Tag Archives: Ottawa Centre Class Party

Dancer’s News Updates

To see this as the main website, click here . Also find the Teacher Directory, Shopping Opportunities, and Healing, Guides and Energy workers, Pampering sections online!

Us and JJ!Good morning!

Thanks to those who came out on Friday in the cold to see us do our Bollywood thing and celebrate Diwali!  I’ll be updating the Bollywood For Fun website soon with video clips etc. Busy, busy, busy!

The next few weeks seem to have something on every weekend – so be sure to check the Dancers’ Newsletter online as well – It’s hard to list everything every week and still call them Updates… So I have condensed things as much as I can, but there is a lot online!

Read on!

If you are able to help out at the Dancers’ Bazaar on Saturday, please email me!  There are always benefits to being  a volunteer there!

Tracey/Halyma

DANCERS’ NEWSLETTER – Update EDITION

Check out the Dancers’ Newsletter Extra Features:

This week’s Dancers’ Newsletter Extra Feature is a visit to my blog for some advice on how to shop at the upcoming Ottawa Dancers’ Bazaar! Check back this week for any extra comments – and please add yours too!
Click here for a quick look!

DOUBLE FEATURE:

Part 2 is your invitation to be creative and express your greenness!

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rn73eLW1JnE]

Eco-TAV is running a video contest with prizes for the top 4 videos! If you have bought – or will buy – anything from my Eco-TAV line, I hope you will have some fun shooting a quick video clip sharing the ways you are “green”!

You can find the details online here!


INQUIRIES/Announcements

Teacher wanted:

“Do you happen to know anyone in my neck of the woods (well my school’s area) who teaches Belly dance? We are putting together a set of community arts workshops and would like to invite community artists to participate. We can offer a little bit of an honorarium but I think one of the real benefits is exposure to potential new students / customers. The local glass studio has had a significant flow of customers through his involvement with previous workshops with our school.

Woodroffe High School, is in the west end. Near Woodroffe and Carling. Another easy land mark is Lincoln Fields bus station. Any one interested can contact me. Feel free to put my phone number out – 613-721-3458.

Thanks for your help.”

Christy Stanhope  christy.stanhope@rogers.com

The Fall Fusion Cabaret – Special Thanks and DVD available!

“I’d like to extend a special thanks to everyone who helped make our sold out show, the Fall Fusion Cabaret, possible.  Mostly to Ms. Brice for travelling all the way up here for the weekend, and to our performers who came from other cities to dance in our show!  Locally, I’d like to extend gracious thanks to Tracey for all her help and support, Tom and Lainie for video and photo, Dantessa for the bar, and the Arts Court Theatre for their continued support of our events.  Thank you all for coming out to the show!

For those of you who missed out, or who would like a DVD:
DVD is available for order by contacting Tom at tom@darnermedia.ca and they are $20 each.
The DVD does not include Rachel’s performances, but includes our guests Rosanna McGuire, Tribu Ghabal, Mat Jacob, Jamilah & Milana, Anna & Safiya, and Shakti fusion (including solos by Niki, Natasha and Leslie).  The sale of the DVD goes to support the production of the event and we are lucky to have so many original performances in one place!

Also please note: Anyone who took photos or film of Rachel Brice at the show, these may not be published without her consent! We always ask that no flash photography or filming happens, but sometimes it seems people can’t resist.  Please do not post photos/videos of performers online without their express permission :)”

Leslie

2009 EVENTS

Tribal fusion workshops with Leslie!Leslie

Sunday October 18th, 2009
Tribal Basics – new to tribal, or want to brush up on your technique?  This class is for you!
1196 Bank at Makin Moves
12:15-2:15pm (ish, depending on the class before ours finishing on time)
$30 drop in.

Friday October 23th, 2009
Tribal fusion combinations – this class is for the tribal experienced, or dancers well experienced in bellydance.
1196 Bank at Makin Moves
7:30-9:30pm
$30 drop in.

to register – leslie AT shaktifusion DOT ca

OCTOBER 18, 2009 onwards – Montreal
Gypsy/Folklorique/Bollywood Dances of India– For Belly Dancers

Workshop Series 2009 by Amrita Choudhury

18 October – Gypsy/folklore Dances of Bengal (River Gypsies) (1-5) $90

15 November – Gypsy/folklore/bollywood fusion! Part -1 (1-5) $90

13 December – Gypsy/folklore/bollywood fusion! Part- 2 (1-5) $90

www.ananda-amrita.com

Also check out this show Amrita will be a part of:

October 22, 2009 – QuebeAsia

OCTOBER 23-25, 2009 ~ TORONTO
Hipnotech featuring: Rosanna McGuire

Labspace Studio
2A Pape Ave at Queen
Toronto
Doors at 830, 1st set at 930, 2nd at 1030Tickets $10 in advance at http://www.cleoflaptra.com/performance.html, more at the door, and reduced after the bellydance performance is over.

Weekend intensive Workshop:

http://www.cleoflaptra.com/instruction.html for details!

October 23rd-25th. 
Fees: 1/2 day: $45, or $90/day.

Friday October 23rd (Aurora Live Studios, 392 Queen Street E)
12-2pm: Yoga and fast technique.
230-430: Technique contin. and flexibility training

Saturday October 24th (Mad For Dance 263 Adelaide St. West)
1230-230: Fusion, movement invention, and creating choreography

3-5: Flapper fusion

Sunday October 25th (Mad For Dance 263 Adelaide St. West)
12-2: Funk styles for bellydancers – Funkifying your bellydance and bellydancifying your funk.

230-430: Slow technique and flexibility.

Rosanna
cleoflaptra@gmail.com
http://www.cleoflaptra.com

OCTOBER 24, 2009Shibori Borealis Veil poi in action

Yes, it’s on Saturday

Ottawa DANCERS’ BAZAAR


12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
260 McArthur (Knights of Columbus Hall), Ottawa.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED – Email me if you can help! Tracey@tav-creations.com

GO TO THE ONLINE POLL to share your shopping requests!
Http://wwww.tav-creations.com/bazaar

November 1 2009 – Ottawa
Zamira at WtoEBCWEIGHTED VEIL WORKSHOP with Zamira

Sunday, 1 November 2009  1:00-4:00 pm
Location: Routhier Community Centre, 172 Guigues Street, Ottawa

1:00-3:00 pm Basic Workshop:

In this workshop you will receive instruction on all the techniques and
skills required to use weighted veils in your favourite choreography. From
basic movements to complex combinations and incorporating dance movement
with the dynamic movement of the veils. Weighted veils are rapidly
becoming the prop of choice for many dancers wishing to achieve a more
dramatic effect in dance or to add a new visual element. We will finish
off with a short choreography that will use much of what you learn in the
workshop.

Cost: $30.00 up to October 24th, $35 after. Buy a set of veils in advance
and get the workshop for $25 (must register by 24 October 2009)

3:00-4:00 pm Advanced Workshop:

This advanced weighted veils workshop extension is for those who wish to
continue into more advanced spins, turns, combinations and choreography
work. You must have participated in at least one workshop before taking
this advanced class (includes the above workshop).

Cost: $15.00 up to October 24th, $20 after. If you are taking the earlier
workshop that day you will receive a $5.00 discount for the extension.

PayPal payment accepted. Please add $1.00 service fee and PayPal to
zamira@theveiledeye.com
Email money transfer accepted. Please add $1.00 service fee and email to
zamira@theveiledeye.com

Routhier Community Centre, 172 Guigues Street, Ottawa
Parking available off-street. OCTranspo buses #1 & #9 stop within 1 block

For registration and information contact Zamira:
zamira@theveiledeye.com
613-797-4068

NOVEMBER 7, 2009
*Workshop with a twist*

Roxane (creative Clothing) is giving a workshop on NOV 7, from 1 to 5: HOW TO MAKE A BRA and BELT SET with pre-sequinned and embroidered fabrics. And to make it easier for you, she will have pre-packaged boxes of beautiful, shiny fabrics and matching trims and extras to make your set. All you would have to supply is the bra.

These packages will be on show and for sale at the upcoming Dancers’ Bazaar on SAT. OCT 24.
Pre-register now or at the bazaar for $40 for the workshop, plus cost of your package. It will be $50 at the door. 10 spaces available and 8 only 8 are left.

7 NOVEMBRE 2009nov7-poster
Spectacle 30e anniversaire de la Troupe Égyptienne Enan

Venez célébrer 30 ans de danse folklorique égyptienne au Canada avec les Enans!

19h00

au Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave

prix spécial, seulement $10!

disponible a l’Oasis de la danse, 819-776-5033

ONLINE TICKET SALES
http://www.baladi.ca/troupe/

NOVEMBER 7, 2009
Enan Egyptian Troupe’s 30th Anniversary Show
Come celebrate 30 years of the Enans sharing Egyptian Folkloric dance in Canada!

7:00 PM Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave

Special anniversary price, tickets only $10!
available at Dance Oasis, 819-776-5033

ONLINE TICKET SALES
http://www.baladi.ca/troupe/

NOVEMBER 14, 2009

Nathalie Lebel Double Veil Workshop


Nathalie and her double veils
Nathalie and her double veils

10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Lunch and Bazaar from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Dance Studios.ca, 151 Chapel Street (parking entrance on the side of the building)
$70 if payment is received by November 4, 2009 $80 thereafter.

To register: Send a cheque made out to Mouvance and mail it to Julie Tierney 84 McDermot Court, Kanata, Ontario K2L 3V1
Info: julie(DOT)tierney(AT)sympatico.ca

NOVEMBER 14, 2009

DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY FUNDRAISER

Legion Hall at the corner of Kent and MacLaren

Fundraiser for Kids Help Phone, Distress Centre, Bereaved Families

Doors open at 7:30

Party starts at 8 pm and goes ’till we drop!

Tickets $25, $30 at the door.

email: dragonslivehere.glebe@gmail.com

Buy your tickets online with Paypal(.50 nominal fee) to make sure you get yours!

NOVEMBER 22, 2009

WEST END BAZAAR:

Creative Clothing by Roxane is hosting a Belly Dance Bazaar in the west end of Ottawa to raise funds for the Iqaluit Women’s Shelter.

Don’t miss the new West End Dancers’ Bazaar:
Bell’s Corners at the Legion Hall,
4026 Richmond Road: easy access and lots of parking.
Sunday, November 22, from noon to 5 pm.

We have 15 vendors:
Creative Clothing by Roxane,
Tracey with TAV Creations,
Lisa-Marie *Sha’Vega*,
Gailene *Zamira*,
Darlene *Shibori Borealis*,
Rain Kazymerchyk our lovely Silversmith,
Sylvie Girard and her food,
Val DeWitt *The Trader*,
Zena Nesrallah,
Curves (the gym people),
Melissa Wakeling from Belleville too
and a few new artisans amongst them.

Free admission: all money raised is for Qimaavik the Women’s Shelter!!

For more information contact Roxane at: roxkirkatsympaticodotca or phone: 613-726-9067.

December 12 & 13, 2009
Shakti fusion bellydance is excited to present a workshop and show with Rosanna McGuire (Toronto/San Francisco)

Rosanna brings her fabulous Hipnotech workshop to Ottawa!  A spectacular instructor and performer, she will bring her original fusions to the class and in performance at our show – for more about Rosanna, please visit her site at:  http://www.cleoflaptra.com/bio.html

Saturday December 12
dancestudios.ca
12-4pm

Yoga and Fast Technique and Flapper Fusion
See Rosanna’s video from Tribal Fest 2008 to see Rosanna’s original fusion style:
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqG-7DNB1No]

Sunday December 13
location TBD
Funk Styles for Bellydancers and Slow technique and flexibility.
See Rosanna’s video from Tribal Fest 2009 to see her funkstyle:
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3H1ze_ZMBS8]

Registration for both days is $170, $190 with ticket for the show, or $85 for one day only.  This is an event not to be missed!
to register:  leslie AT shaktifusion DOT ca
Space is limited!

Saturday December 12th
Show:  The Holiday Cabaret Spectaculaire!

The Mercury Lounge
56 Byward
Tickets $20 in advance, $25 at the door
Featuring our house dj, and special guest performer Rosanna McGuire, Shakti fusion, and many guests!
This event doubles as our first ever Christmas party, dress up in your best winter sparkle, and come dance with us!  Limited to 80 guests!  Santas and bad holiday sweaters welcome!

for tickets, email leslie – leslie AT shaktifusion DOT ca

DECEMBER 16, 2009
HALYMA’S OTTAWA CENTRE CLASS PARTY

Wednesday, December 16th, 2007
Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Show starts at 7 p.m.
Ottawa University Alumni Theatre

Tickets will go on sale in November, but check with your teacher to see if she has reserved space for your class to perform in the show!

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EGBczp7B-LU]

NOT QUITE BELLY DANCE EVENTS:

DARNER MEDIA: COMPUTER RELATED CLASSES

David Rostenne and Tom Leroux have a Social Media Crash Course starting on Tuesdays.

Social Internet Crash Course
October 20th

6:30 PM to 9:30 PM

This course  is primarily geared towards small business owners, but can apply to anyone who is curious about participating in the online world. We are covering a whole slew of “keeping in touch” methods in this course: having a web site, surfing the web, passwords and online safety, email and etiquette, newsletters, instant messaging, blogs, podcasts, Digg, StumbleUpon, Facebook, MySpace, Twitter – there’s so much, and we will be doing our best to cover it all. We will let you know what it can (and can not) do for you, and answer your questions.

All classes are $150, or $275 if you sign up for two.

You can view more details online here: http://www.darnermedia.ca/training-and-consulting/classes/ , give me a call, or you can shoot an email to classes@darnermedia.ca.

Tom

NOVEMBER 8, 2009
Jewelry Sale

Hello everyone!

Myself and a handful of talented friends will be hosting a Jewelry and Art Sale on November 8, 2009! The sale will be held at Studio B (591 Bank St, near Pretoria) from 12-5pm, and will include the following artists:

Jewelry, artwork and honey by A Sassy Conspiracy (www.acidtrix.com)
Oil paintings and art bookmarks by Erika Doyon (www.tattoosbyerika.com)
Knits and plushies by Aeramel
Watercolour and oil paintings by Pookzilla
Watercolour paintings and buttons by Elektrafying
Artistic Cupcakes by Kasia

Stop in and say hello, and get your holiday shopping done early by supporting local artists! We promise, it’ll be worth the trip!

We hope to see you there! Please pass this information on to anyone you think might be interested 🙂

Erika Doyan

edoyon(at)gmail(dot)com

FALL CLASSES

Tribal fusion classes with Niki

Tribal fusion classes with Niki

Tuesday 8-9pm

Oct 20 (6 week session for $70)

1196 Bank St at Makin Moves studios

to register: theodorn AT magma DOT ca

SHOPPING OPPORTUNITIES/BUSINESS LISTINGS:

Honey Bee Cottage
Hand-painted silks by Melissa Wakeling, Belleville, Ontario

Hand-painted silk veils using Heliographic “sun printing” technique to create unique patterns and colour variations. This special technique results in beautiful colour swirls and marbling – a look that is not quite watercolour and not quite tie-dye – a one of a kind treasure! Custom-painted bellydance veils available April-October only.
www.HoneyBeeCottage.etsy.com
qtmeliss34@yahoo.ca
613-961-2020

Getting into the rhythm of Fall

Hey all,

How are ya?  I am doing well!  I had a wonderfully busy summer, and was blessed with the month of August off!  This is something we work towards all year, so we relish that hammock time when we get it!  Sometimes I think that we should take more long weekends throughout the year, and if we can toss a few in this year, that would be great!

September has always been my “New Year”.  Back to school still exists for me as my new session of classes began a couple of weeks ago. Fresh starts to my sewing roster as well as I try to finish everyone’s summer projects before I leave for my holidays, and then in the first few weeks I am back, the calls {thankfully} start rolling in.

Budding Blossom Bag-09-281

I have some great new points of focus too happening this fall.  I was encouraged by a rush order for a select number my Eco-TAV products when I can back.  I have since sent off a small shipment to a distributor in Toronto, managed to get them into Arbour here in Ottawa, and have meetings this week and next to continue the momentum. And I have updated both the Eco-TAV and Artfire sites to show the new goodies available!

I also will be playing with creating some online video shows. Nothing fancy yet, it will grow as all things do in my world: baby steps and not too much horn bleating until I feel more comfy and polished.  But if you follow me in various online places, you see the hints and can check it out !  Just be gentle 🙂

And my stand-by fall events are in the planning stages – well, the Dancer’s Bazaar is almost sold out, and ready to rock on a new day!  Saturday the 24th should have a different feel to it, and there are some new vendors coming to this one which I am looking forward to seeing!  The December OCCP is just getting off the ground – possibly some changes in the air there too – but we’ll see!

Bollywood For Fun at the South Asian Festival

And Bollywood – what’s up with that!  We have been doing some serious fun with our new group, and getting some great face time!  Another new adventure for Halyma!

So, that’s my business realm in a nutshell.  Being self employed, being who I am , I seem to revolve around my variety of career choices in a way that seems to define my existence.  According to so many this would be wrong.  Or at the very least an incomplete definition of who am I.  I can accept the “incomplete”, but if I am not what I do, then I don’t know who I am. hmm…

….that’s another blog post on the way…

Til then – have a great one!

Tracey/Halyma

Dancer’s News-June 28,2009

To see this as a website, click here . Also find the Teacher Directory, Shopping Opportunites, and Healing, Guides and Energy workers, Pampering sections online!

 

Good morning,

I had a fabulous time checking out Potterie Lablanche’s sale yesterday – what a gorgeous day!  It continues today so if you have time to take a drive to the country – it is worth it! Check the details here!

My growing collection

But back to the moment – there are some summer classes starting this week and next, so be sure to check them out!  And workshops – try a one day workshop this summer to taste test a different teacher, dance style, or just to keep your toes in the dance!

 

Many of you know that I have in the past run summer drop ins,but this summer, the centre that I teach at is under construction and I am awaiting word that they are open for business again.  If that happens soon, I’ll have some last minute announcements here and on my website and blog to let you know if we can at least have a couple of fun play nights!

 

Also remember that many of us are available for private parties and lessons during the summer if you cannot commit to a full class!

Tracey/Halyma

 

Sunday, June 28

DANCERS’ NEWSLETTER – UPDATE EDITION

 

Check out the Dancers’ Newsletter Extra Features:

This week’s Dancers’ Newsletter Extra Feature is another visit to Lainie Cambria’s site for photo’s of the OCCP! She’s put up more photos!
Click here for a look at some gorgeous pics!

 47134680

2009 EVENTS

 

June 28 to July 12-Sundays ~TODAY
Tribal Fusion workshops with Leslie

As Leslie has been accepted into the Master of Arts, Dance program at York in Toronto, this will be the last opportunity for a while to get in some study of Tribal fusion bellydance on a regular basis. Please note that the below listings are fundraising activities to support this course of study 🙂 Workshops are $50 each or $180 to participate in all four. In the fall, Leslie will return to Ottawa periodically to teach monthly workshops.

Sunday, June 28th
Tribal Basics
This three workshop focuses on Suhaila method style drills to improve technique and isolations for Tribal fusion bellydance. During this workshop we will begin with a yoga warmup, and work through isolations with various foot patterns and tempos.
2-5pm
1196 Bank, Makin’ Moves studio
$50 for this 3 hour workshop
to register: leslie AT shaktifusion DOT ca

Sunday, July 5th
Slow Motion
This workshop presents techniques and combinations for slow movement in tribal fusion bellydance. Includes yoga warmup, drills, and practice of combinations
2-5pm
1196 Bank, Makin’ Moves studio
$50 for this 3 hour workshop
to register: leslie AT shaktifusion DOT ca

Sunday, July 12th4557

How Not To Get Dizzy: Spinning and Tribal fusion bellydance
By request, this workshop provides grounding yoga practice and tips and tricks to perform fast, calibrated and slow spins and turns.
2-5pm
1196 Bank, Makin’ Moves studio
$50 for this 3 hour workshop
to register: leslie AT shaktifusion DOT ca

Sunday, July 26th
Yoga for Bellydance
This workshop is a 3 hour part practice, part lecture about the benefit of specific yoga poses and how they help support alignment in dance. Leslie is a certified Hatha yoga instructor and also draws from her training with Rachel Brice.
2-5pm
1196 Bank, Makin’ Moves studio
$50 for this 3 hour workshop
to register: leslie AT shaktifusion DOT ca

 

 

JULY 5, 2009 onwards – Montreal
Gypsy/Folklorique/Bollywood Dances of India– For Belly Dancers

Workshop Series 2009 by Amrita Choudhury

 

5 July – Bollywood Dance – Part 1 (1-5) $90

*More dates/workshops listed online*

After a successful run of the 2008 program of Indian Gypsy, Folklore, Bollywood dance workshops, Amrita is back from India again to offer the 2009 program. Because the participants of the 2008 workshops were mostly from the Belly Dance tradition, Amrita has designed these workshops to benefit dancers/teachers coming from the Oriental dance traditions. Come experience the joy and ecstacy of the vibrant gypsy, folklore and bollywood dance traditions of India; the beautiful and graceful hand gestures, facial/eye expressions, torso & hip movements, rhythmic feet movements and much much more! Please bring veils and joy in your heart! No experience is necessary.

Amrita Choudhury has devoted the past 27 years to the dance and music of India. She began her life journey in dance at the age of four as she studied with her mother who was also a well known dancer in India. She studied the classical/sacred dances as well as the traditional and folkloric/gypsy dances of India for many years in India at a the specialized art school “Santiniketan”. Amrita also has a degree in Anthropology and continues to pursue her research of “Anthropology and Dance”. Amrita travels all over the world offering workshops and performances. For more information on Amrita, please see www.ananda-amrita.com

 

 

JULY 19, AND 27, 2009
Sha’ Vega Malibu Presents Sweat and Swim

Don’t miss this opportunity to Sweat and Swim on Sunday, July 19th and again on July 26th.
Two different and exciting classes are being offered plus a delicious and healthy luncheon on the lakeside, belly dance videos on the big screen AND swimming in the lake until your heart’s content.

Where? The class is being held at 300 Saddler Road at Forêt la Blanche Interpretation Centre, (2nd floor) in Mayo, QC.

The luncheon to follow will be at my residence, just 4 km from Forêt la Blanche Interpretation Centre.

What time? Class is from 10:00 a.m. 12:30 p.m. Lunch and everything else after 12:30 p.m.

How long does it take to get there anyway? Give yourself about 50 minutes to make it here from Orleans and about an hour from downtown.

After lunch optionsBeautiful view, beautiful day!
· more swimming
· a pottery studio tour
· gabbing on the deck sipping cool drinks in tall glasses
· watching belly dance performances on the big screen TV

Class content – TWO different classes are being offered.

Class #1 – July 19. Introduction to Zills (finger cymbals). You will learn 4 basic Zill patterns and some belly dance combinations to go with those patterns. This class is suitable for anyone who would like to learn to play Zills or needs drilling and practice on what you already have learned. If you have Zills, please bring them. I have several set of Zills that I can loan for the day if you do not have your own set. Prerequisite for this class is at least one session of belly dance classes.

Class #2 – July 26. Drum solo I. Did you like my drum solo at Halyma’s Central Class Party on June 10? Do you want to learn it? I’m offering this class to students who are dancing at Level 3 and beyond. You will learn my Drum Solo I – a drum solo complete with veil entrance and finale! This class will be very challenging. Please bring you veil. Prerequisite for this class is one year or more of belly dance classes.
The cost for this day of fabulosity? Only $40! Or take BOTH classes for just $75!!

Sign up early!! There are just 10 spots opened for each of these special summertime classes.

Guarantee your spot by filling out the registration form then send your form and cheque in as soon as possible.
Registration form is available by writing Sha’ Vega at sha_vega@hotmail.com
Alternately, it is available in the files section on doCod http://ca.groups.yahoo.com/group/doCod/

 

AUGUST 20, 2009
Hadia workshop in Montreal

Details:
Date: August 20th, 2009
Time: 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Place: Montreal
Cost: $80.00 (before August 12th)
Topic: music interpretation and choreographic sequences to Baeed Anak

MORE DETAILS: EMAIL: hadia@hadia.com

 

 

NOT QUITE BELLY DANCE EVENTS:

 

ONGOING= DRUMMING CIRCLE IN MADOC

Hey Everybody,

 

Every 2nd and 4th Sunday we have been drumming at the Cabin at 6pm

This coming Sunday ,we have been asked to hold our drum gathering at the O’haras Mill Park in Madoc for a celebration they are holding.The volunteers at the park would like to give drumming a try.

So, this Sunday, instead of drumming at 6pm at the Cabin we will be drumming at the O’haras Mill Park at 12:30 pm

The park is located just west on hwy 7 off hwy 62
http://www.ohara-mill.org

If you would like to meet at the cabin around 12pm, we can all ride out together.

We hope to see everybody, its a very beautiful park.

Luv Deborah & Terry Richardson

Note: This years September Drum gathering and cornroast will be held at the same park.
Here is our new website for the event http://www.drumnationfestival.com

 

 

JUNE 28, 2009
3rd Annual Summer Sale
Poterie du Lac la Blanche

 

Sunday, June 28

10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

 

Our annual summer sale is a great opportunity to start collecting or add to your collection of hand made pottery and ceramic art by Lisa-Marie Serafin. It happens in the most idyllic setting – a small poterie in the countryside on the edge of Lac la Blanche.

Poterie du Lac la Blanche is located at 110 chemin Giroux in Mayo, QC
The potter, Lisa-Marie Serafin specializes in stoneware pottery for everyday living.
She says, “I find that the most useful things in a household can also be beautiful works of art. My hand made pottery, such as a covered jar, a serving bowl, or a coffee mug, are meant for your pleasure and to be admired as well as be functional.” 
Lisa-Marie is greatly influenced by her surroundings. She often uses nature’s objects, such as leaves, grasses and seed pods to achieve a variety of surface textures. She is also inspired by ancient symbols and rituals, music, colour and even the materials and tools with which she works.

Please visit http://lablanchepoterie.com
We look forward to seeing you at our Summer Sale and would like to remind you that the Poterie is open year round by appointment by calling (819) 281 – 3307.
Cash and cheques gladly accepted.
Thanks for your support!

 

 

JUNE 28, 2009
Yoga Meets Dance

Trained by Beth Rigby, I’ll be offering a class of Yoga meets Dance on the 28th of June at the yoga center “Relais Yoga”. This beautiful studio is located in the Gatineau Park (397, Cité-des-Jeunes Blvd).
We will dance with the elements of nature : stillness of the earth, sensuality of water, wildness of fire, freedom of air and sacredness of spirit.
Lots of beauty and fun!
All my gratitude for posting this event on your fabulous web site!
Namaste,
Marie Grégoire
Relais Yoga
819 777 4937

 

 

JULY 6, 2009 FILM SHOWING

In Honor of His Holiness The Dalai Lama’s Birthday

 

Winner of Best Adventure Film, Whistler Film Festival 2004

CALL IT KARMA

With special guests, producer writer, Michael Parker and Producer, Shan Tam

Sales Bazaar and Refreshments

Monday, JULY 6, 6:00 pm
Library and Archives Canada, 395 Wellington Street, Ottawa
Tickets: $10

Organized by Ottawa Friends of Tibet www.oft.ca
To reserve tickets or for more info, please e-mail event@oft.ca 
Or contact Barb at 613 290-6944

Proceeds to support the Kalimpong Seniors Home Project

 

 

JULY 7 ONWARDS
LIVEN UP YOUR BOLLYWOOD MOVES WITH ANJALI

Bollywood borrows from Indian Classical Dance

 

Indian Temple Dance Summer Intensive
6 sessions
July 7 Tuesday- (July 7, 14, 21,28, August 4, 11
( As this is summer you can do a make-up session as long as I know one week before hand)
Time 8-9 pm
Cost $150 for 6 one hour sessions

Syllabus
1)Learn hand signs, neck and eye movements
2)how to tie a sari,
3)make-up and
4) DANCE steps to use in your belly dance work,
a) rhythmic beating of the feet,
b) how to speak the drum syllables that accompany the dance
c) How to beat the rhythms
COMPLETE a short temple dance

Option of participating in a small informal; recital in September.. If you want
**Please
1)bring an eyebrow pencil, and if you have one, a sari ( I have extra)
2)**bring a short example of a piece of your music that is rhythmic and I will give you some
“Fusion step options”

Indian Temple Dance 
174 Dufferin Rd
Unit 11
Dufferin runs into Crichton Crichton is an extension of the Vanier Parkway
Cost:
payable by cash only sorry I do not have Visa or interac
Please pass this on to your friends
Please confirm by email gaston@cyberus.ca
Hope you can come
Best wishes
Anjali
613 745-1368
www.culturalhorizons.ca

 

 

SUMMER 2009 CLASSES

 

VENUS in Montreal

Intermediate ~ Intermediare
JUN 25 – AUG 13 8 wks $110
Thursday/Jeudi
19 h 30 à 21h ~ 7:30-9:00pm

** Learn technique, finger cymbals, **
**** veils, choreographies, modern Egyptian ****
*** and folkloric styles! **

Studio Bizz
551 ave du Mt-Royal E.
3e étage ~ 3rd floor
Reg/Inscrip: 514-526-2455

Host of Bellydance Workout TV series!

438-888-9056
www.venusbellydance.com 
venus@venusbellydance.com

 

 

Bellydance with Anna & Safiya

Summer Bellydance with Anna & Safiya -ongoing – drop-in’s welcome!
Cardio-Bellydance (Wednesdays 8:00 – 9:30 pm)
Cardio-Bellydance all summer long! Designed for many levels of dance, we will teach short combinations of bellydance and aerobics that will be sure to make you sweat…

Intermediate-Advanced Improv (Wednesdays 6:30 – 8:00 pm)
Learn and improve upon your improvisational skills, using props such as veil and zills. Participate in a group-run choreography.

2 Daly Avenue downtown Ottawa (Daly at Nicholas)
Drop-ins $13/class
Beginning of the month special $45/month
Contact Safiya at safiyadancer@gmail.com

 

 

Dancing with Jalilah this Summer!

Jalilah’s Intermediate Level Classes in Ottawa:

Monday Evenings 7:30- 8:45 July 6 to August 10 
Tuesday Mornings 11:00-12:15 July 7 to August 11 
At: The Studio School of Dance 74 Jamie Avenue, Nepean/Ottawa(near Costco)
The price for 6 week session is $70 if registered before June 26 or $75 thereafter 
To Register for these classes contact Jalilah: jalilah@rogers.com (613)2288215

Jalilah’s Classes in Hull: Summer Session Starting July 2
Beginner Baladi/Belly Dance Thursdays 5:30-6:30 $80 for 7 Weeks

Intermediate Baladi/Belly Dance Thursdays 6:30-7:30 $80 for 7 Weeks

Advanced Baladi/Belly Dance Thursdays 7:30-9:00 $90 for 7 weeks

At Denise Enan’s Studio Oasis : 200 St. Joseph, Hull

To register contact Oasis (819) 7765033 or (819)-962-2645.

jalilah@rogers.com (613)2288215
www.piranha.de/jalilah
www.gildedserpent.com/aboutuspages/jalilahzamora.htm

 

 

Summer Bellydance with Nikita

Beginners and Beyond starting July 6th

Monday Nights @ Plant Rec Centre

6:30-7:30

To register go to Ottawa.ca or in person. Please quote this barcode 420200

 

 

 

Tribal Fusion classes with Leslie:

Tribal Basics
Tuesdays 8-9pm
1196 Bank St at Makin’ Moves studio
Drop-in every Tuesday in July: $15
to register: leslie AT shaktifusion DOT ca
*this class emphasizes practice of tribal basics and some combinations.

Mini-Workshop Series

Fridays 7-9pm
1196 Bank St at Makin’ Moves studio

$30 for individual workshops.
All workshops limited to 10 participants
to register: leslie AT shaktifusion DOT ca

Friday July 3
Drills for Locks and Isolations
In this workshop you will learn techniques to drill locks and isolations combinations.

Friday July 11
Tribal Fundamentals for Improvisation
This workshop drill ATS and Tribal fusion essentials for dancing improv in a group.

Friday July 26
Shakti fusion Signature Combinations
In this workshop you will learn some of Leslie’s original combinations in tribal fusion bellydance, which she often integrates into Shakti fusion troupe and student choreographies as well as her own solos.

Dancers’ News- Blog version

To go directly to the Dancers’ News website, click here . Also find the Teacher Directory, Shopping Opportunites, and Healing, Guides and Energy workers, Pampering sections online!

 

Good morning,

My thanks to everyone who attended the show on Wednesday the 10th! A brief moment of gratitude is on Halyma.com!  For those performers who ordered a DVD, those prepaid orders are in the mail!  If you have not yet paid for your dvd be sure to email dvd@darnermedia.com for payment/pick up options!

 

Today’s got some great new bits and reminders some shortened if the main info is online!- there’s lots of info online for other previously posted events, of course!

 

Teachers, please send in your info if you will be teaching during the summer months! 

 

Also remember that many of us are available for private parties and lessons during the summer if you cannot commit to a full class!

 

Tracey/Halyma

Sunday, June 21

 

DANCERS’ NEWSLETTER -Update EDITION

 

Check out the Dancers’ Newsletter Extra Features:

This week’s Dancers’ Newsletter Extra Feature is a visit to Lainie Cambria’s site for photo’s of the OCCP!
Click here for a look at some gorgeous pics!

 

2009 EVENTS

 

JUNE 27, 2009 – Verdun, Quebec ~REMINDER
Arabic Flamenco Workshop

Saturday, June 27 from 1-4PM
IKRA Wellness Center
5101 Wellington, Verdun,Qc.

Come have fun and learn how to fuse Belly Dance with Flamenco!

We will also work on palmas (rythmic clapping) with simple 
zapateado (footwork) as well as floreos (graceful hand moves), braceos (arm 
techniques) and the many ways the falda (skirt) can be used as a prop.

For more information write Ana at zambra-mora@hotmail.com
or visit
www.geocities.com/anaisha2002
……………………………………………………

Atelier de Flamenco Arabe
Le samedi 27 juin de 13h à 16h
IKRA Centre de Santé Optimale
5101, rue Wellington, Verdun, Qc.

Les mouvements palmas (applaudissements synchronisés et rythmiques), floreos 
et braceos (techniques gracieuses de mouvement des bras et des mains) seront 
abordés ainsi que l’utilisation de la jupe en tant qu’accessoire de danse.

Pour de plus amples informations, vous pouvez visiter: 
www.geocities.com/anaisha2002
ou m’envoyez un courriel à :
zambra-mora@hotmail.com

 

 

June 28 to July 12-Sundays
Tribal Fusion workshops with Leslie

As Leslie has been accepted into the Master of Arts, Dance program at York in Toronto, this will be the last opportunity for a while to get in some study of Tribal fusion bellydance on a regular basis. Please note that the below listings are fundraising activities to support this course of study 🙂 Workshops are $50 each or $180 to participate in all four. In the fall, Leslie will return to Ottawa periodically to teach monthly workshops.

Sunday, June 28th
Tribal Basics
This three workshop focuses on Suhaila method style drills to improve technique and isolations for Tribal fusion bellydance. During this workshop we will begin with a yoga warmup, and work through isolations with various foot patterns and tempos.
2-5pm
1196 Bank, Makin’ Moves studio
$50 for this 3 hour workshop
to register: leslie AT shaktifusion DOT ca

Sunday, July 5th
Slow Motion
This workshop presents techniques and combinations for slow movement in tribal fusion bellydance. Includes yoga warmup, drills, and practice of combinations
2-5pm
1196 Bank, Makin’ Moves studio
$50 for this 3 hour workshop
to register: leslie AT shaktifusion DOT ca

Sunday, July 12th
How Not To Get Dizzy: Spinning and Tribal fusion bellydance

By request, this workshop provides grounding yoga practice and tips and tricks to perform fast, calibrated and slow spins and turns.
2-5pm
1196 Bank, Makin’ Moves studio
$50 for this 3 hour workshop
to register: leslie AT shaktifusion DOT ca

Sunday, July 26th
Yoga for Bellydance

This workshop is a 3 hour part practice, part lecture about the benefit of specific yoga poses and how they help support alignment in dance. Leslie is a certified Hatha yoga instructor and also draws from her training with Rachel Brice.
2-5pm
1196 Bank, Makin’ Moves studio
$50 for this 3 hour workshop
to register: leslie AT shaktifusion DOT ca

 

 

JULY 12, 2009~REMINDER
Dancing With The Elements

9:30 AM to 3:00 PM
357 Wilmont – Subud, Ottawa, Ontario.

A spiritual workshop for women co-facilitated by Halyma and Michelle Hrynyk, designed to help you fully awaken your Goddess of Dance by implementing the power of the five elements.

Cost: $90.00 -includes a vial of your personalized aromatherapy oil

Limited to 12 participants, please register early to avoid disappointment! 3 SPACES REMAIN

Open to all levels of dancer.

MORE DETAILS: http://www.tav-creations.com/events/event-details.cfm?id=110

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me: Tracey at 613-241-3397 or email tracey@tav-creations.com.

 

JULY 19, 2009
Summer Bellydance Workshop with Zena

When: Sunday, July 19, 2009
Where: Dance with Alana Studio, 858 Bank St. @ 5th Ave
Time: 1:00pm – 4:00 pm with an intermission
Cost: Pre-register by July 10: $35 (Cash/cheque) or At the door, $50 (cash only)
This includes the workshop, bottled water and light snacks, Choreography on DVD and music for the routine.

Please bring finger cymbals, bellydance coin belt, snug fitting exercise clothing, dance slippers, a notebook. (Optional) This workshop will include an extended warm-up, technique review for the dance moves and choreography practice following the break.

Contact: Zena for pre-registration and the address to send in payment
Email: zena555@rogers.com

 

 

NOT QUITE BELLY DANCE EVENTS:

 

JUNE 21st, 2009 ~TODAY~!
3rd Annual Can’t Stop the Serenity

Sunday June 21, 2009, 3:30 pm

Mayfair Theatre

1074 Bank Street, Ottawa, On, Canada

$10 tickets available at the door

Details are online: http://www.myspace.com/ottawabrowncoats
Buy your Tickets here:
http://spiceroyer.blogspot.com/

This year’s global artwork was designed by one of our local Browncoats, Don McMillan!
Get your art work signed by the artist at the Mayfair on June 21, 2009!!

To see the winning design head over to 
http://www.cantstoptheserenity.com/csts-global/artwinner/

Can’t Stop The Serenity is a Global movement of fans of Firefly, lovingly referred to as Browncoats, in support of Equality Now.

Please pass this information/website to everyone you know, because they might have a friend/relative who might want to attend. Your support either financially or through spreading the word is greatly appreciated. If you tell two people who tell two people who tell two people ….

 

 

JUNE 26-28, 2009
3rd Annual Summer Sale
Poterie du Lac la Blanche

 

Friday, June 26 until Sunday, June 28

10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

 

Our annual summer sale is a great opportunity to start collecting or add to your collection of hand made pottery and ceramic art by Lisa-Marie Serafin. It happens in the most idyllic setting – a small poterie in the countryside on the edge of Lac la Blanche.

Poterie du Lac la Blanche is located at 110 chemin Giroux in Mayo, QC
The potter, Lisa-Marie Serafin specializes in stoneware pottery for everyday living.
She says, “I find that the most useful things in a household can also be beautiful works of art. My hand made pottery, such as a covered jar, a serving bowl, or a coffee mug, are meant for your pleasure and to be admired as well as be functional.” 
Lisa-Marie is greatly influenced by her surroundings. She often uses nature’s objects, such as leaves, grasses and seed pods to achieve a variety of surface textures. She is also inspired by ancient symbols and rituals, music, colour and even the materials and tools with which she works.

Please visit http://lablanchepoterie.com
We look forward to seeing you at our Summer Sale and would like to remind you that the Poterie is open year round by appointment by calling (819) 281 – 3307.
Cash and cheques gladly accepted.
Thanks for your support!

 

 

JUNE 27, 2009
SISTER BAZAAR SALE

We have some lovely new stock, perfect for summer wear, plus re-orders of a few past faves.

We will have 2 sale dates in the near future. Both are at the NEW (and separate) locations including Gatineau QC.

 

Saturday June 27th at 70 Third Ave, in the Glebe (just East of Bank St) from 11AM to 4PM
http://www.mapquest.com/maps?city=Ottawa&state=ON&address=70+3rd+Avenue&zipcode=K1S&country=CA&latitude=45.403952&longitude=-75.686151&geocode=ADDRESS

and

Saturday July 11th at 38 rue Hormidas Dupuis from 11AM to 4PM
http://www.mapquest.com/maps?city=Gatineau&state=QC&address=38+Rue+Hormidas+Dupuis

Please see our website for details on the locations, as well as some new photos. And of course, there are always those one of a kind special surprises….

http://www.sisterbazaar.com

Please TELL YOUR FRIENDS, co-workers, anyone you think may be interested. It’s important to note that these are “eco-friendly” hand crafted products, using natural fibres (and dyes when possible) no child labour etc. We strive to bring the best Indian quality to those of discerning taste.

We look forward to seeing you all in the next few weeks.
Madeleine and Andree

 

 

JUNE 28, 2009
Yoga Meets Dance

Trained by Beth Rigby, I’ll be offering a class of Yoga meets Dance on the 28th of June at the yoga center “Relais Yoga”. This beautiful studio is located in the Gatineau Park (397, Cité-des-Jeunes Blvd).
We will dance with the elements of nature : stillness of the earth, sensuality of water, wildness of fire, freedom of air and sacredness of spirit.
Lots of beauty and fun!
All my gratitude for posting this event on your fabulous web site!
Namaste,
Marie Grégoire
Relais Yoga
819 777 4937

 

 

JULY 6, 2009 

CALL IT KARMA

In Honor of His Holiness The Dalai Lama’s Birthday

Winner of Best Adventure Film, Whistler Film Festival 2004

CALL IT KARMA

With special guests, producer writer, Michael Parker and Producer, Shan Tam

Sales Bazaar and Refreshments

Monday, JULY 6, 6:00 pm
Library and Archives Canada, 395 Wellington Street, Ottawa
Tickets: $10

Organized by Ottawa Friends of Tibet www.oft.ca
To reserve tickets or for more info, please e-mail event@oft.ca 
Or contact Barb at 613 290-6944

Proceeds to support the Kalimpong Seniors Home Project

 

 

Ongoing until September, 2009
Bag Reflex

Most of you know (Creative Clothing by) Roxane as a prolific source of unique costume designs for your dance performances. Now come see her other works in the “Bag Reflex” Exhibit at Gallery 6 in Kemptville. The Gallery is opened 8:30-4pm Monday to Friday and 8:30-3 Saturdays year round except statutory holidays..

http://gallery6.org/default.aspx.

 

You can see the “Bag Reflex” collection on Roxane’s website: www.creativeclothingbyroxane.com.
Gallery 6
126 Prescott St., 
Kemptville, Ontario
K0J 1T0
613 258-0668

 

 

SUMMER 2009 CLASSES

 

VENUS in Montreal

Intermediate ~ Intermediare
JUN 25 – AUG 13 8 wks $110
Thursday/Jeudi
19 h 30 à 21h ~ 7:30-9:00pm

** Learn technique, finger cymbals, **
**** veils, choreographies, modern Egyptian ****
*** and folkloric styles! **

Studio Bizz
551 ave du Mt-Royal E.
3e étage ~ 3rd floor
Reg/Inscrip: 514-526-2455

Host of Bellydance Workout TV series!

438-888-9056
www.venusbellydance.com 
venus@venusbellydance.com

 

 

Bellydance with Anna & Safiya

Summer Bellydance with Anna & Safiya – Starts Wednesday June 17th, 2009
Cardio-Bellydance (Wednesdays 8:00 – 9:30 pm)
Cardio-Bellydance all summer long! Designed for many levels of dance, we will teach short combinations of bellydance and aerobics that will be sure to make you sweat…

Intermediate-Advanced Improv (Wednesdays 6:30 – 8:00 pm)
Learn and improve upon your improvisational skills, using props such as veil and zills. Participate in a group-run choreography.

2 Daly Avenue downtown Ottawa (Daly at Nicholas)
Drop-ins $13/class
Beginning of the month special $45/month
Contact Safiya at safiyadancer@gmail.com

 

 

Dancing with Jalilah this Summer!

Jalilah’s Intermediate Level Classes in Ottawa:

Monday Evenings 7:30- 8:45 July 6 to August 10 
Tuesday Mornings 10:00-12:15 July 7 to August 11 
At: The Studio School of Dance 74 Jamie Avenue, Nepean/Ottawa(near Costco)
The price for 6 week session is $70 if registered before June 26 or $75 thereafter 
To Register for these classes contact Jalilah: jalilah@rogers.com (613)2288215

Jalilah’s Classes in Hull: Summer Session Starting July 2
Beginner Baladi/Belly Dance Thursdays 5:30-6:30 $80 for 7 Weeks

Intermediate Baladi/Belly Dance Thursdays 6:30-7:30 $80 for 7 Weeks

Advanced Baladi/Belly Dance Thursdays 7:30-9:00 $90 for 7 weeks

At Studio Oasis is: 200 St. Joseph, Hull

To register contact Oasis (819) 7765033 The new session starts in July 2nd

jalilah@rogers.com (613)2288215
www.piranha.de/jalilah
www.gildedserpent.com/aboutuspages/jalilahzamora.htm

 

 

Tribal Fusion classes with Leslie:

Tribal Basics
Tuesdays 8-9pm
1196 Bank St at Makin’ Moves studio
Drop-in every Tuesday in July: $15
to register: leslie AT shaktifusion DOT ca
*this class emphasizes practice of tribal basics and some combinations.

Mini-Workshop Series

Fridays 7-9pm
1196 Bank St at Makin’ Moves studio
$100 for all four classes
$30 for individual workshops.
All workshops limited to 10 participants
to register: leslie AT shaktifusion DOT ca

Friday June 26
Creating Your Own Choreography
This workshop is part lecture and part demonstration. Leslie will break down concepts, ideas and her creative process in how to develop your own tribal fusion choreography, either as a soloist or for a group. Please bring a notebook and pen and a piece of music you would like to work with.

Friday July 3
Drills for Locks and Isolations
In this workshop you will learn techniques to drill locks and isolations combinations.

Friday July 11
Tribal Fundamentals for Improvisation
This workshop drill ATS and Tribal fusion essentials for dancing improv in a group.

Friday July 26
Shakti fusion Signature Combinations
In this workshop you will learn some of Leslie’s original combinations in tribal fusion bellydance, which she often integrates into Shakti fusion troupe and student choreographies as well as her own solos.

The Ottawa Centre Class Party – what a way to end the season!

Hey Kids,
I have finally recovered enough to start looking at pics and video from our fabulous show on Wednesday June 10th. You ladies rock! Or Rak as the the pun goes!

So what does this mean for the blog post? It means that I will direct you all to the little final video clip that my good friend Linda took of many of us at the end of the show! Click on the still image to take you there!

IMG_0748
Colour and motion - can you hear the music?

It also means I will say a huge sloppy thank you to so many people – I hope I have not forgotten anyone, but someone can leave me a word in the comments in case I did!
The teachers who helped provide student performances to fill out the evening. Click on their name and if they have a website – you get to see it :-):

Bahyia/Brenda
Anna and Safiya
Jalilah
Zamira
Loulouh
Leslie
Sha Vega
Julie
Randi
Oksana

The student group dancers:

Thank you for all of the class time and extra time you put into preparing for the show – you’ve done your teachers proud!

I am not going to list you all by name – you are all given credit in the performer DVD! But thank you to each and everyone one of you for coming out and sharing your love of dance with us!

The Rogue Dancers:
These dancers took time on their own to develop and practice the pieces they danced completely on their own! Congratulations to you all for your efforts for the evening!
Niki and Shade
Pink Pandemonium: Linda,Diane,Ameenah,Sadira,Esmerelda
Anadil: Siddiqah,Farasha,Wendy,Rebecca,Lisa
Ameenah and Sadira
Hipnotic Hips: Bahiya, Zaida, Zeevah

The Teacher Soloists who graced us with their elegance.  Thank you ladies!

Jewel
Zena

The amazing volunteers:

Ticket and DVD order ladies: Julie T and Linda B

General Help: Brenda,Megan,Katheryne, Diane, Zamira, Jewel, Nat and Andrea, Erika

Decor: Michele Roy [ OMG thank you!]

Backstage/Stage Manager: Catharine Crerar

Official Photographer: Lainie Cambria

And the underpaid staff:
Tom of Darner Media
The Bronson Centre Staff and volunteers
Wall Sound

And the supportive members of the audience deserve some recognition too!

Thank you for your feedback, your participation, your support and your presence – it brings the end of the season to a fantastic close for me!

Remember to sign up for the weekly Dancers’ Newsletter to get news about workshops, classes and more belly dance related fun that is happening here in Ottawa-Gatineau and beyond!

A drama pose!
A drama pose!

The Afterglow…and a request for feedback!

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XqTHGaStpso]

Wednesday evening brought out a heck of a pile of belly dancers and their supporters.  We all descended upon the Bronson Centre in Ottawa and danced and cheered and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

I start the planning for the Ottawa Centre Class party-Holiday Edition in September.  At that point, I know my class schedule, and since I have been organizing these parties for a few years now, I have a pretty good idea of how things may go.

Unforeseen: OC Transpo Bus Strike hitting one week before the party!!!!

Damage: Somewhat affected the dancers lists for the student groups, and definitely affected attendance and last minute ticket sales for cheering fans.

While the ticket sales were in the 350 range, I know that not everyone who purchased a ticket was able to attend.  But the audience did it’s best to give lots of good energy to the dancers!

The flow was adjusted for this event as well.  More on that in a moment…

I am blessed with what I hope is a good rep for these parties, and thus am contacted by dancers directly who would like to perform.  It also might be the $5 ticket fee that everyone pays, but it makes it inexpensive for student dancers,frugalistas and families to come out and see what great fun and skills are found in our belly dance community.

Back to the flow:  with over 35 performances originally booked for the event, even with a 3-5 minute guideline for each performance, that’s a long show!  After asking the teachers what they thought, I had to make some choices and hope for the best. I organize, am responsible all the financial aspects of, and take most credit for the event; I could not do it without the support of my colleagues and friends who are also dancers/volunteers/teachers.

The choices involved imposing tighter time limits on the music choices and with only a few logical bending of the rule for combined classes, everyone seemed fine with the limits.  It also meant that I needed to deal with introductions of each group in a timely and efficient manner.  Dropping an official MC and choosing the “Voice from Beyond” method, I was able to share the task of simply announcing the group name before each performance without listing each of the sometimes up to 12 dancers who would be on stage at any one time!

If you were there, this is all pretty much: ‘Been there, saw that” and for you, I have more coming later in this post!

Back to the reflections…The dancers were all very organized and ready to go – AiWA!

There were a few on stage glitches, but this is a student show for the most part, so that is to be expected.  I have always tried to make my shows as welcoming and relaxing as possible for all dancers – from the first timers to the seasoned pros.  I would say, “Leave the judgements and egos at the door” – but really, I have never had to actually say that as people just seem to “get it”.

The Bronson Centre has a new sound and light system in place.  Dave, our sound technician for the evening, was fabulous!  This really nice, easy going and helpful guy made the evening so easy!!!!  Thanks Dave of Wall Sound!  Sorry I don’t remember his last name, but kudos will go out all over the place!

K was in charge of backstage as usual, Michele arrived with her gorgeous fabrics to decorate, and my new main helpers on the front lines were Katheryne, Cynthia, Rain and Chantal, along with Jocelyne helping once the show started!

Howard Sandler was our official photog for the evening and Darner Media shoots and edits the video for the performers!  

I am so grateful to all of these people for helping make the evening run smoothly, the dancers for taking the time to come out and share their talents with us, and the audience members for being so supportive as they watch the dancers develop their craft!

Three cheers for the Ottawa Belly Dance Community!!!! 

So, if you were there, and are therefore a part of the community, I am asking for some feedback.  Just a couple of questions and also if you have any further comments, you can submit them in the comments section!  Please note that i tried to create a poll but something is funky, so regular questions it is!

 And if you were not there but feel like voicing an opinion – go ahead!

1 – How was the “flow” of the evening for you?

a- Great – fast and fun!

b- Pretty good, but I felt I wanted to hear more about each group before they danced.

c-Good but still too long of an evening for me, I had to leave before things ended.

2-Did you get a sense that this would be/was a “community” event?

a- Yes, I had that sense when I decided to come, and that was why I came!

b- Sort of, though I had no real connection to the community other than a friend who was dancing in the show.

c-No, I did not really think of it as a community event.

3- Did you have fun?

a-yes

b-no { what?}

 

If you have thoughts you would like to share, please feel free!  

I do my best to make the evening run as smoothly as possible, and there are always new things for me to learn about audience perspective etc.

Thanks for reading! Pics will be up soon!

Dance clips – Finally getting these posted!

The Ottawa Centre Class Party has been something I have organized for quite a few years now.  Starting as simply my end of session party for my students, it started in my back yard for the June event.  it has grown to bring in about 400 people, including about 60-80 performers.  The approximately 2 hour show features all levels of dancer from student to professional.  I invite colleagues and friends in the Ottawa belly dance community to join in the fun. They either dance themselves or if they have students who want to have a chance to perform for a larger audience, this provides a great chance for them to do so.

I don’t put up video of folk unless they know it is happening, so I have only included my own clip here – but enjoy!

[youtube=http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=VxyttNJwlg4]

Halyma~ Just before going on stage…

 

HPIM4992.JPG, originally uploaded by campdancer2000.

Thursday, June 12, 2008 ~ the Ottawa Centre Class Party~

What a night. It was the culmination of a lot of hard work and a lot of fun. I am still recovering from it in that I have done the bare minimum accounting, putting things away, send out thank you emails and put up some pics in a private area on Flickr for those who performed and might want copies.

Sorry, not open to the public – that’s the domain of our official photographer. When I get that link I’ll let ya know!

But it was a blast, and I am happy to now look forward to some random workshops this summer and some more sewing.

And the sun is shining today, so I think we’ll take advantage and have some outside time – forecasting a rainy week ahead!

Happy Father’s Day to all of those Dads out there!