Workshops by Katerina Shereen organised by yours truly. Sunday - 4 hours. Thursday and Friday - 3 hours each.

Keti in Bali & Kuala Lumpur

2011-10-11T18:50:00.002+08:00

Keti Sharif will be teaching her workshops in Bali and Kuala Lumpur in December 2011, as part of her farewell 'tour' before leaving the dance world.

Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia

Saturday, 10 Dec 2011 - 10am to 6pm - Pulse8 Instructor Training

Sunday, 11 Dec 2011 - 11am to 1pm - Astrobelly Elements Workshop

Sunday, 11 Dec 2011 - 2pm to 4pm - Egyptian Hips Workshop

You can register on-line at www.ketisharif.com or contact Allison Mulroy of Poison Babe for details.

Incidentally, if you have time, do check out Poison Babe for their beautiful gypsy and haute couture costumes/clothes for bellydancers.

Allison can be contacted at alli@poisonbabe.com.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Monday, 12 Dec 2011 - 7pm to 10pm - Egyptian Hips and Jewel Workshop

This will be Keti's very last bellydance teaching workshop - in a place she danced with her Egyptian folkloric troupe years ago. Organised by Miyako and Nancy, this workshop will be held at the Middle East Dance Academy studio in KL.

You can book online or contact Miyako for details at miyako.uchiyama@tokiomarinelife.com.

More details on-line

Jillina & Kaeshi in Bali

2011-10-11T18:36:00.002+08:00

This was supposed to be have been posted some time ago, along with BDE's dates in Japan but those Japan dates are already happening. Sorry, Jillina.

Back to business on hand:

Bellydance Superstars Jillina and Kaeshi Chai are giving up 1 day of their Bali vacation to conduct 2 3-hour workshops:

Sunday, 16 October 2011

10am to 1pm - Jillina - Exciting Drum Solo: Technique, Combinations and Choreo

1.45pm to 4.45pm - Kaeshi - "The End Again": Fiery Gypsy Choreo, with breakdown & Combos

Pricing
1 Workshop = RP350.000
2 Workshops = RP. 640.000

Venue = To Be Announced by Organiser, Poison Babe & Culture Connect

Other Info = Bring a light snack

Sorry...no contact information available on the poster. Try googling PoisonBabe & Culture Connect - you should get something

Quick Bite: Nigma does Baladi in KL

2011-10-07T15:09:00.002+08:00

Nigma will teach a 2-part Egyptian Style Taqseem Baladi technique and choreography workshop in Kuala Lumpur next week.

Monday, 10 October 2011 - 7pm to 9pm - Part 1
Wednesday, 12 October 2011 - 7pm to 10pm - Part 2

Workshops will be held at The Dance Space, F3-2 Plaza Damas, Jalan Sri Hartamas 1, Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Information and registration directly from Doris @ The Dance Space, contactable at: dorischwan@gmail.com or +60-3-6201-8032.

(Flyer emailed to me didn't have pricing but I guess it should be around RM50 per hour thereabouts).

(Sorry for short notice - I just received email today and quick quick post. More to come next week when I have time to breathe).

Another Quick Bite: Moira Chappell

2011-09-23T14:22:00.004+08:00

Alice Yeung is bringing in tribal bellydance superstar, Moira Chappell, to Hong Kong for a performance and 3 days of glorious workshops covering all levels, from Beginner to Advanced.

Workshops run from Friday, 24 Feb 2012, to Sunday, 26 Feb 2012.

Performance in Foxy's Party on Sunday night, 26 Feb 2012.

Venue: CausewayBay, Hong Kong

More details posted once firm.

In the meantime, if you cannot wait, contact Alice Yeung on Facebook (userid: FoxycatAlice Yeung).

Revel in the Suhaila and Jamila Salimpour format

2011-09-23T13:58:00.002+08:00

in Hong Kong come 25 to 27 November 2011, thanks to Suzette Ackerman of Desert Mermaids.

Andrea, a senior teacher for the Suhaila and Jamila Salimpour format, from San Francisco, USA, will be performing and conducting workshops in Hong Kong:

Friday, 25 November 2011 - 7pm to 10pm - Floor Veil Combinations & Drills and Dance Movement - @ Desert Mermaids Studio
(bring your own veil)

Saturday, 26 November 2011 - 9.30am to 12.30am - Chair Veil Choreography - @ Desert Mermaids Studio
(bring your own veil and chair)

Saturday, 26 November 2011 - 6.30pm to 10.30pm - Performance and Dinner
@ The Penthouse Sky Lounge, 29th Floor, 200 Gloucester Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong

Sunday, 27 November 2011 - 2pm to 5pm - Modern Tribal Fusion with Isolations and Combinations - @ The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts

Sunday, 27 November 2011 - 6.30pm to 9.30pm - Yummy Layering for Inside and Out of a Drum Solo - @ The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts

Workshop Pricing - Early Birds
Register and Pay in full by 31 October:

All 4 workshops - 12 hours - HK$2400
Per 3 hour workshop- HK$750

Workshop Pricing - Post 31 October

All 4 workshops - 12 hours - HK$3200
Per 3 hour workshop - HK$900

Dinner and Dance Pricing

The fee covers buffet dinner, free flow of all drinks: alchoholic and soft.

Payment by 31 October - Early Birds - HK$350
Post 31 October - HK$400

Registration and Enquiries to desertmermaids@hotmail.co.uk

Quick Bite - Jillian and Louchia in Tokyo

2011-09-23T13:50:00.002+08:00

Shinjukumura will be hosting Jillina and Louchia in Tokyo for workshops on 3 and 4 October 2011.

Monday, 3 October 2011 - 6.30pm to 9.30pm - Workshop by JILLINA - 12,000 Yen

Tuesday, 4 October 2011 - 6.30pm to 9.30pm - Workshop by LOUCHIA - 10,000 Yen

Special package price of 20,000 Yen for both workshops.

Registration/Enquiries to nicolebelly88@gmail.com

Wahashtini

2011-09-11T16:22:00.004+08:00

Dedicated to all fans of the classic: Wahashtini

Lyrics by Salah Faiz
Music by Khalid El Emir

The original version was sung by Soad Mohamed and made repopular again by Khalid Agag. Apart from this, other singers have covered this song, including the 1992 version by Alaa Zalzali (or Ali Ahmed Zalzali).

Translated lyrics would depend on the version of the song that you like. In this post, you will find 2 versions.

Wahashtini by Safaa Tarib (6:08)
"Leila Presents TARAB -
Safaa Farid Sings Classical Egyptian Songs for Bellydance - Volume 1"

The translated lyrics as stated in the liner notes of the CD (I made slight grammatical improvements):

I miss you as much as there are stars in the sky
I miss you as much as the air everyday
But I miss you more and more
When we are together
Come to me and we will make our dream true
Come, come
Come to me and we will discover every minute
Come, come
From the fear of tomorrow's separation
We don't believe we are together now
You missed me and you came back for me
And said to me
I miss you
My nights, my nights
You are with me all the time
You are my shadow
I await happiness
I await you
And I sing and I dream
When can I see you
Oh God when your love meets mine
After you are away from me
Your sweetness makes love young again
Oh God Oh God
Come to me and we will make our dream true
Come, Come
Come to me and we will discover every minute
Come, Come
From the fear of tomorrow's separation
We don't believe we are together now
You missed me and you came back for me
And said to me
I miss you

Wahashtini by Khalid Agag (or Khalid Ajaj) as stated on Shira.Net
(www.shira.net/music/lyrics/wahashtiny.htm)

I miss you, as much as the number of stars
I miss you, every day, more and more
Come to me, come to me
And let's make the dream a reality
And let's make up for every lost minute
Because tomorrow could separate us
And you, my sweetheart, we just made up together
I missed you, and I came back for you
I miss you
Nights, nights, nights, nights where I never dreamt something like you
I wait for happiness, and I wait for you
It is time to meet my love, it's time to meet you
It makes me feel younger
I miss you

Do the K-Pop at Bellydance Extraordinaire

2011-09-09T20:58:00.002+08:00

A quickie post this time...the rest will have to wait till the work frenzy dies down some.

Bellydance Extraordinaire is having a K-Pop fusion choreography workshop this coming Monday and Tuesday.

Monday, 12 Sept 2011 - 12pm to 2pm - taught by Jamila

Tuesday, 13 Sept 2011 - 12pm to 2pm - taught by Miya

Fee is $60 for 2 hours of instruction. Participants may get to perform this number at BDX's upcoming Oct 2011 recital.

Contact Jamila or Miya to register. Contact details at BBX's website - see link above.

Sandra is coming to Kuala Lumpur!!!

2011-08-26T14:52:00.004+08:00

Sirocco Secrets is finally bringing in Sandra to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, for workshops. Sandra was supposed to go to KL last year but the event was cancelled subsequently.

Venue = Outcast Dance Studio, No. 1-5 Tingkat 1, Dataran Pelangi Utami, Pelangi Utama, Jalan Masjid, PJU 6A, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Malaysia

Saturday, 15 October 2011 - 11am to 3pm - RM200
taking it to the next level

For advanced beginner students (i.e. beginners with some experience) to improve their technique and jump to an intermediate performance level. Covers fundamentals that separate a dancer from a student.

Sunday, 16 October 2011 - rak the classics - RM 250
11am to 1.30pm - Technique
2.30pm to 5pm - Choreography

Build up your repertoire or reignite your love of the standards with Sandra's spin on the classic, Leylet Hobb. There's always something unexpected to freshen up even the most familiar tunes.

Registration/Enquiries
To Sherlyn at mysirocco@gmail.com or 012-2333-016

Do the Beledi and BollyFusion with Sherlyn

2011-08-26T14:37:00.002+08:00

at the Caterpillar Studio during the weekend of 3 & 4 September 2011.

Venue = The Caterpillar Studio, 15-2 Jalan Sri Hartamas 7, Taman Sri Hartamas (Near the Petronas station, same row as Bakery cafe or Bulldog)

Saturday, 3 September 2011 - Beledi Choreography - 12pm to 3pm - RM150

Sunday, 4 September 2011 - Bollywood Fusion Choreography - 2pm to 5pm - RM150

Register directly with the Caterpillar Studio @ 03-6201-0378 or email Sherlyn at mysirocco@gmail.com .

30th World Dance Trophy - "Regione F.V.G."

2011-08-15T17:06:00.002+08:00

Competition enthusiasts, take note of this upcoming 2012 competition!

16th to 18th March 2012 - Friday to Sunday

@ Lignano Sabbiadoro - ITALY

Oriental Classic, Folk, Show, Tribal, Fusion, Bollywood Competition

International Adjudicators

Participants from more than 20 countries, more than 4500 participants

Awards 140.000 Euro

Full information at www.clubsunshine.it

Enquiries to info@clubsunshine.it

DANCE EXAPSIS

2011-08-15T16:51:00.002+08:00

Dance Exapsis , a 'new style' dance festival in Egypt, that will run from Thursday, 20 October 2011, to Sunday, 30 October 2011.

The itinerary for this festival covers 2 locations: Cairo for the dancing and Sharm El Sheikh for a well deserved R 'n R.

Indulge in dance workshops - Oriental, Tribal Fusion, Folkloric, Indian, Persian, Samba, Afro, Flamenco, Contemporary with 55 of the best teachers from around the world

Revel in Gala Parties

Chill out with a Bedouin Night

Catch a Competition with big prizes

Special discounts for groups of 20 or more.

Full Information available at Here.

Workshops by Nathalie Gaubert in Singapore - First Time Ever !!!

2011-08-15T15:51:00.006+08:00

Okay...this is not directly related to bellydance unless you are a classical style enthusiast.

Take this rare opportunity to learn from Nathalie Gaubert when she is in town for Open Level Ballet and Floor Barre workshops on Friday, 21 October 2011, and Saturday, 22 October 2011 (Details on left).

If you think that your alignment and extensions can be improved further, consider Floor Barre. It is easy to learn and you will see results sooner rather than later.

Suhaila Salimpour in Hong Kong come 2012!!!

2011-08-13T13:50:00.003+08:00

Desert Mermaids is bringing in Suhaila Salimpour to Hong Kong in end March 2012 for Level 1 workshops and more.

Venue = TBC

Level 1 Workshop with optional Level One Testing
Thursday, 29 March 2012 - 2pm to 5pm
Thursday, 29 March 2012 - 7pm to 10pm
Friday, 30 March 2012 - 2pm to 5pm
Friday, 30 March 2012 - 7pm to 10pm
Saturday, 31 March 2012 - 10am to 1pm

Level 1 Testing
Saturday, 31 Saturday 2012 - 2.30pm

Drills That Kill with Layering
Sunday, 1 April 2012 -10am to 1pm

Folkloric Fusion Choreography with Hand Cymbals
Sunday, 1 April 2012 - 2.30pm to 5.30pm

Workshop Pricing - Early Bird Deal -
Register and Pay between August 2011 to 15 Feb 2011

Level 1 - 15 hours - HK$5000
Level 1 Testing Fee - Separate payment - TBA

All Day Sunday - 6 hours - HK$2000
One Workshop - Sunday - 3 hours - HK$1200

Package Deal - Level 1 plus All Day Sunday - 21 Hours - HK$6800

Workshop Pricing - 16 Feb 2011 onwards

Level 1 - 15 hours - HK$6500
Level 1 Testing Fee - Separate payment - TBA

All Day Sunday - 6 hours - HK$2500
One workshop - 3 hours - HK$1500

Package Deal - Level 1 plus All Day Sunday - 21 Hours - HK$9000

Other information
Participants coming into HK from elsewhere are advised to refer to www.desertmermaids.com for more guidance.

Information on Suhaila Salimpour and her format is available at www.suhailainternational.com

Enquiries re workshop and payment to Suzette direct at desertmermaids@hotmail.co.uk or text her at 852-94392692.

Tribal Bellydance Festival Malaysia 2011

2011-08-11T19:11:00.002+08:00

It's back!!! Tribal fans, mark down Saturday, October 8, in your calendar now.

Day/Date = Saturday, 8 October 2011

Time = 3pm to 6pm (performances start at 3pm so don't be late)

Venue = Hard Rock Cafe Kuala Lumpur (Concorde Hotel)

Cost = RM50 per head

Enquiries/Reservations = Aiza @ 60-133-004-780; Zoe @ 60-129-781-875/60-169-742-278

The inaugural Tribal Fest in 2010 was a smashing success. This year promises to be no different.

There will be more than 100 performers, with performances starting at 3pm non-stop till 6pm. Come and support your fave dance form, and also catch up with fellow enthusiasts.

As in last year, several styles will be celebrated: ATS, Tribal Fusion, Gothic, Folkloric, Flamenco, Goddess and more.

Don't forget to dress the part by coming in your best Bellydance outfit.

Workshops by Christine Yaven in Bandung

2011-08-11T18:05:00.004+08:00

Christine Yaven, the face behind Bellydance Jakarta, will have workshops in Bandung, Indonesia on the Sunday, 2 October, and Monday, 3 October.

Sunday, 2 October 2011
10am to 12pm - Beginner 1 (Technique & Basic Movement)
1pm to 3pm - Beginner 2 (Beginner Choreography)

Monday, 3 October 2011
10am to 12pm - Advanced Beginner (Level 2 Technique)
1pm to 3pm - Advanced Beginner 2 (Level 2 Choreography)

Workshop Pricing
1 session = 250.000 IDR
2 session = 450.000 IDR / 400.000 IDR (Member)
4 session = 850.000 IDR / 800.000 IDR (Member)

Workshop Venue

Fit 'n Fresh Pilates
Jalan Emong 22A
Bandung, Indonesia

More Workshop Information
Each workshop is limited to 15 pax only so register and pay up early to secure your spot in class.

These workshops are open to all levels, even newbies with zero prior experience.

Registration/enquiries to 022-70143086/75169611

2011 Nagwa Fouad Cup

2011-08-11T17:55:00.002+08:00

The 6th Nagwa Fouad Cup International Bellydance competition in Korea will run from Thursday, 20 October 2011, to Monday, 24 October 2011.

This event, as in prior years, is organised by the Korea Bellydance Association.

Details available by www.koreabelly.com .

Enquiries to k-belly@hanmail.net or go to this Facebook page: www.facebook.com/sujeekorea

Dance Chameleon by Bellydance Discovery

2011-08-11T17:47:00.003+08:00

For this year's recital/concert, Bellydance Discovery presents "Dance Chameleon", a production focusing on Fusion performances, with Bellydance infused with different dance forms. This event will feature performances by Serkan Tutar.

Day/Date = Saturday, 3 September 2011

Time = 7.30pm to9.30pm

Venue = Singapore Airline Theatre @ LASALLE College of the Arts, 1 McNally Street

Tix are priced at $50 and $40, and are available from the BDD studio.

Workshops by Danisa in Bangkok

2011-08-11T17:20:00.004+08:00

rumPUREE is bringing in Danisa to Bangkok for workshops on the weekend of 20 & 21 August.

Workshop venue = 5th Floor, Rumpuree Amarin Plaza

Saturday, 20 August 2011 - 1.30pm to 3.00pm - Romantic Pop Choreography - THB 1000

This workshop is open to all levels.

Danisa will teach a Veil choreography to a romantic "Wael Kfoury" song, a choreography that is emotional, expressive and dynamic at the same time.

Come and enjoy a combination of Egyptian, Lebanese and Contemporary dance combinations that will free your body and soul to the melody of one of the most beautiful voices of Lebanon.

Sunday, 21 August 2011 - 1pm to 4pm - Modern Drum Solo Choreography - THB 1,500

This workshop to partipants who are considered Advanced Beginners (at least 6 months of Bellydance experience).

You will learn a drum solo routine to music by Hossam Ramzy, filled with combinations, accents, turns, poses and shimmies with a Latin Samba flavour. This high-energy cardio workshop will strengthen your body and make you sweat and laugh.

Registration to rumpuree@hotmail.com

AGB 2011 - What happened to the YouTube clips?

2011-08-11T17:02:00.002+08:00

According to the source:

There was an unplanned volunteer videographer, in addition to the 3 official videographers, who were hired and paid for under the Shine Youth Festival. So the video footage belongs to the National Youth Council, who is in charge of the Shine Youth Festival.

The volunteer V-chap didn't know this and proceeded to share his work with the world via YouTube, only to receive an advisory from the official videographers to desist and remove the YouTube clips a.s.a.p. as what he has done is considered to have infringed SYF's IP rights vis a vis video footage of AGB 2011.

So the volunteer removed the offending clips, as requested.

SYF Committee is considering compiling the footage and selling the DVDs. No indication on pricing, issue date etc etc.

I don't know whether the performers' consent was obtained with regard to selling their videotaped performances though. Anyway...this is what I heard on the grapevine...hope this helps to explain the surge and then sudden death of the AGB 2011 clips on YouTube.

Asia Global Bellydance 2011 - The Gala Night

2011-08-10T16:37:00.006+08:00

And now we come to the closing Gala night, which I thought would be a standard Gala thingy, nothing longer than 90 minutes with at least a 10 minute intermission. But it was not to be...

It started a tad late at around 8.15pm or so and ended past 10pm. Yes, another long night that made this night painful after two previous long, long nights. It was still in cattle parade style, with performers going on and off, one after another, with the emcees interjecting with short one or two liners, most of which was banal.

The parade was necessary to allow the organiser to showcase (a) the judges' calibre and (b) the extent of participation in the international segment that was held the previous night (Saturday), especially with the Guest of Honour in attendance.

I would have preferred restricting performances to (a) judges, (b) AGB winners - both solo and group reprising either one of their competition items or a totally fresh item and (c) prior year AGB winners. This way there would have been some time to talk to each performer or for the judges to give a speech if they had wanted to, on how they felt about the whole competition as a whole.

The video clips for this night and Saturday were available for viewing on YouTube for a while and were pulled shortly after, reason unknown. For some reason, YouTube still has clips of the Vietnamese group, posted by a private individual.

The performances, by category and in alphabetical order:

Judges
Sherlyn - Wahashtini and one other
Simona - Awwil Marra and one other
Sujee - Betagy Sertak and a Beledi pop
(Gina had left SG earlier on Saturday night)

Participants from Visiting Countries Who Didn't Place
India - The Group reprised their excellent fusion item, doing Indian dance to ME drum music

Malaysia
Diana - reprised her traditional number. I would have preferred Iza's tarab item.

Mongolia
Bayamar did her Peacock dance fusion item. She glued Peacock feathers to the inside of her Isis wings to simulate a Peacock tail. Top marks for ingenuity here.

Vietnam
The trio reprised their Tribal fusion item.

AGB Winners - Solo

Malaysia
Hilton Yang did a tribal fusion number to another song. Similar choreography though.

Taiwan
Ting Wan Pei reprised her Tango fusion number.

Korea
Jin Young Song did her traditional number.

AGB Winners - Solo - Under 18
Both winners from Korea reprised their traditional items.

AGB Winners - Group

Korea
The Korean team did two items. Their traditional number and another item, with Sujee, to Yearning by Raul Ferrando.

Singapore
Darren & Maia reprised their traditional number.

Le Jewelz did their fusion item.

The Singapore Bellydancer 2011 - Solo and Group

Angel Stars reprised their traditional item.

Prior Year Winners
Darren did his Contemporary fusion number followed by a drum solo routine. His item was so long.

Nadia did a fresh item this time around.

Jamila did a traditional number.

Fatema did not perform. No reason given.

Extras Extras

Singapore
The two supporting SG schools, Bellydance Discovery and Bellydance Extraordinaire, were given slots.

Yuki (BDD) did a lyrical traditional solo and also joined her girls for a group number.
The BDD troupe did a traditional number.

The BDE troupe did a traditional number, after learning the routine only that day; no advance warning given. Their Milaya number would have been a nicer addition.

Taiwan
The Taiwan team, comprising the soloists that competed earlier plus others, did 2 items - one traditional and one fusion.

The Finale
The finale must have been Yuki's brainchild because Eric Guansing did a cover of Holly Valance's Kiss Kiss (yes, that olde, olde song) accompanied by his dancers, Yuki and Yvonne of BDD.

When I first heard the strains, I thought "woo hoo...a Tarkan classic in Turkish" only to be disappointed when recognisable English words were mouthed. No comments on the accompanying dancers.

You may post your comments and if they are not vulgar, defamatory, rude or anything that will get you and I sued big time, I will publish it. In English, please.

Asia Global Bellydancer 2011

2011-08-10T15:25:00.007+08:00

This post is a long time in coming. Had to clear backlog and then wanted to clear the mind first before. And yes, it was contentious as predicted.

Participating Countries: Japan, India, Korea, Malaysia, Mongolia, Singapore, Taiwan, Vietnam

For AGB, this level of participation is a first. In prior years, participation was mainly from visiting judges' home country with maybe one or two from a neighbouring country.

Judges for Solo: The same 4 = Gina, Sherlyn, Simona, Sujee

Judges for Group: Gina had to leave early so we had Augustus Soh (GM for Singapore Street Festival), Sherlyn, Simona and Sujee

Before I go on down to the list of participants, there were a few things that struck me as odd.

First, Singapore was allowed to field only 3 soloists and 3 groups. However, this ruling was not extended to all participating countries, with a country actually fielding more than 3 soloists. This imbalance was not explained. Nor were preliminaries held to weed out weaker participants and thus keep the night short. If Singapore has to go thru preliminaries, then visiting countries should also go through the same if they choose to field more than 3 soloists.

If I felt like I was at a cattle showing on Friday night, Saturday night was worse - it started out as a prized cattle showing and degenerated into a numbing parade of homosapiens. It was scheduled to start at 7.30pm (actually started at around 7.45pm, I think) and ended past 11pm (same as Friday), leaving the audience.

Then, out of the blue, we have an Under-18 segment because a certain country decided to bring in some young talent whom they believed deserved to compete. This is despite there being no provision for an Under-18 segment, which meant Singapore had no representative. Fielding participants at a competition is not like pulling a bunch of 'magic rags' out of a sleeve - time is required to groom and train the young, otherwise they risk injury or worse.

There was no differentiation in prop usage. Yes, props are allowed but one should still be mindful. For traditional items, I would say that includes the veil (single or double), stick (simple straight wood or straight/curved candy cane), zills and other less popular accessories including the shamadan, i.e. all the stuff that an Arab would identify with our preferred dance.

Anything else would be considered Fusion. And yes, this includes Isis Wings, which is an American invention. One soloist from a visiting country opted for fanveils, which meant that she should have been disqualified straight away even if she performed to a traditional song. And Fusion props will also include the 'magic' sticks used by one of the Singapore groups. It is a convenience, yes, allowing one to blend two styles in one item but it does not make these magic sticks a traditional prop.

Having said that, it is possible, going forward in time, eventually whatever is considered Fusion today will be considered Traditional but I don't see this happening in the near future, at least in the motherland of our preferred dance. Until then, these Fusion props would be for all intent and purposes considered non-traditional.

The question arising from the lack of differentiation with regard to props (at least, for now): Were the performers who opted for an inappropriate prop penalised?

No one knew, except the judges and the organiser. Because no scores were posted for public viewing the day after so everyone can see for themselves that judges' bias, if any, was minimal (it is not possible to eliminate completely bias). No scores were announced when results were announced. And certainly, to my knowledge, scores were not shared amongst the competitors so they could judge for themselves where they stood vis a vis their fellow competitors - this is to allow them to see for themselves how well they fared, identify their weaker areas and thus improve their dance.

Time to move on to the dance proper...presenting to you the participants, in order of their appearance in the programme...can't remember the exact order anymore...it was just too much to absorb in one evening.

Solo Participants - Under 18

Sanghui Kim - Korea
A Sujee Choi student. She appears to be the oldest participant in this segment.

Sohee Park - Korea
A Sujee Choi student. This is one plucky contestant. Her music failed the first two times, mid-way. The first time, she was bewildered but just went on without the music, knowing her music and routine so well that the audience could more or less hazard what the music was like. The second time, she still gave it her best shot before the music 'died' on her and that was when she exited for a third try after the other participants had finished their items. And she still shone.

Gayeon Kim - Korea
A Sujee Choi student.

Kieu Anh - Vietnam
She appears to be part of a family of 3 performers, with her relatives (mother and older sister?) performing in the Adult segment.

Solo Participants

Yoko - Japan

Jin Young Song - Korea
She is the number one student of Sujee Choi, one of the judges, and performed at AGB 2010. She seems to be off-form this year. I recall her performance last year was superb.

Raemi Suh - Korea
Another of Sujee's students.

Hyangmi Lee - Korea
A Sujee Choi student

Diana - Malaysia

Hilton Yang ZhiJun - Malaysia
He shone in his tribal fusion item. He attempted tahtib for his traditional number but it wasn't really tahtib; more of a mish-mash of male and female stick styles.

Iza - Malaysia
The programme had her as Anne from New York! Wonder how that happened. I liked her tarab number - it stood out from the other traditional items, music-wise, and because I like tarab. That's bias for you.

Bayamar - Mongolia

Ting Wan Pei - Taiwan

Chen Chiung Yun - Taiwan
I think this was the performer who did fanveil in her traditional number. She didn't place.

Do Thi Hong Hanh - Vietnam
The big sister in the performing family?

Nguyen Huong Giang - Vietnam
The mama in the performing family?

Darren - Singapore

Miya - Singapore

Nadia - Singapore

All 3 SG representatives reprised their items from Friday night which I thought set them at a disadvantage because the judges would be reviewing the same item twice and thus would be more likely to be critical. It would have been good if they could do fresh items but it won't be easy on them.

And the winners are....

Winning Soloists - Under 18

1st - Gayeon Kim of Korea
2nd - Sohee Park of Korea

Winning Soloists - Adult

1st - Hilton Yang of Malaysia
2nd - Ting Wan Pei of Taiwan
3rd - Jin Young Song of Korea

Yes, no one from Singapore won for the Solo section. Darren was penalised for not having enough bellydance in his Contemporary fusion item. Miya, while technically strong, is not on par with the more seasoned performers. Nadia lost out probably because her two items were a tad similar, in terms of choice of music.

And now on the groups...much shorter list this time...

Group

India Bellydance
Comprising 3 persons for their Traditional item and 4 persons for their Fusion item. Again...an oddity that was not explained. No names were given but the programme lists 6 Indian soloists so the group should comprise some of these people: Abha Nesargi, Amitha Madan, Anusha Hedge, Deepthi Shetty, Harshika Amin and Tanvi Chawda.

They boo-booed for their traditional item by doing Bolly fusion number. Their Fusion number was excellent with them layering Indian dance movements on to traditional drum music.

Korea Bellydance
This group did Milaya to Habibi Ya Aini for their Fusion number. I thought they would not place at all, being penalised for doing a traditional item for their Fusion item. That's what happened to Bellydance Extraordinaire on Friday.

Anyway they placed. How?

I don't know for sure. I spent sometime with a calculator and reckoned they could have placed if they scored an almost perfect or perfect 400 for their traditional number, allowing them an edge over the other unplaced groups, but I don't recall their traditional number as spectacular. If this didn't happen, then it would appear this group was not penalised as heavily as Bellydance Extraordinaire. Or the remaining unplaced groups scored so poorly for both items such that collectively they still didn't overtake the Korean group. This incident started a lot of murmuring on the ground and I doubt serious SG competitiors will consider participating in future years.

Vietnam Bellydance
Comprising the 3 Vietnamese soloists. I liked their Tribal fusion number, with them coming on stage all togged out in 'stage peasant' wear, right down to the traditional conical rattan hats.

From Singapore:

Le Jewelz

Darren & Maia

Angel Stars

They reprised their original items. This time round, both Le Jewelz and Darren & Maia were better synced and more comfortable with their numbers.

And the winners are...

Winning Groups

1st - Darren & Maia of Singapore
2nd - Le Jewelz of Singapore
3rd - Korean Bellydance

And there you have it...the results for 2011.

Despite the contentious group results etc etc, this event is an eye opener in terms of how each country absorbs a foreign element. Bellydance is not something that is global culturally. Most non-Arab practitioners take from this dance what they believe suits them or benefits them. The minority try hard to stay true to the essence of this dance, taking their cue from the motherland of this dance: Egypt.

In this regard, it is obvious Singapore and Malaysia can be considered part of the minority, even if they do have a penchant for fusion. Taiwan seems to straddle both parties - on one hand, their choice of traditional music is repackaged with a decided western influence with none of the familiar entrance/exit music sequences. On the other hand, judging by the Taiwanese participant who used fanveils for her traditional item, Taiwan is not quite determined to tread the arduous path.

Korea, I would consider, part of the minority, even with their penchant for Arabic pop songs and selections by the Bellydance Superstars of the USA.

India is definitely with the majority for now. They take from the dance the accented moves that would flow better with their music, and therefore their culture.

Vietnam and Mongolia currently prefers the club-infused versions of traditional music, putting them with the majority. Perhaps with time, they will come to appreciate the quiet beauty of a flute taqsim.

Singapore Bellydancer 2011

2011-07-30T12:47:00.006+08:00

It's over - the search for the Singapore representatives for 2011, and as expected, it was contentious!!!

The 15 Soloists who participated last night were:

Soloists

1. Aliyah Wong Yoke Teng
2. Megu Takahashi (Jasmine) (BDD)
3. Darren Ho (Independent)
4. Hoe Chui Foong Evon (Anka) (Independent)
5. Yuko Saito (Kaya) (BDD)
6. Voo Bernice (Anah) (BDD)
7. Mandy Lim Xuan Ting (BDD)
8. Soh Chin Sien (Miya) (Bellydance Extraordinaire)
9. Venetta Wong (BDD)
10. Fatema (Independent)
11. Jenni Yuen (BDD)
12. Lu Heng Larissa (BDD)
13. Patricia Chua (BDD)
14. Nadia A. Sueoka (Independent)
15. Maggie Choo (BDD)

(Names in Bold & Purple, won in prior years)

It was a long, long night, with the participants (including the groups) hustled on and off stage one after another like a cattle showing. It wasn't until the judges left to debate the results that the audience could get up to stretch their legs for a bit.

As expressed earlier, I didn't take notes but my friend did!!! So the highlights for me are:

Commendations go to:

Jenni Yuen for a brave showing, with a shamadan no less. She looked so uncomfortable with the 'heavy' prop, yet smiled bravely. I would recommend that she learn and practise much, much more before she performs without a prop.
Maggie Choo for her 3rd time showing, again with a shamadan. She has improved a tad from last year and that's good.

The rest of the competitors, bar the prior year winners, are a blur with their poi veils, fan veils, veils and magic sticks. The 'floorwork' girl (can't remember her name now) was interesting the first time around but rather tedious when she continued with her floorwork forte in her fusion number. It would have been better if she had demonstrated her other strengths, since floorwork can only bring you so far.

My expected results for Soloists were:

1st place and 2nd place = either Darren or Fatema (it's a toss up)
3rd place = Nadia (Akiko)

But...the judges decided otherwise...in their esteemed opinions:

1st place = Darren, Independent
2nd place = Miya, Bellydance Extraordinaire
3rd place = Nadia, Independent

Congratulations to all 3 winners!!!

The exclusion of Fatema caused an immediate uproar because she was strongly expected by the audience to at least place 3rd. She definitely scored high for her traditional item but was penalised for her fusion item when she opted for a fusion of Iraqi and Egyptian dance styles, rather than the expected Chinese Dance, Jolly Bolly, Samba, Jazz, Hip Hop etc etc.

As with prior years, some of the fusion items were not as 'fusion-y' as I thought should be the case. Flapping/swirling/hefting your poi veil/fan veil/veil/magic stick around, no matter how beautiful the combination, no matter how difficult the technique, amounts to nothing if you do not dance with it. It would be like being in a Chingay or National Day Parade group showing, except for the presence of only 1 participant.

If you are wondering what Miya covered in her fusion item, I couldn't place that and had to check with that friend who faithfully recorded the details, and that stirred up some memories. Miya did a decent hip hop fusion item, all bubbly and happy.

Unfortunately the judges' decision stands, and that's a pity. Fatema would have given the Singapore team a much stronger representation tonight.

On to the Groups now...

Groups

1. Bellydance Extraordinaire, of Bellydance Extraordinaire helmed by Jamila
2. Angelstars helmed by Mandy Lim, BDD
3. Mystic Arella helmed by Jaime Sim, BDD
4. Le Jewelz helmed by Jeslyn
5. Darren & Maia

My fave groups for placing were:

Toss up between these 3 for the top 3 = Bellydance Extraordinaire, Le Jewelz and Darren & Maia

The judges' decided to award:

1st place = Le Jewelz, Independent
2nd place = Darren & Maia, Independent
3rd place = Angelstars, BDD

The exclusion of Bellydance Extraordinaire also caused an uproar with the audience. This group did an excellent Milaya for their traditional item that scored well but was penalised for their fusion item when they opted to do a more or less drum routine to a modern version of a drum routine song (i.e. lacking live drumming). As with Fatema, their exclusion weakens the Singapore Team somewhat.

Like I said, it was an exciting night!!! And tonight should be another exciting night!!!

AGB 2011 - The International Competition on 30 July

2011-07-26T17:35:00.002+08:00

Attendees and interested parties who have yet to get your tix, take note:

This event starts at 7.30pm, and not 8pm as planned, due to unexpected strong response from other countries. And there will not be an intermission so that the event can end on time at 10pm or so.

The SSF website has not published a list of international participants, apart from the Vietnam representative (at least I think she/he is from Vietnam, based on his/her name). In view of the "extra 60 minutes", the organisers should be making room for about 5 or 6 extra participants.

So, grab something to eat before making your way there or risk severe hunger pangs.

A reminder to those of you who have not purchased your tix: the 3-night package generally offers better seating so if you can spare the extra cash, get these instead of single night tix.

AGB 2011 Masterclasses - late change

2011-07-22T11:31:00.002+08:00

Participants who have or will be signing up for AGB 2011 workshops: take note of a late change.

Saturday, 30 July 2011 - 7.45am - Gina of Taiwan - Tango Fusion

Sunday, 31 July 2011 - 7.45am - Simona of Italy - Oriental Classic

Essentially both instructors swopped their slots such that they both teach their workshops on the same day rather than one workshop daily.

If you have signed up for the above workshops, Ticketbooth should have informed you by now. If you haven't heard from them, take note.

Taht el-Shibbak - Translated Lyrics

2011-07-18T18:49:00.026+08:00

This information, mainly extracted from http://www.shira.net/, and other Net sources, is for Certain Peeps who are currently learning this song in class:

A classic song, Taht el-Shibbak (aka "Under the Window or more commonly represented as Tahtil Shibbak), in the beledi style of music with many versions in existence. "Varying placement and number of repetitions of verse and chorus" means that "there is a possibility that the specific order of the lyrics show below may differ from a particular recording".

A bit on the origins of this song, as much as I could gather from the Net:

This song featured in the 1946 film, La3bet el Set (other spellings: Lehbet el Set, Libat al Sitt) (translated as "The Lady's Puppet" or "The Woman's Game"), starring Taheyya Kariokka. A video clip of her performing this song is available Here. There are similar YouTube clips on this segment, more or less around the same length.

Lyrics to this song was composed by Bade3 Khairy with music composed by Aziz Osman, who also sang the original version in the 1946 film. This version, lyrics-wise, differs from the translated version sourced from Shira.net. For one, the original version doesn't open with the "Layl" mawal; it goes straight to Chorus 1 (based on the clips I 'studied') and the song in the film appears to be way way shorter that the Shira version. I have tried to locate whether this film is still available for purchase via Arab Film without success; at least they are not offering remastered DVDs on this film for now.

Since then, many singers have sung this song, in varying versions, with Fatme Serhan 'dominating' this song. She has several versions of this song. There are also instrumental versions.

Certain Peeps (take note): I tried to identify which version you are currently learning without success. If I do find out, will let you know. But I do know that the version that you are using is NOT the one by Fatme Serhan on Best of Saidi, NOT the one on Oriental Fantasy Volume 2, NOT the one on Laura in Balady, NOT the one by Ali Kurdi and definitely NOT the instrumental version by Gizira Band on Bellydance Plus. Hope that helps some. I have tried to match the version you have with translated version listed here - go all the way down for the results.

Time for the lyrics. Here goes...

The Lyrics and Translation

Ya layli, ya a'aini, yaa, yaaa, ya layl
Oh my night, oh my eye, oh, oh, oh night
Ya layli, ya layli, yaa, yaa, yaa laylil, Yaay, yaaay, yaaa layli
Oh my night, oh my night, oh, oh, oh my night, oh, oh, oh, oh my night

(Chorus 1)
Tahtil shibbak wi-lamahtak ya gadaa'
Under the window, I caught sight of you of you, oh macho one
Baa'daha wayyaak ma itoulli ya gadaa'
What else is with you? Why don't you tell me, oh macho one?

Repeat Chorus 1

Aaaah. Repeat Chorus 1

Repeat Chorus 1

(Chorus 2)
Inta a'adate ou-saad il-bayt
You passed by in front of the house.
Inta a'adate ou-saad il-bayt
You passed by in front of the house.
Abous riglaik, la itbossi il-foua, wi-teebti il-shoua. Amanah a'alaik
I kiss your feet, please do not look up. I beg you with ardent love. It is a faithfulness on your part. Bossi wi-itdalaa' -- a'ala a'aini ya gadaa'
Look and indulge -- on my eyes, oh macho one
Ah ya salam sallem -- a'ala a'aini ya gadaa'
Oh greetings say hello -- on my eyes, oh macho one
Ah, boussi witkalam -- a'ala a'aini ya gadaa'
Ah, look and talk -- on my eyes, oh macho one
Ah ya salam saallem -- a'ala a'aini ya gadaa'
Oh greetings say hello -- on my eyes, oh macho one

Repeat Chorus 1 twice
Ba-oul haga. A'agabi a'ala bint habbait gadaa', wi-aalitlou aaseed
I say something. I wonder about a girl who loved a macho guy and told him a poem.
Ana a'agabi a'ala bint habbait gadaa', wi-aalitlou aaseed
I wonder about a girl who loved a macho guy and told him a poem.
Ana a'alayya il-firaaa, wa il-baei ghateeni
I have to separate and the rest is to cover me
Wi talaa'ito aasri a'ali. Tifarrago a'al ghaytah wa il-fagr
And she took him to a high palace to let him see the fields and the dawn
Tilaa' il-walad khanaas
It appeared the guy was bisexual
Tilaa' el-gadaa' halmaan
It appeared the macho guy was dreaming
Mahoush a'aaref
He does not know
Mahoush a'aaref
He does not know
Mish a'aref ghata wala darb
He does not know a cover or a road
Aalitlou inzel min a'al bank, mish a'alaik tighateeni
She told him to come down; you do not have to cover me

Repeat Chorus 1 twice

Khaddak tifaah, dawaani, ya gadaa'. Tifaah dabbaah housh a'ani ya gadaa'.
Your cheeks are apples; let me taste them, oh macho one. Slaughtering apples. Go away, oh macho one.

Repeat Chorus 2 Repeat Chorus 1 twice
Ba-oul ya hilwi, ya laabes el-thoub. Ana biddi atoub a'ala eiydak.
I say, oh sweet one, wearing the dress. I want to repent on your hands.
Hilwi, ya laabes el-thoub. Ana biddi atoub a'ala eiydak.
Oh sweet one, wearing the dress. I want to repent on your hands.

Youm iw nafsi garraah
A day and I am a surgeon
Youm iw nafsi garraah
A day and I am a surgeon
Aalbi miftaah, yiftah a'ala eiydak
My heart is a key that will open by your hand
A'ala shaan bahibbak a'awizni abous a'ala eiydak
Because I love you, he wants me to kiss your hands
Tab istana a'al-baab. Il-hawa ya gadaa', wa il-ghana ahwaal il-dawa ya gadaa'
Okay, wait by the door. Love, oh macho one, and enjoyment are kinds of medicine, oh macho one

Repeat Chorus 2

Repeat Chorus 1 twice

Aa-oul, ghazalah min il-reef, bi-dammi khaleef mana'einha
I say, a deer from the rural area, with light blood (lighthearted), is forbidden
Ghazalah min-il-reef, bi-dammi khaleef mana'einha
A deer from rural area, with light blood (lighthearted), is forbidden
A'ayza zroof min hadeed, lakain il-ahl mana'einha
Needs iron circumstances, but her family forbade her
Il-bint dilwaaati, bitnaeel il-gharadh bi-a'ainha
The girl nowadays, chooses things by her own eyes
Il-li ti-hibb, Il-li ti-hibb
The one she loves, the one she loves
Beeybaan il-hobb, Beeybaan il-hobb
Love will appear, love will appear
Il-hobb min a'ainha. Seeybak min il-li timshi wi-imdabdibah, -- ya a'aini
The love from her eyes. Forget about the one that walks like a bear (obese), oh my eyes

Ya layli, ya lail .... Aah ya a'aini ya layl
Oh my night, oh night .... Ah my eye, oh night
Ya layli, ya layl. Ya a'aini, ya layl
Oh my night, oh night. Oh my eye, oh night
Layli , ya layl. Ya a'aini ya layl
My night, oh night. Oh my eye, oh night
Ya layli, ya layl, ya a'aini, ya layl
Oh my night, oh night, oh my eye, oh night
Layli, layli, layli, ya layl, ya layl
My night, my night, my night, oh night, oh night

Ah ya gadaa', ah ya gadaa', ah ya gadaa'
Oh you macho one, oh you macho one, oh you macho one
Ah ya gadaa', ah ya gadaa', ah ya gadaa'
Oh you macho one, oh you macho one, oh you macho one
Ya ... Ya ... Ya gadaaaaa'
Oh ... Oh ... Oh macho one

*** End of Lyrics and Translation ***

Certain Peeps (take note): The version you are learning sounds like the original version but I can't be sure because the videoclip I watched was incomplete. Anyway... by way of stanza, your version would be (translated):

Melody Intro
Mawal - Ya Layli (only 1 line)

1st verse - this I couldn't locate in the Shira version and doesn't sound like the original film version either. Rather long... sounds like a preamble to the song, mawal fashion.

Chorus 1 (repeat twice)
Chorus 2
Chorus 1 (repeat twice)

2nd verse - Khaddak tifaah line (the bit about apples)

Chorus 2
Chorus 1 (repeat twice)

3rd verse - a short one-liner thereabouts but I couldn't locate it in Shira version

Chorus 2
Chorus 1 (repeat twice)

4th verse - Tab istana line (the bit about waiting by the door)

Chorus 2

Closing with the Ya Layli verse, as in the Shira version

Singapore Bellydancer 2011 Updated

2011-07-18T18:21:00.003+08:00

The name lists for both Solo and Group competitions are out! And ahead of time too...

For those of you who are too 'lazy' to check out www.singaporestreetfestival.com, here it is (and in colour too):

As listed on the SSF site:

Soloists

1. Aliyah Wong Yoke Teng
2. Megu Takahashi (Jasmine)
3. Darren Ho
4. Hoe Chui Foong Evon (Anka)
5. Yuko Saito (Kaya)
6. Voo Bernice (Anah)
7. Mandy Lim Xuan Ting
8. Soh Chin Sien (Miya)
9. Venetta Wong
10. Fatema
11. Jenni Yuen
12. Lu Heng Larissa
13. Patricia Chua
14. Nadia A. Sueoka
15. Maggie Choo
16. Zhu Chihong
17. Crystina

(Names in Bold & Purple, won in prior years)

Groups

1. Bellydance Extraordinaire, of Bellydance Extraordinaire helmed by Jamila
2. Angelstars helmed by Mandy Lim
3. Mystic Arella helmed by Jaime Sim
4. Le Jewelz helmed by Jeslyn
5. Darren & Maia

(P/S: Participants - if you have a web link that you would like me to post in this post, let me know. I researched as much as I could before I post this.)

Be Mesmerized by Jamila at MEDZS

2011-07-14T18:45:00.002+08:00

A bit late...sorry...

Jamila is performing at MEDZS for a limited season on these dates/days:

Friday, 15 July 2011
Saturday, 16 July 2011
Friday, 22 July 2011
Saturday, 23 July 2011
Wednesday, 27 July 2011

at 7pm, 7.45pm and 8.45pm

MEDZS is located at 181 Orchard Road, #B2-01/02/03 Orchard Central. Call 6238 9028 for reservations.

Singapore Bellydancer 2011

2011-07-14T15:54:00.002+08:00

Floating on the grapevine...with regard to the upcoming Singapore Nationals i.r.o. the Asia Global Bellydance 2011... is that at least two past winners will compete for the right to represent Singapore this year.

Of course I went to the SSF website to kapo-kapo but no update on participants except for what appears to be a Vietnamese entrant. Nothing unusual here either. Some information should trickle in closer to 29 July, hopefully.

In the meantime, if you haven't secured your tix to spectate, i.e. if you are not competing, get yours today. Try not to get the cheapest tix cos you really can't see much. Spend a bit more to see something.

Oh...one more thing. I am unlikely to write much about this year's competition cos I decided to enjoy the shows in full. Can't really enjoy when I have to focus intently on what's happening. But...never say never... I may just post interesting titbits. So if you see someone with a (hopefully hidden notebook in hand) focused intently on the stage, that is probably me with a change of mind.

All the best to the 2011 participants!!! It takes courage to perform.

See you all at the Drama Centre Theatre!!!

Wael Mansour in Kuala Lumpur!!!

2011-07-12T17:45:00.002+08:00

Brancy of Belly Fusion is bringing in Wael Mansour of Egypt for workshops from Friday, 21 October, to Sunday, 23 October 2011.

Venue for all workshops = KLPAC

Friday, 21 Oct 2011 - 2pm to 5pm - Master Class - Classical Oriental - RM150

Saturday, 22 Oct 2011

10.30am to 1.30pm - Saidi Cane - RM150 (please bring your own cane/stick)

3pm to 6pm - Modern Oriental - RM150

Sunday, 23 Oct 2011

10.30am to 1.30pm - Hagala - RM150

3pm to 6pm - Technique & Combination - RM150

Special Pricing

Register and pay in full before 1 Aug to enjoy a full package of RM500 (this does not cover the Master Class - this class is charged separately).

Enquiries and registration to Brancy at brancy@bellyfusion.com

Workshops by Percy Yeoh in September

2011-07-12T17:31:00.002+08:00

Percy Yeoh is conducting workshops on Saturday, 24 September 2011, at The Move Dance Studio, 13-3-2 Jalan Setia Prima A/U13A, Setia Alam Sek U13, 40170 Shah Alam, Selangor.

11am to 1pm - Techniques and Combinations - RM100

This workshop includes breakdown of technique as well as short dance combinations that you can use for adding variety to your dance.

2pm to 5pm - Egyptian Choreography - RM120

This workshop is a complete Oriental style choreography. You will be guided on how to express the art of Oriental style with grace, body accents and body expressions.

Technical Competency prerequisite

Participants must have experience in this dance style (no absolute or near absolute beginners please), and are encouraged to join both workshops for greater benefit.

Payment by 28 Aug 2011

To the order of Tan Syea Chee - Hong Leong Bank: 184-0000-8109
Or
To the order of Tan Syea Chee - Maybank: 1129-05-00-2729

Participants are to contact May at 019-278-7950 upon making payment and to keep bank transfer slips as proof of payment.

Enquiries to May at the above number.

Workshops by Danisa in Kuala Lumpur

2011-07-12T17:20:00.002+08:00

Danisa will be conducting Bollywood and Bellydance workshops on the weekend of 27 & 28 August at the Out Cast Dance Studio, No. 1-5 Tingkat 1, Dataran Pelangi Utama, Pelangi Utama, Jalan Masjid, PJU 6A (near to TV3 Bandar Utama).

Saturday, 27 August 2011

12.30pm to 3.30pm - Bollywood

Learn a complete exotic Bollywood choreography that you can add to your bellydance repertoire.

3.30pm to 6pm - Middle Eastern Dance rhythms for Oriental Dance - All Levels

Sunday, 28 August 2011

12.30pm to 3pm - Romantic Pop Song choreography - Beginners and above

3.30pm to 6pm - "Oriental"Choreography

Pricing

Each workshop is RM125. Early birds who register and pay in full before 1 Aug pay RM400 for all workshops.

Registration and enquiries to Brancy at brancy@bellyfusion.com

Katerina Shereen is in Singapore!!!

2011-07-05T17:05:00.002+08:00

Katerina Shereen is now in Singapore. She will be performing at Shiraz this week on the following days and times:

Tonight, 5 July 2011 = 8.30pm to 10.30pm

Wednesday, 6 July 2011 = 10.30pm to 12.30am

Friday, 8 July 2011 = 11pm to 1.30am

Saturday, 9 July 2011 = 11pm to 1.30am

Sunday, 10 July 2011 = 8.30pm to 10.30pm

Book your table at Shiraz quick quick!

The Malaysian Dance Directory

2011-06-26T15:08:00.002+08:00

A site for dance lovers and enthusiasts capturing events in Malaysia, Singapore and elsewhere, this website aims to be a hub for all dance events taking place in Malaysia first and foremost. It also lists venues offering dance classes.

Check it out if you are thinking of visiting Malaysia and want to know if there are events there that you can attend while you are there.

The link = www.thedancedirectory.com.my

Submit an event, a place to dance, a listing, an article or a photo for this page to syhoo@thedancedirectory.com.my .

They are also available on Facebook - search under "The Malaysian Dance Directory".

Fantasy Oriental Night with Serkan Tutar in Kuala Lumpur

2011-06-26T14:56:00.002+08:00

Catch Serkan Tutar in Kuala Lumpur on Friday, 16 September 2011, when he performs in the Fantasy Oriental Night, organised by Arabesque Bellydance.

Venue = Hotel Sri Petaling Ballroom

Show Time = 7pm to 10pm

Ticket = RM75/pax (includes Buffet Dinner) (available from now till 10 September)

Doors open so everyone can mingle (aka network), catch up or just soak up the dance-y vibes before the action commences.

The coolest, most creative and authentic costumes will win Prizes so come all dressed up in your Best Fantasy Oriental Costume.

Group Tix and VIP Reservations (i gather this refers to prime tables) directly to annie_arbq@yahoo.com .

(Free flow writing today compared to yesterday after a fun fun run of on-line shopping from last night to just now. Have to close the door now cos saving up for Huladom 2012!)

Yousry Sharif in Singapore in 2011

2011-06-25T15:32:00.002+08:00

Yousry Sharif is back in Singapore in September 2011, thanks to Claribel's Raks Sharki Studio.

Friday, 23 September 2011 - 7pm to 10pm - Shaabi Choreography - $160

Saturday, 24 September 2011 - 2pm to 7pm - Oriental Choreography - $270

Sunday, 25 September 2011 - 1pm to 6pm - Sagat Technique and Choreography - $270

All workshops = $580

All workshops will be held in Claribel's Raks Sharki Studio, 31A & 33A New Bridge Road (Opposite Central, Clarke Quay MRT)

Enquiries to info@bellydanceinsingapore.com .

More information available at www.bellydanceinsingapore.com .

Claribel's Raks Sharki Studio Dinner & Dance 2011

2011-06-25T15:23:00.003+08:00

Looks like October is the month for 'recitals'. Claribel's Raks Sharki studio is having their annual Dinner & Dance on Sunday, 9 October 2011, from 7pm to 11pm at Ballroom 1, Level 5, Furama City Center Hotel, 60 Eu Tong Sen Street.

Tix is priced at $60 each and covers a buffet dinner, performances, jamming, lucky draw and more.

Enquiries to info@bellydanceinsingapore.com . Tix may be purchased directly from the studio.

Bellydance Extraordinaire Extravaganza

2011-06-25T15:03:00.004+08:00

Jamila presents Bellydance Extraordinaire Extravaganza on Thursday, 6 October 2011, from 7.45pm at the UCC Theatre.

A production to showcast performances by Jamila, the Bellydance Extraordinaire troupe plus Singapore's hottest talent.

Residents of Singapore: Support your veryown local talent!

This event is co-sponsored by TEOHENG and the Novena Foundation.

Tix available at Sistic, priced at $58, $48 and $38.

Enquiries to Vivian at 9017-7507.

PS: Tix are selling very fast so get yours today quick quick if you want to catch this show.

Dance with Sandra in September in Jakarta

2011-06-25T14:57:00.003+08:00

Bellydance Jakarta is bringing in Sandra for a weekend of workshops from 24 to 25 September 2011.

Saturday, 24 September 2011

10am to 1pm - Homage to American Bellydance
This Juicy choreography pays tribute to the 20th century American fascination with bellydance. Imagine a sexier, smoother, sultrier version of I Dream Of Jeannie with a dose of kitsch, a spoonful of Egyptian Earthiness and drama!

2pm to 5pm - Dynamic Veil Choreography
Great for soloist or group performances, veil choreographies are always an audience favourite. This one is fast-paced and exciting, and builds up quick and fluid veil skills by adding variations onto traditional veil movements.

Sunday, 25 September 2011

10am to 1pm - Finger Cymbals Choreography
Finger cymbals are a fantastic way to add spice and pizzazz to your dance! This cute choreography highlights the difference cymbal patterns to take your performance to the next level.

2pm to 5pm - Drum Solo Choreography
An uptempo drum solo choreography with an even mix of technique and personality. Definitely a fantastic way to finish the show!

Pricing
1 workshop = Rp. 750.000/600.000 (BDJ Member)
2 workshops = Rp. 1.400.000/1.100.000 (BDJ Member)
Full 2 Day Workshops = Rp. 2.700.000/2.100.000 (BDJ Member)

Other Information
Spaces are limited so register before 18 September 2011.

Enquiries and reservations directly to bellydancejakarta@yahoo.com .

Ahmed Refaat in Singapore

2011-06-25T14:26:00.003+08:00

Ahmed Refaat will be in Singapore for a series of workshops on the weekend of 16 & 17 July 2011, thanks to Isis Jessica.

Saturday, 16 July 2011

10am to 12pm - Veil Technique - All Levels - $100

2pm to 5pm - Oriental Dance Choreography (with Veil Entrance) - Intermediate and Above - $120

Sunday, 17 July 2011

10am to 1pm - Shaabi (Folk) Choreography - All Levels - $120

3pm to 6pm - Saidi Choreography - Intermediate & Above - $120

The full weekend package fee is $400.

Participants who take at least 2 of the 3 hour workshops will receive a certificate of attendance. All fees paid ar non-refundable and there are limited spaces so book and pay early.

All workshops at Bolly Dancing Studio, 261 Waterloo Street, #01-12 Waterloo Centre, Singapore 180261.

Enquiries to isis_jessica@live.com .

Sonia Ochoa in the Phillipines

2011-06-25T14:17:00.002+08:00

That's D Pointe Dance Shop is bringing in Sonia Ochoa for an intensive weekend of workshops topped with a hafla with performances by Sonia and many others. All workshops at the Dance Vision Dance Studio, Madison Square, Pioneer Street, Pasig. City, Phillipines.

Saturday, 2 July 2011 - 2pm to 4.30pm - Indian Fusion (Odissi)

Sunday, 3 July 2011 - 10am to 12.30pm - New Drum Solo

Sunday, 3 July 2011 - 2pm to 4.30pm - Egpytian Pop

Prices are:

1 workshop - P3.800
2 workshops - P7.200
Full weekend - P10.200

Hafla = Sunday, 3 July 2011 - 7pm onwards - Venue TBA
Workshop participants pay P500 for entry while Guests pay P600. Your entry tix includes dinner.

Enquiries to workshops@thatsdpointe.com.ph

About Nanci Traynor

2011-06-25T13:54:00.003+08:00

Nanci will be having monthly workshops in June, July and August on a Saturday from 7pm to 9pm. June will focus on zills with Folkloric Fusion for July and Zills again for August. The workshops will cover technique and a short combo for participants' self-practice. Participants are to wear proper dance clothing, including a hip scarf.

Venue for workshops is Lightworks, 19 Jalan Mesui, Off Jalan Nagasari, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Contact her at yoga.dance.life@gmail.com for more up to date information.

Nanci also performs every Wednesday night at 9.30pm at the Palate Palette Restaurant & Bar, 21 Jalan Mesui, Off Jalan Nagasari (behind Istana Hotel), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Readers: Please drop me an email at threeagurl@yahoo.com if you know of other venues in Malaysia that have live bellydancing. I will be starting a new column on this topic. Thanks.

Serkan Tutar workshops in Singapore 3 to 11 September

2011-05-24T19:23:00.012+08:00

The dates for Serkan Tutar's Singapore stint, workshop-wise, has been brought forward to run from 3 to 11 September 2011. Nothing so far on the 24 September 2011 show - that shouldn't change, I think, as there is no clash with Yousry Sharif's workshops.

Some preamble information...

Registration is now open only to BDD members - it is open to the public on 1 Jun 2011.

The early bird discount ends on 30 June 2011. Participants enjoy the early bird discount only, be it per workshop or workshop package, with full payment by 30 June 2011.

A workshop package for 4 workshops (2 x 2 hour workshops + 2 x 3 hour workshops) is priced at $400 for Early Birds and $500 for the Public. You specify the workshops you want at the time of registration and payment - workshops are subject to availability.

Workshop space is limited so reserve your space early as registration for any workshop closes once the workshop is FULL. All workshops are 28 pax except for Veil workshops - those workshops have capacity for only 24 pax.

Workshop fees can be transferred to another person if not utilised - I presume advance notice to the organiser is required here.

NO photography & videography at all times during the workshops unless with Master Serkan's express consent.

And now on to the workshops...

1. Shimmies, Accents & Combo Technique - EB: $85 - Public: $100
Sat, 3 Sept 2011 - 12pm to 2pm or Sun, 4 Sept 2011 - 11am to 1pm

Same workshop content for both dates. This workshop will be more challenging than the 2010 version.

BDD students need to have completed Int. 1 Level while Others should have at least 1 year of experience.

2. Shaabi Dance Choreography - EB: $125 - Public: $150
Sun, 4 Sept, 2011 - 1.30pm to 4.30pm

This workshop is open to all levels.

This style is playful, flirtatious and, a little 'cheeky', with a strong folkloric influence. The movements are grounded and earthy, so less spins and big travelling steps than the Classical style.

Feet movements are mostly 'flat-footed' rather than on the ball of the feet. The movements are not complex but full of feeling. Serkan's Shaabi style is fun and funky. You will definitely enjoy this workshop.

3. Crazy Drum Solo Choreography - EB: $85 - Public: $100

Sun, 4 Sept 2011 - 5pm to 7pm

Forget about all the drum solo technique you have learnt till now with this 'crazy' drum solo. Come and enjoy Serkan's drum solo style that is modern, dynamic and never been seen before with lots of shimmies, technique and combinations, and a "crazy" drum solo choreography that is highly entertaining and technically challenging.

This workshop is open to BDD peeps who have completed Int. 1 Level. Others will require at least 1 year of experience.

4. Khalejee Technique & Choreography - EB: $125 - Public: $150

Fri, 9 Sept 2011 - 7pm to 10pm

Khalejee (meaning "of the Gulf") is a style typical of the Arabian peninsula and the Persian Gulf (think: Saudi Arabia, the Emirates, Iran and Iraq at least). This style involves a lot of footwork, "hair dancing", torso and upper body movements as well as spins. Serkan will put his unique style into a new Khalejee choreography that is fun and easy to learn.

This workshop is open to all levels.

5. Turkish Style Technique - EB: $85 - Public: $100

Sat, 10 Sept - 11am to 1pm

The Turkish style is joyous, passionate and spontaneous. It is characterised by strong hip movements, complex pelvic articulations, powerful drum solos, sensuous taqsim and interesting footwork. This workshop will cover technique (isolations, articulations, turns) and footwork typical of this style, with complete breakdown and demonstration. Serkan will also cover hand gestures and movements, derived from their Romany roots, that are unique to this style.

This workshop is open to all levels.

6. Turkish Style Choreography - EB: $125 - Public: $150
Sat, 10 Sept 2011 - 1.30pm to 4.30pm

This workshop is open to all levels.

Serkan will teach a complete Turkish style choreography with extended veil work. You will learn how to distinguish the unique Turkish style from the Egyptian style. To benefit more from this workshop, participants are encouraged to first attend Workshop 5.

Participants are to bring their own veils - A Silk Veil is Preferred.

7. Turkish Gypsy Choreography - EB: $125 - Public: $150

This style is totally difference from Bellydancing as it works on a different rhythm meter (the 9/8 rhythm) and it has its own unique technique, combinations, feel, figure 8s and expressions. Come and enjoy Turkish Gypsy dance, and learn a full choreography - a unique experience.

This workshop is open to all levels.

8. Veil Technique - EB:$85 - Public: $100 - 24 Pax ONLY

Sun, 11 Sept 2011 - 11am to 1pm

One of the more popular props due to its inherent beauty and grace, this prop has two broad based styles: classical or modern, each with its own plus points. Serkan will cover both styles, allowing you to learn how to create a magical and visually stunning veil dance.

Participants should have at least some veil experience while BDD-ians should have completed Int.1 Level.

Participants are to bring their own veils, preferably silk.

9. Veil Choreography - EB: $85 - Public: $100 - 24 Pax ONLY

Sun, 11 Sept 2011 - 1.30pm to 3.30pm

This workshop is in response to last year's overwhelming demand. Participants will cover a full veil choreography.

Technical requirements are as per as Workshop 8.

10. SUPER Crazy Drum Solo - EB: $125 - Public: $150

Sun, 11 Sept 2011, 4pm to 7pm

This is a more challenging choreography compared to the earlier drum solo workshop. Register ASAP to confirm your spot as this workshop should be very popular.

Registration/ETC

Registration and payment on-line Here.

Enquiries to BDD at 6323-0508 or clarice@bellydance.com.sg

4 December 2011

2011-05-24T18:37:00.005+08:00

Fatema is organising a mini concert cum recital on Sunday, 4 December 2011, at the Jubilee Hall, Raffles Hotel. (This event was previously scheduled for Sunday, 13 November 2011 at Alliance Francais).

(See poster on left for details)

Tix available from Azalea @ Dance On Us @ Claymore Hill. Text (SMS) her at 9670-3687 to make an appointment for tix purchase.

Cash only. No NETs, No Credit Cards, No Debit Cards, No Cheques. Just CASH. Exact change appreciated.

Do support our very own industry by catching this event.

The Ticket Booth Experience

2011-05-12T20:00:00.000+08:00

Tix sales for the upcoming Asia Global Bellydance 2011, organised by the Singapore Street Festival team, has started with Ticketbooth managing tix sales - an improvement on last year's tix sales strategy.

Yesterday's experience was rather harrowing though as the system kept reflecting single tickets to all 3 days of competition/gala as sold out! Fortunately I was more interested in the bundle packages so I managed to secure the requisite number of bundles, after some effort.

It turns out that Ticketbooth's system was not correctly set up for single tix sales hence the "Sold Out" message. This glitch has now been fixed so no more worries here.

Some information that is not immediately obvious on both the SSF and Ticketbooth websites:

(a) Purchasers of the Ultimate Package ($380) that offers all shows and all masterclasses will be assigned one of the best seats in the venue by the SSF Organiser. So don't panic if your purchase does not reflect a reserved seat number on your on-line purchase confirmation. You can opt to choose your seat by calling Ticketbooth and requesting your preferred seat, upon confirmation of your purchase of the Ultimate Package. Seat allocation will depend on seat availability. Obviously, the earlier you purchase and request, the better your chances of great seats.

(b) Purchase of single tix to the shows (competition and gala) will be allocated the not so yummy seats in the venue. I just tried it on-line just now and the assigned seat was definitely No-Way. I am not sure if you can change the assigned seat by calling up Ticketbooth. Maybe you may want to call up or go in person to purchase single tix.

(c) Purchasers of the 3-show Bundle will be assigned a seat that is better than that for the single tix but not in my experience, as good as the ones reserved for the Ultimate Package. You can try calling up to change your assigned seat - no guarantees on this.

And...Kudos to the Ticketbooth Manager for her great service yesterday. The call service was disappointing but the Manager more than made up for the lacklustre response.

Enthusiasts, get your tix today. Don't wait till the very last minute if you are particular about getting good seats.

Bellydance with Shereen in Jakarta

2011-05-10T18:31:00.003+08:00

Shereen, who was recently crowned "Bellydancer of the Universe 2011" and is renowned worldwide for her baladi, will be conducting workshops in Jakarta in July 2011.

Saturday, 30 July 2011

10am to1pm - Workshop 1 - Technique & Combinations

Shereen's precise technique and flowing combinations will have you hypnotized. A fantastic and generous teacher, learn her signature style and graceful transitions.

2pm to 5pm - Workshop 2 - Saidi Pop Choreography

Traditionally a dance for me from Upper Egypt, Shereen will teach a modern feminine choreography using the Assaya (stick).

Sunday, 31 July 2011

10am to 1pm - Workshop 3 - Classical Raks Sharki Choreography

One of Shereen's signature style is a clean, elegant, sensual and feminine Classical Raks Sharki. Teaching Egyptian style raks sharki, this choreography will showcase all of Shereen's beautiful technique and combinations.

2pm to 4pm - Workshop 4 - Baladi Pop Choreography

Baladi, the traditional dance of the people, is modernized in this fun choreography.

Fee Structure (Public/BDJ Member)

1 Workshop = Rp. 750.000/600.000
2 Workshops = Rp. 1.400.000/1.100.000
Full 2 Day Workshops = Rp. 2.700.000/2.100.000

Spaces are limited so please register and pay in full before 16 July 2011 to secure your place.

Hafla on Saturday, 30 July 2011 from 11pm to 2am!

BDJ is organising a Hafla in honour of Shereen's 2011 visit to Jakarta at the Amigos Restaurant, Bellagio Mall. There will be performances by Shereen, Christine Yaven, the Bellydance Jakarta Dancer plus live drumming. Entrance fee is only RP50.000 - after that everything is Dutch so you order what you want from Amigos' ala carte menu.

Enquiries and reservations to BDJ at mailto://bellydancejakarta@yahoo.com .

Bahebbik Jakarta

2011-05-10T18:20:00.002+08:00

As part of the Jakarta Anniversary Festival IX 2011, Bellydance Jakarta and Gedung Kesenian Jakarta will present a Night of Love - Bahebbik Jakarta ("I Love You Jakarta").

This event focuses on BDJ's interpretation of some of the greatest love songs ever written in the Middle East. From timeless compositions to modern day tales of love, come and enjoy a beautiful night with Christine Yaven, Indonesia's Bellydance Icon, & The Bellydance Jakarta Dancers PLUS live music from an Arabic Band, El Wahda.

Another milestone for BDJa first-ever Indonesian production of professional LIVE Arabic music with professional bellydance.

Date: Wednesday, 22 June 2011
Time: 7.30pm (Doors open at 7pm)
Tickets: Rp. 150.000, 100.000, 75.000

Tix sales and more information on this event available at:

GKJ Ticket Box = (021) 380 8283

Bellydance Jakarta = bellydancejakarta@yahoo.com or call 0817 981 3346

Mercedes in Kuala Lumpur

2011-05-05T18:02:00.002+08:00

From Alor Setar, Mercedes moves on down to Kuala Lumpur for workshops on the weekend of 26 & 27 November 2011.

Saturday, 26 November 2011 - 6 hours - RM300

11am to 1pm - Oriental Technique & Combo

Express your feelings on the stage through creativity and develop your true Oriental technique in an inspired way.

2pm to 6pm - Choreography

Modern Egyptian raqs sharqi style choreography with veil. For intermediate to professional participants only.

Sunday, 27 November 2011

11am to 2pm - Drum Solo Technique & Choreography - RM150

Egyptian modern cabaret drum solo - technique and choreography, very new ideas and elements.

3pm to 6pm - Classical Egyptian Raqs Sharqi Choreography - RM 150

Classical Egyptian raqs sharqi style choreography to a famous Egyptian song with old and new elements, lots of emotional parts.

Special Package

All workshops = RM600 or RM500 if you register and pay in full by 25 Oct 2011

Payment and other information

All workshops at Studio 5, KLPAC, Sentul Park, Jalan Strachan, 51100 Kuala Lumpur.

Payment by cheque or cash to Arabesque Belly Dance Centre or to EON Bank account: 0077-10-014645-7.

Registration/Enquiries to Annie at annie_arbq@yahoo.com or check out www.arabesquebellydance.com.my .

Mercedes Nieto in Alor Setar

2011-05-05T17:31:00.004+08:00

Mercedes Nieto is coming to Malaysia in November 2011. She kicks off her Malaysian tour with a show and workshops in Alor Setar, Kedah, from Friday, 18 Nov 2011, to Sunday, 20 Nov 2011.

4th Annual Exotic Raqs Sharqi Gala Show

Saturday, 19 November 2011
7.30pm to 11.30pm
Putra Ballroom, Sentosa Regency Hotel

Tix = RM60/50/40 per pax (special discontof RM50 per table of 10 persons)

You get an 8-course Chinese set dinner, performances by Mercedes, the Arabesque troupe and other guest stars.

The Workshops

Friday, 18 Nov 2011

6.30pm to 8.30pm - RM150

Modern Cairo style choreography to an emotional and popular song (Saber El Robaay) for Intermediate and Advanced participants.

Sunday, 20 Nov 2011

11am to 2pm - RM150

Cairo-style baladi for Intermediate & Advanced participants

3pm to 6pm - RM150

Modern Egyptian with Contemporary Dance Technique & Choreography. This workshop is for all levels.

Special Packages

All workshops = RM400 provided you register and pay in full by 25 October 2011

Payment and Other Information

All workshops at the Music System Imagemart (next to Amanah Saham Bank), 2nd Floor, No. 26 Susuran Shahab Perdana, Mergong Alor Setar, Kedah Darul Aman.

Payment by cash or cheque to Arabesque Bellydance Centre or EON Bank account: 0077-10-014645-7.

Registration/Enquiries to Annie Ong at annie_arbq@yahoo.com or check out www.arabesquebellydance.com.my .

Oriental Dance Night

2011-05-05T17:25:00.003+08:00

Zahira and her students will be having a Recital on Saturday, 18 June 2011, at the Multi Purpose Hall of the Kampong Glam CC, 385 Beach Road.

The fun starts from 7.30pm till 9pm.

Tix are priced at $12 for Adults with the Passion Card, $6 for Children (aged 3 to 12 years) and $18 for non-members. Tix available from Kampong Glam CC. Tix sales will close on 11 June 2011.

This event features performances by Zahira and her students, guest performances by Annie Ong and Emily Mah, food, games and a lucky draw.

Attendees: Please note = Strictly NO Photography and Videography at any time during the Recital.

22 May 2011 - a Dance Recital

2011-04-15T18:01:00.003+08:00

Dance On Us is having their 2011 student recital on Sunday, 22 May 2011, at the Khoo Auditorium, Singapore Chinese Girls School. The recital is in two parts:

Junior Recital, featuring the sweeties from 3 to teens - 4pm to 5.30pm

Adult Recital, featuring teens to adults - 6pm to 7.30pm

Enthusiasts who support amateur performers may want to catch the Adult Recital as it will feature performances by students of Fatema, Hsiao Min and Kyoko. The Adult Recital will also offer other dance genres including Flamenco and Contemporary Dance.

Tix are priced at $30 per head for each Recital. If you catch both Recitals, it will be $50 per head. Tix available at Dance On Us. Call ahead to 6737-4466 to ensure the office is manned before making your way there to purchase tix. Cash payment only.

Minna Issho! Dance Buffet

2011-04-15T17:53:00.003+08:00

This is a late post for those of you who do not already know. Minna Issh is organising a Dance Buffet in conjuction with Give.sg and Bellydance Discovery on 16 April to raise funds in aid of the recent Japanese earthquake/tsunami. Details available Here. And yes...I know this event does run in, time-wise, with the other 16 April charity event at the Far East Plaza. I suppose enthusiasts can do this from 10am to 4pm, grab a bite, then run over to the FEP event that starts from 5pm to 10pm. That way you get to attend both events and also get plenty of exercise in the process.

You Are Not Alone

2011-04-04T19:36:00.002+08:00

A fund-raiser concert initiated by Youths in Singapore to raise funds for the victims of the recent Japanese earthquake and tsunami, this event takes place on Saturday, 16 April 2011, at the Level 2 Atrium of Far East Plaza, from 5pm to 10pm.

Artists & Performers include:
Jacintha Abisheganaden
Robert Fernando
Rani Singham
Rahimah Rahim
Erick Guansing
Princess Jean
Glen Tiew
Supraja
Rahul Advani
Ng Family
Eva Guerrero Hreins
Jill Sita Fraser
Leila Tolari
Pervy Boys
Moochie Mac and SuperFriends
Zerodia
Stolen
Davin's Band
BELLYDANCE
Spinworkx Yoyo
Street Magicians

The aim is to raise S$100,000! No Gift Is Too Small. Every Gift Counts.

All proceeds to the Singapore Red Cross Society for the Japan Disaster 2011.

Donation cheques to be made out to "Singapore Red Cross Society" with the notation of "Japan Disaster 2011 Fund" on the back of the cheque.

You can drop your cheque at Far East Plaza on 16 April itself or mail your cheque to 118 Faber Terrace, Singapore 129069.

MY Oriental Dream

2011-04-04T19:27:00.002+08:00

Sirocco Secrets Dance presents a celebration of their students' personal achievements in learning to express themselves through the motion and movement of Middle Eastern Oriental Dance on Saturday, 7 May 2011.

This event starts at 3pm at MAP@ Publika, Level G2-01, Block A5 Dutamas 1, Jalan Dutamas 1, Off Jalan Duta, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Tix are priced at RM30, RM40 and RM50. 15% of ticket profit goes to AWAM - All Women's Action Society, a non-profit organisation for abused women.

This event is open to ALL, especially friends and family of the performers.

Ticket purchase from Sirocco Secrets - click the link (above) for details.

Sherlyn at Rumpuree in April 2011

2011-03-30T19:34:00.002+08:00

Sherlyn will be teaching a workshop at Rumpuree on Saturday, 9 April 2011, from 2pm to 4pm. Entry fee is THB1000.

This workshop focuses on a Lebanese pop choreography to a beautiful and romantic song. Expressive, emotional and beautiful, this choreography incorporates both Egyptian and Lebanese elements.

Register by emailing Rumpuree at rumpuree@hotmail.com .

Full information is available Here.

Mercedes Nieto in Malaysia

2011-03-30T16:24:00.002+08:00

Arabesque Bellydance will be hosting Mercedes Nieto for a series of workshops 'n show in Alor Setar and Kuala Lumpur.

Alor Setar

18 & 20 November 2011 - Workshops

19 November 2011 - Raqs Sharqi Gala Show

Kuala Lumpur

26 & 27 November 2011 - Workshops

More details posted once firm.

Asia Global Bellydance 2011 - The Masterclasses

2011-03-30T15:41:00.004+08:00

This post covers the Masterclasses that will run on the weekend of 30 & 31 July 2011. If you are not interested in the Masterclasses, skip this post.

The Dates, in brief: Weekend of 30 & 31 July 2011

Venue for all Workshops: Flow Dance Studios, Level 2 *Scape National Youth Centre, 113 Somerset Road (between National Youth Council and Scape Youth Park)

Maximum number of Participants per session: 30
on a first pay, first come, first get slot - see why below. STRICTLY NO OBSERVERS

Registration for Workshops: Opens 30 minutes before each workshop so the first 30 who register gets to go in, unless you have paid for and indicated in advance workshops of your choice.

Workshop Pricing

2 whole days of Masterclasses - all sessions - S$320

Choice of 6 Masterclasses - S$250

Choice of 3 Masterclasses - S$140

Workshop packages can now be purchased on-line from Ticketbooth. Upon successful on-line purchase of workshop package, contact Ticketbooth to indicate preferred workshops (even if you bought the complete 2 day program). The first 30 who pay and 'chope' get to go in.

For Phone or in person purchases, do remember to indicate the workshops you want in case the person serving you forgets to ask.

Saturday, 30 July 2011

7.45am to 10.15am - Gina of Taiwan - Tango Fusion
(previously Simona of Italy offering Oriental Classic, change effected 21 July 2011; informed by Ticket Booth)

10.30am to 1pm - Sherlyn of Malaysia - Lebanese Pop

1.15pm to 3.45pm - Sujee of Korea - Egyptian Baladi

4pm to 6.30pm - Gina of Taiwan - Tribal Fusion

Sunday, 31 July 2011

7.45am to 10.15am - Simona of Italy - Oriental Classic
(formerly Gina of Taiwan offering Tango Fusion; change effected 21 July 2011; informed by Ticketbooth)

10.30am to 1pm - Sujee of Korea - Pop Belly

1.15pm to 3.45pm - Simona of Italy - Flamenco Arabo

4pm to 6.30pm - Sherlyn of Malaysia - Lebanese Drum Solo

Asia Global Bellydance 2011 - Info on The Competitions and The Gala Show

2011-03-29T20:20:00.006+08:00

This post would be more relevant for Participants who are either competing or who have been invited to perform in the Gala Show

The Dates in Brief:
Singapore National Competition - Friday, 29 July 2011, from 8pm
Asia Global Bellydance 2011 Competition - Saturday, 30 July 2011, from 8pm
Asia Global Bellydance 2011 Gala Show - Sunday, 31 July 2011, from 8pm

Venue for all 3 Events = Drama Centre, National Library Building, Bras Basah Road

The Singapore "National" Competition on Friday, 29 July 2011

Some basic information for now (more to come later)

4pm = Participants report for sound check and rehearsal

6pm to 7pm = Dinner break

7.40pm = Seating commences for Audience

8pm = Competition starts

Solo Champion wins air ticket (only) to the Nagwa Fouad Cup in Korea

Group Champion (max 6 pax) wins air tickets (only) to the Nagwa Fouad Cup in Korea

The Asia Global Bellydance 2011 Competition on Saturday, 30 July 2011

4pm = Sound Check and Rehearsal for participants

6pm to 7pm = Dinner break

7.40pm = Seating commences for Audience

8pm = Competition commences

Solo Champion wins US$1000

Group Champion wins US$3000

The Asia Global Bellydance 2011 Gala Show on Sunday, 31 July 2011

1pm = Performers start arriving for Sound Check and Rehearsal

6pm to 7pm = Dinner break

6.30pm = Pre Show Reception

7.40pm = Seating commences for Audience

8pm = Show commences

**** More information on the Competitions ****

Full information on SSF Website. Additional information recently released:

For both Solo and Group categories, contestants have to do 2 items as in prior years: One Traditional and One Fusion.

Timing-wise: Soloists get 3 minutes per item and Groups get 4 minutes per item. This is an improvement over prior years.

Nothing on judging criteria but I suspect it will be more or less like last year.

Asia Global Bellydance 2011 - The Shows

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This 'local' event has grown in stages since its inception in 2006. In 2011, it will be a full blown affair with a gala show, local 'Singapore' competition, Asia competition and master classes. Of course, this also means that it will no longer be a "Free" event as it used to be, which is to be expected in view of its growth from a 'basic' event to one that can be considered 'complete'.

The dates:

Singapore "National" Competition = Friday, 29 July 2011, at 8pm

Asia Global Competition = Saturday, 30 July 2011, at 7.30pm
(brought ahead by 30 minutes due to unexpected strong participation from other countries; it should be a good good night)

Asia Global Gala Show = Sunday, 31 July 2011, at 8pm

The Venue: Drama Centre, National Library Building, Bras Basah Road

The Pricing:

The Ultimate Package - S$380
Ticket to both Singapore and Asia Global Competitions
Entry to Pre-Gala Show Reception
Ticket to the Gala Show
2 Days Unlimited Masterclasses

The Shows Only Package - S$60 (limited to 150 pax)
Ticket to both Singapore and Asia Global Competitions
Entry to Pre-Gala Show Reception
Ticket to the Gala Show

Just The Gala Show - $45

Just The Asia Global Competion - $20

Just The Singapore Competition - $15

Participants = Information on the Competitions/Gala Show is available Here and the Masterclasses can be viewed Here.

Tix sales now open, available at Ticketbooth.

Serkan Tutar goes to KL in September

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Arabesque Bellydance is bringing in Serkan Tutar for a series of workshops during the weekend of 17 & 18 September 2011.

Venue for all workshops = Studio 5, KLPAC, Sentul Park, Jalan Strachan, 51100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Saturday, 17 September 2011

11am to 2pm - Crazy Drum Solo - RM180

Forget about the drum solo technique that you have learnt till now with this "crazy" drum solo. Come and enjoy Serkan's drum solo style that is modern, dynamic and never been seen before with plenty of shimmies, technique, combinations and a "crazy" drum solo choreography.

3pm to 6pm - Baladi Pop or Pop Oriental - RM150

With a piece of interesting rhythmic music, Serkan has choreographed a fun and impressive choreography with a good mix of Turkish and Arabic technique and combinations. You will have fun learning and dancing while the audience have fun watching.

Sunday, 18 September 2011

10am to 2pm - Crazy Veil Dance - RM200

See and learn the magic of both classical and modern styles of veil technique. Some prefer classical technique while others prefer modern styling. Since both styles have their unique flavour, come and learn Serkan's magical and visually stunning veil choreography that includes both classical and modern styles.

3pm to 6pm - Turkish Style Bellydance with with Egyptian and Fusion Elements - RM150

Let's go deeper into the Turkish style of bellydance. The Turkish style has many types of travelling steps, different ways of using Figure 8s and Taqsim movements as well as different technique. Serkan will share with you the differences between Turkish and Egyptian styles by way of explanation, demonstration and incorporation into a choreography that has REAL Turkish style bellydance using Turkish technique and choreography as well as Egyptian and fusion elements.

Special Packages

All Workshops (31 August 2011 onwards) = RM680

Early Birds who register and pay in full before 15 August 2011 = RM550

Early Birds who register and pay in full between 15 August 2011 and 30 August 2011 = RM600

Registration and Enquiries to: Annie Ong at annie_arbq@yahoo.com .

Private classes are also available. Contact Annie Ong to book your slot.

Egyptian Saidi with Nigma in Kuala Lumpur

2011-03-19T13:42:00.002+08:00

Nigma will be in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on Sunday, 8 May 2011, for an Egyptian Saidi Masterclass. Workshop runs from 10am to 1pm and then from 2pm to 6pm, totalling 6 hours.

This workshop covers both technique and choreography.

Full details Here .

Bellydance Professional Training for Dancers & Teachers in KL - Section 1

2011-03-19T13:35:00.002+08:00

Nigma will be conducting Section 1 of her Professional Training for Dancers & Teachersin Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 30 April 2011 to 7 May 2011. Lessons run from 9am to 1pm and then from 2pm to 6pm daily, totalling 64 hours.

Full details available Here or Here.

Gambatte! Japan from Singapore

2011-03-15T18:51:00.003+08:00

This is a SG fund-raiser for victims of the recent tsunami/earthquake in Japan.

Organised by Vivid Creations, Wakyo-kai Singapore, Ayaschool and Blu Jaz, this event is charity-partnered by Merci Relief and supported by COMM Pte Ltd, media-wise.

The kick-off will be this Thursday, 17 March 2011, at BluJaz with all 3 floors dedicated to music and dance, as follows:

1st Floor = Jungle Jam for Japan (person in charge: Aya Sekine)
2nd Floor = DJs Jam (person in charge: Kentaro Taniguchi)
3rd Floor = Dancers Jam! (person in charge: Kyoko Abe)

The fun kicks off at 6pm to 1am. 3rd floor activities run from 7pm to 1am.

As this is a 'dance' blog, I will be focusing on the 3rd floor.

Okay... dance performances will run the gamut from Hip Hop to Hula to Tango. Of course, there will be some bellydance but do not expect it to be mostly bellydance. Plus the dance floor will be open for jamming too.

If you can support this event, do so.

Said Al Amir in KL come July 2011

2011-03-15T18:29:00.005+08:00

Said el Amir will be doing his 2011 Asia tour from 14 July to 1 August, covering Beijing, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur.

I don't have all the dates but what I have is:

Kuala Lumpur = 23 and 24 July 2011, organised by Sherlyn - Details below.

Hong Kong = organised by Suzette Ackermann

Beijing = organised by Yao of www.dupiwupeixun.com

** Workshops in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia - managed by Sherlyn **

Saturday, 23 July 2011

11am to 3pm - Pop Choreography - RM200

Smooth and tender yet dynamic and powerful are the attributes for Balady moves and songs. This famous song called "Habibi Ya Eini" by Nourhanne is so typical Egyptian/Lebanese pop taht you can't help being touched by it. The choreography fits exactly to the lyrics and the music - You'll love it.

4pm to 6pm - Drum Solo - RM150

Cool accents, great isolations, nice stage moves and great effects - any more questions? This is going to rock the house - and hips ;)

Sunday, 24 July 2011

11am to 2pm - Pop Baladi - RM150

"Ariftu Albi Lami" a song by Egypt's most popular Lebanese singer, Najwa Karam. This song is - how else could it be - all about love!"Do You Know Who's Owning My Heart"

Said el Amir is famous for his perfect interpretation of Arabic lyrics in songs - come and get the feeling of Middle Eastern Balady pop songs!

3pm to 6pm - Raks Sharki - RM150

Great elegance, sexy moves, beautiful combinations and fantastic interpretation of the music will make you feel like a queen of bellydance. Get a professional raqs sharqi performance with excellent technique and fantastic stage moves.

ATTENTION: Risk of Addiction;)

Fee Structure

Early bird discount for all workshops - RM550 - for participants who register and pay in full before 12 June 2011. Otherwise, the all-workshop package is priced at RM600.

Venue: Studio KLPAC, Sentul Park, Jalan Strachan, 51100 Kuala Lumpur (www.klpac.com)

A cerfiticate of attendance will be given to all participants who successfully complete all workshops.

Payment

Direct to Sherlyn via Bank Transfer. Details available on her site - Here.

Professional Training for Dancers & Teachers by Nigma in Bali

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Nigma will be conducting Levels 1 and 2 Professional Training for Dancers & Teachers in Bali, Indonesia on these dates:

3 to 12 June 2011 - Level 1: Middle Eastern Dance Foundation (64h) - Details Here or Here

11 June 2011 - Bellydance Hafla & Dinner

11 to 20 June 2011 - Level IIA: Musical & Choreographical Forms in MED (56h) - Details Here or Here

2 September 2011 - Bellydance Hafla & Dinner

2 to 11 September 2011 - Level IIB: Musical & Choreographical Forms in MED (56h) - Details Here or Here

Magic of Bellydance Retreat with Nigma in Bali

2011-03-15T17:30:00.002+08:00

Head over to Bali for a magical Bellydance retreat over the weekend of 20 May to 22 May 2011 (Friday to Sunday) organised by Nigma if you to combine hafla, bellydance and relaxation all in one weekend.

Friday, 20 May 2011 - Hafla & Dinner

Saturday, 21 May, n Sunday, 22 May - 12 hours of instruction covering:
Creative Veil for Raqs Sharqi & a 1001 Rhythms Drum Solo

Full details available Here or Here.

Complete Course by Nigma in Jakarta over 2011

2011-03-15T16:44:00.003+08:00

Nigma will be conducting a full Bellydance course, from Basics to Mastery, throughout 2011 in Jakarta, Indonesia. This course is targeted at participants who are only free on weekends and will be conducted over 5 weekends with at least one month in between sessions for participants' individual practice.

The sessions are:

23 to 24 April 2011 - Levels 1 and 2 (14 hours)
28 to 29 May 2011 - Levels 3 and 4 (14 hours)
25 to 26 June 2011 - Levels 5 and 6 (14 hours)
24 to 25 September 2011 - Levels 7 and 8 (14 hours)
29 to 30 October 2011 - Levels 9 and 10 (14 hours)
26 to 27 November 2011 - Levels 11 and 12 (14 hours)

Saturdays: 12.30pm to 3.30pm 'n 4.30pm to 8.30pm (7 hours)
Sundays: 9am to 12pm 'n 1pm to 5pm (7 hours)

Full details available Here or Here.

Nigma's March workshops

2011-03-14T19:39:00.005+08:00

Nigma will be teaching in Bangkok, Thailand, on these dates:

Sunday, 27 March 2011: Dancing to Middle Eastern Rhythms

10am to 1pm - Combos and Oriental Choreography

with Malfouf, Maqsoum, Masmoudi Soughayar/Baladi, Rumba Masri/Bolero & Wahda

2pm to 5pm - Drum Solo Workshop

with Saidi, Fellahi, Masmoudi Soughayar vs. Masmoudi Kebir & Mosalas

Venue = New International School of Thailand ("NIST"), Aerobic Room of the Sports Pavilion, 36 Sukhumvit Soi 15, Bangkok 10110, Thailand

Full details available Here.

Monday, 28 March 2011, to Sunday, 3 April 2011 -
Professional Teacher Training for Dancers & Teachers:
Section IIA - Musical & Choreographical Forms in MED (56 hours)

This section covers Baladi, Egyptian Shaabi, Oum Kalthoum, Entrance-Presentation & Finale in Raqs Sharqi.

Full details available Here. If the link fails, try This.

Malaysia 4th Belly Dance Day

2011-03-14T18:47:00.005+08:00

Co-organised by Brancy of Belly Fusion and Conny of Zero Fitness, the theme for this year's charity event is Harmony 2011 running from Friday, 13 May 2011, to Sunday, 15 May 2011. The 2011 beneficiary is the Handicapped & Mentally Retarded Children Centre Selangor.

The Show, Saturday 14 May 2011

Time = 5pm to 9pm

Venue = Ministry of Sound, Sunway Lagoon Resort, Selangor, Malaysia

This year's show features Yael Zarca of France and professional bellydancers from all over the world. Tix purchase and enquiries to Brancy at brancy@bellyfusion.com or Conny at limconny@yahoo.com .

The Workshops, Friday 13 May 2011, and Sunday, 15 May 2011

Venue = Bangsar Village II, Celebrity Fitness, 3rd Floor, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Friday, 13 May 2011

2pm to 4.30pm - Raks Assaya - Technique & Choreography - RM125

Work will focus on technique, the earthy style and its specific attitudes as well as a stick choreography with folkloric influences.

6.30pm to 9.30pm - Modern Sharqi Technique & Choreography a la Yael - RM150

Yael combines the Egyptian heritage with more modern influences, adding her own personal touch. Work on technique specifically used by Yael followed by choreography.

Sunday, 15 May 2011

10.30am to 1.30pm - Drum Solo Technique and Choreography - RM150

A drum solo is the performance climax often looked forward to by the audience. It is a must in a routine, and a good dancer must master it to perfection. Work will focus on drum solo technique and a playful choreography.

3pm to 6pm - Shaabi Technique and Choreography - RM150

An earthy, playful and popular style, the Egyptian Shaabi is a style of music and the dance should be done accordingly. Work will include technique and choreography based on this popular, uplifting and happy style in which hips and acting plays an important part.

Workshop Package

Early birds who register for all workshops before 1 April 2011 pay only RM500.

Workshop registration and enquiries to Brancy and Conny at the above emails. Act fast. Spaces limited.

Ruby Mandala

2011-03-14T18:23:00.003+08:00

Keti Sharif will be in town for a Ruby Mandala workshop on Monday, 28 March 2011, from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at the Bedok Kampong Chai Chee Centre. Details and booking available on-line Here.

For Her Eyes Only

2011-03-14T17:32:00.002+08:00

is happening Saturday, 19 March 2011, from 6.30pm to 11pm at the Min Fes Cafe, 19-1n Jalan PJU 7/7A, Mutiara Damansara (near the Curve), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

This is a women-only event organised by El Warda.

Entry fee is RM75 (seats are limited so get your tix today if you have not already done so) available from El Warda. Contact El Warda at elwardaevent@gmail.com .

Your tix gets you FREE henna painting, delicious Moroccan food, performance by Huda, a tabla drumming session by Naziehah plus a Middle-Eastern dance workshop, all these within the beautiful atmosphere of Min Fes Cafe.

Plus...a lucky draw for 3 spa treatments, courtesy of the Hammam Min Fes.

The dress code is "Be Creative" - think flowing robes, layers and colours, sheer veils and freedom of movement. Anything goes as long as you feel comfortable.

Congratulations to

2011-03-14T16:51:00.004+08:00

Katerina Shereen on being crowned "Bellydancer of the Universe 2011" recently in the USA. She will be conducting workshops in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on the 2 and 3 July 2011, and in other parts of Asia after that. Details on her KL workshops available Here.

She will also be performing at Shiraz on Saturday, 9 July 2011, so chope your tables quick quick. A quick reminder that her workshops in Singapore are private so contact the organiser directly if you want to be part of them, i.e. if you know who the organiser is. I do but won't be listing it here as the workshops are privately managed.

On the local front, congratulations to Joey and Kevy and to their groups for placing in the recent PA National Travelling Dance Competition @ Chingay 2011. The Jewels, a group headed by Joey Bay, was among the 3 Other Winners and was awarded a Title Honour Certificate, which came with a $1,500 cash prize.

The Desert Moon Dance International, a group headed by Kevy, was placed within the top 6 Contingents and was awarded a Title Honour Certificate, which came with a $1,000 token cash award to the Chief Trainer.

Hadia's magical Javenese Retreat

2011-02-09T19:35:00.005+08:00

For ladies who prefer a more private setting for their workshops, then consider Hadia's magical Javenese retreat that runs from 3pm on Saturday, 16 April 2011, to 6pm, Sunday, 20 April 2011.

For US$399 (early bird special, payment by 28 Feb 2011) or US$499 (regular price), participants will enjoy 5 days of semi-private master instruction plus individual sessions with Hadia, in Bellydance Jakarta's beautiful and professional full facility air-conditioned studio, located at the Bellydance Jakarta Center, Jalan Mas Putih, Blok D-48 Permata Hijau, Jakarta, Indonesia.

Your fee covers:

20 hours of exclusive semi-private classes with Hadia, with content including her Ultimate Technique, rhythm and music study, choreography, style and presentation
Individual coaching in performance skills, musical interpretation and choreography

During your breaks, indulge in luxurious Javanese spas. Enjoy traditional Javanese dance and music performances. (Activities are not covered by the US$399/US$499 fee) While preparing for the closing Hafla where you will get to perform your very own choreography.

Activity and Accommodation Recommendations at:
(not included in workshop fee of US$399 or US$499)

Amaris Hotel, Panglima Polim - www.amarishotel.com
Ibis Hotel, Arcadia - www.ibishotel.com
Atlet Century Hotel - www.atletcentury.com
Somerset Berlian Serviced Apartment - www.somerset.com
Grand Flora Hotel - www.grandfloralhotels.com

Recommended hotels are located near the BDJ studio and are priced from less than US$40 (Amaris) to around US$100 (Century Park) per night per room. Rate covers 2 persons and includes breakfast.

Somerset Berlian Serviced Apartment is full-service apartment with full hotel facilities including breakfast. It is only 3 minutes from the studio via taxi. Taxifare via Bluebird taxi will be around Rp. 10.000 to 15.000. Apartment rates is around UD$150 for a 2 bedroom apartment which sleeps 4 pax.

Grand Flora Hotel, located close to boutiques and restaurants, is about 35 to 40 minutes from the studio (depending on traffic conditions). Taxifare, via Bluebird taxi, will be around Rp. 50.000 to 60.000. Accommodation rate is about US$70 per night.

More information is available at www.hadia.com. Enquiries direct to Hadia at hadia@hadia.com .

Bellydance Jakarta presents Hadia

2011-02-09T19:12:00.002+08:00

for a series of workshops on 2 and 11 April 2011. Hadia is travelling within Asean during most of April, hence the patchy dates.

Saturday, 2 April 2011

Workshop 1 - 10am to 1pm - Hadia's Body Logic Ultimate Technique - All Levels

The secret of beautiful, graceful and effortless Oriental Dance is a solid foundation of clean, clear and precise technique. Hadia's revolutionary Body Logic method is the key to let you understand and simplify Oriental Dance. It traces even the most complex movements and steps back to their essential, simple and natural movement patterns, then combines these with the fundamentals of Egyptian styling in a very unique and delicious way. Hadia will soon have you dancing a surprising range of steps and movements, without even noticing how you got there. This technique also has the benefit of allowing students to dance through 4 to 5 hours of class per day without pain, discomfort or fatigue, and even heals and strengthens the body.

Workshop 2 - 2pm to 5pm - Baladi Choreography - All Levels

Inspired by the great Fifi Abdo, the Queen of Baladi, Hadia brings you back to origins of Egyptian Raks Sharki with her interpretation of Raks Baladi, the earthy popular urban dance style which the everyday Egyptian woman personifies.

Sunday, 11 April 2011

Workshop 3 - 10am to 1pm - Raks Sharki Choreography (Beg 2 and above only)

If you want to understand and command your music - if you want to know HOW to listen to and HOW to truly hear the Rhythms, the Instruments, the Musical phrases, the Dynamics and to translate these into a beautiful choreography with movement that fits the music - this workshop is for you. Don't miss the chance to benefit from Hadia's 38 years of experience of working with Oriental Orchestras and her International Renown as the Embodiment of the Music and Award Winning Choreographer!

Workshop 4 - 2pm to 5pm - Drum Solo Choreography (Beg 2 and above only)

Hadia is famous for her high energy, creative and innovative drum solo choreographies which take you to 1001 levels beyond LOCK, POP, TUCK! Here is your chance to apply Hadia's great hip articulations and shimmy techniques, as well as surprise moves from her vast repertoire of other dance styles to her latest, greatest and dynamic drum solo that is guaranteed to be fun for all!

Fees (Public/BDJ student)

1 workshop (3 hours) = Rp. 800.000/650.000

1 Full Day (6 hours ) = Rp. 1.500.000/1.200.000

2 Full Days (12 hours) = Rp. 2.800.000/2.150.000

Other Information

Participants who take the full 2 days package (all 4 workshops) will receive a Certificate of Participation.

Registration by Saturday, 26 Mar 2011. Form is available on-line in this event's Facebook page (look under Photos).

Otherwise email bellydancejakarta@yahoo.com

Jewels of the Sahara

2011-02-09T19:04:00.002+08:00

A hafla organised by Bellydance Jakarta, in honour of Hadia, who will be in town for a series of workshops on 2 & 11 April and from 16 to 20 April (see subsequent posts for details).

Day/Date = Friday, 1 April 2011

Time = 7.30pm to 10pm

Venue = Club 01, fX, FX Lifestyle Center, 5th Floor

A dinner and dance event, this hafla will have performances by Hadia, Christine Yaven, The Bellydance Jakarta Dancers and the Bellydance Jakarta Ensemble.

Tickets are priced at:

Rp. 170.000 - regular price, includes Set Dinner (Appetizer, Main Course, Dessert & Drink)
Rp. 140.000 - Special price for early birds who register and pay up in full by 19 Mar 2011.

Limited space so reserve early.

Enquiries and reservations to BDJ at bellydancejakarta@yahoo.com .

An Afternoon in the Sultan's Harem

2011-02-09T18:54:00.003+08:00

A Middle Eastern cooking and dance workshop organised by Bellydance Jakarta and the Jakarta International Community Center (JICC), this 16 March 2011 (Wednesday) event runs from 1pm to 4pm at the JICC, Jalan Kemang Dalam X no. E6A, Kemang, Jakarta, Indonesia.

Participants will learn authentic Middle Eastern recipes with native Moroccan chef, Ghazouar Driss, focusing on popular appetizers (Mezz from different regions of the Middle East) before adjourning to a performance and a mini-class conducted by Christine Yaven, before savouring the fruits of their labour.

Fee = Rp. 350.000 (includes a light meal of items cooked in class)

Registration Fee = Rp 50.000 (for non JICC members)

Space is limited to reserve and pay up early to secure your spot.

More information and bookings to JICC at jicc_online@yahoo.com .

Art of Bellydance workshops with Nigma in Jakarta

2011-01-25T13:11:00.002+08:00

this coming weekend, 29 & 30 Jan 2011. I am not sure whether this is a last minute line up or whether Nigma forgot to let me know or whatever... Anyway...

Saturday, 29 Jan 2011 - Raks Al Assaya, The Cane Dance

10am to 1pm - Technique
2pm to 5pm - Choreography

Participants are to bring their own canes.

Sunday, 30 Jan 2011 - Egyptian Style Oriental Workshop

10am to 1pm - Technique
2pm to 5pm - Choreography

Fees

1 Full Day = Rp. 1.400.000/1.100.000 (Dance Wave members special rate)
2 Full Days = Rp. 2.700.000/2.100.000 (Dance Wave members special rate)
Technique workshop = Rp. 750.000/600.000 (Dance Wave members special rate)

Venue

Dancewave Center - www.dancewavecenter.com

Saturday workshops at Studio Anips, Jalan Pakubuwono VI No. 18, Kebayoran Baru, Jakarta Selatan, Indonesia

Sunday workshops at Simprug Studio, Jalan Simprug Golf Raya Kav No. 167, close to Senayan City Mall, Jakarta Selatan, Indonesia

All queries/registration to Dance Wave Center or to Nigma at nigma@el-oasis.org .

Bellydance Extraordinaire presents

2011-01-21T21:06:00.002+08:00

workshops by Sherlyn Koh in Singapore, for the first time. Sherlyn resides in Kuala Lumpur and is also a familiar face at Singapore workshops.

Saturday, 26 Feb 2011

1pm to 3pm - Drum Solo Technique

3.30pm to 6pm - Drum Solo Choreography

Sunday, 27 Feb 2011

12pm to 3pm - Flamenco Choreography

3.30pm to 6.30pm - Classical Choreography

Registration/Enquiries to jamiladancing@gmail.com . Details available at www.bellydanceextraordinaire.com .

Katerina Shereen in Singapore

2011-01-21T14:38:00.004+08:00

Update, Wednesday 16 Feb 2011

From the source: performance on Saturday, 9 July 2011, is apparently confirmed. Sunday, 10 July 2011, is still a maybe - to be updated further.

Enthusiasts can now start planning for Saturday, 9 July.

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

Katerina Shereen will be stopping by Singapore on route to another location for workshops. She may perform one night in one of the top Middle Eastern restaurants in Singapore - I am still trying to confirm the details and will update once all is firm.

She has also contracted to do a series of private group classes while she is here in Singapore so... sorry, folks! No public workshops. Do catch her performance if you can. It should be on or around 8 or 9 July (Friday or Saturday).

I need...

2011-01-16T21:07:00.002+08:00

a dedicated dance room to store all my dance gear and stuff. Unfortunately, real estate prices being what they are in Singapore, this need may never translate into reality, unless I move to the 'farmlands'. I am not looking at a hole in the wall kind of room. I am looking at a room spacious enough to house a decent 300sq ft fully equipped sprung dance studio plus cupboards for storage, which means the room should be at least 400sq ft or more to start with.

Hopefully the new place, with heaps of built in storage, means a consolidated area for my dance goodies. Right now they are scattered all over, and I have to remember where I stash stuff, energy which could be better utilised. So...keeping fingers and toes crossed...let's hope I won't have to chuck stuff out.

I wonder...

2011-01-15T12:41:00.003+08:00

whether the person(s) who wanted or 'insisted' on being listed on my blog is still trying to contact me. Apparently Ms X found my blog (how... I don't know; she didn't mention) and emailed me with her details, with a request to be listed on my blog. Ms X apprently teaches and has her own pool of students etc etc.

Not receiving a reply, Ms X then contacted a member of the industry who is closer to me with a terse email demanding to know whether Ms Z is me and if that is not the case, would Ms Z be able to get hold of me and pass Ms X's request to me. To which Ms Z said to email me directly. To which Ms X said she did and did not receive a reply. To which Ms Z gave my blog email address. To which Ms X said that was the email addy she wrote to.

It turned out that the the email addy that both Ms Z and Ms X referred to belongs to someone else. I am not the only 3A Gurl in this virtual universe. There is another one, at least, who has secured this addy: 3agurl@yahoo.com , way before I did. I am sure there must be others because they also have the same (well, more or less) email addy but in different guises, all on Yahoo, be it "aaagurl", "3agirl", "or the like.

When I decided to list a dedicated email addy for this blog, I finally decided to list one that was connected to my blog id rather than my blog title because it would have a longer lifespan, at least I think so.

So Ms X, if you are still wondering how to contact me and didn't bother to click the "Profile" for my correct email addy, it is threeagurl@yahoo.com . Hope to hear from you soon.

Asia Global Bellydance 2011 - The Singapore Leg

2011-01-13T18:08:00.002+08:00

This year, the annual competition will be held on Friday, 29 July 2011. Timing/Venue to be confirmed later, though I suspect it will be held in the evening, probably from 7pm onwards or something along those lines, Friday being a working day.

The judges will include Sujee Choi (from AGB 2010), Simona of Italy and Gina of Taiwan. These three judges will be conducting workshops on the weekend of 30 and 31 July 2011, following the competition. Details to be updated, once firm.

As I said before, in my earlier posts, 2011 is turning out to be a sizzling year for our industry!

Khaled Mahmoud in Singapore in March 2011

2011-01-13T18:05:00.003+08:00

Organised by Claribel's Raks Sharki Studio, Khaled Mahmoud will be coming to Singapore for workshops from 18 to 20 March 2011.

Friday, 18 March 2011 - 7pm to 10pm - Baladi Technique & Choreography - S$150

Saturday, 19 March 2011 - 2pm to 4pm - Oriental Technique - S$100

Saturday, 19 March 2011 - 4.30pm to 6.30pm - Oriental Choreography - S$100

Sunday, 20 March 2011 - 1pm to 4pm - Tabla Solo - S$150

Special Package Price for all 4 workshops = S$450

Venue = Claribel's Raks Sharki Studio, 31A and 33A New Bridge Road (Opposite Clarke Quay MRT & Central)

Enquiries and registration to 6536-8394 and 9797-2261 or just email info@bellydanceinsingapore.com .

Claribel's Raks Sharki Studio Presents

2011-01-12T13:44:00.003+08:00

Weekend workshops by Dr Mo Geddawi at the end of July 2011. Details will be updated once firm. In the meantime...save up. His visit coincides with the 29 July Asia Global Bellydance competition (as reported on Bellydance Discovery's website). So...does this mean that he will be judging the competition this year? An interesting development this.

(Updated Friday, 21 Jan 2011 - Dr Mo has postponed his tour of Singapore and Australia to next year, 2012)

Workshops by Yousry Sharif from Friday, 23 September 2011, to Sunday, 25 September 2011. No details available yet. Based on prior years, it should be 3 hours on Friday night, 5 hours on Saturday and 5 hours on Sunday, totalling a glorious 13 hours.

Adding to this list more events in the pipeline in July, August and September...it will be a very heavy 3rd quarter for 2011. Woo Hoo....

Busy 2nd Half 2011 for Singapore

2011-01-11T17:42:00.003+08:00

if respective organisers manage to gel everything together in time. Apart from the rumoured workshops for Yousry Sharif and the confirmed workshops by Serkan Tutar, there may be workshops in Singapore in July, August and September 2011. More details posted once firm.

In the meantime, workshop enthusiasts, do start saving lots.

Catch Shereen's workshops in KL

2010-12-30T21:21:00.003+08:00

on the weekend of 2 and 3 July 2011. Last year's workshops were a sell-out so book early to avoid disappointment. Check out her video clip at www.youtube.com/watch?v=XKCzHJdMohO.

Saturday, 2 July 2011

11am to 2pm - Traditional Beledi - RM150

The essence of femininity in Oriental Dance. Learn how to work with a taksim, slow and fast beledi music. This sensual dance is an important part of every Oriental performance. A truly Egyptian feeling inspired by the queen of beledi, Fifi Abdo.

3pm to 6pm - Beledi Pop - RM150

A faster song with a beledi background, with some modern and classical inspiration. Original compositions and purely Egyptian steps inspired by the Egyptian masters of choreography, Raqia Hassa, Momo Kadous and Yousry Sharif.

Sunday, 3 July 2011

11am to 2pm - Saidi - RM150

A traditional Egyptian folkloric choreography with a stick, incorporating a bit of male tahtib and female assaya inspiration - the contrast of traditional male and Reda's modern feminine approach.

3pm to 6pm - Shaabi - RM150

The street dance of Cairo. This popular dance is performed to traditional shaabi music, coming from famous singers including Ahmed Adaweya and Fatme Serhan and their latter counterparts, Hakim and Saad. This dance is always connected to the song's lyrics, feature funny gestures and incorporates a feeling straight from the dusty streets of Cairo.

Fee Packages and Certification

Early Birds who register and pay in full before 1 May = RM520
Otherwise, it will be RM550 for all 4 workshops.

Participants who successively complete all 4 workshops will receive a Certificate of Attendance.

Venue

KLPAC, Studio 5, Sentul Park, Jalan Strachan, 51100 Kuala Lumpur

Other bits and bobs

Enquiries and registration direct to Sherlyn at mysirocco@gmail.com or text her at 60-12-2333 016. More information Here.

Payment should be made to Sirocco Secrets Dance or their RHB Bank account 2-1-444-6000-25994. Participants are to notify Sherlyn once payment has been made, via SMS, keep their bank slips. Payment by outstation cheques should include bank commission charges.

What's happening in BDD in 2011?

2010-12-21T11:15:00.002+08:00

Bellydance Discovery has released their 2011 calendar of events, so here it is...well, most of it anyway. I omitted those are not dance events per se. Details to be filled in later.

Saturday, 5th Mar = Hafla

May 2011 = Student Showcase

Friday, 29 July 2011 = Asia Global Bellydance Competition 2011, organised by the Singapore Street Festival

Wednesday, 21, to Monday, 26 Sept 2011 = Serkan Tutar Workshops

Saturday, 24 Sept 2011 = Serkan Tutar Show & PDC Graduation

Items of a broader interest are in Bold

Velvet Raqs progresses

2010-12-21T11:12:00.002+08:00

Velvet Raqs , the professional dance troupe of Dancewave Center who also manages the Raqs division, now has their own website. Check out their link if you have the time. Congrats on your biz development.

Issam Houshan Releases

2010-12-16T18:33:00.003+08:00

Issam Houshan fans, Hollywood Music Center released new Issam Houshan compilations recently:

Mystery of the Rhythm - a compilation of compositions by Issam Houshan and Steven Last

The Dancing Drum Volume II - a compilation of 3 new drum solos and 14 rhythm tracks

The Dancing Drum Volume III - a compilation of 11 rhythm tracks, with recommendations by Issam Houshan on corresponding movements and placement in a routine

Chemistry of the Drum - a collection of 12 drum solos

Each CD is about USD$15 (excluding shipping). Get yours soon in case stocks run out.

I will post a review (hopefully soon) once I get around to my copy.

Silk Veils a plenty

2010-12-09T18:23:00.006+08:00

Thanks to the enforced 'quarantine', I now have plenty of time to shop-surf, finding stuff that I actually don't need but want. And silk veils is one of these items. The custom dyed one I ordered is on the way to me but will take some time to reach me on account of the heavy holiday season postal traffic, so I can't comment on that till I receive it.

However, that does not stop me from shopping for other Ebay vendors that do offer hand dyed silk veils. Who knows what a search can yield?

And the search did yield two other vendors who offer hand dyed silk veils at a discount to the vendor I purchased from. And these vendors are...

fairycove - arguably the USA vendor who started things rolling with their beautifully dyed silk accessories, veils and fan veils. Also the most expensive, even with a discount thrown in. This vendor 'makes' your purchase once you have placed your order and paid in full, for both item and shipping. The veil will cost about US$63, with shipping to Singapore via first class airmail.

daisyhillsilks - this USA outfit only does veils in every hue and tone. I couldn't find a shipping quote on them but I doubt the shipping charge will exceed US$40, even for international priority shipping. The range is comparable to what is offered by fairycove, but at much lower prices. Even with a say,US$10 shipping charge for first class air mail, the total cost will be about US$10 cheaper. (Update =) Priority air shipping to Singapore is only US$13.50 - it should be able to accommodate 2 to 3 veils.

incredibelly_us - this (again) USA vendor offers a strange mix of silk veils and tools. Their style is more bohemian, tie-dye style, with interesting patterns. I couldn't find a description of the type/grade of silk that they use, unlike the above vendors, though. While they are the most affordable, even with shipping to Singapore, I hesitate to purchase from them until they answer my query on the type/grade of silk that they use. Price-wise, their veils are slightly cheaper than daisyhillsilks. (Update =) This vendor uses the same grade of silk as the other vendors, Chinese Habotai silk.

If you are in the market for a silk veil dyed in your preferred colour(s), you may want to consider the above vendors. Caveat emptor though so do reconsider before you commit to your purchase.

(adding on) And... I just found another vendor, azuremystsilks, who offers both veils and harem pant sets. Price-wise, this USA vendor is comparable to both daisyhillsilks and incredibelly_us. Range-wise, their shop would be considered the smallest but that is not why I am excited. They are clearing a batch of their "Miami Flair" silk veils which have a slight defect in them at a rather big discount so get yours quick. I suspect their stocks will not last long.)

P/S (10 Dec 2010) : The fairycove silk veil finally arrived. Lovely, as expected, and flows very well. Waiting for my azuremystsilks veils now.

(Sorry, J, I just had to share this with everyone who reads my blog. If you are ordering from the other two vendors, let me know. I will probably ride on your order.)

Tribal Tour Asia 2011

2010-12-09T16:10:00.002+08:00

Tribal Fans, Isabel De Lorenzo and Geneva Bybee will be touring Asia in April to May 2011, covering China, Korea and Japan. There will be shows as well as workshops on both ATS and Tribal Fusion.

More details directly available on their respective sites as well as www.facebook.com/tribaltour .

Princess Farhana workshops in Jan 2011

2010-12-09T15:27:00.005+08:00

in Hong Kong, thanks to the Desert Mermaids Studio. Her biodata and more is available Here.

Performance at the International Dance Extravaganza

Tuesday, 11 Jan 2011, at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts

Workshops

Friday, 7 Jan 2011 - 7pm to 10pm - Burlesque

Using props such as chairs, feather fans, boas and gloves, this class will focus on the art of striptease. Participants to bring your own feather fans, boas, scarves, heels and gloves.

Saturday, 8 Jan 2011 - 10am to 1pm - Bellydance Props

This class will cover props - Shamadan, Sword, as well as a short veil choreography. Participants to bring your own veil, sword or cane, and a tray.

Saturday, 8 Jan 2011 - 2.30pm to 5.30pm - Bellydance: Fan Technique & Choreography

When the hip hits the fan! This class covers fan technique and a short choreography.

Sunday, 9 Jan 2011 - 10am to 1pm - Taqsim

This session focuses on understanding Taqsim, the chiftitelli structure and abdominal movements.

Sunday, 9 Jan 2011 - 2.30pm to 5.30pm - Bellydance Combinations and Technique

An overview of combinations used, both traditional and fusion.

Workshop Pricing

Desert Mermaid Members - HK$750 for 1 to 3 sessions
Early Birds - HK$800 for one or 2 sessions (ends Dec 12, 2010)
Regular - HK$880 for one or 2 sessions

5% discount will be given to participants who sign up for 4 to 5 sessions.

Participants who sign up for all 5 sessions, you get a 5% discount, 3 free trial classes at Desert Mermaids Studio as well as a gift bag with beauty products.

Workshop Venue

Desert Mermaids Studio, 10th Floor Crawford Tower, 99 Jervois Road, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Island

Enquiries and Payment

Direct to Suzette at mermaidray@hotmail.com or Jacky Lee at desertmermaids@hotmail.co.uk

Oasis Dance Centre Xmas Party

2010-12-09T15:21:00.002+08:00

If you are in Hong Kong and am free this Saturday, 11 Dec 2010, do consider attending Oasis Dance Centre's Xmas party at Dance Concepts, 7th Floor Great Smart Tower, 230 Wan Chai Road, Wan Chai.

Tix available from ODC at HK$180 per pax, and it covers drinks, nibbles, lucky draw and of course, a good time.

Countdown 2010

2010-12-09T14:59:00.002+08:00

Catch this year's show in person or live on tele cos there will be a duet by two familiar faces from our industry. Personally, I am in two minds on this development. While I am heartened by the 'national' recognition of our artform, I am hesitant on how it will be presented to the audience at large.

I am not worried about the item to come - I am sure it will be splendid as always. I fret about the presenters' comments, trivia etc etc. As it is, our artform is not given the recognition it deserves, so I hope the presenters' will resist and desist from cliched remarks and actions.