Amel Tafsout

The legendary Amel Tafsout, meaning “Hopes of Spring”, is an inspirational master dance performer, choreographer and one of the finest exponents of North African traditional and contemporary Maghreb Dance of our time. The knowledge of her culture and her experience in many dance styles and music make her very unique. Amel’s signature arm work is reminiscent of Flamenco yet also retains the grounded feel of the Amazigh-Berber tradition - combined with her fabulous hip work creates an ethereal dance that is powerful from the Earth. She explores the rich tapestry of movement and rhythm that has woven over time between Spain and the Maghreb, Africa and the Middle East, The Mediterranean Sea and Europe. She has mesmerized audiences around the world with the earthy fluidity of her dance, her expression, her stunning stage presence and great spirituality. Fluent in 5 languages she is always aware of the impact that cultures have in art and how that can be expressed in dance.

Website: ameltafsout.com

Frame Drum and Singing - Frame Drumming Singing and Movement
After introducing the Bendir and other frame drums, Amel Tafsout will show how to develop your frame drum technique and understand the richness and the diversity of the Bendir sound. She will also teach not only how to practice traditional North African rhythms, but also how to sing them while playing. The students will then learn a song with its pronunciation and phrasing as well as its rhythm and dance. Amel developed this traditional experience in her teaching, which combines Drumming, Singing and Movement. This creativity has enabled the spontaneous fusion of Dance and Music – Sound and Vision. (2hours)
LEVEL: All Welcome - Open Class
FORMAT: Music – Hands on Technique
CLASS SIZE: Semi-Private 17 Student Max

Nayli’ dance of the Ouled Nayl
Algerian dancers of the Ouled Nayl tribe fascinated and inspired the West for more than a century. They became worldwide known through many Western accounts written by writers such as Andre Gide, Maupassant, etc..., paintings , such as Clarins, Fromentin, Dinet and a huge number of Colonial postcards. Since 50 years their dance tradition disappeared. The West could not recognize that there was a difference between prostitution as a profession and an Algerian tradition, which gave to the young girls of the Ouled Nayl a temporary freedom. The Nayli tradition consisted of learning the dance as a child from the mother, the girl will leave her home village at the onset of puberty, making her way to other oases in order to start a new life while travelling and performing, getting paid with jewelry and living a life of a courtisane. When she earned enough, she would return to her home oasis, look for a husband, marry and end her professional career after which she hands down her dancing skills to her own daughter. Amel Tafsout has done a lot of research about these famous dancers and has published an article about their dance, which is grounded, religious and powerful. The dancer does not walk she slides along. Amel will teach a choreography. (2hours)
LEVEL: All Welcome - Open Class
FORMAT: Movement, Culture, Choreography
CLASS SIZE: Semi-Private 17 Student Max

Moroccan Shikhat dances
The SHIKHAT are female professional dancers and singers, who perform together in cities and villages for men and women, singing and dancing at various festivities. They are marginalized in respectable society because they overstep boundaries in performance by publicizing their intimate private lives. A troupe sometimes includes up to ten women. Once these women become famous and start recording, they start a solo career. (2hours)
LEVEL: All Welcome - Open Class
FORMAT: Culture & Movement
CLASS SIZE: Large

Healing through sound (Zikr) and whirling
Sound healing and whirling are ancient healing forms existing in many world cultures. In Algeria as in many Arabic countries it is still common that women get together in order to release sadness, pain, frustration and diseases through music and dance. Amel Tafsout grew up with healing and was initiated to the traditional healing form by her own family. She also studied Reiki, spiritual and sound healing at the College of Psychic Studies in London, U.K. Her interest is Women and Shamanism and her own research field in Women and Sufism led her to teach specific workshops in order to enable participants to reconnect with themselves, to release blockages, and embrace the changes. This workshop will start with body and breath work then lead to the sound healing and end with the whirling/spinning. (2hours)
LEVEL: All Welcome - Open Class
FORMAT: Movement, Sound & Concept
CLASS SIZE: Large

‘Dancing is not rising your feet painlessly
Like a speck of dust blown around in the wind
Dancing is when you rise above worlds
Tearing your heart into pieces and giving up your soul’
Rumi

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Artemis Mourat

"Artemis has been dancing, teaching and researching dance history in the United States and abroad for 40 years. Artemis is of Greek and Turkish descent. She fuses her love of these cultures with strong academic knowledge and excellent dance technique. She believes that we can all use art to build bridges across cultures. Artemis has contributed to many publications. She is listed in the International Dance Council (CID) Who's Who of Dance. Her photograph can be found in the International Encyclopedia of Dance under the listing for "danse du ventre" (which translates to "Belly dance"). She has also won three Ethnic Dancer of the Year Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award. Artemis has taught and performed in 13 countries and 35 states.

Website: serpentine.org

Floor Work Technique and History
This elegant art form dates back to ancient times in Egypt. It has been banned there since 1952, but it continues to thrive in Turkey and is being resurrected in the US today. The dancers elegantly descend to the floor and showcase their beautiful arm and hand movements. While dancing on the floor, we will incorporate dramatic acrobatic elements. But, there are easy and yet exciting knee lover’s versions, so this workshop can include floor work techniques suitable for dancers of all ages and fitness levels. Please bring knee pads. (2Hours)
LEVEL: All Welcome - Open Class (knee friendly options will be presented)
FORMAT: Movement, technique, combinations
CLASS SIZE: Large

Theatricalized Skirt Dancing
Skirt dancing is a fusion art form which combines Romany (Gypsy) skirt movements from Russia, Spain, India and Turkey with NON Romany interpretive dance movements. It is a highly theatricallized and visually appealing art form. This workshop includes a huge vocabulary of skirt dance movements to the Turkish 9/8 rhythm. Bring a full skirt to class. (2hours)
LEVEL: All Welcome - Open Class
FORMAT: Movement, rhythm, technique, combinations
CLASS SIZE: Large

Turkish Oriental AND Turkish Romany (Gypsy)
In this workshop, we compare and contrast the Turkish Oriental and the Turkish Romany (Gypsy) dance forms. During the lecture Artemis will demonstrate combinations in both the Turkish Oriental style and in the Romany style. Students will get a clear understanding of how Turkish Romany dance is the mother of Turkish Oriental dance and how and why the two differ, merge and have cross pollinated. DVD footage of both styles will be presented. (60minutes )
LEVEL: All Welcome - Open Class
FORMAT: Lecture
CLASS SIZE: Large

Cane Dancing and its History
This famous dance originated with the Saidi people of Upper Egypt. Learn about the three potential parts of a cane dance, what steps to do, what arm positions to choose, how to balance the cane, the Saidi rhythm, with solo and duet variations. Please bring a cane. (2hours)
LEVEL: All Welcome - Open Class
FORMAT: Movement, rhythm, technique, combinations
CLASS SIZE: Large

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Karim Nagi

Karim Nagi is a native Egyptian drummer, DJ, and folk dancer. He has recorded 10 CDs, 5 DVDs and has performed on 5 continents. He is the creator of Turbo Tabla, and has released three internationally distributed CDs of this unique brand of Arab House/Electronica using acoustic instruments. Karim has authored instructional DVDs for the Tabla/Doumbek, Riqq tambourine, Maqam, Drum Solo, and Arab Folk Dance. He is also well versed in the ultra-traditional styles of music and dance as the leader of the Sharq Arabic Music Ensemble, and the Arab Dance Seminar. Karim performs and teaches Tahteeb Cane Dance, Dabka Line Dance, and Zikr Sufi Dance. He taught at the New England Conservatory of Music for 5 years, and has lectured and presented at Harvard, MIT, Yale, Bowdoin, Princeton, Stanford, William & Mary, and several Community Colleges. He has recorded music for Bellydance Superstars, Bellyqueen, and the Bellytwins, as well as mainstream artists like Alicia Keys, and The Urban Griot Project. His performances boast a dynamic concoction of live drumming and dance, done in unison. Because of his proficiency in both music and dance, his workshops deliver students to a new physical understanding of the connection between these two disciplines. As a dance and drum teacher, Karim has taught in nearly all major bellydance festivals in the United States and Cairo, as well as all major Arab Culture festivals in the USA. Karim Nagi is a true crossover artist, uniting the Cabaret and Tribal, Traditional and the Modern, the Ethnic and the Urban.

Website: karimnagi.com

ARABIC TABLA (Advanced)
This course is designed for the experienced musician and percussionist. Students will learn advanced rhythms, solo construction, improvisation, advanced technique, and composition. Students will also learn how to accompany an instrumentalist and dancer. Focus will be on Arabic Tabla with some usage of tambourine and frame drum. The goal is to push the student of Arabic percussion into the professional realm. (2hours)
LEVEL: Advanced
FORMAT: Music - Hands on Technique
CLASS SIZE: Semi-Private. 6 Students Max

ARABIC TABLA (Beginner)
This course focuses on the Arabic Tabla (aka Doumbek, Darabuka). Students will learn technique, rhythmic vocabulary and the essential stylistic approach to Arabic rhythm. This course creates a strong foundation for later advanced drum performance. This course is designed for people with rudimentary knowledge of music, percussion or Middle Eastern drumming. (90 minutes)
LEVEL: Beginner
FORMAT: Music - Hands on Technique
CLASS SIZE: Super Small Semi-Private

DABKI - Arabic Line Dancing
Literally meaning "Stomp" in Arabic, Dabki (also spelled Dabka, Dabka, Dabkeh, plural Dabkaat) is a group dance found in the Eastern Arab countries. Performed mostly as a unisex line dance, Dabke is avidly done at the weddings and parties of Lebanese, Syrian, Jordanian and Palestinian communities. A version can also be found in Iraq, known as Chobie. The movements include rhythmic stomping, kicking, sidewards walking, hoping and jumping. In social settings the dancers hold hands and form long moving lines or wide rotating circles. There are also many stage performances and musical theater shows that feature Dabke dances. You may also find Dabke used as a form of non-violent social protest during war and conflicts. But it is primarily a proud and energetic group line dance enjoyed by all ages and both genders. (2Hours)
LEVEL: All Welcome - Open Class
FORMAT: Dance, Culture
CLASS SIZE: Large

Cymbalisms
Zills, Sagat and Finger cymbals are a mandatory part of ATS, and appear in Tribal Fusion routines as well. However most dancers only use one sound per hand, and focus on Right Hand dominated techniques. Karim will teach his profoundly developed and musicality-based Cymbals technique that will turn all dancers into moving musicians. This includes 4 sounds per hand, ambidextrous (both hands dominant) technique, playing a cappella (without music), and movement. Karim will teach how to improvise, create music, and play any rhythm desired, based on this multi-sound approach. Karim promises to transform dancers into musicians with his finger cymbal teaching approach.
LEVEL: All Welcome - Open Class
FORMAT: Music - Hands on Technique
CLASS SIZE: Large

Arab Folk Dance Intensive
This class is an intensive introduction to the traditional group dances from the Arab world. These dances are primarily unisex, and emphasize synchronicity and group cohesion. This workshop includes Dabka Line Dance, Basic Tahteeb/Assaya Cane Dance, and the group-healing ritual motions found in Zikr and Zar practices. Each dance is taught efficiently as an introduction to the style, and is an initiation into possible future study. These dances are less glamorous than the performance-oriented heroism of the solo dances found in the Arab world. These are the dances done by "The People" in social, celebratory, and spiritual group settings. They can be taught to dancers at any level, as both a cultural and artistic experience. The group movements and concepts can later be extrapolated into performance-calibre skills and themes. (2hours)
LEVEL: All Welcome - Open Class
FORMAT: Dance, Culture
CLASS SIZE: Large

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Rachel Brice

Rachel Brice first fell in love with Belly Dance after watching the famous Hahbi'Ru at the Northern California Renaissance Faire in 1988 and began taking classes right away. In 1999, she decided to study full time, and relocated for the University program in Dance Ethnology at San Francisco State University. While in San Francisco, she studied with Jill Parker and was a member of Ultra Gypsy Dance Theatre in 2001.

In 2002 she was discovered by rock mogul Miles Copeland and began touring internationally with his company, Bellydance Superstars. Also in 2002 she founded The Indigo Belly Dance Company. Between 2007 and 2010, The Indigo toured with its first full-length show, Le Serpent Rouge.

After 10 years in the Bay Area, studying with John Compton of Hahbi'Ru, Suhaila Salimpour, and her primary teacher, Carolena Nericcio, Rachel moved to Portland, Oregon. In Portland, she's formed a production company, Little Scarab, which hosts her training program, The 8 Elements™, and has opened a dance studio called Datura.

Whenever possible, Rachel studies Belly Dance with her yoga teacher, Gary Kraftsow, and dreams of owning a dog and tending a garden.

Website: rachelbrice.com

Serpentine Scales™: One approach, multiple results
Rachel will debut her new, simple technique based approach developed for the 8 Elements™ program, for accessing a multitude of options for improvisation, choreography, vocabulary building, or technique development. If you enjoy rubbing your belly and patting your head at the same time, you'll enjoy Scales™. Build a large storehouse of options in your body's memory, and create new movements on the spot. Please bring a yoga mat, layers of stretchy and comfortable clothing, finger cymbals, a water bottle, and a few snacks in case we take a break. At least a year of consistent belly dance recommended. (3hours)
LEVEL: At least a year of consistent belly dance recommended.
FORMAT: Concepts, Movement
CLASS SIZE: Large

The Balancing Act
Belly dance lends itself beautifully to both art and entertainment. In this workshop, we'll focus on the art of razzle-dazzle-entertainment, by working with combinations crafted for balancing a sword, bowl of fire, tray (or just about anything) on your head. Bring a cheap paperback that you won't mind dropping again and again, as this choreography includes level changes, turns, and fast and furious hip work. Please bring a yoga mat, layers of stretchy and comfortable clothing, finger cymbals, a water bottle, and a few snacks in case we take a break. (2hours)
LEVEL: At least a year of consistent belly dance recommended.
FORMAT: Technique, Combinations, Choreography
CLASS SIZE: Large

The Odditorium: Making Friends with Odd Metered Rhythms
Deepen your understanding of music while trying your hand (or feet!) at a few rhythms commonly used in Balkan, Turkish, Greek and Egyptian music. Learn an easy method of counting odd rhythms, and begin the process of being able to hear and pick out these odd cycles in a few different songs. We'll drill and adapt phrases (and if time, combos) to better feel the "ishness" of each rhythm, and if we get through all of that, we'll try a few finger cymbal patterns with some brain-bending combinations. Please bring a yoga mat, layers of stretchy and comfortable clothing, finger cymbals, a water bottle, and a few snacks in case we take a break. (2hours)
LEVEL: At least a year of consistent belly dance recommended.
FORMAT: Rhythm, Movement, Combinations
CLASS SIZE: Large

The Stacking Method™: How to create your own movements for improvisation, choreography or technique
The Stacking Method™ is a way to interlock the simple elements of belly dance to create complex movements. It was developed for the 8 Elements™ training to provide dancers with the ability to create an infinite number of movement combinations. Bring a sense of adventure and playfulness, as things start simply and build very quickly. A fun, mind-bending, high energy, and very challenging class for most participants. Please bring finger cymbals, snacks, a water bottle, a yoga mat, and a small towel. (4hours)
LEVEL: Open: from the experienced beginner to the seasoned professional
FORMAT: Technique, Movement, Combinations
CLASS SIZE: Semi-Private 17 Student Max

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Sharon Kihara

A seasoned performer, inspirational teacher and exotic personality, Sharon Kihara is known the world over for her avante garde and slightly eccentric artistry, as well as for her skillful, graceful and powerful technique. She comes from a strong background in western dance, beginning with Ballet as a wee tike and continuing to perform with college Modern and Jazz dance companies throughout the nineties. But her true love came in the form of Bellydance, first witnessed by Sharon as a child in it’s Cabaret form, then as Tribal Style in the mid nineties, and, as her mind had been blown beyond all hope for repair, she decided to pursue this art form with full enthusiasm…it wasn’t even a choice at this point.

Since then, Sharon has joined the Bellydance Superstars, beginning in early 2004, and has been touring internationally full-time ever since. She has taught and performed in over 30 countries to date with many more on the horizon, has shared stages with acts such as Missy Elliot, the Black Eyed Peas, and co-headlined with the BDSS on the main stage at the prestigious Glastonbury festival, alongside the White Stripes and Coldplay. She has appeared on television and been featured in radio and media in countless countries, as well as several BDSS DVDs, including her very own Tribal Fusion instructional DVD, which debuted Fall 2007.

When she’s not on tour, Sharon Kihara maintains her yoga practice, being incredibly inspired and fed by Anusara (www.anusara.com); sings, but primarily whilst alone; bangs on her piano a bit; models and works on the occasional multi-media project; scratches dogs and cats behind the ears; watches birds and insects closely; and eats and sleeps. But her favorite pastime is teaching dance and movement, in the form of Tribal Fusion Bellydance workshops and seminars. Sharon is interested in dance kinetics, and therapeutics and is constantly searching for new ideas and information. Sharon enjoys fusing the healing arts with the performing arts, and more than anything loves bearing witness to the beautiful, transcendental changes that occur in the lives of those who embark on the journey that is Bellydance—it is no less than magic.

Website: sharonkihara.com

Video link(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1znTe7oZlZE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NgSy7daUm78

The Infinite Abyss: Applying Kaizen (Constant Improvement) to your dance, and your life
This class is created for all levels of dancer or performer, and is suitable for those who have never taken a dance class before! Drawing on a deep well of information and inspiration based in Ankoku Butoh (Black Black Dance), a subversive and penetrative Japanese Dance form. Games, challenging introspection and creating dance practice out of your own life's story will be the focus of the time, and extremely honest, therapeutic and moving work will be your reward. Please come into the space with an open and adventurous mind, and hopefully leave a changed artist. (2hours)
LEVEL: All Levels
CLASS SIZE: Semi-Private 17 Student Max

The Ocean of Emotion: Techniques and Practices for Imbibing Your Work With Emotional Authenticity and Energy
This class begins with a rigorous physical practice of Yoga, Cardio, and Drills; moving on to exercises in NPL (Neuro Linguistic Programming) to assist in accessing deeply stored universal emotion. I will guide you through these practices safely, and together we will apply them to your physical movements in the form of a combination. This is the work that I have been yearning for in my own practice, and I have found that these techniques can impart a transcendental quality to movement. Essentially, we learn to communicate through not only gesture, but the body's magnetic field and limbic system, creating congruent expression on all levels. This class is suitable for Intermediate to Advanced levels. (4hour)
LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced Dancers only
CLASS SIZE: Semi-Private 17 Student Max

Time Is Luxury: An All-New Slow and Languid Contemporary Fusion Choreography
This sensuous and flowing dance is created especially for Beginner and Intermediate dancers! Smooth, flowing transitions, leading seamlessly one into the other, with the occasional staccato break to create dramatic tension and contrast. Together we shall focus deeply on energetic lines in the body, consistent contraction and isolations, traveling moves, and weight shifting. This dance is also fun for more experienced dancers looking to exercise their sense of control. (2hours)
LEVEL: All Welcome - Open Class
FORMAT: Technique, Isolations & Choreography
CLASS SIZE: Large

Crunk-Ass Drum Solo! An Original Hip Hop Flavored Drum Solo by Ozzy!
Dope new Drum Solo, written for me by the one and only, Ozzy Ashkenazi of Belly Dance Evoluion! Ozzy loves odd rhythms and time signatures, and has mixed us up a fine fusion concoction of Beats like no other. This choreography includes Tribal, Modern Egyptian and Lebanese elements and a dose of Vintage 90s Hip Hop. Fun, Fast paced, and challenging, for the Intermediate/Advanced dancer in mind. Bold, adventurous newer dancers are welcome to give it a whirl! I will break down technique as we progress. (3hours)
LEVEL: All Welcome - Open Class
FORMAT: Technique and Choreography
CLASS SIZE: Large

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Zoe Jakes

Uber multi-talented professional …proud member of Beats Antique, The Indigo & former touring member of the Bellydance Superstars.

When not with The Indigo or Beats Antique, she tours with The Yard Dogs Road Show, a cartoon circus sideshow of wacky dimensions, and has been seen tearing it up with the Extra Action Marching Band.

Zoe is an inarguably innovative dancer, whose unique take on Tribal bellydance takes influence from Art Nouveau, tango, Breakdance and Indian classical dance.

She loves unicorns and has never once doubted their existence.

Website: zoebellydance.com

Video link(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vPvkejJksxU&

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OUJaJDZV95w&

Training like A Pro
Zoe’s belly dance flow drills which is a major ass kicking, a solid 2 hours of pure training. All dance training. (2 hours)
LEVEL: All Welcome - Open Class
FORMAT:Movement, Drills
CLASS SIZE: Large

Shimmy Layering Workshop
Advanced Intensive. (4 hours)
LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced dancers only
FORMAT: Technique, Movement and more!
CLASS SIZE: Semi Private 17 Student Max

Outside In and Inside Out (Peanut Butter Jelly)
Two very different choreographies, one external, all about creating sleek full body lines and travelling, and the other internal, deep, and muscular. Then like peanut butter and jelly, we're gonna put em together at the end!!! (2hours)
LEVEL: All Welcome - Open Class
FORMAT: Technique, Movement, Combinations
CLASS SIZE: Large

Fusion Fundamentals
Posture, stylization, arms, shimmies, rolls. Going deeply into each move and learning how to properly execute them so as to build a solid foundation as a tribal fusion dancer. (2hours)
LEVEL: Just for Beginners
FORMAT: Technique, Movement and more!
CLASS SIZE: Semi-Private 17 Student Max

Rasha and Anahata Bellydance Company

Known as the heart chakra, Anahata describes a state in which we are no longer fighting or confronting what we love but moving with it in graceful harmony. With this mind, the ladies of Anahata Bellydance Company come together in a creative pursuit which celebrates their love of dance as well as their friendship.

In 2005, after three years of exclusive training in oriental style, they decided to expand their horizons and delve into fusion bellydance. A short time later, Anahata Bellydance Company was born. Under the artistic direction of Rasha, Anahata quickly gained recognition for energetic performances, complex stage transitions, and innovative choreography. Over the last six years, they have continued to push the boundaries of contemporary bellydance while always seeking to honor their traditional Middle Eastern dance roots.

Website: anahatabellydance.com

A Space Odyssey
Stage exploration for the adventurous dancer! - In this workshop, Rasha will share Anahata Bellydance Company’s unique approach to performance space utilization and stage transitioning. Through progressive movement exercises and traveling combinations, she’ll show you how to expand your spatial awareness, travel in style, and send your audience into orbit! (2hours)
LEVEL: All Levels - Please have at least 1 year of continuous dance study
FORMAT: Technique, Movement and more!
CLASS SIZE: Semi-Private 17 Student Max

Secrets of Synchronization
Preparing a solo for the stage can be a difficult endeavor, but group performances present an even greater challenge! In this workshop, Rasha’s will explain her comprehensive method of performance preparation for troupes which is specifically designed to produce unified dance presentations. Whether you do group improv or choreography, this class will equip you with the tools to polish a performance until it shines! Participants are encouraged to bring a notepad. 90minutes
LEVEL: All Levels Welcome
FORMAT: Lecture
CLASS SIZE: Small

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Blue Lotus Tribe

Chicago's Blue Lotus Tribe is one of the up-and-coming forces in the tribal bellydance world. Heralded for their tight improvisational skills, original choreographies, impeccable technique, and party-like stage presence, Blue Lotus Tribe is working hard to bring the Midwestern tribal scene to the forefront. Each member of Blue Lotus Tribe has an extensive background in tribal and tribal fusion dance, but they are also all accomplished in the art of Egyptian style bellydance. Blending Egyptian technique, composition, and musicality with the tribal movements, music, and aesthetic, Blue Lotus Tribe has successfully created a new twist on tribal, "Egypto-Tribal Fusion Bellydance." Blue Lotus Tribe continues in their quest for new inspiration and ideas by traveling across the country and taking classes with the masters of both Oriental and Tribal bellydance, creating a bridge between the two that honors the ancient art of Middle-Eastern bellydance while still moving forward with today's modern tribal fusion movement. Apart from their popular local performances and workshops, Blue Lotus Tribe has had the honor of teaching and performing around the country to enthusiastic students and appreciative audiences. In addition to this, they are the hostesses of the Midwest's only tribal bellydance festival-style event, Tribal Revolution

Website: bluelotustribe.com

Partners in Crime: Full contact tribal!
Explore ways in which you and your dance partner or troupe can achieve unique shapes and exciting connections through this series of combinations that keep you in contact with each other. Maximize the use of partner dancing to really change up your game and keep things interesting for your audience. (2hours)
LEVEL: All Levels Welcome - No partner needed
FORMAT: Movement Class
CLASS SIZE: Semi-Private 17 Student Max

What's Old is New Again
What do you do with all of those awesome moves and combinations you've learned through the years? Why, take the inspiration and tweak it to make it your own, of course! Blue Lotus Tribe will share the tricks they use to turn moves they've learned from other teachers as well as updating their own older material into combinations that fit seamlessly into their own style. Walk away with some new combinations and ideas for putting your own spin on what you've learned through the years. (2hours)
LEVEL: All Levels Welcome
FORMAT: Concept, Movement Class
CLASS SIZE: Large

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BellaNaTana

In In 2007 Brandi and Katy formed BellaNaTana, transforming their dance into the graceful and campy style you see today. Over the last year they have added 2 new members and Katy is taking a little break. Now with Just Trudi and Dawn joining Brandi, BellaNaTana continues to push into the future with the same campy style and a dash of edgy fun on top!

Website: BellaNaTana.com

Video link: bellanatana.com/media.html

The Art of the Fun and the Funny
It's hard to master the funny in a performance. Sometimes it just goes bad, you fall flat and your audience is embarrassed for you and trying really hard to muster up a giggle or two. Ohhhh I hate that! Let's fix it shall we? (90minutes)
LEVEL: Please have at least one year of continuous dance study.
FORMAT: Lecture
CLASS SIZE: Small

Practice, practice, practice!!!
Want to teach yourself good study habits, make your dance move more fluid and natural? We will go through and teach you some new moves and take you through the process of practice Bella style. You will be learning across the floor, warm up and dance move structure as routines for practice. (2hours)
LEVEL: Intermediate
FORMAT: Structure/Dance
CLASS SIZE: Semi Private 17 Student Max

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Cera Byer

Cera Byer (Damage Control Dance Theater / Shoebox Studio) holds a degree in Dance from San Francisco State University and has taught in high schools, studios, workshops, and retreats around the US and abroad. Her technical approach comes from continuing exploration into Graham, Horton, and Dunham techniques, alongside Kathak, Persian, Bellydance, Hip Hop, Funk, and Afro-Caribbean traditions, but her choreography is anything but a dry academic approach to fusion. Cera's work has been called "a hot sweaty tribute that will have audiences and dancers alike moving and moved by the material", and "organic evolving studies into the biospheres of human emotion". Cera owns and operates Shoebox Studio in San Francisco and is the founder and director of Damage Control Dance Theater.

Website: cerawithac.com

Video: youtube.com/user/cerakali

Fusion Bellydance Choreo & Combos
In this intense technique workshop you will be led through a thorough series of full body warm ups that challenge you to move - from belly dance, to hip hop, to jazz, to contemporary, to indian, to persian - around the world and back again, across the floor combinations, and finally a fusion choreography from Cera's performance repertoire. - (2.75 hours)
LEVEL: Intermediate-Advanced
FORMAT: Movement - Choreography
CLASS SIZE: Large

Western Technique for an Eastern Dance
Doesn't just stop at pops and locks. if you have your eye on fusing bellydance with western dance forms, you might need to know a tendu from a degage, or how to layer grand plie with alternating rib circles, or maybe a pique turn to go with your arab-esque. in this two-part class we will explore and drill the basics of jazz and ballet technique with bellydance layering to help you find limitless lines and endless traveling potential. posture, alignment, traveling, level changes, leaving the floor and finding the floor, will all be covered in this expansive course. find some lines to go with your locks! (2hours)
LEVEL: All Levels
FORMAT: Anatonmy and Movement
CLASS SIZE: Large

Daniela

Daniela is an innovative fusion bellydance artist mixing delicate feminine sensibilities with an impressive display of core strength and muscle isolation. She maintains the fluidity and grace of traditional belly dance while introducing an experimental fusion flair. Her unique style is influenced by various dances such as Flamenco, Tango, Modern and Hip Hop. Daniela was born in Venezuela to Belgian parents and raised in the United States, so it is only natural that she draws her inspiration from around the world. At 18 years of age, she began her training in Traditional Egyptian and American Cabaret styles of bellydance, traveling as far as Egypt to study and perform with some of the world's greatest dancers. However, after seeing Rachel Brice perform in 2006 she fell in love with the beauty of Tribal Fusion Bellydance. Then she immediately began expanding her practice and began the experimental journey of Tribal Fusion Bellydance. After years of dedication and passion for the art form, she is now internationally known for a uniquely feminine, imaginative, and thoroughly captivating fusion style.

Website: bellydancebydaniela.com

Jazzy Vintage Fusion 
Do you love old looks and sounds? Explore the vintage world with Daniela in this fusion combos class. Put your slow & slinky and poppin & lockin belly dance techniques to use by exploring various music and styles from the early 1900’s. Get confidence in meshing an old eastern dance with old western music while staying true to bellydance. We will be working with various music from the early 1900’s, such as Ella Fitzgerald and The Andrew Sisters. (2hours)
LEVEL:All Level Welcome
FORMAT: Movement class
CLASS SIZE: Large

Ooooozing with Sensual Elegance
A workshop focusing on super slow, slinky and sensual movement. Time to get ooey gooey! This class is focused on isolating your body so that you can move in mysterious ways. Dancing excruciatingly slow is challenging because it’s all about muscle control! Learn to undulate and slide with feminine grace! Join Daniela and work on expressing your feminine side with confidence, class and elegance. (2hours)
LEVEL: All Levels Welcome
FORMAT: Technique & Movement
CLASS SIZE: Large

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Madame Onca

Lauren 'Onça' O'Leary is a career entertainer, event producer, nationally touring performer, and internationally published author and artist. She stages several major festivals annually, as well as myriad other events. Staged in Asheville, NC, her award-winning ABSfest: the Americana Burlesque & Sideshow Festival, is now is in its sixth year of bringing together artists from around the world to perform, study and network. Onça's annual festival TribOriginal: Tribal Dance, Music & Culture Camp has been nominated for Best Event, and her dance company Baraka Mundi has been nominated likewise for both Best Kept Secret and Best Dance Company.

Onça currently travels the country teaching and performing song, dance and her sultry antics. She illustrated and co-authored The World Spirit Tarot, an instant classic, now translated into Spanish. It is her stalwart belief is that "The greatest expression of Rebellion is Joy."

Website: www.hardestworkingwomaninshowbusiness.com

Ass-Kicking Sexy-Tasm
The single most radical form of activism for a modern woman is to be comfortable in your own skin. Seriously. Whatever your story, whatever your body, many of us come to bellydance to rediscover our sensuality in a new, joyful, compassionate way. Turns out that allowing ourselves to feel strong and sassy makes every aspect of life just, well, better. Sexy walks, dynamic stage presence, and saucy combos project a powerful, unapologetically delicious you to your audience... and everyone wins. (2hours)
LEVEL: All Levels Welcome
FORMAT: Body Image, Concept and Movement
CLASS SIZE: Semi-Private 17 Student Max

Why Yes, I AM Sexy: Burlesque-Esque for Bellydancers
Burlesque literally means ‘satire’, and this vital tradition has encouraged good-natured social commentary for over a hundred years. Come as you are, and have fun building your sassy persona, strong legs and core, with these sassy, flirtatious, theatrical moves and games. Another topic proven excellent for connecting artists with each other and the roots of their showpersonship. (2hours)
LEVEL: All Levels Welcome
FORMAT: Stage Persona & Movement
CLASS SIZE: Large

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Silvia Salamanca

Silvia Salamanca holds a PhD in Biochemistry and a masters is transpersonal therapy. She worked for 4 years as a postdoctoral research associate at the Institute for Molecular Medicine at the Texas Medical Center. After a total of 8 years in science research she decided to change her life for a more holistic- humanistic healing point of view: as a result she has been working as a holistic-dance healer, a transpersonal therapist, and a bellydancer. Silvia is also a long-life dancer and started her career as a bellydancer 9 years ago, when realizing the enormous benefits that this dance brings to women. Blending her science education with her inner connection to the body movement she is able to help one develop a deeper dialogue between the body and the soul.

Website under construction, visite facebook first! Silvia's Facebook

Video Links: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bEU--R5Z18w&feature=fvsr
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FeyVRWIrhX4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gz9YCsFq8E0

Healing movement: A workshop to connect with the healing power in your body
In this workshop we will scan the body and all the emotions that arise in the main areas and with simple, non invasive and joyful movement exercises. We will learn how to recognize unhealthy tensions and negative movement patterns, and how to liberate those tensions, opening the path to transformation and healing. (90Minutes)
LEVEL: All Levels Welcome
FORMAT: Lecture/Discussion/Experimentatl
CLASS SIZE: Small

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Akasha

Akasha is troupe director to two troupes, Afsana and Atash Afsana, based in Minneapolis, MN. There she hosts bi-annual workshop weekends and Raqs Afsana shows featuring bellydance instructors from all over the country, and puts on a bi-monthly variety show called Raqs Noir. In addition to being a local bellydance instructor, Akasha teaches all over the country, including 3rd Coast for 3 years and at Tribal Fest! Akasha is the sole designer and seamstress of her own costume dancewear business, Akashawear, which she started 4 years ago. Her first foray into sewing began with Renaissance court costuming 11 years ago. Bellydance costuming soon followed, and she is always creating new and inventive pieces. Most of her stuff is one-of-a-kind or limited run, so it doesn’t stick around long! Akasha is also a columnist for Fuse Magazine, of a DIY costuming column.

Website : akashawear.com : akashbellydancer.com : fusetribalmag.com

Kick-A$$ costumes with little money & few sewing skills
Not every costume has to be a custom-made original or high end ensemble. With some thrifty smarts and costuming tricks, you can have an amazing, one-of-a-kind costume that will be the envy of everyone! Akasha will show you a short video tutorial of her "gold-mine finds", go over 25 awesome tips and tricks, and do an in-class demonstration to get your creative juices flowing! Bring any current projects you are working on or costuming ideas for the Q & A section. Bring a notebook to write everything down and a yoga mat or pillow to sit on. And for those that still want custom or ready-to-wear, visit Akasha's website!
LEVEL: All Welcome - Open Class
FORMAT: Costuming – Hands on / Technique / Tips
CLASS SIZE: 10 Student Max

Angela Nations

Angela Nations is a lifelong dancer with extensive formal training in Modern, Ballet, Jazz, American Cabaret, ITS and Tribal Fusion Belly Dance. She was trained in the Erick Hawkins Modern Dance technique at Texas State University, graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre, Minor in Dance. She studied Belly Dance under the direction of internationally acclaimed Belly Dancer Karen Barbee Adkisson, and has been performing and teaching Belly Dance since 1998. Angela is Suhaila Salimpour Level I certified and is completing a Hatha Yoga certification with an emphasis in healing, fluid movement based Yoga and Ayurvedic Principals.

Website:

Sacred Space: Healing Body, Mind & Spirit
Come explore ways to create a daily meditation practice through Yoga infused fluid movement, Pranayama (breath), and principals of Ayurveda (Science of Life). Also a great way to center and connect before a performance. Intro to Ayurveda will include a Dosha (mind-body type) basic assessment with dietary and lifestyle adjustments to purify, restore balance, and rejuvenate the body. Please bring a Yoga mat and towel/blanket. (90minutes)
LEVEL: All Levels Welcome
FORMAT: Lecture with some Movement
CLASS SIZE: Small

Henna Crone

Debi Varvi, also known as the Henna Crone, has been passionately addicted to the art of henna since 1999. After picking up a book about this ancient art, and making marvelous messes in her kitchen, the first sloppy stain she acquired on her palm was equivalent to a first hit of crack! Happily, the addiction of henna has led this old Crone into a magical gypsy life of travel, adventure, and artistic self expression. Debi finds immense satisfaction in expressing herself, and her client’s vision, through each unique design. Her extensive experience has led her to henna clients from countless festivals including Bhakti Fest, Texas State Fair, Del Mar Fair, Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Fest, Cairo Caravan, and Tribal Fest; as well as corporate and private events for Nomad Artz, Nordstrom, American Eagle, UCLA, USC, Cal State San Bernardino, University of California at Riverside, and many more. Touching someone’s life with the grace and beauty of the ancient art of henna is the joy of Debi’s life.

Website: hennacrone.com

Basic Henna 101
This class will cover the basics of henna application. From rolling your own cones, mixology, and application, Debi will get you started out right. We will cover how to find fresh, well-sifted henna powder, as well as how to sift when necessary. Rolling your own cones is a skill which ensures that you will have a well-made tool which always makes henna application so much easier. Mixing henna paste is as easy as following a simple recipe, but getting your consistency right, and straining the paste, is crucial to creating elegant lines, and integral to trouble-free, fluid application. Then the fun really begins, when we’ve created our own, filled henna cones, we will practice the basic henna patterns and motifs and have the opportunity to henna each other!
LEVEL: All levels welcome - No experience necessary.
FORMAT: Art and technique - All supplies included.
CLASS SIZE: Small - Please note this class will be held in the hotel dining area.

Hannah Setu

Hannah is a lifelong professional dancer and educator who brings her passion for vibrant health as a Licensed MassageTherapist and founder of Reiki, Self-Care & The Wise Dancer, a mind/body/spirit practice dedicated to the nurturing of all dancers. Hannah is also a local chapter leader for the Weston A. Price Foundation, a nonprofit, tax-exempt nutrition education foundation. Please visit reikiselfcareandthewisedancer.com for information, updates and workshops in your area.

Website: reikiselfcareandthewisedancer.com

Happy Feet with Hannah
Featuring a one hour Spa-cation for your feet! You asked for it, you got it! Class starts with a gentle cleanse of your feet with a hot, wet towel, then you will learn to do your own Reflexology featuring the one secret technique that always works! We will then use Hot & Cold Stones and Aromatherapy to make this class the most luxurious hour of the weekend. There will be "Healthy Dancer" handouts and time for Q&A while your feet (and the rest of you!) Refresh, Relax and Revive! (60minutes)
LEVEL: All Levels Welcome
FORMAT: Lecture and Self Care
CLASS SIZE: Small

Lauren Checchio

Lauren is an acclaimed world percussionist, bringing audiences to their feet with her passionate, graceful, and joyful performances. Lauren often surprises audiences world wide with her knowledge and virtuosity of middle eastern and indian drumming. A classically trained cellist, Lauren discoverd hand drums at a show in Manhatten when she was 18. Later she travelled to Israel and discovered the Doumbek. When she returned to the US she met her first tabla teacher, Ty Burhoe, and had a rigorous daily practice under his tutelage for years. In the last few years Lauren has toured nationally with her all women Mizrake / Sephardic group called Divahn. She is a highly sought after teacher. She has collaborated with Grammy Award winning artist Glen Valez and tabla master Anindo Chaterjee. She is also in demand as an accompianist for dance and recently collaborated with tribal belly dance superstar Sharon Kihara.

Website:

Beginner Didgeridoo
It's more fun than you ever thought would be possible blowing on a hollow stick. It feels great and sounds fantastic. It's great for meditation, sound healing, and making music. And you look cool playing it!

The didgeridoo (didjerdidoo, didjeridu, didg, didj, etc.) has its roots in the ancient instrument of the Aboriginal peoples of Australia. It is an amazing, great and powerful sounding instrument, useful for music-making, meditation, and sound healing. In addition to being fun and facilitating an enhanced sense of well-being, the didg can provide exercise and massages the internal organs.
LEVEL: Just for Beginners
FORMAT: This beginning workshop will cover basic sounds, techniques, breathing, instrument selection and more.
CLASS SIZE: Small
BONUS: Don’t have your own instrument? $15 to rent a didj…. $25 to buy your very own! Provided by and payable direct to Lauren Checchio.

Lily

Born in Taiwan, Lily grew up in the multi-cultural city of Houston, Texas with a strong Persian influence from a close family friend. Although Lily started dance lessons at a very young age, she grew up studying music and playing classical instruments like the piano, flute, bassoon, and percussion. Lily's unique style is a reflection of her understanding of rhythm, music composition, and dance movement. In 2003, Lily relocated from Austin to central London, where she met Hannah and formed the first tribal fusion belly dance group in London, TribalKinesis. While living in London, Lily studied bellydance intensively with Serena Ramzy and traveled throughout Europe and Asia. In 2007, after living in New Zealand for a year, Lily returned to Austin, Texas, where she is a member of the Sabaya Bellydance Collective and director of her student troupe Rakataka.

Lily is Level 2 certified in the Suhaila Salimpour Format, Level 1 certified in the Jamila Salimpour Format, and is also a certified Hatha Yoga instructor registered with Yoga Alliance.

Website:

Cultivating Musicality
Struggling with how to dance to a piece of music? This workshop will help you identify instruments, train your ear to analyze the music, and express your art. Concepts are useful when developing choreography or improvising. Handouts will be provided, but bring pen and paper for notes. This class is primarily lecture, but will include exercises to emphasize the concepts. (2hours)
LEVEL: All levels of dancers and dance styles
FORMAT: Concepts and Exercises
CLASS SIZE: Small

Mistress Ilea

A belly dancer since 2002, Mistress Ilea (affectionately named by her trybe) is the founder and director of Louisiana's Trybe Habibi Bizarre. She and her trybe are recognized for their unique mashup interpretation of belly dance, specializing in ITS and tribal fusion styles from all ends of the spectrum from earthy and organic to dark and intense. Ilea has and continues to travel the country to learn, perform, compete, and teach, and recently contributed choreography to the 2012 "Shimmy Mob" event, enjoying every moment of this dance journey. Though the trybe is her first love, Ilea's focus lately is developing ways to explain her own style and create a deeper connection with her own mind and body to have a better understanding of her "formula" for creating her dance. It is this formula that has been a main influence of the THB format as well as her newer solo projects, and she hopes to share the tools developed in the process with other dancers looking to find their own "voice".

Synesthetic Belly Dance: "What Color is That Music?"
Is this song blue? Is that figure 8 red? May sound like crazy questions, but to some they make perfect sense. This class is based on the phenomenon of Synesthesia, a condition where the senses are crossed, allowing a person to "see" sound as well as many other unusual sensory mixups. A "disorder" be that as it may, synesthesia can be a very useful tool in creating a deeper connection to the music for dancers. It bridges the gap between what is seen, and what is heard, making a smooth transition between music and movement. Visualizing what your music "looks" like can make it very easy to see what moves would best interpret it by recognizing what moves "look" like the music. Though only about one in every 200 people actually possess this ability naturally, It is a concept that can be understood and useful to all dancers. Exercises in this class will train your mind to listen to music on a deeper level, connecting mind and body, using all senses to to create an amazing dance interpretation. Other benefits include greater expression, extension of movement, and overall enhanced body and mind awareness. These are tools that can easily be applied to any dance practice, performance, or instruction, and I am very excited to share this information. All levels, please bring writing materials and an open mind! LECTURE (90minutes)
LEVEL: All Welcome - Open Class
FORMAT: Concepts and Exercises
CLASS SIZE: Small

ObSiDiA

ObSiDiA’s obsession with artistry began in childhood with Ballet, Jazz and Modern dance classes and expanded into the Visual and Fine Arts as well. With a minor in Dance and on track for her B.F.A. in Visual Communication, ObSiDiA has continued her evolution as a multi-faceted artist. She discovered belly dance approximately 9 years ago and has been blessed to have studied extensively with some of the top names in the Tribal Fusion world, including in-depth extensive studies with her mentor, Ariellah. As an Old School (or Elder) Goth of more than 25 years, ObSiDiA feels connected to the Dark Fusion genre of belly dance. She strives to deepen her personal dance path merging visual imagery with technique and precise musicality. Her belly dance stylizations have garnered her extensive local and national attention and further pushed her towards raising her level of artistry within the Dark Fusion genre. ObSiDiA has been honored to share the stage with many amazing performers at festivals including Tribal Fest 2006-2007, 3rd Coast Tribal 2006-2011, Ariellah’s Shadowdance 2010 and various shows across Texas and the Midwest. She has been an instructor at Tribal Alchemy 2007, Z’s Birthday Bash 2009 and been the featured instructor in Odessa, Texas for an Intro to Dark Fusion event . ObSiDiA is thrilled to be teaching for the second year in a row at 3rd Coast 2012.

Website: obsidiafusionbellydance.com

Video link: http://youtu.be/OlHZ3_ZrkE8

Fleshing Out the Bones: bringing character and presence to your performance
ObSiDiA is known for her captivating stage presence and leaving audiences breathless. In this lecture, ObSiDiA will take you out of your performance “comfort zone” and challenge you with new perspectives and concepts for developing characters, motifs and presence to take your artistry to the next level! It is recommended that you bring a notebook and an open mind! (90minutes)
LEVEL: All Levels Welcome
FORMAT:Stage Persona, Lecture & Exercises
CLASS SIZE: Small

Raaz

Raaz (Ross Hughes) has an AA degree in music from Santa Monica College, and an advanced diploma in Speech and Drama from the ADK in South Africa. He is also a certified EMT, and a certified personal trainer through NASM. During the nineties, he worked extensively in the music and film industries in South Africa, and in Dallas has worked for numerous theater companies, including Shakespeare Dallas. The highlight of his choregraphic career was in 2008 when he choreographed Dallas Junior Players' Bollywood version of A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM. Raaz trained under fitness guru Anne Couzens, trained in numerous dance styles (from Ballet to African Jazz), and competed in numerous dance competitions. Starting out as a street dancer in his hometown of Durban, South Africa, he turned professional in the late eighties, cutting his teeth in dance cabaret with the Ruby Tuesday Dancers under Jean Welfare. In Johannesburg, he danced and choreographed for BOSS, a Hip Hop dance team. An enthusiastic martial artist of many styles, Raaz has trained in both South Africa (Karen Prinsloo) and the States (James Field). He holds a black belt in Shotokan, but has also dabbled in MMA, Judo, Kung Fu, and Ju-Jitsu. He discovered Bollywood while living in Durban in 2003 and began studying Hindi soon after. He taught beginner's Hindi to kids at the Irving Hindu temple in Dallas for two years, and also studied North Indian Classical music (Hindustani) with Renu Chandra (based in Dallas) for two years. He has participated in workshops with many of the top Tribal Fusion bellydancers in the United States. In Dallas, he studied Middle-eastern dance with Candace Bordelon and Tamra Henna, and teaches Bollywood Funk at Move Studio in Dallas. He currently teaches dance to kids for Junior Players, and works as a professional fitness trainer. Magdy el Eisy is a major influence on his folkloric style. He is represented as an actor by CORE TALENT in Dallas.

Video: youtube.com/watch?v=-EHMvq7oNZo&feature=relmfu

Bollywood/ Bhangra
Raaz has been teaching his unique Bollywood style in Dallas since 2008. The "Banana boy" (a nickname for all men that hail from the city of Durban, South Africa - the city that Mahatma Ghandi lived in for 20 years) brings all the Indian flavour of his home town. The Raaz-style Bollywood class mixes up Bhangra, Hip Hop, adapted Bellydance, and other Indian folk influences. Some basic hand mudra will be introduced. This class is about fun, energy, and sweat. Technique takes a back seat, and passion comes to the fore! Release your dance theatricality in this class - it works well with Bollywood - it's all about the feeling! (2hours)
LEVEL: All Levels Welcome - Beginners Welcome!
FORMAT: Movement Class
CLASS SIZE: Semi-Private 17 Student Max

Raks Latino

RaksLatino consists of three of America’s top Latin-American Belly Dancers. Their mission is to promote the history, beauty, and artistry of Middle Eastern dance to the world while adding a special touch of their Latin style and heritage. Each dancer is well versed in the art of Middle Eastern dance and brings to the project their own cultural background and influence. Honoring the traditions of this ancient art form while incorporating a uniquely Latin fusion element, RaksLatino is bringing to the dance world the best of many traditions: Egyptian, Tribal Fusion, Improvisational Tribal Style, Spanish Gypsy, Modern Fusion, Brazilian, and Latin Fusion style dances.

Website: RaksLatino.com

Video link(s):

Latino/Brazilian Drum Solo
Let’s add some flavor to that drum solo!! Learn the steps to some of Latin America and Brazil‘s most famous and contagious beats. Understand the similarities in rhythms in the music and apply them to an Arabic drum solo. Want something different to mesmerize your audiences with, this is it!!
LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced. We welcome adventurous Beginners!
FORMAT: Technique and Choreography!
CLASS SIZE: Large

Raphaella Peting

Raphaella has been a Tribal Fusion dancer for more than seven years with stylistic influences in Latin Ballroom and Hip Hop. As with many belly dancers, Raphaella began her belly dance career in American Cabaret before she stumbled upon Tribal Fusion. Raphaella has been involved in dance since the age of five, starting with Ballet, Jazz, Ballroom and Latin dancing and finally Belly Dance. Raphaella currently performs at venues in and around the downtown Houston, TX area including the Foundation Room at the House of Blues every Tuesday evening, and has been an active member of the nationally acclaimed Shunyata Belly Dance Company since 2009. Raphaella is widely recognized for her unique twist to the hip hop fusion style and fiery improvisation. In addition to being requested to perform and teach workshops throughout the states, Raphaella teaches a weekly class at Samadhi Yoga & Dance Studio in Houston, TX.

Website: raphafusion.com
people.tribe.net/4e857fd8-330f-4d2c-b4ec-25315701ecf6

Video link(s): youtube.com/user/rpeting/videos

Latin Ballroom Fusion
Raphaella has created a unique fusion of Belly Dance infused with a latin ballroom flare! Her Latin Ballroom Fusion creates an exciting blend of the beautiful, ancient art of belly dance and fiery energy of latin ballroom including elements of the salsa, rumba and samba. In this 2 hour class, students will learn and introduction of how to combine the highly-controlled and internal technique of belly dance with the sultry and fiery energy of the latin dances. You will then put those new moves to music and learn a set of combinations and drills to take home with you. More importantly, dancers will learn the technique of the proper fusion of these two styles and how to avoid the feel of simply switching from one dance style to another. A commonality both dance forms share is a strong emphasis on isolation and balance, creating a unique fusion with an edgy dynamic to bring into your dance practice. Raphaella recommends this class for those who have already or are currently taking beginner belly dance or tribal fusion classes as it is structured to build on those basic skills and enhance your ability as a dancer as her teaching style focuses highly on isolation and muscle memory. (2hours)
LEVEL: All Levels - With bellydance basics knowledge
FORMAT: Movement, Isolations, Combinations
CLASS SIZE: Semi-Private 17 Student Max

Zepora

Music has always moved me on a deep level, and it is my desire to share what is in my soul through the language of movement. I am on a journey, discovering more dynamic methods of expression. Along the way, I have discovered the power of veil work. When considered an extension of oneself, veils can magnify the story or emotion being conveyed. My journey in movement has taken me through 8 years of study, performance, and teaching in belly dance and veil work. More recently, I have begun to study ballet and modern. I look forward to continuing to learn the language of movement and share my take on it with others.

Website: zeporaa.blogspot.com
Video link(s): http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Iuz0yOha9nE
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=T2pPtuC76ZQ

Double Veil Technique and Stylization
Veil work is a dynamic and versatile form of expression that all styles of dancers can benefit from, so let's have a double portion! We will begin by learning double veil technique which will include both single and double veil moves. Dance with the veils as one or two and transition seamlessly between those two options. Spinning technique and tips on dealing with dizziness will be incorporated into this class. Useful combinations will be offered. We will then approach the veil work from different perspectives through stylization methods for incorporating veil work into a variety of dance and music styles / genres. A short warm up and cool down that draws from yoga and stretches that access the deep shoulder, arm, and torso muscles used in veil work will also be included in this class. Don't let the idea of spinning scare you-There are ways to incorporate double veil into your dance with limited amounts of spinning. Please bring two veils. A set of semi-circular double veils is recommended. Yoga mat optional - some stretches will be on the floor. (2hours)
LEVEL: Some experience with single veil work recommended.
FORMAT: Movement, Technique & Stylization
CLASS SIZE: Semi-Private 17 Student Max

Urban Gypsy

Urban Gypsy, Houston’s very own tribal dance inspiration, has been dancing, teaching, and nurturing the tribal dance scene in Houston and around Texas since 2003. The troupe includes eight talented and dedicated dancers and is lead by the fearless partners in crime, Sahira and Zymirrah. Since their travels to Egypt in 2006 to teach at Ahlan Wa Sahlan, Urban Gypsy has been dedicated to bringing the dance back to it’s roots, and is spreading the folkloric love to the US tribal dance scene with their unique brand of Ghawazee-inspired ITS. This year, Sahira, Zymirrah, and Silvia will be teaching at 3rd Coast!

Website: urbangypsy.cc and Urban Gypsy on Facebook

Video Links:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e58jz7JDqBY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NhZsg0hytoA

Urban Gypsy

Group Synchronized Improvisational Dance Basics : aka GSI 101 – or is it Improvisational Tribal Style? - aka ITS 101
GSI, ITS, ATS, XYZ No matter what you call it, it all started with Fat Chance Belly Dance – More than 20 years ago Carolina Nericcio founded and created a folkloric style dance that pulled from a variety of influences and utilized a then ground-breaking leader and cueing system. Since then the “Tribal Style” derivative of “Traditional or Egyptian Style” bellydance form has grown, been fused and varied in innumerable ways. For those of you that have never experienced the theory behind the how it all works, the tribal mind meld that a troupe grows to have, or the magic of dancing without choreography… join us! You will learn something and have a blast doing it!
LEVEL: Just for Beginners to the Improv Style
FORMAT: Technique, Movement and more!
CLASS SIZE: Semi-Private 17 Student Max

Troupe business: Harmony, Rehearsals, Gigs and Ethical Marketing
We (Sahira and Zymirrah) have been together for 9+ years as the leadership of Urban Gypsy, we have learned a lot along the way. We are often asked how we’ve done it, so here it is! Casual lecture and Q&A session.
LEVEL: All Levels Welcomes
FORMAT: Lecture
CLASS SIZE: Small

Feeling Kinky?
Work out your kinks from the weekend. Yoga & focused stretching with Z. Be good to yourself, help reduce "the day after" muscle aches. Two treats in one! Good for you ... PLUS a wonderful indulgence. Hey you even get to sleep in! Please bring a yoga mat, a smile & water!
LEVEL: All Levels
FORMAT: Yoga
CLASS SIZE: Semi-Private 17 Student Max