In the news!

This morning the Sarasota Observer ran a profile of me in their arts and entertainment section. Read all about the belly dancing librarian by clicking here.


Beginner classes are now on Mondays at 7:30 at DanceFusion, 5725 Lawton Drive in Sarasota. I've also just started learning new things myself - last night I cha-cha'd with my husband. Well, I cha-cha'd. He mostly just cha'd, but he's getting there.

She's back!

Hi y'all! I have been on hiatus, it's true, but now I am back and more excited than ever. I am at my usual haunt: Dancefusion, Mondays at 7 p.m. A brand-new beginner class is forming now and will start on June 15. Judging from the reception I got at the Thunderpalooza talent show, interest is high. (I felt like Cher! Thanks, guys!) Grab your hip sash - I'll see you next week!

In Mama's footsteps

A couple of weeks ago the lovely and talented Bethsheba invited me to perform at ArtsTonight downtown, a celebration of the performing arts in Sarasota. In a flattening economy, artists get hit the most, because as much as everyone may admire the arts, in the same breath they're often condemned for being strictly optional . . . before I get too tangential, let me stop myself and say that although it was hot, it was a great night!

The audience was wonderful - appreciate, inquisitive, excited. The talent was great - there were live drummers, hip-hop dancers, a troupe of juggler/acrobat/unicyclers from Sailor Circus, and of course, Marty. We all knew it was just a matter of time before my own boy hit the stage, right? Never have I had more fun as a dancer than I did when my little fellow, unable to restrain his delight, came barreling at me and did a headstand while I grapevined for an eight-count.

I'm working on a vest, pantaloons and a tasseled fez in just the right size for a three-year-old. Here's to you, Marty Pasha!

Alexandra King in Sarasota!

Hello dancers! We are fortunate in that on March 29 our friend Tahja is bringing in Alexandra King, a dancer of considerable reputation as both a performer and teacher. Among the many styles she practices, she will be offering a workshop in regional folkloric styles of the Middle East and North Africa . . . . and for those of you who know me, you know how excited I am! Folkloric styles are my very favorite, so the heart of this rakkasah is indeed beating fast. It's a bargain at any price, but THIRTY DOLLARS? That's an unbelievably low price, and it's here in Sarasota - no driving across the bridge! Or flying to Morocco! So, from our friend Tahja, here's this message. Oh, and see you there. I'll be the one smiling till my face hurts!

VERY SPECIAL WORKSHOP: 3-5pm

This month we are honored to have all the way from Santa Barbara, California the lovely dancer & Artistic Director of the University of California Santa Barabara Middle East Dance Ensemble (largest music ensemble outside of Cairo!): Alexandra King

With her 35 years of experience in Middle Eastern dance, this is a great & rare opportunity to learn with someone who is truly a gem in our global dance community.

The theme is: "Regional Dances of the Middle East"

Focusing on dances of the Maghreb (North Africa) including: Ghawazee, Tunisian, Shikhatt, & Guedra, as well as some Saudi dance, AND an introduction to Indian Dance (Bharata Natyam)

Workshop $30 if paid in advance, or $40 the day of

7-9pm SHOWTIME

featuring our guest star Alexandra who will be performing for us American Cabaret style Belly Dance as well as a multi veil dance and an Indian Arab Fusion dance

For this months' Cultural Night at Primo's, we have the theme of "The Many Faces of Belly Dance"! That's right, if you have ever:

• taken a belly dance class

• been fascinated with belly dance

• wondered what belly dance is

• been related to a belly dancer

• been curious of the many styles of belly dance

• performed or wanted to perform

Perhaps this was a hobby of yours from many years ago...well, dust of the costume and come out and shake it once more!

Both events March 29th will take place at Primo's 8076 N Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL (www.primo-ristorante.com)

(just a note: Primo's has a half price entre special for orders placed prior to 6pm in the Main Dining Room only. They do not take reservations, so it is on a first come first serve basis, and they get quite busy. The regular menu will be available and they will have servers in the banquet room after 6pm.

If you have a performance to share with us, please let Tahja know in advance so she can put you on the schedule!

For those of you "non belly dancers" who just enjoy coming out to watch, YOU are the motivation for the show. We NEED YOU! So please pass the word and purchase advance tickets for "THE MANY FACES OF BELLY DANCE"

Show Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door and can be purchase by clicking on the secure link: http://tinyurl.com/Pay4BDShow (no charge for performers)

You can also pay for the workshop tickets on line ($30 advance or $40 the day of the event) also a secure link: http://tinyurl.com/Pay4BDSeminar

If you have an act you would like to do for future events, please contact Tahja. (941) 349-3494.

Spring into fun!

Hello dancers, and would-be dancers! Beginner classes are happening now every Monday night from 7 to 8 p.m. in the small ballroom at Dancefusion. Wear your dark socks and get ready to work those winter abs into spring readiness. Stay tuned for more info about local happenings in the belly scene.