tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75113921210505918802024-03-21T22:16:35.125-07:00Laura Selenzi's BlogDance Therapy: Laura Selenzi's BlogLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.comBlogger46125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-55282303252890147522013-04-09T08:47:00.000-07:002013-04-09T10:00:05.743-07:00<b> </b><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;">This post was originally posted on my old website which is now www.lauraselenzi.com. Thought I'd post it here as a way to archive it!</span><br />
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<b>Working with Live Musicians</b></h2>
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<b>Originally published in The Chronicles Magazine, Winter 2009.</b> <br />
By Laura Selenzi<br />
In working with Arabesque Dance Company one of the most valuable learning experiences for me has been that of working with live musicians. The Arabesque Orchestra is without contention the best of it's kind in Ontario and it has been invaluable to work alongside them.
<img src="http://www.gildedserpent.com/newsgraphics/spring09/egyptband12.jpg" width="400" /><br />
My first introduction was at the Arabesque Pro Course in 2005, where we met lead drummer Sulieman Warwar and Quanoun (among other things) maestro Dr. George Sawa. These master musicians patiently taught us the subtleties of dancing to improvised music. Sulieman taught us the cues for entering and ending a show, and the basic pattern of a drum solo. We would eventually learn that not all drummers have the same methods for communicating with dancers (or any methods, for that matter) and we discovered that we are very lucky to have someone so tuned into the dancer and to creating a harmonious communication between musician and dancer, albeit a bit of a maniac on the drum! George taught us about the Arabic maquams and introduced us to the stunning complexity of the quanoun. At the culmination of the course we performed for an audience with these musicians, which was terrifying and exhilarating for all of us.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Cu-NL7trdqOohyB-P5iJGqbOM2EfWFFgwgBhdCJgQotRg6VzosVGv2G8EQOzjhN0sjhnDE5f6baNAXsjMVsnGCnI1uMcn3eDjGbJ-icfbUrE2KVlAXZ4IBBc6lktjhe_ZwgbwQqOPBGZ/s1600/HezzFeb07-11.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Cu-NL7trdqOohyB-P5iJGqbOM2EfWFFgwgBhdCJgQotRg6VzosVGv2G8EQOzjhN0sjhnDE5f6baNAXsjMVsnGCnI1uMcn3eDjGbJ-icfbUrE2KVlAXZ4IBBc6lktjhe_ZwgbwQqOPBGZ/s320/HezzFeb07-11.JPG" /></a> <br /><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRBOlMroDa_B3zSlCcLsN_Ehm_x3llJ3TH5-9K77mzEbV8IrjJ1fu2u2EHvifbC93ZZdPO5xTN7ln-ouwtdL2aWzo0-RvHTBYAXZXyI0qkcBcPhl3X4H-WzmSGwT7XZRAMbXs1GLLw6Dtv/s1600/laurasamia.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img align="left" border="0" hspace="10" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRBOlMroDa_B3zSlCcLsN_Ehm_x3llJ3TH5-9K77mzEbV8IrjJ1fu2u2EHvifbC93ZZdPO5xTN7ln-ouwtdL2aWzo0-RvHTBYAXZXyI0qkcBcPhl3X4H-WzmSGwT7XZRAMbXs1GLLw6Dtv/s320/laurasamia.jpg" /></a><br />
I experienced the orchestra for the first time at the weekly nightclub show Arabesque hosts, Layali Arabesque. I had never heard a full live Arabic band before and instantly found the drums exciting and infectious and Bassam Bishara's voice and Oud heartbreakingly beautiful. When I was the featured dancer at Layali, (an opportunity I did not feel ready for in the least!) I was calmed by the band's encouraging smiles and words of wisdom and felt honored at the music they played for me. I still had a lot to learn about dancing to live music, but this was a good start.<br />
Since this first time I have danced at Layali many times over the past couple years. This night has now moved to the larger Myth Restaurant, and new musicians have joined the Orchestra both temporarily and on a regular basis. On an average night we are treated to keyboard, 4 drummers (riqq, bongos or sumbati, doumbek and daff) Violin, Oud and Bassam's lovely voice. We have on occasion had tabla, tahvol (large double-sided drum played with a stick, generally to accompany Saidi style dance), additional violinists, guest vocalists and more.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwMGKns0v8pqjsqJDLfHWUkE2TNFaR2n_BfRXz6ULRE9c8p1adeUSNw5SHDBvPnXLxn0jDxR6fVWvh98FSSfHyBqsv5TePCD2i3VV1rMDoE9cztZTZRIQLj2mqtb23wK437mAONMWzj95B/s1600/DSC_9186-2.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img align="center" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwMGKns0v8pqjsqJDLfHWUkE2TNFaR2n_BfRXz6ULRE9c8p1adeUSNw5SHDBvPnXLxn0jDxR6fVWvh98FSSfHyBqsv5TePCD2i3VV1rMDoE9cztZTZRIQLj2mqtb23wK437mAONMWzj95B/s320/DSC_9186-2.jpg" /></a><br />
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Arabesque dancers are experienced in the different instruments, rhythms and styles of music that tend to accompany certain folkloric styles of dance such as Khaleegy, Saidi, Shamadan and more. On any given night at Layali, the band may start a beat from the Gulf, and the crowd will cry out in delight and start to swing their hair, accent with their shoulders and wave their hands to the beat in the appropriate style used in Khaleegy dance. This instant recognition of an Arabic rhythm isn't exactly common among westerners, and I'm sure it really throws the rest of the audience for a loop! You can also catch this phenomenon with a good Debke line or any Oum Kalthoum song; sending wistful Arabs into passionate gesticulation and swaying, and maybe a bellydancer or 20 to let the music take her away.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwfNJFJFraZRs3Qn5oagIFkCxatuDnI_wNxpn8X5ALKvlYLgKhD3q1bzdI-AvbaepeNCwA30IEdqBKUhX_UVK9UZx4gGyw-XNvKBZGupPqUb3-dnY93tv8UJH1Im7uPyDP20R_LY_U5-TP/s1600/myth+debke1.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img align="center" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwfNJFJFraZRs3Qn5oagIFkCxatuDnI_wNxpn8X5ALKvlYLgKhD3q1bzdI-AvbaepeNCwA30IEdqBKUhX_UVK9UZx4gGyw-XNvKBZGupPqUb3-dnY93tv8UJH1Im7uPyDP20R_LY_U5-TP/s320/myth+debke1.jpg" /></a><br />
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I currently take Sulieman's doumbek class at Arabesque, and although I'm barely a beginner, I was excited to show a drummer in my hometown a couple tips on his doumbek, and from my experience at Layali I was able to guide him into accompanying me in a recent show, a sight which my East Coast town is not usually treated too!<br />
I certainly have gained immensely from my experience with the musicians at Arabesque, and I truly wish that other dancers could experience the same. Because music is so tightly wound into our dancing, I believe this connection to live musicians is vital, and intrinsic to keeping some sense of history and tradition in our dance as we move forward in the history of bellydance.<br />
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-61435903353355041992012-01-26T17:30:00.000-08:002013-04-09T08:52:27.796-07:0010 Ways to Avoid Back and Neck PainIn my massage practice there is one condition almost everyone is plagued by, and it's back and neck pain. I would say 98% of my clients are experiencing discomfort in this area. I find myself giving the same advice over and over and thought I'd share my top 10 tips for avoiding back and neck pain...with YOU!<br />
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Now, if you already have pain in these areas, you need to deal with your tight muscles, trigger points, fascial adhesions etc through massage, osteopathy, or your therapy of choice...and ALSO do the things below to keep it from coming back. <br />
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Without further ado!<br />
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<font color=ffffff>1. <b>Stop sticking your head out.</b></font> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK4bL1WkvLCdqQIzMi8IOFSeRBbnPr7J1Y5avy61XcOLyD_ElUyDCFSU-pyMWPTRgFQusVooZXwUzMD_wKYu-5YN9_1_Qub949VdyYyW093cNtUWmRkWXNKDaT0zKTv2wGFi8e7yd39m7Z/s1600/HFP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="125" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK4bL1WkvLCdqQIzMi8IOFSeRBbnPr7J1Y5avy61XcOLyD_ElUyDCFSU-pyMWPTRgFQusVooZXwUzMD_wKYu-5YN9_1_Qub949VdyYyW093cNtUWmRkWXNKDaT0zKTv2wGFi8e7yd39m7Z/s200/HFP.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I admit this one is a constant battle. Many of us stick our heads forward to look at a computer all day, while driving, while studying, while squinting because you're not wearing your glasses etc etc. Your head is meant to be perfectly balanced on your spine. Kapandji (Physiology of the Joints, Volume III) states that for every inch your head moves forward, it functionally gains 10 pounds in weight. So the muscles in your upper back and neck have to work extra hard to keep your head up. This puts the suboccipital muscles (at the base of your skull) in constant contraction. So gently tuck your chin back in, or think of bringing your ears back to be right over your shoulders. Instant poise! Read more on this <a href="http://www.exercisebiology.com/index.php/site/articles/exercises_to_correct_forward_head_and_shoulder_posture/
">here</a>.<br />
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<font color=ffffff>2. <b> Correct Your Posture.</b></font><br />
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Everyone knows they need to "work on their posture", but how do you do this? Constant correction is a start...good reminders are: Weight over the arches of your feet, feet straight forward, knees straight forward, hip sockets, heels, shoulders and ear in a vertical line, chest in neutral (don't let it sink or thrust it forward) and pull up through the crown of your head. <br />
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But why is this so hard? Most people have very tight pectoral muscles (over your chest) and weak mid-back muscles. So,<a href="http://physicaltherapy.about.com/od/flexibilityexercises/ht/PecStretch.htm"> stretch your pecs</a>, and <a href="http://www.exercisebiology.com/index.php/site/articles/exercises_to_correct_forward_head_and_shoulder_posture/">strengthen your mid/upper back muscles</a>, and you will find good posture comes easily.<br />
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<font color=ffffff>3. <b>Sleep on Your Back.</b></font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcNfX5zeM3OfEmktM_jwOUoVB0D-Ym_hrTpCZD0bq6wDgvzVFORfDwOxiUpJxdPHSb0xpLiGRxainoYwv3s4XXn9AXictsKdnhE7hhEvqHn-RzOqOLxBVSKHvcunqQGnZFySrQitdEPaA/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="352" width="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcNfX5zeM3OfEmktM_jwOUoVB0D-Ym_hrTpCZD0bq6wDgvzVFORfDwOxiUpJxdPHSb0xpLiGRxainoYwv3s4XXn9AXictsKdnhE7hhEvqHn-RzOqOLxBVSKHvcunqQGnZFySrQitdEPaA/s1600/3.jpg" /></a></div>Many people sleep on their stomach with their head cranked to one side. (You know...for breathing.) To me this is pretty clear how this causes your spine and neck muscles to be irritated. Another problem is sleeping with a pillow that isn't the right size. If you can re-train yourself to sleep on your back, use a fairly flat pillow. Many people recommend sleeping with a pillow under your knees in this position to take the strain off your back. If your back is strained by having your legs straight...you need your hip flexors worked on, now. A very small pillow is probably ok. I guess. <br />
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If you absolutely cannot fall asleep like this, or you snore, try on your side with a pillow big enough to keep your head at 90 degrees to your shoulders, and hug a big pillow to keep your shoulders from rounding in. A pillow between your knees will keep your pelvis even too. <br />
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<font color=ffffff>4.<b>Drink Enough Water.</b></font> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/17/Thoracolumbar_fascia.JPG/800px-Thoracolumbar_fascia.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/17/Thoracolumbar_fascia.JPG/800px-Thoracolumbar_fascia.JPG" /></a></div><br />
You've heard it a million times before, but did you know that being underhydrated can lead to stiffness and pain? Fascia is the connective tissue that weaves throughout your whole body, encapsulating every muscle fibre, muscle group, organ etc. See the gross pic at right (its a back). It's everything that's white. Stuck, immobile, or contractured fascia is often thought to be more responsible for pain and imbalances than the muscles themselves. And guess what, they need water to be pliable and delicious. I mean...functional. Read more on this <a href="http://www.healthcare9.com/2011/09/drinking-water-can-make-you-more-flexible-2011/">here</a>. Think about chewing gum. It's hard until you add moisture, movement, and warmth. More on the last two coming up.<br />
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<font color=ffffff>5. <b>Keep Warm.</b></font><br />
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Cold muscles like to contract to conserve heat. Walk out into the cold and your shoulders want to jump up into your ears. BAD SHOULDERS! Keep them happy with a cozy scarf and dress properly. This can also happen with a cold air vent or window draft hitting you, be sure to avoid this at the office and especially while sleeping. <br />
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If your muscles are already tight, we all know heat is a wonderful tool for relief! Hot showers, moist heat packs, and infrared heat are great because they penetrate deeper into muscles than regular dry heat.<br />
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<font color=ffffff>6. <b>Stop Sitting All Day.</b> </font><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyrnjMpdsb1vgVcG6M5hay1p1mz8ujjyumomwxqyi0ed_ipBkJ5ykhQDrxPBbyC79ULKBQyYD4UnUpgEJOz-kXwMu6AlB6QvDR4ZF-BFJYAc7EOS_4XXGumIiJr_lommzG8KgbnRWBqVOT/s1600/postures.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyrnjMpdsb1vgVcG6M5hay1p1mz8ujjyumomwxqyi0ed_ipBkJ5ykhQDrxPBbyC79ULKBQyYD4UnUpgEJOz-kXwMu6AlB6QvDR4ZF-BFJYAc7EOS_4XXGumIiJr_lommzG8KgbnRWBqVOT/s320/postures.png" width=200 align=right></a><br />
I realize that you may be required by your job to sit for many hours a day. And although this is cruel and unusual, I get it. Oh, and no desk is "ergonomic" if you're sitting all day. It's a shocking revelation, but we didn't evolve to sit in chairs. See the diagram at right. It shows the positions used by humans all over the world. How many are you using? <br />
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The simple fact is that doing anything over and over, all day, causes injury. We know this about repetitive stress injuries, but did you consider that sitting is something you do over and over, all day? Every day, your hips and knees are put at a 90 degree angle, shortening your hip flexors, hamstrings, and calves. When you eventually stand up, your muscle length is totally out of whack and your back has to arch to compensate, among other problems. See more <a href="http://www.alignedandwell.com/?p=2425&option=com_wordpress&Itemid=223">here</a>. And be very afraid. But there are lots of things you can do...just read <a href="http://www.alignedandwell.com/index.php?option=com_wordpress&Itemid=223">Katy's Blog</a>. Get up and walk around as much as possible. You can even make a standing desk! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://26.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_luvae0BWCx1qdk4eio1_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://26.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_luvae0BWCx1qdk4eio1_400.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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<font color=ffffff>7.<b>Get Moving.</b></font> <br />
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This is the fun part! Your body NEEDS movement to be healthy. And not just a shot of exercise once a day. Change your positions as much as possible! Walk instead of taking the bus! Take breaks from sitting! Take more dance classes! ;) Moving through the ranges of your joints is necessary to keep your mobility. <b>Use it or lose it!</b><br />
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<font color=ffffff>8. <b>Ditch the Heavy Shoulder Bag.</b></font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://30.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lydfqj67AK1qjvs42o1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://30.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lydfqj67AK1qjvs42o1_500.jpg" /></a></div>When my clients come in with a combination of a very tight shoulder/neck on one side and tight low back on the other, this is always my first guess. A couple quick fixes: Before you go out, take out every extra thing that you don't need in your bag. Carry less. Get a smaller bag. Get a bag with a longer strap that will cross over your body. If you must carry heavy things, get a rolling bag. (These have saved my neck many times.) Get a (horror) backpack! There ARE cute ones out there! And according to at least two sources on the internet, they are stylish again. So you can feel smug, not dorky.<br />
-<a href="http://www.luckymag.com/shopping/2011/07/stylish-backpacks#slide=17">Reconsider the Backpack</a><br />
-<a href="http://www.oprah.com/style/Backpacks-for-Grown-Ups-Stylish-Backpacks">Oprah Said So</a><br />
-<a href="http://www.glamour.com/fashion/blogs/slaves-to-fashion/2011/11/leader-of-the-pack-15-cute-bac.html">15 Cute Backpacks For More Than Just The Gym</a><br />
-<a href="http://www.kolobags.com/15-inch-convertible-eco-friendly-t.o.t.e-laptop-bag-p-4126#">This is actually nice</a>. <a href="http://www.kolobags.com/15-inch-convertible-eco-friendly-t.o.t.e-laptop-bag-p-4126#">This too</a>.<br />
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<font color=ffffff>9. <b>Stop Wearing High Heels.</b></font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.oprah.com/images/200702/omag/200702-omag-x-ray-220x312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="250" src="http://static.oprah.com/images/200702/omag/200702-omag-x-ray-220x312.jpg" /></a></div>We all know they're not great for us, but turns out, they're actually horrible. Remember how I said that sitting at the desk all day shortens your hamstrings, calves, and hip flexors? Well, on top of that, so do your heels. They put a ton of pressure and strain on your low back too. The human foot is a miracle of engineering, and heels of any height (actually, most shoes) seek to create their own crazy engineering. If your foot muscles aren't able to move (as in almost every shoe), they are shutting off, and throwing off your whole biomechanical chain. This has been shown to lead to Osteoperosis, and even weakens your pelvic floor. I can't get into this right now. I just can't. Go <a href="http://foothealth.about.com/od/shoessocks/a/HighHeelsBad.htm">here</a>. And <a href="http://www.alignedandwell.com/?p=1169&option=com_wordpress&Itemid=223">here</a>. Please.<br />
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<font color=ffffff>10.<b>Reduce Stress</b></font><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX8-ahrkoxQAox1tqunHAn1lxuoVys2n_BryOzm3YzPBtPNsnRhZVEz3usfLmZgTnT5-B9CTe3lJQ5k-nxCtbipfzTOkhZqWWkLtaAjEJqS3TFoxdivqn2OgYhLRLuhd3Yf5O9F7G6DQI/s1600/relax.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX8-ahrkoxQAox1tqunHAn1lxuoVys2n_BryOzm3YzPBtPNsnRhZVEz3usfLmZgTnT5-B9CTe3lJQ5k-nxCtbipfzTOkhZqWWkLtaAjEJqS3TFoxdivqn2OgYhLRLuhd3Yf5O9F7G6DQI/s1600/relax.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<i>*Having pets has been shown to reduce your stress level, so this adorable kitten is totally relevant.</i><br />
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It still amazes me the difference that stress makes in the tone of our muscles. Many clients who come to me with chronic pain feel miraculously better on vacation. Once they're back to their stressful job/life, all the pain comes back.<br />
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Make your mental and emotional health a priority. Remember that to take care of others, you need to take care of yourself first. Whether this means getting regular massage treatments, taking yoga or dance classes, finding a creative outlet, meditating before bed, or whatever works for you, you need to take care of yourself, people!<br />
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This also goes for seeking treatment, don't wait until you are in severe pain. It is much more effective to catch a problem before if becomes a fully-fledged condition. Again, be kind to yourself. Good luck!Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-17885642451927524552011-10-21T10:16:00.000-07:002011-10-21T12:29:01.153-07:00Update: Life with the new studioOh, hi there blog world! It's been a while.<br />
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I've been a little busy. As of now, I am responsible for updating my website <a href="http://www.laurasbelly.com">www.laurasbelly.com</a>, our studio website <a href="http://www.serpentinestudios.com">www.serpentinestudios.com</a>, my massage site<a href="http://www.lauranewton-rmt.com"> www.lauranewton-rmt.com</a>, our studio <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CabaretSerpentine?ref=ts">facebook page</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/SerpStudios">twitter</a>, and this blog. I also have 4 email accounts and a real life mailbox. But that one is always empty except for bills. (Where ARE you new Beats Antique album??)<br />
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Anyway, I'm not complaining because I not-so-secretly love HTML and facebook and spending an hour trying to figure out why the tiny photo of Monique won't line up with the others. Ok not so much the last part.<br />
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So what else is new? The studio is humming along, some classes have sold out and others are still very small- mostly a happy medium. We love having a beautiful space to call our own. It's so great to be able to do things like serve tea from our favorite tea shop (<a href="http://www.worldteahouse.ca/">World Tea House</a>), and have a wall especially for practicing handstands. I also love being able to have classes that I personally think are awesome. Right now I'm taking Circus Fit with Caitlan, Acroflex with Monique, and Ashtanga Yoga with Erica and am essentially getting my butt kicked. All 3 classes are very challenging but a lot of fun.<br />
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I think my arms are getting more toned already and I'm getting stronger. Also, I did my best handstand ever the other day and it was very exciting! Handstands are by far my favorite circus trick, probably because your progress is so obvious. Other than that it would have to be splits...I would like them a lot better if I could actually do them. Must practice.<br />
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I'm also taking Flamenco with the amazing <a href="http://www.mariaosende.com/">Maria Osende</a>. I wish I were taking classes with her more often so my progress wasn't so slow. The rhythm and footwork is SO different from bellydance that it is taking me a while to wrap my head around it. The arms and posture come much easier to me. <br />
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And speaking of practice, it's definitely easier to do when you have your very own space. I love dancing in our studio, it's inspiring. I find that great music really is the key to get me off my butt and pushing myself. This week it was Fi Hagat by Nancy Ajram. It's a sad song, and has that strong Arabic emotion that I love so much. Here's the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jnOfkb4YIPI">video</a>. Although it's a different language, I think the feeling comes through. <br />
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Can't wait for the student showcase coming up Nov 19th...I may perform this song but haven't decided yet. Looking forward to seeing all of our amazing students perform at this event, it will be a great feeling to see it all come together. :)Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-46707568491517250232011-09-08T20:09:00.000-07:002013-04-09T08:54:57.647-07:00Studio Grand Opening!It is with great excitement that I write this entry, as our dream of opening our own studio has finally come true! Our website has been updated and everything can now be found here: <a href="http://www.serpentinestudios.com"> www.serpentinestudios.com </a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://gallery.mailchimp.com/088aaf6ffea75c9de7a8bb0c3/images/excited1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://gallery.mailchimp.com/088aaf6ffea75c9de7a8bb0c3/images/excited1.jpg" /></a></div>Monique and I are thrilled to have found the perfect space, in the heart of downtown Halifax on Barrington Street. Floor to ceiling windows, brick walls and hardwood floors are more than we could have asked for. Check out our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CabaretSerpentine">facebook page</a> for updates!<br />
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The amazing Elinor Crosby, Erica Schmidt and Caitlan Anthony joining us as instructors. Check out all our classes on the fabulous schedule. We will also be offering Registered Massage Therapy and infrared sauna sessions in our treatment room for your tired muscles.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE-mf50KIFJ5ROT-2Cfnd8HVCdao__Uwe1ez6JwuriI4gENDaFoVV22KF3diA_7AOZf7vrndTG2JaxpvtUGlj2-N-xdxTV1Wiil-ZIfZEPOgVX_KGWCVGROLC70SO_bOA1D7qBhl5-cD-y/s1600/1668+barrington1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE-mf50KIFJ5ROT-2Cfnd8HVCdao__Uwe1ez6JwuriI4gENDaFoVV22KF3diA_7AOZf7vrndTG2JaxpvtUGlj2-N-xdxTV1Wiil-ZIfZEPOgVX_KGWCVGROLC70SO_bOA1D7qBhl5-cD-y/s320/1668+barrington1.jpg" width=200 align=left></a>We're celebrating with a week of FREE CLASSES from September 12-18 to kick off our <a href="http://www.cabaretserpentine.com/classes.htm">Fall session</a>. Come try any and all classes in bellydance, hula hoop, flexibility, pilates and more!<br />
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As if that weren't enough to keep us busy, this weekend we're performing <a href="http://www.cabaretserpentine.com/events.htm">"Mesmerize" at the Atlantic Fringe Festival</a>. If you can't decide which style of bellydance to take, check out the show for a sample of everything! This show is has a fabulous mix of bellydance, circus and theatre. See you there!Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-91788410287735252052011-08-08T20:21:00.000-07:002013-04-09T08:55:30.566-07:00Fringe Festival TeaserMonique and I are thrilled to be taking part in the Atlantic Fringe Festival this year. We don't want to give anything away...but here's a little teaser.<br />
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The Poster:<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGy9-huTR8sO2cxUmLho1Sjo1rqI2JEy8fAkeFXQfjRemmGB1FjYbHUK1Xr_8oT33Mt4hRH2wh2pTH2iN61KSdNmcpPqw6TVBrvMftPXMUnQV0lNlaxo7XrhRQhyV9EsZo7n-UZ2Ara6U4/s1600/MESMERIZE-POSTER-1.jpg" width=400><br />
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Some of our Inspirations <br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMqQLReRZ8T-aaakx-PC-FeAVGsQFdSpCQImwkrnIAyQsHDyIMNZF8Z57Y8PYkQdQdP2PVblTZmcZel5VuB12WHKzV_7G_7PXSHQk_GOfWD9jw2DJO0DEJ8_68CjHhib5ENV02s0NNe9Fc/s320/Moulin+Rouge+Backstage.jpg" width="400"><br />
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-17151231906633475852011-07-06T14:00:00.000-07:002015-10-28T07:28:48.913-07:005 Reasons to Have Bellydance at Your Wedding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<span style="color: black;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggyRwd3lxLxc75Q_jLEKQMwYzFP240UctuQiGgfgsNScijSpMYFCtwxoRIGk1iEJjyxHGlFMi7uKtWyY657sX7kDaO6Z7ZQGCqeII9szi6tsKmcAyG6aUrh3luau02xGJp_J5B0wzLPhCU/s1600/Natalie+3+wedding.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggyRwd3lxLxc75Q_jLEKQMwYzFP240UctuQiGgfgsNScijSpMYFCtwxoRIGk1iEJjyxHGlFMi7uKtWyY657sX7kDaO6Z7ZQGCqeII9szi6tsKmcAyG6aUrh3luau02xGJp_J5B0wzLPhCU/s320/Natalie+3+wedding.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh52TYhrvdrn3hRNUZP-ziDYMRbA3Q4862SCyELAcL0aG58RU3h5zlCdhfyTK5J1QAelKFmopdUhsFkkDt4ED1Af44mrKSQKWfz4GgYRKw_sn1gIA8HwQOkEOUnoVaj3EDIYST83n-3LGx4/s1600/wedding-wings.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh52TYhrvdrn3hRNUZP-ziDYMRbA3Q4862SCyELAcL0aG58RU3h5zlCdhfyTK5J1QAelKFmopdUhsFkkDt4ED1Af44mrKSQKWfz4GgYRKw_sn1gIA8HwQOkEOUnoVaj3EDIYST83n-3LGx4/s320/wedding-wings.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></center>
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With so many wedding websites and blogs out there, there is a lot of talk about how to make your reception the most fun, the most original, and the most fabulous! I've noticed a lot of sites discussing whether belly dance is an "appropriate" form of entertainment. To me this argument is a bit funny, since belly dance is perhaps the most traditional wedding entertainment in the Middle East, an area known by some for its conservativism. There, the bellydancer is standard, and brings good luck to the new couple while making their wedding the talk of the town! So in an effort to raise awareness of this fabulous wedding option, here are your <b>Top 5 Reasons to Have Bellydance at your Wedding:</b><br />
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<b>1. Make an Entrance</b><br />
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One of the funnest new trends in weddings is to have a choreographed entrance by your wedding party into the reception venue. Why not throw a traditional Zeffah wedding procession into the mix for something different? Historically the the bellydancer led the bride and groom through the streets, bringing them luck and fertility. Today the dancer(s) leads the couple (and often the whole wedding party) dramatically into the reception hall, playing finger cymbals and wearing a sparkling Shamadan (candelabra) on her head. Check out <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zPD9ot4ZUfo&t=0m34s">this video</a> to get an idea!<br />
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<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwrAjJt0cBdn_t3QuoNOU3YZHoAtMUjsouOtK5ZXPgP7VZY6bROO62lsqpUGdso4czMqVarWSowyM3I5-TCTjcouDVDiYIsO6gIEW96dHQRbRK_pbDVIwwMXcDSNjIemGlsMZgxW-KGrbG/s1600/JCP_A+R_Wedding-250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwrAjJt0cBdn_t3QuoNOU3YZHoAtMUjsouOtK5ZXPgP7VZY6bROO62lsqpUGdso4czMqVarWSowyM3I5-TCTjcouDVDiYIsO6gIEW96dHQRbRK_pbDVIwwMXcDSNjIemGlsMZgxW-KGrbG/s1600/JCP_A+R_Wedding-250.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">2. Throw a Memorable Party</span><br />
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You want your reception to be remembered as the best party of the year, right? Well, 81% of guests say the thing they remember most about a wedding is the entertainment.* Between all the long speeches, cake-cutting, and making the happy couple kiss, there's gotta be something a little different. A colorful, swirling, dramatic performance by a skilled bellydancer is just the right thing to enchant and delight your guests.<br />
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Plus, teaching your uncle Fred or Grandmother to imitate our hip shimmies is too much fun! Kids love belly dance too, little girls especially love the princess-like costumes and love to dance with us.<br />
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Entertainment is often one of the Bride's last priorities, but <i>within one week after their reception, 78% of Brides say they would have made the entertainment their highest priority, and <i>almost 100% of people say they would have spent more of their budget on the entertainment.*</i> </i>Something to think about!</div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">3. Get the Party Started!</span><br />
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We've all been at a wedding where the food has been eaten, the first dance has happened, and music is playing...but everyone is still in their seat. Awkward! But wait, this is our specialty! Belly dance is a great ice breaker. A professional performer will entertain your crowd, then pull a couple feisty guests up to dance with her. By the end of it, people can't wait to get up on the dance floor and show off their moves!<br />
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<b>4. Express your Culture</b><br />
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Do you come from an Arabic, Turkish, or Persian background? Maybe your partner does, or part of your family. What better way to pay homage to your culture than a dance performance! Whether it's a classic, glittering belly dance show or a more traditional Middle-Eastern folk dance, an experienced bellydancer can offer a wide variety of cultural dances.<br />
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The beautiful sight of a glowing bride, the heart-warming speeches and connections made, fun music and dancing, these are some of the wonderful things about a wedding. But if you're looking to really create a spectacular, memorable event, belly dance is a great way to do it! Let us wow you with shimmering "Isis wings", daring sword dances, sparkling candelabras and fabulous dancing, all with a smile and an eye for taking your event to the next level.</div>
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PS- We also do Bollywood dancing, and there is nothing like Bollywood to get a party going!<br />
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<b>5. Be SPECTACULAR!</b><br />
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Looking for a particular color scheme, a special song, or a certain guest you'd love to see try their hand at belly dance? A professional entertainer is adept at meeting all the challenges of today's weddings. Our bellydancers have years of experience and this is what they LOVE to do!<br />
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Check out our <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.cabaretserpentine.com" target="_blank">hire</a> page to learn more about bellydance performances and booking. <br />
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Wonder what a wedding performance might look like? Check us out below!<br />
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Some thoughts from our wonderful past clients:<br />
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<span style="background-color: black;"><span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-style: italic; line-height: 20px;">"You were amazing!!!! The best money spent on my wedding!" -Suzie, bride</span><br style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-style: italic; line-height: 20px;" /><span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-style: italic; line-height: 20px;">"We were thrilled with your performance to say the least. All of our guests commented how beautiful and entertaining it was. [You two] are so talented. Thank you again." -Natalie, bride </span><span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-style: italic; line-height: 20px;"><br /><br />"You did a wonderful performance, we couldn't have asked for anything better! You looked absolutely stunning and your dance was amazing!" - Samira, entertainment organizer <br /><br />"On behalf of [my husband] and myself, I wanted to thank you for your beautiful performance. You added that touch of exotic-ness! Many guests complemented your work to us; you were fantastic." - Parisa, bride<br /><br />"...Laura was absolutely fantastic, and everyone has been raving about the performance. She was professional and wonderful, and very engaging with the crowd (not to mention a very enthusiastic four year old). Many people have come up to us saying how much it opened their eyes to a new form of incredible dancing. It was the perfect touch to our wedding!" - Stephanie, bride<br /><br />"You were a big hit at our wedding! Thank you for performing...and for being easy going with everything I needed, it turned exactly how I imagined!" - Rund, bride </span></span><br />
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<i>*These statistics were published in St. Louis Bride & Groom Magazine in 2003. Sources include: Simmons, 2001; USA Today, 2002; National Bridal Service, 2001; The Knot, 2002; Brides Magazine, 2001. This rendition of these statistics from the American Disc Jockey Association website adja.org</i></div>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-39366862814281603332011-05-22T20:07:00.000-07:002013-04-09T09:29:21.287-07:00Colleena Shakti eventsOnly one week left before our next show, and as usual, it's madness!<br /><center>
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Monique and I are especially excited about this event as we're flying international performer Colleena Shakti in from India for <a href="http://www.cabaretserpentine.com/Colleena.html">three workshops and the show</a>. I have been a big fan of Colleena's ever since I heard of her from her Odissi Guru, Padma Cherun Dehury in India. In 2005, I studied Odissi with Padma for 6 weeks in Orissa, and when he heard I bellydanced, he showed me Colleena's business card. I was instantly enamored with this western woman who had been intensely studying Odissi and Rajasthani dance since 2001. <br />
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When I learned that Colleena lives for most of the year with the Khalbelia 'Gypsies" in Rajasthan, my respect only grew. Being accepted into this group was no easy feat, and Colleena had managed to become "one of them" through respect, dedication and passion for the dance. "Colleena was the first outsider to go so deeply into the Khalbelia culture to find the origins and symbolism in their dance and lifestyle."<br />
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I finally met Colleena in person in Pushkar, Rajasthan where she helped me put on a small show at the Raganath Temple, where she now operates the Shakti School of dance. Since then, Colleena's star has been on the rise around the world, her authentic and graceful presence hypnotizing audiences at Tribal Fest and many more events. In fact, after leaving Halifax, Colleena is teaching two sold-out workshops at the opening of <i>Studio Datura</i>, Tribal Fusion Pioneer Rachel Brice's new studio. <br />
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<center>Colleena Shakti<br />
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We will be blessed with Colleena's presence at the show, where she will be performing both Odissi, Rajasthani, and Indian-Arabic fusion bellydance. Besides Colleena, we have so many other amazing performers! Both <b>Monique Ryan</b> and I are debuting new-to-Halifax numbers, <b>Rhonda Barrett</b> and <b>Nawal Doucette</b> will be performing their delicious fusion bellydance, the ever-awesome <b>Elinor Crosby</b> is in attendance along with her troupe <b>Uberwench Tribal</b>, and I can personally attest to the fabulousness of <b>Mahari</b>'s gorgeous new number! This is one show you don't want to miss. Buy your tickets <a href="http://www.cabaretserpentine.com/Colleena.html">here</a> or at <a href="http://www.prettythingsboutique.com/">Pretty Things Boutique </a>in Halifax.<br />
<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-55450069146536229092011-05-01T14:04:00.000-07:002015-10-28T07:29:33.342-07:00Nath Keo Workshop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This weekend I took in Nath Keo's "Sacred Centre" and "Oriental Bliss" workshops, and they were fantastic! Put on by BC ex-pat's Kathryn Burke and Lara Kirkpatrick, the workshops were held at the Dartmouth Sportsplex. I first met Nath after he blew everyone away at the first IBCC in Toronto. He was one of the performers <i>everyone</i> asked about, and due to popular demand Yasmina brought him back the next year to teach. Check out any of his <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/nathkeo">Youtube videos</a> and you'll see that his precise and innovative dancing is like nothing you've seen before. <br />
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What I love about Nath is his humble attitude and sense of humor, not to mention impeccable technique and a lot of passion for the dance. Influenced by his training in both Cambodian dance and Oriental style (aka Egyptian/cabaret bellydance for the stage), his style is very unique. Nath often mentioned how his teaching style is influenced by his work choreographing for Sacred Centre dance company, with the end goal being synchronized lines and technique. <br />
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Having been away from Yasmina and my other teachers in Toronto for many months, I was thrilled to be a student again, learning a fresh perspective on oriental technique as well as new and innovative combos. I even felt Nath's aesthetic coming out when I taught my classes on Saturday.<br />
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Nath is truly a Canadian treasure and belongs on the international workshop circuit. The quality of the workshop was right up there with many I've taken with more famous dancers. So get in your classes with him while you can! <br />
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I've been thinking a lot lately about creating group choreographies for our Cabaret Serpentine shows, and for various events in Atlantic Canada. Now I'm even more inspired! <br />
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Read more about Nath and his dancers here: <a href="http://www.sacredcentredance.com/">www.sacredcentredance.com</a>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-47847449164647317862011-04-25T11:51:00.000-07:002011-04-25T11:56:28.947-07:00Casino CarnivaleMonique and I performed at a great event at the Casino last week, Casino Carnivale. All week they had entertainment and special promotions. On April 16th and 17th a group of circus performers were brought in from all over the city and abroad to perform on and off for the evening. I had an awesome time meeting so many fascinating people! In bellydance land, I rarely have the chance to work with performers from different disciplines, so it was a thrill for me! So much damn talent in one room. I even got a private juggling lesson! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Monique and I (Monique's Blog <a href="http://lllmoniquelll.blogspot.com/">here</a>)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Caitlan and Monique (Caitlan's Blog <a href="http://dislocait.blogspot.com/">here</a>)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Caitlan and I, practicing my cirque skills!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Just chillin'.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Caitlan stretching<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Monique before performing<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Caitlan in the lobby stage<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-DDVnKxjdraIowXK5d5NmpBm9DkBeLIuYh2ewyGBa-2qN_GwhWUqrifvPRFJ5Td5kPKRTdI6JPnwOCo2UA66MPkFOLPbP6YX1duh6O15Lyq5Gh8KJMSOoKgSons_x4zTzB4mVlmUFwykK/s1600/circus7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="320" width="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-DDVnKxjdraIowXK5d5NmpBm9DkBeLIuYh2ewyGBa-2qN_GwhWUqrifvPRFJ5Td5kPKRTdI6JPnwOCo2UA66MPkFOLPbP6YX1duh6O15Lyq5Gh8KJMSOoKgSons_x4zTzB4mVlmUFwykK/s320/circus7.jpg" /></a></div>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-75217765450799791372011-04-25T11:33:00.000-07:002015-10-28T07:41:01.003-07:00Tribally Yours 2011This April, Monique and I were invited to teach and perform at Tribally Yours in Quebec. Our friends and fellow performers Kay and Elinor joined us for the road trip. Kay drove the whole way there and back in one shot, about 28 hours of driving total! We managed to make the drive fun with good music and photoshoots. <br />
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After settling in at our gorgeous B&B, we had a fabulous supper at a nearby restaurant, fresh salmon perfectly cooked, and handmade pasta with carmelized onions and sun-dried tomatoes. Yum! The next day we woke up early to teach our workshop, Drunken Master. Not your typical topic, this was about exploring the loose, juicy side of your dancing. Letting go of inhibitions and stiff perfectionism. However, we stressed that to really achieve the "master" part of the equation, technique needs to be so ingrained in your body that you can let go of thinking about it. <br />
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This workshop was inspired by Jackie Chan's Drunken Master, as a martial artist he gets better and better as he drinks, letting the punches flow by as he moves freely and softly around his opponant. We were also inspired by dancers like Dina and Zoe Jakes who truly "let go" when they dance, as well as Turkish Rom which frequently involves pantomimes of drinking. Our featured choreography, of which we taught some sections, has us drinking out of rhinestone flasks and loosening up as we dance. <br />
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The workshop was a blast, we started with shaking out the tension in all our body parts, then learning some funky "drunken" combos, and finally I led the girls in a Zaar-inspired ritual at the end to experience letting go of our "demons" and stress of our lives. <br />
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As students, we enjoyed Marie-Chantel's awesome Bollywood/Bellydance workshop, and Domonique Senecal's Tahitian dancing. <br />
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The performance was an amazing mix of over 30 acts. A HUGE amount of talent in this show. Monique and I performed solos as well as our Drunken Master duet. My favorite act was Marie-Chantel's infectious Bollywood to "Choli Ke Peeche" which I can't get out of my head. <br />
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Monique's awesome Hula Hoop/Bellydance/Cirque act:<br />
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My sword solo:<br />
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Drunken Master: <br />
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We spent the next night in Montreal, drinking wine and chatting with the girls. It was a great trip- we really enjoyed meeting so many talented people and seeing their creations! We were sad to go...especially sad to leave the land of fresh squeaky-cheese and easily accesible wine. Le sigh.<br />
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-64380562890134181022011-03-05T19:00:00.000-08:002015-10-28T07:41:15.384-07:00New classes in HalifaxI'd like to thank all of the lovely ladies who came out to my classes this Saturday at King's College Dance Studio. I'm so thrilled to be teaching again, these will be my first regular classes in Halifax since moving back from Toronto. <br />
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It was refreshing to see seasoned students from a variety of different teachers in my Intermediate class looking to brush up on their technique, study a new style and just to keep learning. Sometimes we forget that reviewing the basics can be so important and effective, so today I focused on Egyptian style shimmies and some arm patterns with this group. It's always tricky to get the Egyptian or "thigh" shimmy down when most of us start out with a bigger, more American-style shimmy that has the knees so connected to the hips. Everyone did a great job with the challenge.<br />
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I also had a great time teaching my brave beginners! I went through the full range of motion of the hips today, accent, twist, tilt, forward, backward and sideways slides, and Egyptian shimmies. I was impressed to see how patient and focused the ladies were today, taking the time to get the technique right instead of barreling ahead and missing the subtleties. <br />
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I think I'm going to enjoy teaching the more laid-back East Coast crowd!Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-25471690616203678822011-02-25T22:39:00.000-08:002015-10-28T08:16:37.351-07:00Choosing a Bellydance TeacherIt seems like everywhere you turn there's a bellydance class these days. When I lived in Toronto, there were 4 bellydance studios within walking distance. 7 if you're athletic. When Yasmina Ramzy started Arabesque Academy in Toronto, there was nothing else like it in most of Canada. Now you can find a bellydance class at every university, gym, rec centre and dance studio. Are all of these teachers qualified? How can you find out? In this post I hope to give you a couple good tips on how to determine if a teacher is right for you.<br />
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INSPIRATION:</h2>
<img align="right" src="http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu149/laurasbelly/Picture15.png?t=1298700195" width="175" /><br />
There are certainly more people bellydancing than ever before, and many more talented dancers. But being a great performer does not necessarily make a good teacher, and vice versa. Someone may have a great website and look absolutely stunning, but that does not make them a good dancer. You may fall in love with a performer, and find them cold and disorganized as a teacher. One thing is for sure, you want to be inspired by your teacher, so finding someone who's performance style you love is important. If you find a dancer to be awkward and uncomfortable as a performer, they will likely be the same in class, and may not be comfortable teaching to large groups.<br />
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PROFESSIONALISM:</h2>
Does the teacher have respect for themselves and for the art form? Seeing one of their performances can be a good way to find out. Do they act bawdy and crass, or classy and professional? Do they teach in a clean, safe studio, or some sketchy dive? Do you really want to associate yourself with someone who is doing the art form a disservice? Also, remember that price should NEVER be your top priority, if you want to get your money's worth. A true professional will not undercut other teachers and devalue the profession by giving away their work for free or at a deep discount. Even if they turn out to be a knowledgeable teacher, it shows a lack of respect to other teachers who work hard to make a living.<br />
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SAFETY:</h2>
Many people just want a fun class to get fit, feel sexy and have fun. This is a great reason to take a bellydance class! But just because you don't have any professional ambitions doesn't mean you should go to just anyone. Many newbie teachers say, "Oh, I know I'm not that experienced, but I only teach beginners". Beginner is the absolute most important level! 90% of advanced moves are a combination of isolations learned in beginner, and if you learn bad technique from the beginning, trust me, it is MUCH harder to unlearn than it is to learn something from scratch.<br />
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The other issue is your safety. Bellydance may seem like a gentle dance form, but all that hip twisting, shoulder snapping, chest popping and hip bumping can injure you if you don't have a knowledgeable teacher. Someone with experience will be specific when teaching technique, warning you to avoid things like stressing your joints, compressing your neck, hyper-extending your knees, etc.<br />
<img src="http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu149/laurasbelly/BDContortion-02_medium.jpg?t=1298699045" width="400" /> <br />
<i>Watch out for those backbends...</i><br />
<br />
One of the reasons I went in to Massage Therapy was to better understand bio-mechanics and the inner workings of the body to become a better teacher. What qualifications does the teacher have? Even if it's just knowledge collected from years of teaching and various related courses that may not have resulted in a degree, this is something you should research if you value your health! And as for learning the right technique, you may not start out wanting to be a "bellydancer", but so many girls fall in love with the art form and find themselves dedicated artists many years later. You deserve to get off on the right foot.<br />
<br />
<h2>
EXPERIENCE:</h2>
How long has the teacher been dancing before she started teaching? How long has she been teaching for? I personally waited 6 years until I felt I was ready to teach. Some people wait a year or less. Do they really have enough knowledge to be taking your money for it? I have seen some dancers become amazing bellydancers in as little as two years, however these girls usually have a very strong dance background in other styles, and study like crazy for those two years. If the teacher studied every day with top-of-the-industry teachers, then maybe two years is enough. If they studied for 10 years with some lady in the park, well, not so much. Look at their training. <br />
<br />
<h2>
DEDICATION:</h2>
Is this just a silly on-the-side thing, or something the teacher is passionate about? For me, my love for bellydance is behind everything I do. There are a couple ways to tell if the teacher is serious. Have they studied with renowned teachers? If someone isn't willing to invest money and time into this dance, they can't be taking it seriously. Dance training is expensive. Period. Do they invest in regular training? If they don't live in a big city, do they occasionally travel (or bring artists in) to stay fresh?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP4goQ-PxPnjacFv5oyTaw-CJ1RdHh2jTBpQN9O8u7E5ol2YXc3mmDQhH8HwWJupnxncYMxyGoeJMpgheDrlSuDPBtrPh8KeRE94AtLNsOBYZj3p89c80bMZhF6pwTijzhrgfmE516dKjS/s1600/turqoise_laces1+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP4goQ-PxPnjacFv5oyTaw-CJ1RdHh2jTBpQN9O8u7E5ol2YXc3mmDQhH8HwWJupnxncYMxyGoeJMpgheDrlSuDPBtrPh8KeRE94AtLNsOBYZj3p89c80bMZhF6pwTijzhrgfmE516dKjS/s320/turqoise_laces1+copy.jpg" width="233" /></a></div>
This extends to costuming, as shallow as it may sound. No matter if they're "designer", but a lingerie bra with a necklace sewn to it doesn't exactly scream "professional". Pro cabaret costumes cost a few hundred dollars. If you put together an amazing tribal fusion costume, it will be similar, if not more (That antique Rajasthani jewelry adds up). Like I said, expensive!<br />
<br />
Of course, having lots of bling doesn't make you good. I've seen a couple "interesting" performers with rich husbands who love to buy them designer costumes. The key here is professionalism. The costume doesn't have to be expensive, but it should show respect for the dancer and the art form.<br />
<br />
Serious dancers will have a website. I know a couple amazing dancers in Toronto who don't, but you should at least be able to read about them on the dance studio website. In general, if someone is taking the profession seriously, they should have one. Good business cards too. There are always exceptions to the rule, but there needs to be a way to learn about the dancers background.<br />
<br />
<h2>
ORGANIZATION:</h2>
<img src="http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu149/laurasbelly/Picture13.png?t=1298699213" width="400" /><br />
<i>Aida Nour leads a group at the 2008 International Bellydance Conference of Canada</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Now, we can all get a little flustered or disorganized at times, but in general you want to see that your teacher has a plan. Technique should build on itself as you go, and the class should have a good warm-up and cool down. Designing a class plan, what order to teach the moves in, to what music, and in what time frame takes experience. This is something you usually only find out after you take the class. <br />
<br />
<h2>
KNOWLEDGE:</h2>
It seems obvious, but simply knowing how to shake doesn't cut it. What kind of shimmy is that? What muscles are powering that chest lift? Where does veil work come from? Where does BELLYDANCE come from? Who are the Saidi people? Bellydance is a cultural art with a rich history. If the teacher has no idea where it comes from, they are doing both the dance and their students a disservice. There is a lot of discussion about whether Tribal Fusion teachers (who clearly state they don't teach traditional dance) should know about the roots of bellydance and Middle Eastern Folklore. I believe that of course they should at least know about the general history of the dance. Modern dancers don't necessarily have to study ballet in depth, but they do know the basics.<br />
<br />
<h2>
PERSONALITY:</h2>
For me, this is a big one. Do you leave class feeling like crap because of a put-down from your teacher? Does she make you feel excited about learning more, or like you should just give up? How does she give criticism? Don't keep going to a teacher who crushes your spirit, or who makes you feel uncomfortable. <img align="left" src="http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu149/laurasbelly/Picture12.png?t=1298699213" width="200" /> That's not what you're there for. Sahra Saeeda is a wonderful example of the right kind of personality. Taking her "Journey Through Egypt" folklore certificate course, I felt so excited to learn more, she made us feel like scholars of dance. She respected the knowledge we came in with and was excited to teach us more. <br />
<br />
I've had other teachers make me feel like I will never understand all the complexities of this dance and I should just give up. They may insult your other teachers and insist they are the "one true path" and their next big expensive workshop is the only way you'll ever improve. Which personality do you think will really encourage your progress? <br />
<br />
<i>Sahra shows Jaene a Ghawazee-style costume at left</i><br />
<br />
Another thing to be wary of is teachers who are so sweet that they never correct your technique (again, what are you paying for?) or who feed your ego by promising you that you'll be a huge star. You want someone kind and encouraging, but you also want someone who will push you to be your absolute best. This may mean you occasionally leave class feeling frustrated or bummed-out, but you shouldn't feel personally hurt or disrespected by your teacher.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
There are so many more factors to take into consideration, and following your instincts will always help you. I wish everyone could have a wonderful experience learning this incredible dance and hope you can find the best possible mentor to guide you!<br />
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<i>Laura and Monique with Rachel Brice in 2007</i></div>
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-30451690364592061692011-01-22T21:09:00.000-08:002013-04-09T09:30:29.668-07:00Going HomeMost of you know I'm moved back to Halifax, Nova Scotia from Toronto this winter. This has been such a hard decision for me and about a year of angst went into it. I've had a lot of people ask why I would move to a smaller city at this point in my career, so I thought I'd write a bit about it here.<br />
<br />
When I initially left Halifax, many of my friends had already moved away, I was at a standstill in my bellydance and photography career, and I wanted a change. I had taken the Arabesque Pro Course in Toronto in the summer and was completely excited about the idea of working with Canada's leading bellydance company, Yasmina Ramzy, and learning to work with live musicians. In October 2005 I moved to Toronto and started taking classes at Arabesque like crazy. <br />
<br />
<img src="http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/8503/adcnn.jpg" width=300><br />
<br />
My first year was hard. Toronto is a hard city to crack and it took me almost the whole year until I started to like the place. When I visited Halifax, Monique and I would have intensive bellydance pow-wows and started our duet group, <a href="http://www.cabaretserpentine.com">Cabaret Serpentine</a>. We began putting on shows every 6 months or so and dreamed of working in the same city and starting a business together. I planned to move home in about 2 years after studying intensively at Arabesque.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://img7.imageshack.us/img7/2884/rawsb.jpg" width=200><br />
<br />
That didn't happen. I became an apprentice and then a lead dancer at Arabesque. After working full time as a bellydancer, teaching and performing all over the city, I became concerned at the flighty nature of the work and wanted a side career to support it. Something that would be a compliment. After a lot of searching I found Massage Therapy. It felt like the perfect match; I would learn more about anatomy and biomechanics, I would be helping people, I could be my own boss eventually, and could set my own schedule. <br />
<br />
<img src="http://img30.imageshack.us/img30/1331/gradtg.jpg" width=300><br />
<br />
2 years later I graduated from Sutherland-Chan as an RMT, with a wonderful boyfriend. :)<br />
We spent the next year and a half together and things just kept getting better. Many of the Arabesque girls had become very close friends, and wonderful opportunities kept coming my way. I had two great jobs as an RMT and had finally started to feel at home in Toronto.<br />
<br />
All this time Monique and I kept talking about the possibilities for our business, brainstorming new workshops, choreographies and ideas. I loved working with Arabesque but I was starting to get tired of being an instrument in someone else's vision and wanted the opportunity to create my own work. I missed my family, the tight-knit community in Halifax, the ocean and my friends. When I visited in the summer to help put on "<a href="http://www.cabaretserpentine.com/serpcircus/#slides/moni%20-voodoo.jpg">Serpentine Circus</a>", I saw what I would be missing out on if I stayed in Toronto. A chance to be a leader in the bellydance community with something to offer the city, as opposed to Toronto where there are so many amazing dancers, events and workshops going on that nothing really stands out. Creating your own events is so incredibly expensive and complex in Toronto that it hardly seems worth it. In Halifax our network of incredible talented people meant that our shows had been great successes. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEDQe9ZOUhmEHKfrZTBKrxGq9BX2W-ksyOl_Y88dkW5P1SAukeGPgvL11W3RolBjHwPPJ3_L_cY3ADDYu5RAwAm4jAy8rFBb73aRx9A2fRlD8d7vxPzhEGLyaKHpVvUgeK-QGM86lcLXYw/s1600/5969s.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEDQe9ZOUhmEHKfrZTBKrxGq9BX2W-ksyOl_Y88dkW5P1SAukeGPgvL11W3RolBjHwPPJ3_L_cY3ADDYu5RAwAm4jAy8rFBb73aRx9A2fRlD8d7vxPzhEGLyaKHpVvUgeK-QGM86lcLXYw/s320/5969s.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
So after about a year of driving both Monique, my boyfriend and my family crazy, I decided I needed to try moving back and see if I could make it work. My (did I mention wonderful?) boyfriend finally agreed to move down with me in April, a crucial detail! In December I left my jobs, had about 4 tearful goodbye parties with Arabesque, packed up my crazy apartment and moved home over Christmas.<br />
<br />
Since I've moved back, everyone has been so welcoming and wonderful. I'm thrilled to see the interest in traditional Egyptian dance by Halifax dancers, with two sold-out workshops this month! It has been so good to connect with my family again and working with Monique is exciting as always. Our plans are finally taking shape and so many amazing opportunities and projects have come our way already. I've started a great job as a massage therapist as well. I can't thank everyone enough for your love, support, and encouragement this last year, I certainly wouldn't have made it without you. <br />
<br />
<img src="http://img835.imageshack.us/img835/6594/stato.jpg" width=300>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-17585804625638762302010-10-27T13:41:00.000-07:002013-04-09T09:35:20.131-07:00Tribal Fusion and Egyptian Cabaret, what's the difference?No matter which style you prefer, or what you call them, you have to agree that bellydance is becoming more and more divided into these two categories, each with its own strong identity and style. In this post I won't be dealing with the complex politics that surround these issues, nor do I plan on defending the legitimacy (or awesomeness) of either. That's a whole 'nother topic.<br />
<br />
Often I think there should be a "bellydance for dummies" style summary for beginners who are trying to understand the complex world of bellydance which they are entering. Below is a chart I made a while ago to try and come up with a quick "cheat sheet" to help beginner dancers understand the difference. I would LOVE any feedback as this is a HUGE topic! Let me know your thoughts. <br />
<br />
<br />
<table border=1 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 style='border-collapse:collapse;
border:none;mso-border-alt:solid windowtext .5pt;mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt'><tr style='height:13.0pt'> <td width=73 valign=top style='width:72.9pt;border:solid windowtext .5pt;
padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:13.0pt'><br />
<p class=MsoNormal><![if !supportEmptyParas]> <![endif]><span
style='font-size:9.0pt'><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p></td> <td width=162 valign=top style='width:2.25in;border:solid windowtext .5pt;
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height:13.0pt'><br />
<p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><span
style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ_PylPufme67wAnlqoKzcEST0oDv-Q9j_f3WG9lltEr_EwAdeqPIi1Mbcs5FFq8QfwyqiU7lbjK23usCnvTaynQbwxMugi4BJpa7CgI6XdGaGyeISLQcXQ5zi_I9QNw20T87ssNxfynXm/s1600/99361633A23D935894BA4382B08ECD63.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ_PylPufme67wAnlqoKzcEST0oDv-Q9j_f3WG9lltEr_EwAdeqPIi1Mbcs5FFq8QfwyqiU7lbjK23usCnvTaynQbwxMugi4BJpa7CgI6XdGaGyeISLQcXQ5zi_I9QNw20T87ssNxfynXm/s320/99361633A23D935894BA4382B08ECD63.jpg" height=200><br />
<font color="#ffffff">Tribal Fusion</b></span><span
style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p></td> <td width=171 valign=top style='width:171.0pt;border:solid windowtext .5pt;
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<p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><span
style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'><b><img src="http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/6898/aziza.jpg" height=200"><br />
<font color="#ffffff">Egyptian/Cabaret</b></span><span
style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p></td> </tr>
<tr> <td width=73 valign=top style='width:72.9pt;border:solid windowtext .5pt;
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'><b>Description</b></span><span
style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p></td> <td width=162 valign=top style='width:2.25in;border-top:none;border-left:
none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;border-right:solid windowtext .5pt;
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'>Dark, Mysterious, Powerful</span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td> <td width=171 valign=top style='width:171.0pt;border-top:none;border-left:
none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;border-right:solid windowtext .5pt;
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'>Sensual, Expressive, Playful</span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td> </tr>
<tr> <td width=73 valign=top style='width:72.9pt;border:solid windowtext .5pt;
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'><b>Influences</b></span><span
style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p></td> <td width=162 valign=top style='width:2.25in;border-top:none;border-left:
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'>Middle Eastern Folklore, Modern, hip hop, Indian, Spanish, and African dance, the list goes on.</span><span
style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td> <td width=171 valign=top style='width:171.0pt;border-top:none;border-left:
none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;border-right:solid windowtext .5pt;
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'>Middle Eastern folkoric and social dance, Russian ballet, golden era Hollywood movies and tourism</span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td> </tr>
<tr> <td width=73 valign=top style='width:72.9pt;border:solid windowtext .5pt;
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'><b>Origins <br />
(in a nutshell)</b></span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p></td> <td width=162 valign=top style='width:2.25in;border-top:none;border-left:
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'>Carolina Nericcio developed American Tribal Style (ATS) an offshoot of bellydance and world dance involving group improv using established combos and cues. Suhaila Salimpour developed her own technique out of middle eastern cabaret and modern dance using complex muscle control and isolation. These created a technical base for individual expression and freedom of style. Dancers like Rachel Brice created interpretations which have been emulated the world over. Tribal Fusion is considered by some to be the evolution of bellydance, and is experiencing a huge creative boom where almost any kind of fusion is being explored. </span><span
style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td> <td width=171 valign=top style='width:171.0pt;border-top:none;border-left:
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'>Middle Eastern folk and social dance was adapted for the stage by the national folkloric troupes of Egypt, (The Kowmeya and Reda Troupes) encouraging national pride and tourism. The “Oriental” or cabaret style seems to have originated in the mid 1900's mainly by Badia Masabni in her Cairo "Casino Opera", again powered by tourism. Russian ballet dancers were brought in to teach poise and elegance. Hollywood movies and American theatre exotized the dance and the Middle East, and in turn influenced the dance and costuming. Americans and dancers the world over have since created their own styling to suit their individual character and audience.</span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td> </tr>
<tr> <td width=73 valign=top style='width:72.9pt;border:solid windowtext .5pt;
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'><b>Famous<br />
Dancers</b></span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p></td> <td width=162 valign=top style='width:2.25in;border-top:none;border-left:
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'>Rachel Brice, Jill Parker, Zoe Jakes, Mardi Love, Sharon Kihara, Mira Betz... Canada: Audra Simmons </span><span
style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td> <td width=171 valign=top style='width:171.0pt;border-top:none;border-left:
none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;border-right:solid windowtext .5pt;
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'>Samia Gamal, Tahiya Karioka, Dina, Randa Kamel, Aziza, Tito, Jillina... Canada: Yasmina Ramzy, Hadia</span><span
style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td> </tr>
<tr> <td width=73 valign=top style='width:72.9pt;border:solid windowtext .5pt;
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'><b>Posture</b></span><span
style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p></td> <td width=162 valign=top style='width:2.25in;border-top:none;border-left:
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'>Strong, proud, controlled, arms are higher, hips heavy.</span><span style='font-size:
9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td> <td width=171 valign=top style='width:171.0pt;border-top:none;border-left:
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'>Poised, relaxed, hips heavy, upper body elegant.</span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;
font-family:Arial'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td> </tr>
<tr> <td width=73 valign=top style='width:72.9pt;border:solid windowtext .5pt;
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'><b>Costuming</b></span><span
style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p></td> <td width=162 valign=top style='width:2.25in;border-top:none;border-left:
none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;border-right:solid windowtext .5pt;
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'>Folkloric/gypsy to Industrial, urban-primitive to minimalist. Leg and cleavage not as common. Influences of world dance layered in a gypsy-like collection of treasures. “Melodia” pants, antique jewelry, large hair ornaments, coin bras and low belts with medallions and tassels are common. At this point anything goes!</span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;
font-family:Arial'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td> <td width=171 valign=top style='width:171.0pt;border-top:none;border-left:
none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;border-right:solid windowtext .5pt;
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'>Feminine and sensual. Beaded bra and belt sets with flowing skirts, now common is the embellished lycra skirt and matching bra. Legs, stomach and cleavage are often artfully shown. Sparkling jewelry. Elegant beaded dresses with cut-outs are also an option. Folkloric costuming is individual to the region.<br />
</span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td> </tr>
<tr> <td width=73 valign=top style='width:72.9pt;border:solid windowtext .5pt;
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'><b>Props</b></span><span
style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p></td> <td width=162 valign=top style='width:2.25in;border-top:none;border-left:
none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;border-right:solid windowtext .5pt;
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'>Anything you can imagine including sword, zills (finger cymbals), fans, fire, "Spanish" skirts, trays….</span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td> <td width=171 valign=top style='width:171.0pt;border-top:none;border-left:
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'>Veils, assaya (cane), shamadan (candelabra), zills… </span><span style='font-size:
9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td> </tr>
<tr> <td width=73 valign=top style='width:72.9pt;border:solid windowtext .5pt;
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'><b>Music</b></span><span
style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p></td> <td width=162 valign=top style='width:2.25in;border-top:none;border-left:
none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;border-right:solid windowtext .5pt;
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'>Anything. Popular choices are interpretive, electronic with world music influences, strong drum beats, mysterious and dark. Circus and vaudeville elements are becoming popular. Beats Antique, Solace, Amon Tobin, Balkan Beat Box, Pentaphobe, Karsh Kale and Cheb I Sabbah, Mosavo...</span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;
font-family:Arial'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td> <td width=171 valign=top style='width:171.0pt;border-top:none;border-left:
none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;border-right:solid windowtext .5pt;
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'>Arabic music which can be instrumental, upbeat and catchy or slow and expressive, can be very powerful and beautiful, runs the gamut of moods. Uses instruments such as dumbek, nay, quanun, accordian, mizmar, oud, etc. Famous singers are Oum Kalthoum or Farid Al Attrach for the classics; and Saad El Sogheer, Hakim, Nancy Ajram, Tarkan, Amr Diab and Warda etc for upbeat pop music.</span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;
font-family:Arial'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td> </tr>
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'><b>Why try this style?</b></span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p></td> <td width=162 valign=top style='width:2.25in;border-top:none;border-left:
none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;border-right:solid windowtext .5pt;
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<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'>Mysterious and powerful, this dance gives you freedom of expression, and is impressive and exciting to a western audience. Learn muscle control and strength. Costumes are creative, fascinating and exciting. Express your individuality!</span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:
Arial'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td> <td width=171 valign=top style='width:171.0pt;border-top:none;border-left:
none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;border-right:solid windowtext .5pt;
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padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt'><br />
<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'>Sensual and exciting, cabaret is considered more authentic and traditional, with a rich history and culture to explore. Express all of your emotions from joy to heartbreak. Learn muscle control and poise. Costumes are beautiful, sparkling and elegant. Express your femininity!</span><span
style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Arial'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td> </tr>
</table><br />
<p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:Helvetica'><o:p></o:p></span></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-67212368892649760172010-10-06T12:57:00.000-07:002010-10-06T12:57:35.643-07:00New Blue Bella!My Bella finally arrived! Adjusted a couple hooks and it fits beautifully. I was so happy to find a Bella on <a href="http://www.bhuz.com/forum/bellydance-swap-meet/?pp=30&sort=dateline&order=desc&daysprune=-1">Bhuz</a> in a color and style that I like. But you know what they say, "you have to sell Bellas to get Bellas!" ....I just don't think I can part with my <a href="http://www.laurasbelly.com/StudioGallery/slides/Laura-(45)sh.jpg">ruby red one</a>...it was my first real pro costume! SOB! I can keep it for now, right? RIGHT?<br />
<br />
<img src="http://img839.imageshack.us/img839/3402/bellabue.jpg">Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-57569079589695709312010-10-04T22:28:00.000-07:002010-10-04T22:29:50.108-07:00Dancing With The GirlsI've had so much fun doing duet and trio shows this summer. A gig is always more fun when you're going with a friend. It feels safer of course, travel is less mind-numbingly boring, and any difficult or ridiculous situation is always hilarious, rather than making you upset or annoyed. <br />
<br />
For example, here are Samara and I turning what could be an intimidating venue into a movie set.<br />
<img src="http://img31.imageshack.us/img31/4401/groupshows5.jpg" width=400><br />
<br />
Context: We are asked to change in a bathroom and I am getting the most out of the situation. Samara is standing on the edge of the bathtub taking my photo. No one got hurt. True story.<br />
<img src="http://img29.imageshack.us/img29/44/groupshows6.jpg" width=400><br />
<br />
In a group, any problem is creatively solved. In this photo, Saba improvises her costume (as I cleverly forgot to pack her costume change, a matching red outfit). She becomes the gypsy-esque star and Yzza and I are her back-up dancers. Crisis averted!<br />
<img src="http://img826.imageshack.us/img826/5800/groupshows2.jpg" width=400><br />
<br />
Waiting time "backstage" becomes much more productive.<br />
<img src="http://img841.imageshack.us/img841/2633/groupshows1.jpg" width=400><br />
<br />
In other crazy stories, nothing went wrong at this show with Maryfer! I am not making this stuff up folks. <br />
<img src="http://img716.imageshack.us/img716/9453/groupshows3.jpg" width=400><br />
Oh, and no we're not changing in a public washroom (bellydance purgatory), but were actually given an entire "spare" ballroom including a staff washroom. That's how you do it.<br />
<br />
And here I am NOT lighting anything on fire with my Shamadan. SUCCESS!!<br />
<img src="http://img841.imageshack.us/img841/7619/groupshows4.jpg" width=300><br />
<br />
And finally, walking through a giant complex of banquet halls from the changeroom to your show is about 300% more entertaining. <br />
<object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/nl6NbKvPkYE?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/nl6NbKvPkYE?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-20872772686308730582010-09-19T13:04:00.000-07:002010-09-19T13:04:20.391-07:00Moroccan Tent showLast night I performed at what I was told was a "tent party" for a client on a "tight budget". <br />
<br />
...It turned out to be the most opulent engagement party I've ever seen. The tent was on the front lawn, draped with fabrics and filled with candles and moroccan lanterns. There was a fabulous Arabic band who I wish I could've stayed and listened to. The drummer played with my CD which was great. I changed into my costume in the house which was an incredible mansion which reminded me of "Beauty and the Beast" for some reason. <br />
<br />
<img src="http://application.denofgeek.com/pics/film/list/dance05.jpg"width=350><br />
<i>Yeah, like that.</i><br />
<br />
<br />
The clientele was Arabic and Afghan so I wore a veil wrapped like a sari under my bra and around my torso. I was able to use the "pallu" (loose end that hangs over the shoulder) like a veil, so it worked out nicely. Here are a couple pics that my wonderful boyfriend/amazing gig assistant took with his iphone. <br />
<br />
<i>Here I am with hand candles, the video boom above me:<br />
<img src="http://img705.imageshack.us/img705/82/img0321h.jpg" width=400><br />
<br />
And with the sword, which turned out to be the hit of the evening:</i><br />
<img src="http://img683.imageshack.us/img683/8034/img0328j.jpg"width=400><br />
<br />
So it turned out to be a great evening. This is a great reminder that no matter how "tight" your client's budget apparently is, you should stick to your guns and charge what you're worth. After all if they're hiring entertainment they either can afford it or they can't. I doubt the caterer, band, security, and decorators are giving them a discount! <br />
<br />
Happy dancing,<br />
Laura xoxoxLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-85408810403491887322010-09-16T22:28:00.000-07:002013-04-09T09:37:39.503-07:00Photoshoot with Ritesh DasI had such a wonderful photoshoot with <a href="http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=28400784744">Ritesh Das</a> last week. I chose to work with Ritesh not only because of his wonderful photography, but because he is such a warm-hearted, fun, fascinating person. Not just a photographer, Ritesh is Toronto's tabla master. His group the <a href="http://www.tablaensemble.com/">Toronto Tabla Ensemble</a> create incredible world music that I actually listen to all the time! As a "fellow Gemini" (as Ritesh would say) we get along famously. <p>I tried not to let my photography background take over and make me a nightmare micro-managing client...which turned out to be easy as Ritesh did a fabulous job!<br />
<p>Here is a sneak preview of our shots, check out my <a href="http://www.laurasbelly.com/photos.htm">website gallery</a> or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Laura-Selenzi-Bellydance/102281893154264?ref=ts">Facebook Page</a> for the full report!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiVzHSVBKP_2YOSRK6cJnmgX9VkNT3Z6z6n6Fz9Vckn3Blr7OZLW0XSJpoTq6dKyaR6MDsjtEjTYivpoLjBrSpv7NeBNvIOpP3VOBGIJObMajXQS1fyT2CEa97walLn6RZxHIySy0jr4hr/s1600/DSC_0027-web.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiVzHSVBKP_2YOSRK6cJnmgX9VkNT3Z6z6n6Fz9Vckn3Blr7OZLW0XSJpoTq6dKyaR6MDsjtEjTYivpoLjBrSpv7NeBNvIOpP3VOBGIJObMajXQS1fyT2CEa97walLn6RZxHIySy0jr4hr/s320/DSC_0027-web.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEickmnRSfGSi_a4BnUUWlP27YiuIKAywYgOs7RAicLObv-mC6E0e6bKac7xdkXt3Kaag-E9O_2gWyD4_8MxSe7L9Ei-1Q8wp3omMTpz6iJQGrYq8WwGBYwCj4ESulj8ZQ3_tpigJuZSIrbR/s1600/DSC_0139-web.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEickmnRSfGSi_a4BnUUWlP27YiuIKAywYgOs7RAicLObv-mC6E0e6bKac7xdkXt3Kaag-E9O_2gWyD4_8MxSe7L9Ei-1Q8wp3omMTpz6iJQGrYq8WwGBYwCj4ESulj8ZQ3_tpigJuZSIrbR/s320/DSC_0139-web.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj24-lCdPDQ7g7lVzL7Tn2SdV5arXItX5wKhqAnRt2pbM_x0KCHC7PzRHl-cOVTVinVbk-V5myHDGKNVzXs6cjcc29tL_Hs5-Mub8A2DV5c7mX98Inc55JUFKARUwstNEMxBL6DXdXKqcJY/s1600/DSC_0033+2-b.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj24-lCdPDQ7g7lVzL7Tn2SdV5arXItX5wKhqAnRt2pbM_x0KCHC7PzRHl-cOVTVinVbk-V5myHDGKNVzXs6cjcc29tL_Hs5-Mub8A2DV5c7mX98Inc55JUFKARUwstNEMxBL6DXdXKqcJY/s320/DSC_0033+2-b.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaK3YFTdWjqtEJf4mu9DUEAxM6FTPbFSC3mEBwgxTELswpN8oc8fML38xrJnqpyDYg4rSOFgz2vWq43z6o-CL_nGTzF2zSdtzDUFo7v7_JUYUtXpO_FVYujfCVhPKj087i-446oQPpk-6k/s1600/DSC_0147+2-b.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaK3YFTdWjqtEJf4mu9DUEAxM6FTPbFSC3mEBwgxTELswpN8oc8fML38xrJnqpyDYg4rSOFgz2vWq43z6o-CL_nGTzF2zSdtzDUFo7v7_JUYUtXpO_FVYujfCVhPKj087i-446oQPpk-6k/s320/DSC_0147+2-b.jpg" /></a>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-78456578465824641472010-09-09T22:31:00.000-07:002010-09-09T22:31:54.046-07:00New Sahar Okasha costume!SO excited! Finally had this beautiful designer costume tailored to fit perfectly. Hopefully pro photos will follow soon, but here's a sneak peek I couldn't help but share!<br />
<img src="http://img42.imageshack.us/img42/3199/img6439i.jpg" width=400><br />
<br />
Yes, that's my poor roomie in the background, trying desperately to live a bellydance-free life.Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-88804690879949835602010-09-05T21:24:00.000-07:002013-04-09T09:41:28.175-07:00A Bellydancer’s Guide To GigsAfter an extremely unpleasant experience with a recent show, I found it helpful to refer to an old article of mine as a reminder to always stick to your guns and demand fair treatment; from the very first contact with the client until you leave. I hope this is helpful and that some of you can avoid unpleasant situations in your future! And for you potential clients, perhaps this could clarify a bit of the industry for you.<br />
<br />
<blockquote><b>A Bellydancer’s Guide To Gigs<br />
or<br />
How To Make A Living And Still Like Yourself In The Morning</b><br />
<i>Originally published in Mid-Bits Magazine, Winter 2009. Edited Sept 2010.</i><br />
By Laura Selenzi<br />
<br />
After my last article about the Arabesque Pro Course (published in Mid-Bits, Fall 2008), I began thinking about how much I had learned about the business of bellydance. Four years later, I now perform and teach regularly in Toronto and many of the issues discussed have come up for me. Although it was intimidating at first, I’ve found that insisting on respect and high standards has left clients pleased and impressed. Yasmina Ramzy’s resolve to change the public’s view of bellydance to that of an art form has stuck with me as I attempt to make a living in this industry. <br />
<br />
The profession of bellydance is a highly misunderstood one, to say the least. When I inform people of what I do, “I study Middle Eastern dance” (because, to say I’m a <i>bellydancer</i> right off the bat always sends eyebrows through the roof and evokes much nudging and tittering, of course…) the reaction is usually one of intense curiosity and surprise –and occasionally shock or skepticism. “What do you actually DO?” they ask. Well…besides teaching and dancing with Arabesque Dance Company, the sort of shows I do are vast in range.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIHzLvyiUvbyfND-dIcHGCurSMo4bNWKsmeDBaf3OCSOoCTZHrRv2WmjpzcM7lf0V1xaVczMuFc0q6cnYjStI-6acfomR2NqFogMrtcQ3-BmDevI6NQf8GvTXUuGIkERxfqrD0GS3zu7M8/s1600/ZMO_7770+copy.jpeg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIHzLvyiUvbyfND-dIcHGCurSMo4bNWKsmeDBaf3OCSOoCTZHrRv2WmjpzcM7lf0V1xaVczMuFc0q6cnYjStI-6acfomR2NqFogMrtcQ3-BmDevI6NQf8GvTXUuGIkERxfqrD0GS3zu7M8/s320/ZMO_7770+copy.jpeg" /></a>
<br />
The classic is of course the Arabic wedding. Then there’s the usual restaurant show. There are also bridal showers, birthday parties, children’s parties, baptisms, fundraisers, corporate events, television and movie appearances and more. On the other hand there are dancer-created events such as stage and theatre shows, studio “hafla’s” (parties) and gala events. However, it’s the events where the general public hires us that I’m interested in discussing.<br />
<br />
How do these people find me? Many find me through the Arabesque Agency, which is where I gained an understanding of fair pricing, professional ethics, and more. I also receive a number of requests from my website and other sites where I list myself. Some come from recommendations from previous clients and other entertainers. One of the main things I find myself doing is educating clients about hiring a bellydancer. I would say at least 95% of clients have never done this before and are looking to the dancer for guidance. <br />
<br />
The major hurdle I run into at this point is price. I will absolutely not go below my standard rate unless there is a very compelling reason, ie: for charity or an event that will absolutely lead to a <i>significant</i> amount of future business. This is why most dancers charge less for recurring restaurant bookings – they promise a reliable weekly income and the prospect of contact with new clients. Private events are a one-off and do not give you as much exposure, so charging more is appropriate. Standard rates (charged by professionals and popular agencies in Toronto) are $125 and up for a recurring weekly show, and $200 for a private event downtown. Most of my shows are farther outside of the downtown core, and normally run at about $250-$350 depending on location. Arabesque lists the pricing scheme very clearly on the agency website.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.laurasbelly.com/data/images14/purpledn.jpg" width=400><br />
<br />
So why all this talk about pricing? As I mentioned earlier, this is the biggest hurdle in booking gigs and dealing with clients. I lose about 50% of the potential clients who call me when they hear my price. “Oh ok…I’ll talk to my husband and get back to you.” And…they’re gone. Or “Well my friends niece said she’ll do it for $50, why do you charge so much more?” I feel its important at this point to mention that you are a seasoned professional who takes the dance seriously and have put years of time and money into your training, and it shows. People often thank me profusely after shows, mentioning another event where a non-professional danced (often a family member or friend who has taken a couple lessons, people have too often been embarrassed by hiring someone like this) -they are thrilled to see a real pro. If people want something decent, they will pay for it. I’m not going to argue with clients here. I pleasantly state my case, and thank them for calling. There have been many times when I could have really used that $150 to help pay the rent, but I have stuck to my guns.<br />
<br />
I’ve overheard Yasmina Ramzy’s struggles in the Arabesque Agency as she attempts to convince clients no true professional would charge $150 for a private event and yes, her dancers are educated about Arabic music and culture, and yes they are stage-worthy and attractive. Clients have had way too many bad experiences with inexperienced dancers who use inappropriate music, props and costuming, etc. and are now nervous about hiring again. As I mentioned in my last article, one of the wonderful things about bellydance is that it is welcoming to all women; but in the case of commercial gigs, most clients want a dancer who is young, fit, and attractive.<br />
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The real problem with pricing is when other dancers charge below the standard rate. Some state they love to dance and would happily do it for less or for free (some even go so far as to suggest that being paid for your art implies you love it less). Some say that they are still inexperienced and don’t feel right charging the standard rate, or are simply trying to beat the competition and get more shows and experience. The issue here is that this devalues us as artists and professionals. If one dancer charges $100 for a private party, the client then feels that this is the “real” price, and the next time they or their friend tries to hire a professional, they think we are trying to rip them off. So no one wins here, the public will now insist on a lower price for everyone. So when you are “ready” to charge the full price, no one will want to pay it. (This of course goes for teaching rates as well.) If you are just starting out and don’t want to charge the full rate, dance for charity events, fundraisers, students gala’s etc. until you do feel ready. Performing for the public before you’re prepared not only lowers the bar of the entire art form, people will remember you as such and you want to present yourself at your best. <br />
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<img src="http://www.laurasbelly.com/data/images6/mezza-kitchen.jpg" width=400><br />
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In many cities bellydancers charge much less due to factors such as high competition and low market price. Arabesque ran into the same problems in Toronto originally but began to slowly raise the fee, encouraging others to do the same. Soon it was clear that those clients who were discerning were willing to pay for the best. In price checking other dance entertainers such as hip-hop and bollywood, you may notice that the rates start around $300 for private events. Why do we charge less?<br />
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Another issue I have come up against, and that the Arabesque Agency has to deal with frequently is the client who wants to hire dancers as “ambience”. They want a pretty girl in a costume to dance around behind musicians, on a podium at a club or to hostess an event. Now while this may sound like easy money, and maybe even fun, it is an area in which to tread cautiously. Why? The problem is that we are being treated as a backdrop, like a prop. In this case dancers are rarely treated with respect. If they want a model in a costume, they should hire one.<br />
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The issue of being treated as artists is a big one. Of course a major part of our role is as entertainers and not always as a serious artist, but we still need to represent the art form fairly. Interacting with the audience is one of the joys of bellydance, however it certainly brings up its share of problems. A good example is tipping. I personally don’t feel comfortable with strangers tucking money into my bra or belt, or touching me at all for that matter. My way of dealing with this is to smile and take the tip in my hand and tuck it into the side of my belt myself. It is a difficult subject as the tradition of tipping the bellydancer is a part of Arabic culture and most people have the best of intentions. Usually they just want some sort of interaction and to compliment you. My issue is that the most well known image of a dancer accepting tips in her costume is…you guessed it, the “exotic dancer”. And we have fought for too long to separate ourselves from this image to risk appearing as something we’re not. I find that people are often relieved that you have saved them from not knowing the appropriate conduct here.<br />
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<img src="http://www.laurasbelly.com/data/images14/zmo_7897_copy.jpg" width=400><br />
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In the case of audience members who are intentionally disrespectful, lewd, or distracting it is best dealt with swiftly. You may need to talk to the owner before hand, making it clear that you will not continue your show if such behavior occurs. It is a challenge to keep the polite patrons happy and appear cheerful while attempting to tell off a drunken letch. If the organizers are not dealing with this for you (as they should) the best approach here is to make a bit of a joke out of it, embarrassing the jerk and making the rest of the audience laugh. Slapping a wayward hand and wagging your finger is a simple example. People love to see that you can stand up for yourself. I think it’s important to mention that if you ever feel threatened or uncomfortable it is fully within your rights to leave. Never stand for that kind of treatment as you are setting an example as well as looking out for your own safety. While it’s sadly true that some organizers may be upset with you after this, do you really want to work for people like that? Most will be overly apologetic and embarrassed.<br />
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In conclusion, I believe we should dance with a conscience and an awareness of the greater affect of our actions. Obviously none of us can be perfect and may occasionally find ourselves in less than ideal situations. A good question to ask ones self is, will I feel proud or ashamed after this choice? Will showing up for a surprise “bellygram” at this office make me feel proud of my art form, or humiliated? Is allowing this person to shove a $5 bill into my bra cup going to make me feel uncomfortable or gracious? Is charging less for this gig going to make me feel badly, or is it appropriate? If you are honestly asking yourself these questions it is hard to go wrong. For whatever your answer is, if you are being true to yourself, then you are being true to the dance itself. </blockquote>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-45101897724141138042010-07-22T22:43:00.000-07:002011-10-23T09:09:03.279-07:00Updated GalleriesJust updated my Performance and Studio Galleries on my website! Take a look: <a href="http://www.laurasbelly.com/gallery.htm">Gallery</a><br />
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For more updates, photos, news and more, join my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Laura-Selenzi-Bellydance/102281893154264">facebook group</a>!Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-91474591232693761472010-07-22T22:36:00.000-07:002010-07-22T22:36:20.859-07:00Double Veil and Drum soloNewest video! My improvised performance at "Serpentine Circus" in Halifax Nova Scotia on June 26, 2010. Music is "Crying Angels" by Said Mrad and Khatwet Serena by Hossam Ramzy.<br /><object style="background-image:url(http://i4.ytimg.com/vi/G4yiZZaNWW0/hqdefault.jpg)" width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/G4yiZZaNWW0&hl=en_US&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/G4yiZZaNWW0&hl=en_US&fs=1" width="425" height="344" allowScriptAccess="never" allowFullScreen="true" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-45314237469732626462010-05-30T20:29:00.000-07:002013-04-09T09:42:11.309-07:00Incredible HeadpiecesI am obsessed with headpieces right now...I'm looking at creating one for the upcoming <a href="http://www.serpentinecircus.com/">Serpentine Circus</a> show using braids, wire, feathers, silver chain, coins...ok I haven't really decided yet, but I do have a big stash of creepy fake hair waiting for me in my living room. My outfit is brand new, a top I made for an <a href="http://www.cleopatrasbazaar.com/">Inversion</a> show, with amazing ruffled pants from <a href="http://magpiecreations.ca/">Maral</a> and a bunch of amazing silver goodies from my stash. And it's WHITE! I never, ever wear white so this should be interesting. Maybe I won't even spill anything on it by June! It could happen!<br />
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Moving on, here are some of my most exciting finds for inspiration from the world of the internets.<br />
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Butler and Wilson<br />
<img src="http://media.onsugar.com/files/ons1/291/2916226/33_2009/1e53a24f96649b7c_butler_and_wilson_headpiece.preview.jpg" width="400" /><br />
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Gaultier<br />
<img src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/thesoulsofmyshoes/LQO5fNHOKNrrikS4M5wfn1PfFfBczmkyFttls09MToO9wFXPfs2C3KWHlT60/2010-02-23_Jean_Paul_Gaultier_.jpg" width="400" /><br />
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Another angle of the Gaultier piece<br />
<img src="http://www.modelinia.com/__wordpress__/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/jean-paul-gaultier-couture-spring2010.jpg" width="400" /><br />
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Nicole Richie<br />
<img src="http://www.thefashionrow.com/images/982.jpg" width="400" /><br />
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Galliano<br />
<img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/240x360/Shows/AW2009/Paris/R-T-W/John_Galliano/Details/00070big_240x360.jpg" width="300" /><br />
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McQueen, I'm kind of obsessed with antlers too...I'm gonna do it! Try and stop me!<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLceHinPcuzg5WfM6kpnQIm8FmnlkYEqObM2SZ97vC-zJ13KDIyhg3wxJ7Ix0UByULM9BETPPcLiJI19RrTJhyphenhyphenoAQM5zCx-TBVf3Z3BIUblfudupyl6QJllA-xHabvgeZ4fd2jYOL21noJ/s400/alexander-mcqueen-fashion-designer.jpg" width="300" /><br />
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Unknown designer<br />
<img src="http://hautemacabre.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/picture-11-500x331.png" width="400" /><br />
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Lucian Matis<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgrhnl8MdmKDtLYpdHc6AhqZ7pRDckCp2L5dkBwLfMMwiW2pJvlhwGGG8lKH-38ivYGCoVU3swQ-VS6sUR95PP7qkO_RjfhxMnzmcqlamC7nFnlo77bExpFA6jNa_TMPUjwz-TEwguxCc/s800/IMG_1870.JPG" width="400" /><br />
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Chanel Moscow<br />
<img src=" http://i188.photobucket.com/albums/z67/designscene/designscenealbum/ChanelParis-Moscow200904.jpg" width="400" /><br />
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??? !!!<br />
<img src="http://img294.imageshack.us/img294/9198/headpiece.jpg" /><br />
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Peacock Blue...the initial inspiration for all this<br />
<img src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/aa2/8d0/aa28d0c3-2b15-48ca-a615-fef42a02cf8b" width="400" /><br />
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Styling by Nadia Lev<br />
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-31860152477426443122010-05-09T15:45:00.000-07:002010-05-09T15:45:12.744-07:00HAYSAHaysa, Arabesque's latest drum solo from our show OUM is up on YouTUbe in all it's glory!! woo!<br /><br /><object style="background-image:url(http://i2.ytimg.com/vi/Iixvwc7Hqhs/hqdefault.jpg)" width="480" height="295"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Iixvwc7Hqhs&hl=en_US&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Iixvwc7Hqhs&hl=en_US&fs=1" width="480" height="295" allowScriptAccess="never" allowFullScreen="true" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7511392121050591880.post-3507781533784892452010-03-14T10:20:00.000-07:002010-09-05T21:43:35.732-07:00The Massage Job Shuffle!Some people have asked me where I'm currently working doing massage, so here's the scoop.<br />
<p>After graduating I tried out a couple places which turned out to be less than ideal. Working in a condo with a physiotherapist turned out to be very slow and a bad set-up. Working at a new gym/wellness center was also very slow, but I loved my co-workers and the big bright space. I also tried working one day a week at a small Chiropractic clinic just two blocks from my house, but an unpredictable schedule and dingy work environment meant I eventually moved on.<br />
<p><i>We can't all work in a location like this...</i><br />
<img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/gohawaii/1/0/J/V/4/waikoloa_beach_marriott_021.jpg" width=400><br />
<p>I eventually found my place at a gorgeous and warm place in High Park where I now work with naturopathic doctors and other alternative health care practitioners in a great neighborhood. They haven't had an RMT in a while (they were very successful when they were there in the past however) so it seems its a matter of getting the word out and things should get rolling there.<br />
<p>Then I had an interview at an amazing multi-disciplinary rehabilitation clinic at Yonge and Davenport. Everything sounded fantastic but I would have to go through a second interview and I didn't know if I could even accept the job, what with my other two positions. Despite me regretfully turning down the second interview, the owner pursued me and said just to come in and chat. <br />
<p>Talking with her helped me put everything in perspective. What do I want out of my career? A chance to grow and learn, to be challenged, to work as a multi-disciplinary team, to help people reach their goals, and yes, to be able to pay my rent!<br />
<p>I realized that as much as I had loved my first job at a gym, I just couldn't achieve those goals there. So when I was offered the other job, I took it. I was sad to leave but it seemed to be the best decision. The new place offers an amazing opportunity to work with the owner who has 31 years of experience and regularly works with Olympians, and some other truly incredible therapists (physio, acupuncture and pilates) in a wonderful system where everyone works together to help the patient get back on track. It's the ideal inter-disciplinary environment. That, and it's crazy busy. <br />
<p>If you'd like to know the names of these places and see their websites, check out all the details on my website! <a href="http://www.lauranewton-rmt.com/">www.lauranewton-rmt.com</a>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11393292390438853582noreply@blogger.com0