Upcoming  
C  A  L  E  N  D  E  R

Shows & Drakon's Performances
Unless Indicated Otherwise All Photos by M'lilah

JUST KEEP SCROLLING DOWN.......
JUST KEEP SCROLLING.......
JUST KEEP SCROLLING.......
JUST KEEP SCROLLING.....
Down, Down, Down......

Although the show does not begin until 8:00 pm, the doors open at 7:00 pm, so come early, socialize and enjoy, for a small contribution, some of Ararat's delicious Middle Eastern wraps, decadent pastries and beverages ! Alcohol is BYOB
(No smoke in the building) 

The show itself averages 2-hours
with a brief intermission.
Each half features a bevy of different dancers,
soloists and/or groups, performing a multi-cultural variety of dance styles from traditional Egyptian/Oriental
Raqs SharKi to American Tribal, Tribal Fusion and Gypsy.
Drakon performs in every show ! 

The music is mostly recorded, but there are live bands at various shows throughout the year.

We would love to have you as a regular patron, but if that is not possible, then we suggest you mark your personal calendars now with the shows you really want to see,
so you do not accidentally miss some of the best dancing in Austin !

THE FOLLOWING LINEUPS CHANGE OFTEN
SO CHECK BACK EVERY FEW DAYS


And, if you are a dancer and would like a slot -- contact us at least 7 days prior to the show date.

And at the very bottom of this page are reviews of the last few shows  !

 

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

 

SHOW LOCATION
(unless indicated otherwise)

 

The Eternal Way Center

1122 South Lamar, Austin, Texas

 

Eternal Way's Entrance
and on show night there's also a Desert Passion Banner !

Use the glass door just to the right of the SUV
(which probably won't be there on show night...heehee)
The Alamo Draft House is on the right,  
There is a large parking lot, and there is more on the back side of Alamo,
but they are always crowded.....it is okay to park  on Treadwell Street. 

In case it helps, The Alamo's Show Times are 7:00, 7:15, 7:40, 8:00 pm
so just before those times it will be hard to find a place, so come early !

 


And here is the sign out close to Lamar !!

 

 


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

 

SATURDAY, Nov 1 - 8 PM

Eternal Way Show


 Multi-Cultural Styles

 

 

Featuring in the 1st Half

Drakon, Elizabeth & Valerie, Alana (San Antonio),
Alana Shea (Austin), Sahhira

Other Dancers TBA (slots are still available)


 

And to make the 2nd half really special,
we are featuring that incredible
Gypsy Fiddler "Cedric"
(shown below)
Accompanied by Nassma on Flute,
Scott & Sonya of Belaharr on Drums

Dancers: Drakon, Sonya, Nassma, Inaya, Sahhira

 



There are still other slots available !!  

 

Venders

 

ARARAT MID EAST FUSION

Wraps, Pastries & Beverages

 

Knighttime Creations

Hand Made Jewelry Line by Nassma

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

 

SATURDAY, Nov 15 - 8 PM


 

          
    The Scottish Rite Theater in San Antonio, Texas

 

M'lilah will emcee the show, and
Drakon is a Guest Dancer.
He will be performing, "Disturb" (that lethal looking sword dance that always makes the front row sit up and pay attention ! 

 

Visit their site for more Info

http://www.anaidbellydance.com/mystique/noir/performance.php

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

 

 

SATURDAY, Dec 6 - 8 PM

Eternal Way Show

 

Various Styles

Featuring

Drakon, Rachel Irene (SA)

Shyrra, Juliana, Pamela, Gypsy Rogues, Randomosity,
Drishti Dancers
, Jamie Lynn (pictured below)

Other Dancers TBA (slots are available)

 


 

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

PLANNING WAY IN ADVANCE !!

Here are the scheduled shows for 2009
Notice there are several location changes and the
themes also change so you have to pay attention !

 

Now the fun part.... filling the dance slots with the best dancers we can find....so, if dancing in one of our shows appeals to you,all you need to do is ask ! 
Contact
mlilah@desertpassion.com

January 3      Eternal Way – Austin
                                    Other Dancers TBA:  Drakon,

January 17    Georgetown    
                                    Other Dancers TBA:  Drakon,

February 7    Eternal Way – Austin   LIVE MUSIC
                                    Other Dancers TBA:  Drakon, Miriam

February 21  Dance Unlimited - Buda
                                    Other Dancers TBA:  
Drakon, Lori,
                                    Mystique Fusion Bellydance, Jamie Lynn,


Mar 7 & 8
     Carver – Austin 
                         WORKSHOP - ALMAAZAH & MIABELLA
                                    Other Dancers TBA:  Drakon,

March 21      Georgetown 
                                    Other Dancers TBA:  Drakon,

April 4           Eternal Way – Austin  TRIBAL
                                    Other Dancers TBA:  Drakon, Randomosity,
                                    Mystique Fusion Bellydance,
                         

April 18         Dance Unlimited - Buda
                                    Other Dancers TBA:  Drakon,

May 2             Eternal Way –Austin INSTRUCTOR/STUDENT
                                    Other Dancers TBA: Drakon, 

June 6            Eternal Way – Austin  LIVE MUSIC 
                         
          Other Dancers TBA: Jamie Lynn

July 11           Eternal Way – Austin
 
                                    Other Dancers TBA:  Drakon, Lori,

August 15     Eternal Way – Austin  
                                    Other Dancers TBA:  Drakon,

Sept 12           Eternal Way – Austin 
                                    Other Dancers TBA:  Drakon, Jamie Lynn,

October 3     Eternal Way – Austin   TRIBAL
                                    Other Dancers TBA:  Drakon, Randomosity,

Nov  7            Eternal Way – Austin  
                          MULTI-CULTURAL & LIVE MUSIC
                                    Other Dancers TBA:  Drakon, Miriam,
                                    Jamie Lynn (Indian),

                         

Dec 5
               Eternal Way – Austin
                                    Other Dancers TBA:  Drakon,

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

REVIEWS
OF PAST SHOWS

 

REVIEW OF October 4th SHOW
At Eternal Way

 

Pictures Here Now -
Review will follow soon ! 

 


Sonya
Photo by The Primal Image - Jamie Akers

 


Jasmine from Lafayette, LA

 


Gypsy Rogues
(Happy Birthday Zira !)



Randomosity from Fort Hood-Killeen
 


Drakon
Photo by M'lilah

 


Drakon
Photo by The Primal Image - Jamie Akers



Sharla & EvaTennessee
Photo by The Primal Image - Jamie Akers

 


Rachel from San Antonio

Rachel from San Antonio
Photo by The Primal Image - Jamie Akers



Giomara from San Antonio

Giomara from San Antonio
Photo by The Primal Image - Jamie Akers



Mystique Fusion Bellydance from San Antonio

Photo by The Primal Image - Jamie Akers

 


Drakon


REVIEW OF OUR FIRST
SHOW IN GEORGETOWN !! 
September 20, 2008

It is always nerve racking to produce one of our shows in a new location, but this was about as close to perfect a place as we have ever found !  McCoy Elementary School Cafeteria, just a block off of I35 at 1313 Williams Drive was convenient for everyone - even those who got a bit lost - Okay, I will admit, it was hard to locate in the dark and I do not seem to know left from right – may be why I don't dance! Anyway, we arrived early to set up, and there were LOTS of helpers, so it all went so smoothly.  It was one big open room with plenty of chairs for a change.....and a real stage, dressing rooms and everything.  We had 2 treasure venders, Nisa with Em-belly-shments, and Nassma with Knighttime Creations.  Ivy with Ararat Mid East Fusion set up a table to tempt the crowd with her pleasing aromas and delicious wraps.  We ended up with a full house - I was thrilled when I walked out on the stage to see such a gathering of patrons ! 

Desert Passion’s intention was to introduce the Georgetown community to belly dance as it is performed in a stage setting.  I have a bevy of dancers to choose from, but this time, I asked those living in the general area.  Had to make a few exceptions, but we had performers from Georgetown (Drakon’s Students), Pflugerville,
Ft. Hood, Cedar Park and Austin with skill ranges from 6 months to professionals with years of experience.  The styles also varied widely with Classical Egyptian, American Tribal, tribal fusion, cabaret fusion, veil, cane and Isis wings.   There were solos, duets and troupes. 
All-in-all, if I do say so myself, it was a good selection of styles.  I did a bit more emceeing than usual, describing the various styles so the audience would know what they were watching.  Doors prizes were donated by the evenings venders - a free wrap from Ararat, 10% off any item purchased from Em-belly-shments or Knighttime Creations, and a full 6-week series of belly dance classes from Drakon.  A lady from Taylor
accepted that - we hope she will take advantage of such a great value though Taylor's a long drive !  Not as far as Buda............

DPMEDC members (Jennifer, Connie and Nassma) opened the show with the new folkloric cane choreography Drakon teaches in class.  They have it down really well and it looks really good when Jennifer starts spinning her cane like a cheerleader’s baton !

  They were followed by Gabriela and Sofia  performing  a duet....they were inspired by and borrowed parts of the choreography from a workshop they took from Desdemona.  They are so cute working together.  Drakon’s classes actually have 3 mother & daughter teams. Editor's Comment:  Gaby's husband, Scott, was the DJ for the evening, and we all give him a big round of applause, both for being willing to come help set-up and take-down all our equipment, but most of all for being such a wonderful supporter of his wife and daughter. 

  Zira (not pictured) leader of the Gypsy Rogues troupe in Cedar Park, played "minute-woman" and performed an impromptu solo in American Tribal Style.....thank you Zira for pulling in the slack in our lineup....you’re a champ.

 Infiniti,  from Ft. Hood, does “tribal fusion” and her style is very different from Zira’s, making a good contrast.   Infiniti’s moves are much faster and it seems the faster tribal style gets a better response from the audience.
                            

Gabriela also performed solo...and that blazing smile keeps all eyes on her, making it a sure fire interaction technique that wins an audience fast and judging from the applause, a welcome change from the more solemn facial expressions of the tribal style dancers.  She has taken classes from Drakon for 2 years, and this performance was the “drum solo” Drakon teaches in class.  

Alana Shea has won my heart, so I convinced her to drive from South Austin.  She does what I call a “cabaret fusion” style, which is to say she does her own personal style.  That pink feather boa she twirls around really makes a fashion statement – I love it !

Drakon was supposed to close the 1st half, but when his music started, the lights went out....he often has special lighting effects, so I didn’t think it odd.  He came out anyway right on his musical cue and was dancing in the dark.  That’s when I realized we had a problem.  Scott stopped the music, and Drakon danced off-stage.   Drakon usually electrifies the house, but this time he blew the fuse !    It was time for intermission anyway, so we shopped and enjoyed Ararat’s wraps while the stage crew changed the cords to a different circuit.

After we managed to get everyone back into their seats, Stephanie helped me give out the door prizes. 
          
                  This is Debra Eaves -- she got a 10% discount!

And finally, Drakon got to perform and as usual rocked.  His style is almost always classical Egyptian and this time he chose music by Cairo’s most prestigious orchestra, The Al Ahrum Arabic Dance Ensemble.  It is his current favorite, and although he has used this piece of music several times lately, it will never be the same dance twice as he never plans anything, and just dances from his heart.  This particular piece contains such a wide variety of different types of music, he can use a broader range of his dance moves.  He almost always tacks a drum solo onto the end, and this was one of those that always brings chuckles out of the audience.  Power shimmies & eyebrow drops !

Nassma  followed with a Bollywood inspired number.  She is getting all the hand moves and facial expressions down well – must be watching a lot of movies, and although she brought an Indian friend along, he claims he does not have any rhythm, so I couldn’t talk them into a duet.   That is her class homework assignment.............
 

Gypsy Rogues (left) were next, and their performance was pure American Tribal with all the cues and transitions coming from their teacher and leader, Zira.  They had not rehearsed, it was all off the cuff.  This was their first stage performance, and with only 6 months of training they were really scared and freely expressed their nervousness in the dressing room.  That’s a scary thing for the students, but the whole idea of American Tribal is to have a leader and the others must carefully look for and follow her cues.     

Patron Comment: Last night marks the first time those of us in Zira's tribal class have ever performed.  We had quite a case of the nerves, but managed to get on and off the stage without fainting!  Thanks to Zira's encouragement and confidence in us, we were able to trust in her and face the bright lights as we carefully watched for her cues.  It was also wonderful to see our instructor do such a sultry solo.   Mlilah, as usual, brings a lot of love and acceptance through her thoughtful remarks and empowers the audience to show their appreciation.  I was delightfully surprised at the positive reaction of the audience during our dance and going off stage.  We could have never performed without this wonderful atmosphere of warmth and the obvious love the audience showed of the various dance styles exhibited.  Every dance of the evening was engaging and joyful to watch, so it is not possible to pick a favorite.  I have gotten to see 1001 Nights three times and it gets more interesting with each viewing.  I am also now interested in dancing with a cane after seeing the first act. ps The lemon cookies from Arafat are out of this world!  pss we will come back every month!  Marcia
 

 Then DPMEDC's little angle,  Sofia, came out with those gorgeous silver wings.  She wore a silver costume with a bit of red in the belt and with her olive skin and dark hair, it was a perfect color for her.  She has been taking classes from Drakon for over a year, and actually has some very advanced moves for an 8 year old, but the wings overpower her hips, so she looks best doing spins and wide arm circles using the wings as they are intended. 
And  she already has some fan mail,
My favorite performer was Sofia.  Even at a young age, she is such a beautiful and professional dancer.  Her technique is impeccable, and she has so much poise.  Even when her Isis wings didn't want to cooperate, she handled it like a true pro.  Beautiful and talented like her mother, I could not stop smiling when she was on the stage because I was so very impressed with her”.   So is Drakon - bet she WOWs them in McCoy’s talent show this year !
  

DPMEDC members, Connie, Jennifer, Nassma and Heather  performed a veil dance to “Sou Akhbarak”.  All of Drakon’s student learn this routine, and these 4 were great examples of the grace and beauty of the dance.   

  Becky, who normally dancers with her mother and sister as part of the Kan Zaman Trio, performed solo this time, and it was so very different from their troupe dances, that I did not recognize her !
                  

We were very honored to have another close friend of mine, Rania, willing to make the drive from South Austin, and her professionalism really wowed the crowd.  She has years and years of dance experience, currently dancing with both the Sabaya Belly Dance Collective and Raks Helwa at Ruta Maya as well as in various restaurants and other shows around Austin.   Her style is classical Egyptian cabaret, Raks Sharki, and since her lineage is pure Egyptian it is so appropriate.  She says, “I was conceived in Cairo of Egyptian parents and born in American, so I enjoy the best from both worlds”.        

And to close the show, combining Classical Arabic Music and Literature, Drakon & Gabriela as Shahryar & Shaharazade presented "Alf Leylah Wa Leylah" (1,001 Nights) .  Although I have watched it several times, in different shows, this time it had a playful touch.  That sword looked threatening, but the smile on his face indicated that he couldn’t use it !  However, I watched a lady in the audience who had her hand over her mouth with big wide eyes, so maybe some in the audience were not so sure !

I want to thank all the patrons for coming to the show.  And certainly want to thank Gabriela, Scott, Sofia, Tracey, her husband and sons, Connie and Stephanie, Debra, John, and a whole bunch of other helpers.........we were out of the cafeteria by 11:00 pm and Drakon and I were at home in Buda by12 Midnight !! That is almost 2 hours faster than we usually manage, so thanks so much for making it easy on us !

The plans........yes, we will do another show in Georgetown, but with the holidays coming up, we will probably wait until January 17th....
I will keep you posted, so keeping checking your emails !

 

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

 

September 6, 2008
Eternal Way

I have been totally spoiled.  I hate writing reviews and my usual writers have slipped out this month !  If anyone would like to take a pen to paper, all right, fingers to keypad, and write a review of the Saturday, September 6, 2008 show at Eternal Way,. I would be more than happy to insert the pictures !!  Hint !  Hint !

Anyway, I was so glad to be “home” after doing 2 shows on the road.  It was mucho fun at Carver, and a lot less physical work, but we cannot afford them on a regular basis.  We will be back there in March ’09 though !   And Dance Unlimited show on August 23rd was less work, but even less attended.  I cannot figure out why these shows are not packed.  For some reason, the dancers always shine in the Desert Passion shows..........you are missing a rockin’ show when you stay away !  And since we are running in the red again, the community runs the risk of losing DPMEDT as a venue..........that will be too bad.   See you next month ?

The show opened with Jennifer Daniels (pictured below) playing her violin.  She started early, so those faithful who came early to enjoy food from Ararat had special entertainment.  And this lady is good !  New to the Austin area, Jennifer has over 25 years experience playing violin in a multitude of venues including professional orchestras, pit orchestras, quartets and solo performances.  Over the last 6 years, she has specialized in improvisational work and folk music and has performed at many festivals and fairs throughout the New Orleans area as accompaniment to various belly dance troupes and solo dancers (both tribal and cabaret). 
She is looking for a chance to join a local Austin band, so if you can help connect her with a group, let me know.

 

Then at 8:00 sharp, Jamie Lynn from San Marcos graced our stage with her sinuous beauty displayed in a ravishing beautiful red & black costume.  She says she has been working to incorporate a lot of new moves into her dancing, and I think it shows !   She will be back on the EWC stage on December 6th.

Evelyn, one of Najla’s students, came next and her style was pure Gypsy carnival.  She seems so relaxed on stage and I am confident in saying that she is one of the arts rising stars.  Great teaching....Najla !

Above Photo by M'lilah

Above Photo by Sahhira

Najla, even while floating on an proud-of-a-student induced high, came bursting onto the floor like a conflagration.  Orage and red veil swirling, and the lights flashing off the new golden irrisident costume.  Wow !  Almost hurt the eyes it was so flaming !  She has written an awesome article about the upcoming Mirage show – see page (  ) of this newsletter.  I just had to print it for all to enjoy ! 

Above Photo by M'lilah

Above Photo by Sahhira

After Najla's solo, Evelyn joined her for a duet.  I asked Najla just before the show started if she could be a "Minute Man" and lengthen her set 3-4 minutes, maybe add a drum solo or something, and instead, she used it as a teaching moment and taught Evelyn what it meant to be prepared and being able to be flexible. 
Her advice, bring extra music !

Lori was next.  She seemed a bit rushed, and it was my fault.  I  messed up her schedule by moving her from the 2nd half to the 1st.  I apologize so profusely !!  I have to fill in gaps sometimes, and then the whole lineup gets shifted around, but Lori seemed to take it in stride.  Thank you Lori for leaving a party early to come dance for us.

Above Photo by Sahhira

 Alana Shae was next and her costume was all black and pink and that feather boa really made a statement.  She is normally a fusion dancer, and I asked her to go with cabaret for this show, so her style was unique for the evening.  Which goes to prove that this artist is equally at ease in several styles.

Drakon said he does not want the reputation of doing the same thing over and over, so he warned me he was doing something totally different.  And I have accused him of being too feminine in some of his moves, so those “bicep muscle” poses were to keep me happy.  His just being on stage keeps me happy !  I love to watch him dance.  And he was different, dancing to a piece of music by Adam Basma Arabic Dance Ensemble, entitled “Ada el layal” and judging from the applause, I am not the only one who loves to watch him perform.   And yes, I made that costume !  I found a skirt with that pleated bottom and then made pants out of it !  Cool I thought !

Above Photo by Sahhira

At intermission, Kelly was kept busy making those delicious wraps.  She saves Drakon and I one for after the show and I am always anticipating the treat.  I actually like those yummy pastries better than the wraps......as my waist indicates.  Thanks for supporting her in Ararat Fund Raising efforts.  I cannot wait until she manages to reopen her restaurant ! 

Jennifer Daniels again entertained during the last part of the intermission, and when the lights dimmed, she turned on the georgeous blue lights on the bow and changed the tone of her music.....Drakon can out in a new red & gold costume (it was created especially for Drakon by Taryn and M’lilah).  He had never heard any of Jennifer’s music, and their performance was not rehearsed.  I think they discussed it for a minute or two before the show, but it was improv from their hearts. 

The next 3 performers, entertained with 3 totally different styles, but styles that blended very well together.  First, Asjah – fusing belly dance with touches of her modern dance background – she’s always exciting.  BTW: she will receive her degree in Middle Eastern Studies in December....congratulations !

Infiniti (Kim Harrington), from Killeen, says she began dancing when she was just six years old, but when she decided to start bellydancing a few years ago, it was as if she rediscovered herself, and had come full circle to where all her childhood dreams had begun.  With a background in ballet, modern, and jazz, she shares her love with you through her developing Tribal Fusion Bellydance.


And then, Sonya – what can I say...?  To me she is the epitome of Tribal Gypsy !  And this time, she was showing off a brand new belt - literally covered with Cowie shells, which BTW, were used in
Wampum Belts of  several Native American Tribes, particularity the Huron and Iroquois tribes - probably worth a fortune.

And to bounce back to Cabaret – Kay, and her daughters Sona and Becky have been studying with Bahaia  and are now dancing together as the Kan Zaman Trio.   Their performance would have been a lot better if the music had not played games with them.  It seems it did more skipping around than playing.  I guess that is why improv is such an important skill for dancers, then when something happens to the music, it will not interfere with the choreography.   They were also vending their Custom Belly Dance Accessories!  Performance jewelry, costume embellYshments, practice wear, bumper stickers!  Check out
www.MySpace/Em-belly-shments
www.weddingswithdesign.com/embellyshments.html
kimcarangey@gmail.com

512.573.2123

The last two dancers were very versatile artists, equally talented in both Tribal and Cabaret, they are both members of Raks Helwah performing at Ruta Maya, Angie first (Phillip what were you doing to make her laugh so much ?) burned the floor.  She was so hot ! 

 And then Rania, in this awesome black and emerald green costume, closed the show with her usual blood pressure raising style. 

All and all, it was a totally rockin’ show.  Too bad you missed it !  The pictures and my writing cannot even begin to do justice to these wonderful artists. 

 DPMEDT is taking to the road again.  Sat., Sept 20th, we will be at McCoy Elementary Cafeteria, in Georgetown !  Spectacular lineup – a real stage !   Ararat will be there !  All of you should be too !   Visit my website – Calendar Page for directions and more details.

Then, back at Eternal Way on November 1 – and it is themed to be a MULTI-CULTURAL show – we already have some Flamenco lined up, and the Village International Folk Dancers are coming back, and who knows what else we may come up with, EvaTennessee was walking out with a hula hoop, so we may even throw some of that in............and the music does not have to be Middle Eastern for this show !   Those dancers with backgrounds in other countries now get a chance to show their culture ! 

*******************  AUGUST 23, 2008

         DANCE UNLIMITED, BUDA

            (All Photos Taken by Lee Arntzen)

DPMEDT went on the Road !  Why not ?  For years, patrons and dancers in the South Austin/Buda/Kyle/San Marcos/Wimberley area have “complained” about the long drive to Austin to see these shows, and with the increase of gas prices, DPMEDT decided to move a bit closer to home. Since M’lilah & Drakon’s homestead is near Buda, and since Drakon has been teaching at Dance Unlimited for several years, they decided to introduce Middle Eastern Dance to the Buda community !   The first show was Saturday night, August 23rd, and was NOT too well attended, I am sorry to say.  The Studio is huge, with such a beautiful floor, that with a few minor decorating touches, it gained the DPMEDT feel easily.  All the dancers on the evening’s lineup were from the South Austin-San Marcos-Kyle-Wimberley area.   Ararat Mid East Fusion Catering & Events vended their great food and that stroked the atmosphere as well as the stomach.  Dawn, a Buda resident and one of Drakon’s Saturday morning students, greeted the Patrons at the door.  Lee helped set up, and both Tim and John drove down to support as DJ & Cameraman !  Thanks to all of them !

 Drakon, wearing a new red & gold costume (created jointly by Taryn & M’lilah) opened the show.  His burning passion for the music and movement that is ME dance clearly showed as he danced to his current favorite, a blend of popular Arabic music by the Al Ahram Orchestra.  He tacked a short drum solo onto the end, which the audience loved as usual, but the whole number was for him a different style than usual.

 Mabruka – formerly from NY, now living out near Mustang Ridge, danced a Classical Egyptian style and with her flaming red hair her blue cabaret costume really sparkled.  

 4 members of Troupe Amar, touched with a Flamenco/Arabic urge, earned lots of applause.  It was difficult for Phillip to hide in the crowd with only 3 ladies around him !  
It is so comforting to see another male dancer on stage.

 

Jamie Lynn, from San Marcos, a member of Midnight Breeze,
 and co-owner of The Blue Goat Gourmet in San Marcos, who can demonstrate great talent in a variety of styles – performed a pure Egyptian cabaret number.

 Angela Nations –so versatile and surprising – filled her
Tribal Fusion performances with that personal spunk
which always steals the stage. 

 Drakon and Mabruka performed a duet, and although not as dynamic as it has been, it once again showed what happens when 2 dance artists really put their shimmys together....these 2 along with Gabriela, were given a "Best Innovation" award for dynamic male & female relationships in dance at the 4th Annual Troupe Competition recently held in Austin.

 After a short intermission, the entire 2nd half of the show was live with The Hands of Fatima Drum & Dance Company providing the entertainment.  The drummers - Charles & the 3 Daves - were jointed by Guest Musician, Ike Ikenburg on the mandolin - provided lively music for dancers from the Midnight Breeze Dance Troupe.  FYI:  A couple of years ago HOF earned an Award for the Most Authentic Performance at the Excalibur Ren Faire in Lockhart.
As he does at the Ren Faires, Drakon joined them for a totally improv
sword performance.  


           THE HANDS OF FATIMA
L-R:  Dave (Weekend),  Dave (Sharkbait),
Charles & Dave (Lunchbox)

 
            L-R:  Jamie Lynn, Ahava, Saiidi, Xandra


                           L-R: Nirmala & Saiidi


                    L-R: Nirmala, Saiidi and Kimi


Ahava
                   
Saiidi


   Drakon


      Drakon

 *******************

July 5, 2008

 

Unmata Show
at the

George Washington Carver's
Boyd Vance Theater

Review written by Andrea Wagnon
with Editor's Notes by M'lilah
(in blue)

Just driving up to the Carver Cultural Center was a lovely segue into an absolutely smashing show. The rotunda and the glass curtain wall entry really gave a feeling of Texas splendor. A modern day traveling bazaar filled with treasures and pleasures added sparkle and wonder to the journey into the theater.

Assigned seating was also a pleasure. There were no worries about getting a good seat or saving enough for friends. Honestly, there didn't seem to be a bad seat in the house. The Carver Center's theater is well designed, giving the air of “plenty of room” for each seat, yet a feeling of intimacy still abounds. The theater totally supported the artists. The sound, lights, backdrop, and moderately sized stage were perfect for a solo performer as well as a medium sized troupe.  The announcing system was a pleasure to listen to and didn't overwhelm either the announcer or the audience.

The Saturday evening show was really a treat. Unmata's Amy Sigil and Shelly (aka Rashel) got the party started with some very challenging yet doable workshops earlier in the day.   

The workshop participants were ready to bring it on the stage and give their love in the audience when the show started.   The Unmata stars, Amy and Shelly, sat in front row center and gave their undivided attention to Austin's feast of the divine.

Note: Unless indicated otherwise, all of the pictures in the Show Review were taken by Lieven and all the vender pictures were taken by M'lilah.   The theater was not the best place for photos, the lighting was not really adequate.  

Houston's premiere tribal belly dance troupe and sponsors of Third Coast Tribal, Urban Gypsy (pictured left) whetted our appetites with Eastern Indian flair and color. Amiya and Kat both looked radiant and confident as they improv-ed a skirt routine to music by Atash. I always enjoy Urban Gypsy and what they bring to the table. These gals know how to deliver a wonderful performance every time. They are highly-professional, with a sense of style and flair all their own. Absolutely *the* way to start a show!  www.urbangypsy.cc

            

Liora blew me away. I was so not prepared for the strong, gloriousness she presented. I was truly mesmerized. Liora shows what you can do with a confident attitude combined with the obvious chops she has. She flows, she pops, she shimmies...........all that and a bag of chips.   I wanted more when she was done.  
She's a Tribal Fusion bellydance performer, instructor, & costume designer from Atlanta, Georgia, but rumor has it we may get to see her more often than not!    
Editor’s Note:  Liora says, “Although primarily influenced by the Indigo, I seek to learn and incorporate other forms of dance from cabaret to ATS to jazz. I am also delighted to be a returning instructor at Southern Fusion Fest in Athens, GA in August 2008.”  www.liorabellydance.com

                                  


Troupe Mirage
blessed our space with their dance ritual. Their entrance was entrancing! Each artist came in with a sword, but their relationships were unique and their own.  Troupe Mirage brought it on showing individual strengths can be combined to form a wonderful whole. They highlighted their blessing of the space by using understated, yet striking and clean-lined, black and silver costuming. They drew down some powerful mojo and set the stage with respect and power. A highlight of their offering was all five members flowing into a line facing the audience, then connecting through palm-to-palm. It was electric.  Editor’s Note: Troupe Mirage first formed in 1975 and has been performing weekly or biweekly at the Texas Union ever since.  Although the regular troupe members have changed over the years, Mirage itself has continued as one of  the longest running belly dance performing venues in the country and has trained more belly dancers through the University of Texas  informal classes than all the other local instructors put together.
What a boast...but it is true.
www.troupemirage.com  



Yamina  performed to music from a Polish band called the Warsaw Village Band, and brought the fey winds to the stage. Her delineation and restraint only served to remind me of the fire and wild that was contained in the vessel of her body. Every time she moved, I could see her fire dancing ghosting through.  Quite haunting and almost forlorn was her fiery partner. She invoked visions of a priestess on the edge of the in-between.  Editor’s Note:  Yamina has studied various styles of bellydance including Tribal Fusion and Cabaret and compliments these styles by studying Suhaila Salimpour technique.  She says, “My style tonight is a mix of bellydance techniques infused with personal flair. My costume is a mix of “old and reconstructed” goods and handmade “news” including scale-mail pieces designed with the help of my friend, Shawn.”  Yamina has performed at many of the Ararat events, at SCA events, at various local shows & workshops, and since 2002, fire bellydances with Baruzula.     

                                 

TheTypsyGypsys were the perfect juxtaposition to Yamina's strength in the “Beingness of One”.   Continuing that fey energy that Mirage started and Yamina sustained, Sonya, Josephine and Sahhira floated in on wings of gossamer. I would never have expected to be able to improv with wings. And that's where the Typsy Gypsys love to play best... in the realm of the unexpected.  They shared the stage and the lead with equal and singular talents. Their ability to play while keeping it together delights me every time.  Editor’s Note:  They are Austin’s “Uncommon” Bellydance Troupe doing “free-style bellydance”, which basically means they do anything they want, ranging from Gypsy to Raqs Sharqi to Fusion to Raq 'n' Roll to Improvisational Tribal Style to American Tribal Style!!  They called this particular performance a "WITS" piece...which translates to "Wings ITS" and it is all improvised!   Sahhira (also known as The Gypsy Witch), is also a member of  Austin’s Akasha Winds troupe but joined the Typsy Gypsys so she could do her “biker-bellydancing” & “Raq 'n' Roll”;  Sonya, the former director of troupe Eshta! is  a protégé of Z-Helene and is a seasoned, vibrant performer; and Josephine, who got tired of working on the farm and decided the glamorous life of a Typsy Gypsy sounded much more appealing. www.typsygypsys.com

                 

Intermission was fun with M'lilah and her young assistant, Sofia, giving away door prizes. I love M'lilah's down-home Texan style. She has a no-nonsense way of entertaining her audience that puts a smile on my face. It is obvious she loves her job and loves supporting both the bellydance community and her sweet life-partner’s passion for the dance.

After the intermission, Tribal Evolution rocked our world with color and laughter. These ladies bring it on Improv Tribal Style! They were rock solid with their cuing, zilling, and obvious love for each other. This is ITS at its fundamental heart. The communication between Pavalina, Nalani, and a couple of gals from Tribal Echo, coupled with the back-and-forth lead-and-follow format that delighted the audience over and over. I heard one exclamation of “I *love* them. I want to be them." It just doesn't get any better than that.
Editor’s Note:  Tribal Evolution is an Improv Tribal Style performance troupe from Hurst, Texas drawing their inspiration from many groups under the tribal umbrella, from the traditional American Tribal Style of
FatChanceBellydance and to the more modern stylings of UNMATA.  Their performance was completely comprised in their improv format, meaning that everything was created on the stage as they danced so everything the audience saw was true improvisation style.
www.tribalevolution.com



Drakon
grounded us back into ritual space with his keen sense of drama and timing. His entrance riveted the audience. The red background with the red lights sparked off of his curved scimitar, giving the illusion of a sunrise as the spotlight faded up. He has a powerful gaze that locks onto you and doesn't allow for anything other than the Truth. He is playful and his shimmery hips are the only thing that is between you and the edge of life and death while he dances. You are in good hands with Drakon. When he leaves the stage, it is as if he is releasing you like a dove at the gates of the temple.   Editor’s Note: His music was “Red Desert” by Lebanese violinist Claude Chalhoub.   www.desertpassion.com

                  
                                                   Photo  by M’lilah

                      
                                      Photo by Lieven

Indigo Rose brought the energy up to at least "11" with their top-notch smiles, bursts of sunny energy and swirls of skirts. They intrigued us all with their Turkish spoons and their mastery of the Karsilama rhythm. Lots of fast folksy movement with their colorful skirts and crocheted tassel belts made for a dazzling performance.   They ended with a simultaneous drop to the floor and then sauntered offstage with a flirty bounce in their step.     www.indigorosebellydancing.com   www.gitanestreasures.com
Editor’s Note:  INDIGO ROSE is a Romani Fusion troupe from
Ft. Worth, who performs a collection of authentic Rom dance moves that combine the many dance styles found along the "
Gypsy Road
".  Including Turkish Rom, North African, and Andalusian dances. 
 

  


Michelle Manx
 brought a bookend to the Texas offering by flirting with us endlessly in her “40's & 50's pin-up girls” style. The turquoise lighting juxtaposed her mad-clever use of red and black to perfection. Her performance was an improv choreography with a new costume element of high heels. She showed us how to strut and pout and left us wanting more. That signature wink and a kiss at the end put the shiny red cherry on a great show rolled out for the Unmata and our beloved Austin. Editor’s Note: Michelle Manx's dancing is inspired by Tribal Fusion Bellydance and the pin-up girls of the 1940's and 50's.  She teaches Tribal Fusion bellydance locally, as well as her own stylization called “Pin-up Bellydance”.  She says, “I am honored to be Amy & Shelly’s “Austin Tour Guide” for the weekend.”     

Note: There was a tiny break here, to allow Michelle and the others standing backstage time to return to their seats as no one wanted to miss a second of Unmata (which, BTW, is a Sanskrit name for the night-blooming hallucinogenic flower we call Datura or Jimsonweed and the best meaning is divine inebriation.)


Rashel (L) Amy (R)

Unmata moving... so fierce, powerful, engulfing. Mesmerizing. Wholly themselves and bits of a fine-tuned, well-oiled, fired-up machine of brilliantly moving dazzling parts. Yet, when they are caught in still shots, that's where you begin to divine the secret. They are playful; full of joy; totally, “in the moment” and innocent of the past and the future, content in themselves and their relationship with each other. They weave that gravity, that feeling of grounded ness into their movement. And POW! You are knocked out and awoken at the same time. They transform energy and carry you with them and effortlessly change you like a little girl chasing a butterfly.    It is obvious Amy is the Alpha in the squad. And that seems to be “okay” with a capital O. Each troupe member is fully in her own right and acknowledges her ability to lead in a group. But it's Amy's electricity and sweet bitch-queen energy that pumps it up and they revel in it. She is truly a delight and a wonder to behold.   Shelly's amazing sense of herself and her own glory shows what knowing how to support the lead with rock solid attention is all about. Shelly has the technical sass and abilities that really pop when she's leading and ground when she's not. She's the ultimate partner in the breath-taking endeavor that is Unmata.  

I think it would be colossal mistake to try to quantify or qualify Unmata. They defy. Period. It is their way. Each woman has her bliss and she brings it on. It is obvious Unmata is a transformational cauldron for those who brave the fire and those who stir the pot. They embody their Sanskrit name. They are divine inebriation through movement.   

Editor’s Note: UNMATA is a professional, multi-award-winning, bellydance Fusion Troupe based in Sacramento, CA.  The high-energy team force of UNMATA is known for extreme choreography, inventive Tribal improvisation, and for tapping into an unmistakable divine inebriation on and off stage.   They teach workshops and perform their distinct “Tough Love” style nationally and internationally (at events such as: The Spirit of the Tribes, Northern Migration, Tribal Fest, Tribal Quest Northwest, TribalCon, 3rd Coast Tribal and Tribal Café).   Amy Sigil, owner and director of UNMATA, danced as half of Haruspicy Dancecraft for several years, and then formed the professional fusion troupe UNMATA in 2003.    For the past decade, Amy has been developing, teaching, and performing modern bellydance fusion and developing her distinct vocabulary of Improvisational Tribal Style techniques.  They have brought home awards such as Bellydance Troupe of the Year 2004, Bellydance Troupe USA 2004, Ensemble of the Year 2005, and Tribal Fusion Group of the Universe 2007.  They tri-hosted the First Annual Tribal Throwdown and each October, they, along with Hot Pot Studio, host The Blood Moon Regale, a themed weekend of workshops, dance fellowship, and a fully produced showcase of student and professional dancers.   

              

The show ended with M’lilah serving up “dessert” Austin style by presenting Amy & Shelly matching tie-dyed Keep Austin Weird t-shirts as a thank you for coming all this way to share their “tough love” bellydance.   They hammed it up by sliding right into those shirts and shooting us some peace and air-toking a little love. What a  great way to end the show for our unique little slice of the bellydance pie here in Austin.      Thank you, M’lilah, for bringing us such fun! I can’t wait to see what you do next !

 SAHHIRA’S SOUK - VENDERS LINING THE ROTUNDA & HALL !
          Review written by M'lilah

Totally managed by Sahhira, the Market ran Saturday from
10 AM to 10 PM and then again on Sunday from 1 PM to 4 PM Designed to be a separate entity from the workshop and show, the souk served non-participants and the public. Lots of patrons came in around 4 pm – shopped and enjoyed the delicious food vended by Ararat Mid Eastern Fusion, had some wine & chocolate, and then ventured into the theater to locate their assigned seats.  Cool operation with a cool group of venders !!   Everyone had a wonderful time ! Thanks to you all !

Sahirra as Gypsy Witch Productions
 – feather lite imported silk veils – solids & tye-dyes – 3, 3.5, & 4 yd. lengths!  Tops, pants, outfits, skirts, scarves, jewelry, other accessories & odds & ends; new & used wares for all belly dance styles!  Sahhira donated 2 tickets worth 10% off on a silk veil price for door prizes. www.Sahhira.com (under construction) or www.TypsyGypsys.com   or   Sahhira@TypsyGypsys.com

D’Signing D’Anne – belly dance costumes, veils, skirts, harem pants; possibly jewelry, fabric & bead strands, sketches of Belly dancers; new & used wares for all belly dance styles! www.BellyToWear.com/  (under construction)


Tarynz Bazaar – Tribal/Cabaret, Renaissance, Pharaonic, and Spanish Designs; Danceable Art!   Drakon was caught in the act of having her custom design him a new red costume ! (303) 321-9278


Convergent Resources-Treasures from the Silk Road! – Tribal Dance – accessories, handcrafted unique goodies!   Her beautiful Service Dog “Belle” (a white standard poodle) is at the moment, safely sleeping underneath the tables.   Jennifer gave M’lilah one of those feather hair decorations as a Hostess Gift – I think so it was better to identify the producer – you know about the proverbial chicken without the head !  Thank you Jennifer, I wore it proudly all day !    She was clearly the vender with the ‘mostest’ as far as sales went and said the big attraction was all the hand-made items.   http://stores.ebay.com/convergent-resources  or jennifermillsware@yahoo.com


Gitane’s Treasures – custom belly dance swords and accessories! www.GitanesTreasures.com/   Gitane provided a beautiful pair of hand-made brass earrings as a door price which  Stacey-Lizette claimed with a big smile on her face !  Gitane also supplied Sahhira and M’lilah necklaces, called “Sugar Skulls”.   Again, an omen ??? 


Em-belly-shments !
  Handmade jewelry for the body – perfect way to enhance a simple costume and make it something outstanding !   She provided a canvas “Belly Dance” carry-all bag for a door prize.  www.MySpace/Em-belly-shments

One Man Tribe
Anderson  – Vending Handmade clothing by indigenous peoples of small villages in Katmandu, Nepal www.OneManTribeonline.com  or  OneManTribeonline@yahoo.com

Henna Arts - Specially selected from the    best Henna plants in India, the handmade Henna paste is the perfect blend of color with NO chemicals or dye added; completely safe for