NJ Belly Dancers @ NJ Belly Dancing



	Welcome to NJ Belly Dancing! Serving the tri-state from Philly to NYC Intro ~ Use Guide & Listing Info Holiday Newsletter NJBD's 2014 Favorites Intro THE most comprehensive list for anything and everything Belly Dance in New Jersey. Serving the tri-state area ( NJ, PA NY) and DE. New Jersey Belly Dancing was created to provide a resource for teachers, students, performers, musicians, vendors, promoters and fans of Belly Dancing in New Jersey and the tri-state area. Reference the links displayed to access various areas of interest and inquiry. Please visit often for regular updates! NJ Belly Dancing is not a referral service but rather a listing site to provide resources and the ability for prospective clients and students to interact directly with our contributors. We do realize the site can be quite daunting for those unfamiliar, so we are always available to answer any questions you may have and make suggestions to help you find the right teacher, performer, venue or workshop for you. This site celebrates the memory of Peggy Eckert who loved the dance so much that she spent her life sharing it with others. The lovely Senior Student Dancers of Sandra Steuer Cohen Use Guide & Listing Info NJ Belly Dancing is to be used soley as a guide and listing base for Performers, Instructors, Venues, Restaurants, Festivals, Workshops, Studios and Musicians. It is NOT okay to contact any of the links provided for solicitation of goods and services of any type (unless of course...you offer something free!). It is NOT okay to abuse site links or personal dancer information in any manner. It is NOT okay to copy any information for the use of personal advertisement without expressed or written permission from the individual listed. Providing links on other web sites in the manner in which the site owner intends though is not only acceptable but highly encouraged. When contacting an individual or establishment for service it is expected that they will be treated in a professional manner. Please see hiring practices and service guides for reference (to be added shortly). NJ Belly Dancing reserves the right to remove any listings or refuse listings that are in violation of this policy. Finally...it is NOT okay to SPAM or PHISH any listings of the web site. Emails that are identified as Phishing will be prominently displayed on the site to forwarn all listers and viewers. ( Pictured at left ) : 3 generations Of Tribal, the women of Dharma. Photo by Evi Numen Listing Information: General listings are provided free of charge. An ad featuring pictures and detailed information can be purchased monthly or yearly for a nominal fee. For 2 months the cost is $20, for 6 months $40 and for a whole year just $60. Ads can be updated at any time thru out the year with whatever you like as long as it does not exceed the alotted space. All listings must pertain to belly dance in some manner. For example: any classes offered in belly dance, performers of belly dance or even workshops and music that may or may not be belly dance related but might attract those from the world of belly dance will be acceptable. Listing qualifications will be decided by NJ Belly Dancing. If you wish to list something in any of the categories on the pages of NJ Belly Dancing, we ask that you please review the section that would be appropriate and send an email detailing information in the same format, meaning: if all the listings state name, location and web address then this is all you will need to send. For workshops, you may provide as much information that you feel you will need as old information is routinely removed and space is ample. Please give us ample time to list. If you have additional questions, you may contact us and we will be more than happy to help! ( Pictured at right ) : 3 generations of the Devine Family, major contributors of Belly Dance, not only in New Jersey, but thru out the country. Photo by Carl Sermon. NJBD's 2014 Favorites Favorite Instructor Leila Leila began her journey in the art of Belly Dancing over 23 years ago. She has had a great passion for this artistic dance form for many years and sought to incorporate dance as a secondary career in her life. Leila is a full time NJ. School Psychologist and has dedicated many years to servicing children with special needs. She later persevered to create a nurturing balance between her love for her profession and as a belly dance artist. Highly influenced by her extensive studies at the New York City Egyptian Academy of Oriental Dance, Leila has honed her skills to become a talented N.J. Belly Dance Performer, Instructor and Choreographer. She was highly inspired and credits her NYC master teachers including Nourhan Sharif and Dalia Carella who paved the way for her acquired skills in traditional and modern Egyptian style dance and Spanish-Arabic fusion. Leila has also been inspired through her studies with other world renowned teachers including Raqia Hassan, Ahmed Hussein, Azsmara, Samara, Tamalyn Dallal, Bozenka, and Mario Parra to name a few. Leila became the founder and artistic director of “The Veils of the Nile” and “Veils to Vision” dance troupes in 1998. She has instructed at various dance studios in Northern NJ including “A Dance Place” in Ridgefield, “Energy-Pilates Studio” the YM-YWHA Jewish federation of Clifton and currently at Continental Dance Club in Bloomfield, NJ. Leila’s creative and innovative dance style is portrayed in her charismatic teachings and special workshops. She attempts to further enhance her student’s skills and confidence level through lectures in the history of Middle Eastern Dance and Rhythms, the use of stage props, stage presence and musicality. Leila’s technical skills, patience and individual coaching have been greatly appreciated among her students over the years. She has had the privilege of teaching dance to women and children of diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Her trilingual ability has also been a true asset during her teaching career. Leila’s passion for dance is shared by her numerous and inspiring performances at various venues in the tri state area. She enjoys dancing and entertaining at the annual Festival of the East, “The Rakkasah”, Middle Eastern restaurants, haflas, family parties, corporate events and children functions. Leila’s dance troupe has also been an integral part of her life. Through her instruction, a reciprocal feeling of support, love and inspiration has been developed over the years. She has also enhanced her dance repertoire by her involvement and volunteer work at various annual fundraiser events. Leila is the founder of a “Shimmy for a Cure” workshop fundraiser specifically designed to donate proceeds to the Sloan Kettering cancer research foundation. Her dance and troupe entertainment in community organizations including “The Relay for Life” as well as health fairs sponsored by a specialized school for Children with Autism have been most valuable. Leila’s vision is to inspire all students to “unveil” and embrace their beauty and individuality. “Belly dancing is truly therapeutic. It can promote a sense of empowerment, positive self -image and overall well -being.” Through her dance, her heart emits a loving tribute to her beloved mother whose legacy will continue to inspire her during her life’s journey. Favorite Performers Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble directed by Kim Leary (Alexia) and Dave Merritt performs dances and plays percussion instruments from cultures around the world. The ensemble performs culture-specific traditional pieces as well as our own original compositions. Some compositions are more traditional, loyal to the cultures that they represent while others are a fusion of musical ideas and traditions. Genres include but are not limited to Middle Eastern, Turkish, West African, Afro-Puerto Rican and Flamenco. Many of the group’s performances have been sponsored in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble is the resident performance group of Alexia's Belly Dance & Beyond located in Lawrence, New Jersey (Princeton area). Some of the group's performances include the Monroe Arts Center, The Kenndey Center (Burlington), Two River Theatre, guest performers with Jamila Salimpour's Bal Anat, Paramount Concerts on the Beach, Austin Belly Dance Convention, 2010 & 2011 NY Theatrical Belly Dance Conference, Lafayette Grill NYC as well at many festivals and conventions. http://www.drumdancecenter.com/performanceensemble.html Favorite Musicians Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble directed by Kim Leary (Alexia) and Dave Merritt performs dances and plays percussion instruments from cultures around the world. The ensemble performs culture-specific traditional pieces as well as our own original compositions. Some compositions are more traditional, loyal to the cultures that they represent while others are a fusion of musical ideas and traditions. Genres include but are not limited to Middle Eastern, Turkish, West African, Afro-Puerto Rican and Flamenco. Many of the group’s performances have been sponsored in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble is the resident performance group of Alexia's Belly Dance & Beyond located in Lawrence, New Jersey (Princeton area). Some of the group's performances include the Monroe Arts Center, The Kenndey Center (Burlington), Two River Theatre, guest performers with Jamila Salimpour's Bal Anat, Paramount Concerts on the Beach, Austin Belly Dance Convention, 2010 & 2011 NY Theatrical Belly Dance Conference, Lafayette Grill NYC as well at many festivals and conventions. http://www.drumdancecenter.com/performanceensemble.html Favorite Promoter Kim Leary (Alexia) Kim Leary (Alexia) is a belly dance performer, choreographer and instructor in Central New Jersey. Kim Leary’s (Alexia) dance accomplishments include teaching both credit and non-credit dance at Princeton University. She is Co-Artistic Director of Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble and Co-Director of her school, The Drum & Dance Learning Center in Lawrenceville, New Jersey. Ms. Leary has performed at numerous prestigious venues such as Lincoln Center, The Ohio Theatre (SOHO), CAMI Hall (NYC), DanceSpace (NYC), FIT (NYC), The Evolving Arts Theatre (NYC), The Black Box Theatre (NJ), as well as at many colleges, universities, and festivals as a soloist and with her own dance company, SaZ Dance Theatre, Jamila Salimpour's Bal Anat and Dalia Carella's DNA Project. She also has taught regularly at Rutgers University and Middlesex County College. As an artist-in-residence in various schools throughout the state, her arts-in-education training is from Union County's CATALYST Initiative, Artsgenesis, and the Kennedy Center (DC) through the New Brunswick Cultural Center. Kim holds a certification in Training & Development as well as in Multiple Intelligences and the Arts from Kean University. She is a Level 2 Certified Dancer and has been training in the Suhaila Salimpour Format since 2000. In 2008 Kim became certified Level Two in the Jamila Salimpour Dance Format and earned a Level One Certification in Sahra Saeeda's Journey Through Egypt Program. Kim received a dance scholarship award from Dance New Jersey and was voted New Jersey's Favorite Belly Dance Teacher in 2008. Kim has studied dance for most of her life and has received extensive training in jazz, ballet, tap, contemporary, Middle Eastern, Turkish and Afro-Caribbean dance. Kim has spent a significant amount of time with dance masters such as Tasha, Elena Lentini, Roberta Koch and Azsmara of SaZ Dance Theatre, Sabah Nissan, Dalia Carella, Artemis Mourat, Suhaila Salimpour, Jamila Salimpour and Richard Gonzalez all of whom have had great influence on her dance. Drum & Dance Learning Center "Dedicated to learning and creativity through Multi-Cultural Performing Arts" www.drumdancecenter.com www.youtube.com/drumdancecente Pom - Pom Winner Chadia Favorite Vendor Chadia has dedicated a large part of her life for the past 24 years to Middle Eastern Dance!She encourages everyone to express themselves through dance and to experience the joy that belly dance brings to each individual. Chadia shares her love of belly dance through teaching and currently teaches beginner and intermediate levels in Belleville and Bloomfield. Her technique is based on the classical Egyptian style into which she incorporates her own interpretive style emphasizing poise, grace, self-empowerment and most importantly fun. iThe Director of "Chadia & The Caravan Dancers", a dance troupe featuring Chadia and more than 15 ladies. She has seen her beautiful students and troupe members blossom into talented and amazing dancers! As President of Chadia's Dance Productions, Chadia continues to spread the joy of belly dance by offering the finest, most informative, ational Oriental dance workshops and haflas that provide the belly dance community with wonderful, fun-filled dance opportunies. For more information, please log on to: www.gypsycaravanenterprises.com Chadia CHADIA’S DANCE PRODUCTIONS! SPECIALIZING IN T-SHIRTS ADORNED WITH GORGEOUS SWAVORSKI CRYSTAL HAMSAS, EYES OF PROTECTION, AND EYE OF HORUS!! IN ADDITION, WE SELL BEAUTIFUL COSTUME JEWELRY AT AFFORDABLE PRICES, COSTUMES AND VARIOUS OTHER ITEMS FOR THE BELLY DANCE ENTHUSIAST EMAIL: chadiasdanceproductions@aol.com WEBSITE: www.gypsycaravanenterprises.com Favorite Restaurant Roxy & Dukes 2013 Favorites! Favorite Instructor Kim Leary (Alexia) Kim Leary (Alexia) is a belly dance performer, choreographer and instructor in Central New Jersey. Kim Leary’s (Alexia) dance accomplishments include teaching both credit and non-credit dance at Princeton University. She is Co-Artistic Director of Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble and Co-Director of her school, The Drum & Dance Learning Center in Lawrenceville, New Jersey. Ms. Leary has performed at numerous prestigious venues such as Lincoln Center, The Ohio Theatre (SOHO), CAMI Hall (NYC), DanceSpace (NYC), FIT (NYC), The Evolving Arts Theatre (NYC), The Black Box Theatre (NJ), as well as at many colleges, universities, and festivals as a soloist and with her own dance company, SaZ Dance Theatre, Jamila Salimpour's Bal Anat and Dalia Carella's DNA Project. She also has taught regularly at Rutgers University and Middlesex County College. As an artist-in-residence in various schools throughout the state, her arts-in-education training is from Union County's CATALYST Initiative, Artsgenesis, and the Kennedy Center (DC) through the New Brunswick Cultural Center. Kim holds a certification in Training & Development as well as in Multiple Intelligences and the Arts from Kean University. She is a Level 2 Certified Dancer and has been training in the Suhaila Salimpour Format since 2000. In 2008 Kim became certified Level Two in the Jamila Salimpour Dance Format and earned a Level One Certification in Sahra Saeeda's Journey Through Egypt Program. Kim received a dance scholarship award from Dance New Jersey and was voted New Jersey's Favorite Belly Dance Teacher in 2008. Kim has studied dance for most of her life and has received extensive training in jazz, ballet, tap, contemporary, Middle Eastern, Turkish and Afro-Caribbean dance. Kim has spent a significant amount of time with dance masters such as Tasha, Elena Lentini, Roberta Koch and Azsmara of SaZ Dance Theatre, Sabah Nissan, Dalia Carella, Artemis Mourat, Suhaila Salimpour, Jamila Salimpour and Richard Gonzalez all of whom have had great influence on her dance. Drum & Dance Learning Center "Dedicated to learning and creativity through Multi-Cultural Performing Arts" www.drumdancecenter.com www.youtube.com/drumdancecenter Favorite Performers Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble directed by Kim Leary (Alexia) and Dave Merritt performs dances and plays percussion instruments from cultures around the world. The ensemble performs culture-specific traditional pieces as well as our own original compositions. Some compositions are more traditional, loyal to the cultures that they represent while others are a fusion of musical ideas and traditions. Genres include but are not limited to Middle Eastern, Turkish, West African, Afro-Puerto Rican and Flamenco. Many of the group’s performances have been sponsored in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble is the resident performance group of Alexia's Belly Dance & Beyond located in Lawrence, New Jersey (Princeton area). Some of the group's performances include the Monroe Arts Center, The Kenndey Center (Burlington), Two River Theatre, guest performers with Jamila Salimpour's Bal Anat, Paramount Concerts on the Beach, Austin Belly Dance Convention, 2010 & 2011 NY Theatrical Belly Dance Conference, Lafayette Grill NYC as well at many festivals and conventions. http://www.drumdancecenter.com/performanceensemble.html Favorite Musicians Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble directed by Kim Leary (Alexia) and Dave Merritt performs dances and plays percussion instruments from cultures around the world. The ensemble performs culture-specific traditional pieces as well as our own original compositions. Some compositions are more traditional, loyal to the cultures that they represent while others are a fusion of musical ideas and traditions. Genres include but are not limited to Middle Eastern, Turkish, West African, Afro-Puerto Rican and Flamenco. Many of the group’s performances have been sponsored in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble is the resident performance group of Alexia's Belly Dance & Beyond located in Lawrence, New Jersey (Princeton area). Some of the group's performances include the Monroe Arts Center, The Kenndey Center (Burlington), Two River Theatre, guest performers with Jamila Salimpour's Bal Anat, Paramount Concerts on the Beach, Austin Belly Dance Convention, 2010 & 2011 NY Theatrical Belly Dance Conference, Lafayette Grill NYC as well at many festivals and conventions. http://www.drumdancecenter.com/performanceensemble.html Favorite Promoter AND Pom-Pom Winner Miriam Miriam is a central New Jersey belly dancer, teacher, writer and event producer. As a novice belly dancer 10+ years ago she was thrilled to discover the local belly dance community as well as the great big world of belly dance beyond. Now that she's a little further along in her journey, Miriam finds great joy in introducing those things to others as they take their first steps (or would it be shimmies?) into the belly dance world, and in supporting and encouraging the amazing and unique creativity she sees in the dancers around her. Whether it be through teaching classes in Highland Park, NJ, performing as a soloist or with Anka Kusu, the troupe of Middle Eastern dancers and musicians that she directs, writing articles for www.NJBellydancing.org or www.BellyDanceatAnySize.com , or through producing events like the monthly Belly Dance Night at Roxy 'n Dukes, she hopes to throw the doors open and welcome as many people as possible to enjoy all that the great big universe of belly dance has to offer! Favorite Vendor Chadia CHADIA’S DANCE PRODUCTIONS! SPECIALIZING IN T-SHIRTS ADORNED WITH GORGEOUS SWAVORSKI CRYSTAL HAMSAS, EYES OF PROTECTION, AND EYE OF HORUS!! IN ADDITION, WE SELL BEAUTIFUL COSTUME JEWELRY AT AFFORDABLE PRICES, COSTUMES AND VARIOUS OTHER ITEMS FOR THE BELLY DANCE ENTHUSIAST EMAIL: chadiasdanceproductions@aol.com WEBSITE: www.gypsycaravanenterprises.com Favorite Restaurant Roxy & Dukes NJBD's 2012 Favorites Favorite Instructor Chadia Chadia's has dedicated a large part of her life for the past 22 years to Middle Eastern Dance. She encourages everyone to express themselves through dance, to experience the incredible joy that Belly Dance brings to each individual, and to discover the Goddess within!! Chadia shares her love of belly dance through teaching and currently teaches beginner and intermediate levels in Belleville, Bloomfield, and Newark. Her technique is based on the classical Egyptian style into which she incorporates her own interpretive style emphasizing poise, grace, self-empowerment and most importantly fun. Chadia is the Director of "Chadia & The Caravan Dancers", featuring Chadia and more than 15 beautiful & dedicated ladies. She has seen her students and troupe members blossom into talented and amazing dancers! As President of Gypsy Caravan Enterprises, Chadia continues to spread the joy of belly dance by offering the finest, most informative Oriental dance workshops and haflas that provide the belly dance community with wonderful, fun-filled dance opportunities. For more information, please log on to: www.gypsycaravanenterprises.com Favorite Musicians & Favorite Performers Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble directed by Kim Leary (Alexia) and Dave Merritt performs dances and plays percussion instruments from cultures around the world. The ensemble performs culture-specific traditional pieces as well as our own original compositions. Some compositions are more traditional, loyal to the cultures that they represent while others are a fusion of musical ideas and traditions. Genres include but are not limited to Middle Eastern, Turkish, West African, Afro-Puerto Rican and Flamenco. Many of the group’s performances have been sponsored in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble is the resident performance group of Alexia's Belly Dance & Beyond located in Lawrence, New Jersey (Princeton area). Some of the group's performances include the Monroe Arts Center, The Kenndey Center (Burlington), Two River Theatre, guest performers with Jamila Salimpour's Bal Anat, Paramount Concerts on the Beach, Austin Belly Dance Convention, 2010 & 2011 NY Theatrical Belly Dance Conference, Lafayette Grill NYC as well at many festivals and conventions. http://www.drumdancecenter.com/performanceensemble.html Favorite Promoter Michelle De Vine & NJ Belly Dancing Since both Michelle and NJBD tied for best promoter this year, we thought it would be fun to show what good sports we are here in this community! A little bit about Michelle: Michelle De Vine Having grown up in the belly dance community as an appreciative observer, dancer, instructor and promoter, gives her a unique perspective on belly dance as an art, outlet and industry. Having had (and continuing) to study the many faucets of belly dance, combining this training with person visualization and life experience allows her to bring to life her version of this dancing art form. Originally from the SF Bay area she is currently residing in NJ where she teaches weekly classes and directs Spring Caravan, assistant director to Rakkasah East and West, she also travels instructing workshops and performing with her troupe Mahalat. Michelle currently serves as the Director of Spring Caravan, Assistant Director Rakkasah East and West, Organizer of Green Knoll dancer nights, and Creator/Director of the Mystical East Section of the Wrightstown Ren Faire. www.rakkasah.com , http://www.michelledevine.org/ Pom-Pom Winner Chadia Chadia's has dedicated the past 20 years of her life to Middle Eastern Dance. She encourages everyone to express themselves through dance and to experience the joy that belly dance brings to each individual. Chadia shares her love of belly dance through teaching and currently teaches both beginner and intermediate levels in Belleville, Bloomfield, Clifton, and Hoboken. Her technique is based on the classical Egyptian style into which she incorporates her own interpretive style emphasizing poise, grace, self-empowerment and most importantly fun. Chadia is the Director of "Chadia & The Caravan Dancers", a dance troupe featuring Chadia and more than 15 ladies. She has seen her beautiful students and troupe members blossom into talented and amazing dancers! As President of Gypsy Caravan Enterprises, Chadia continues to spread the joy of belly dance by offering the finest, most informative Oriental dance workshops and haflas that provide the belly dance community with wonderful, fun-filled dance opportunities. For more information, please log on to: www.gypsycaravanenterprises.com Favorite Vendor Silk Dancer In traditional cultures, air is often seen as a universal power or pure substance. Its fundamental importance to life can be seen in words such as aspire, inspire, perspire, and spirit, all derived from the Latin spirare ("to breathe"). No bellydance accessory captures the essence of air more so than the veil. As an artist, Shaula has been drawn to color and beauty for as long as she can remember. Silkdancer strives to share and express creativity while producing a quality product that will be cherished for years to come. Since 2007, Shaula of Silkdancer has been bringing color to the dancing world. Her focus on creating unique and beautiful silks, as well as the happiness of her customers has continually allowed Silkdancer to double production each year since. Silkdancer veils have shipped worldwide, to almost every region of the country and have been featured in many major productions. Always trying to reinvent and create new designs, Shaula looks forward to delighting the dance community for many years to come. www.silkdancer.com Photo credit: Lina Jang Favorite Restaurant Marakesh http://www.marakesh.com/welcome.html NJBD' s 2011 Favorites 2010's Favs Mighty Fine in 2009 Favorite Performer Dena Stevens Favorite Instructor Dena Stevens Favorite Musicians Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble directed by Kim Leary (Alexia) and Dave Merritt performs dances and plays percussion instruments from cultures around the world. The ensemble performs culture-specific traditional pieces as well as our own original compositions. Some compositions are more traditional, loyal to the cultures that they represent while others are a fusion of musical ideas and traditions. Genres include but are not limited to Middle Eastern, Turkish, West African, Afro-Puerto Rican and Flamenco. Many of the group’s performances have been sponsored in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble is the resident performance group of Alexia's Belly Dance & Beyond located in Lawrence, New Jersey (Princeton area). Some of the group's performances include the Monroe Arts Center, The Kenndey Center (Burlington), Two River Theatre, guest performers with Jamila Salimpour's Bal Anat, Paramount Concerts on the Beach, Austin Belly Dance Convention, 2010 & 2011 NY Theatrical Belly Dance Conference, Lafayette Grill NYC as well at many festivals and conventions. http://www.drumdancecenter.com/performanceensemble.html Favorite Promoter Michelle De Vine Michelle De Vine Having grown up in the belly dance community as an appreciative observer, dancer, instructor and promoter, gives her a unique perspective on belly dance as an art, outlet and industry. Having had (and continuing) to study the many faucets of belly dance, combining this training with person visualization and life experience allows her to bring to life her version of this dancing art form. Originally from the SF Bay area she is currently residing in NJ where she teaches weekly classes and directs Spring Caravan, assistant director to Rakkasah East and West, she also travels instructing workshops and performing with her troupe Mahalat. Michelle currently serves as the Director of Spring Caravan, Assistant Director Rakkasah East and West, Organizer of Green Knoll dancer nights, and Creator/Director of the Mystical East Section of the Wrightstown Ren Faire. www.rakkasah.com , http://www.michelledevine.org/ Pom-Pom Winner Chadia Chadia's has dedicated the past 20 years of her life to Middle Eastern Dance. She encourages everyone to express themselves through dance and to experience the joy that belly dance brings to each individual. Chadia shares her love of belly dance through teaching and currently teaches both beginner and intermediate levels in Belleville, Bloomfield, Clifton, and Hoboken. Her technique is based on the classical Egyptian style into which she incorporates her own interpretive style emphasizing poise, grace, self-empowerment and most importantly fun. Chadia is the Director of "Chadia & The Caravan Dancers", a dance troupe featuring Chadia and more than 15 ladies. She has seen her beautiful students and troupe members blossom into talented and amazing dancers! As President of Gypsy Caravan Enterprises, Chadia continues to spread the joy of belly dance by offering the finest, most informative Oriental dance workshops and haflas that provide the belly dance community with wonderful, fun-filled dance opportunities. For more information, please log on to: www.gypsycaravanenterprises.com Favorite Vendor *Silk Dancer* In traditional cultures, air is often seen as a universal power or pure substance. Its fundamental importance to life can be seen in words such as aspire, inspire, perspire, and spirit, all derived from the Latin spirare ("to breathe"). No bellydance accessory captures the essence of air more so than the veil. As an artist, Shaula has been drawn to color and beauty for as long as she can remember. Silkdancer strives to share and express creativity while producing a quality product that will be cherished for years to come. Since 2007, Shaula of Silkdancer has been bringing color to the dancing world. Her focus on creating unique and beautiful silks, as well as the happiness of her customers has continually allowed Silkdancer to double production each year since. Silkdancer veils have shipped worldwide, to almost every region of the country and have been featured in many major productions. Always trying to reinvent and create new designs, Shaula looks forward to delighting the dance community for many years to come. www.silkdancer.com Photo credit: Lina Jang Favorite Restaurant Marakesh http://www.marakesh.com/welcome.html 2010 Favs Favorite Performer Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble directed by Kim Leary (Alexia) and Dave Merritt performs dances and plays percussion instruments from cultures around the world. The ensemble performs culture-specific traditional pieces as well as our own original compositions. Some compositions are more traditional, loyal to the cultures that they represent while others are a fusion of musical ideas and traditions. Genres include but are not limited to Middle Eastern, Turkish, West African, Afro-Puerto Rican and Flamenco. Many of the group’s performances have been sponsored in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble is the resident performance group of Alexia's Belly Dance & Beyond located in Lawrence, New Jersey (Princeton area). Some of the group's performances include the Monroe Arts Center, The Kenndey Center (Burlington), Two River Theatre, guest performers with Jamila Salimpour's Bal Anat, Paramount Concerts on the Beach, Lafayette Grill NYC as well at many festivals and conventions. http://www.drumdancecenter.com/performanceensemble.html Favorite Instructor Kim Leary (Alexia) is a belly dance performer, choreographer and instructor in Central New Jersey. Kim Leary’s (Alexia) dance accomplishments include teaching both credit and non-credit dance at Princeton University. She is Co-Artistic Director of Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble and Co-Director of her school, The Drum & Dance Learning Center in Lawrenceville, New Jersey. Ms. Leary has performed at numerous prestigious venues such as Lincoln Center, The Ohio Theatre (SOHO), CAMI Hall (NYC), DanceSpace (NYC), FIT (NYC), The Evolving Arts Theatre (NYC), The Black Box Theatre (NJ), as well as at many colleges, universities, and festivals as a soloist and with her own dance company, SaZ Dance Theatre, Jamila Salimpour's Bal Anat and Dalia Carella's DNA Project. She also has taught regularly at Rutgers University and Middlesex County College. As an artist-in-residence in various schools throughout the state, her arts-in-education training is from Union County's CATALYST Initiative, Artsgenesis, and the Kennedy Center (DC) through the New Brunswick Cultural Center. Kim holds a certification in Training & Development as well as in Multiple Intelligences and the Arts from Kean University. She is a Level 2 Certified Dancer and has been training in the Suhaila Salimpour Format since 2000. In 2008 Kim became certified Level Two in the Jamila Salimpour Dance Format and earned a Level One Certification in Sahra Saeeda's Journey Through Egypt Program. Kim received a dance scholarship award from Dance New Jersey and was voted New Jersey's Favorite Belly Dance Teacher in 2008. Kim has studied dance for most of her life and has received extensive training in jazz, ballet, tap, contemporary, Middle Eastern, Turkish and Afro-Caribbean dance. Kim has spent a significant amount of time with dance masters such as Tasha, Elena Lentini, Roberta Koch and Azsmara of SaZ Dance Theatre, Sabah Nissan, Dalia Carella, Artemis Mourat, Suhaila Salimpour, Jamila Salimpour and Richard Gonzalez all of whom have had great influence on her dance. Drum & Dance Learning Center "Dedicated to learning and creativity through Multi-Cultural Performing Arts" www.drumdancecenter.com www.youtube.com/drumdancecenter Favorite Musicians Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble directed by Kim Leary (Alexia) and Dave Merritt performs dances and plays percussion instruments from cultures around the world. The ensemble performs culture-specific traditional pieces as well as our own original compositions. Some compositions are more traditional, loyal to the cultures that they represent while others are a fusion of musical ideas and traditions. Genres include but are not limited to Middle Eastern, Turkish, West African, Afro-Puerto Rican and Flamenco. Many of the group’s performances have been sponsored in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Groove Merchant Drum & Dance Ensemble is the resident performance group of Alexia's Belly Dance & Beyond located in Lawrence, New Jersey (Princeton area). Some of the group's performances include the Monroe Arts Center, The Kenndey Center (Burlington), Two River Theatre, guest performers with Jamila Salimpour's Bal Anat, Paramount Concerts on the Beach, Lafayette Grill NYC as well at many festivals and conventions. http://www.drumdancecenter.com/performanceensemble.html Favorite Promoter Michelle De Vine Having grown up in the belly dance community as an appreciative observer, dancer, instructor and promoter, gives her a unique perspective on belly dance as an art, outlet and industry. Having had (and continuing) to study the many faucets of belly dance, combining this training with person visualization and life experience allows her to bring to life her version of this dancing art form. Originally from the SF Bay area she is currently residing in NJ where she teaches weekly classes and directs Spring Caravan, assistant director to Rakkasah East and West, she also travels instructing workshops and performing with her troupe Mahalat. Michelle currently serves as the Director of Spring Caravan, Assistant Director Rakkasah East and West, Organizer of Green Knoll dancer nights, and Creator/Director of the Mystical East Section of the Wrightstown Ren Faire. www.rakkasah.com , http://www.michelledevine.org/ Pom-Pom Winner Chadia's has dedicated the past 20 years of her life to Middle Eastern Dance. She encourages everyone to express themselves through dance and to experience the joy that belly dance brings to each individual. Chadia shares her love of belly dance through teaching and currently teaches both beginner and intermediate levels in Belleville, Bloomfield, Clifton, and Hoboken. Her technique is based on the classical Egyptian style into which she incorporates her own interpretive style emphasizing poise, grace, self-empowerment and most importantly fun. Chadia is the Director of "Chadia & The Caravan Dancers", a dance troupe featuring Chadia and more than 15 ladies. She has seen her beautiful students and troupe members blossom into talented and amazing dancers! As President of Gypsy Caravan Enterprises, Chadia continues to spread the joy of belly dance by offering the finest, most informative Oriental dance workshops and haflas that provide the belly dance community with wonderful, fun-filled dance opportunities. For more information, please log on to: www.gypsycaravanenterprises.com Favorite Vendor: Silk Dancer As an artist, Shaula has been drawn to color and beauty for as long as she can remember. Silkdancer strives to share and express creativity while producing a quality product that will be cherished for years to come. Since 2007, Shaula of Silkdancer has been bringing color to the dancing world. Her focus on creating unique and beautiful silks, as well as the happiness of her customers has continually allowed Silkdancer to double production each year since. www.silkdancer.com Favorite Restaurant http://www.marakesh.com/welcome.html NJ Belly Dancing's Mighty Fine in 2009 Mighty Fine Performer AMIRA MOR "People's Choice For Favorite Belly Dance Performer" Amira Mor is an internationally renowned Belly Dancer, Certified Fitness Instructor, and founder of "Amira Mor International Entertainment Company." She was born in Israel to Iraqi parents and was infused with a love for music and dance. She has received world-wide acclaim as a performer, choreographer, producer and director. Amira has drawn a large, devoted audience that has made her one of the world’s most sought-after contemporary belly dancers. She has developed her own remarkable style of belly dancing, combining her love of classical movement with her passion for modern innovation. The result is a thrilling combination of opposing elements: hypnotic undulations and exciting hip rhythms, finger cymbals, sword balancing and the incorporation of a sheer soft veil. She is an inspiration to both her students and her audience, encouraging them to move and feel their own sensuality as they dance to the pulsating energy of Middle Eastern music. Amira has produced, choreographed and directed many shows, both regionally and Off-Broadway. In June 2001, she had the honor of choreographing the dancers of the New York City Ballet at Lincoln Center. She has also released a series of state-of-the-art instructional videos; each of the many popular DVDs is designed to maximize fat burning and body toning, while maintaining a balance between fun and fitness. Amira has been featured on numerous national television programs including "The Caroline Rhea Show", "Emeril Live", "Blind Date", "Faking It" and "The Fox Morning Show." She has instructed a myriad of students, including Britney Spears, at the Broadway Dance Center in New York City. She has also appeared in music videos such as John Mellencamp's "Another Sunny Day" and the Spin Doctors' "Cleopatra's Cat" as well as films by Jonathan Demme's "The Manchurian Candidate", “Morning Glory “ with Diane Keaton and Harrison Ford and Sex and The City 2. She has performed around the world with such legends as Ornette Coleman, Sting, Led Zeppelin's Robert Plant, comedian Jackie Mason and actress Jane Fonda. Amira has also performed for The Prime Minister of Jordan Dr. Abdel Salam Majali, The Prince and Princess of Morocco, the United Nations, the Turkish Embassy, The United Nations, and New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg. She has also been featured in many publications, including The New York Post, The New York Times, Dance Spirit, Dance Teacher, Marie Claire, Vogue and W magazine among others. Amira Mor owns her own dance school and studio complete with her own series of instructional DVDs and full boutique of dance wear and costumes. She gives Belly Dance classes to Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced dancers in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ. She is also on staff at Broadway Dance Center, NYC. One of her favorite accomplishments is the Off-Broadway production; “The Secrets of the Desert” with her dance company. Amira Mor's Motto is: "Moving beautiful, is feeling beautiful, is being beautiful at any age.” For More Information on Amira, Classes, Instructional DVDS, Dance wear and Costumes: www.amiramor.com and www.bellydancemall.com Mighty Fine Instructor Gia al Qamar "My life isn't about dance...dance is my life." So is laughing and eating, and laughing and kissing my Chihuahua's belly and laughing and kissing my husband's cheek (not necessarily in that order.) I am blessed to lead a life of abundance...I have a wonderful husband, a great family, fabulous friends and the best students in the world! It is this very abundance that makes my dancing so full of life! I have studied all forms of dance, from ballet, jazz and modern to Middle Eastern dance extensively as an adult with Yousry & Nourhan Sharif, Raqia Hassan, Anahid Sofian, Rayhana, Aszmara, Morocco, Shoshana, Artemis Mourat, Fahtiem, Ansuya, Jehan, Samara, Ayshe, Rachel Brice, Andrea Anwar and so many more NJ teachers that I can't name them all! As a performer, I began my dance-life at local shows and haflas in NJ and eventually became the favorite performer at many Middle Eastern restaurants, including Marakesh, Cambaz, Samdam, and Al Kasbah where I was house dancer for 3 years. I still perform joyously at shows in NJ and in NYC at Lafayette Grill, the Grisly Pear and other venues throughout the year! I set out in my life as an instructor of Belly Dance by giving my students what I didn't always get in the classes I took as a student. I decided to give gentle, supportive feedback, personal attention and to teach not only the 'steps', but to give each student an education about Middle Eastern culture, music, performing and themselves in a fun, relaxed, safe, non-competitive atmosphere! The result has been overwhelming! My students are loyal, devoted and succeeding in their lives and dancing and dance careers in ways that none of us could have imagined! Testimonials from Gia al Qamar's Belly Dance Students and Professional Dancers: http://www.idreamofgia.com/Student_Testimonials.html , www.IDreamOfGia.com I am also the proud founder, choreographer and artistic director of The Urban Desert Dancers, a performing Middle Eastern troupe who're celebrating their 5th year! Do you want to find out what my students know? For information on my classes, please visit my website www.IDreamOfGia.com . Mighty Fine Musicians Anka Kusu offers a unique and refreshing blend of music and dance that has its roots in Israel, Turkey, Armenia, Egypt, The Balkans, Greece, Syria, and other points in the Middle East, all presented with an aggressive American edge. The musicians in their band create the foundation for this troupes unique style by taking folk tunes and adding a hint of their own touch to the familiar melodies as well as by creating original pieces that have that same "long ago and far away" sound to them. To learn more about all of Anka Kusu please visit www.AnkaKusu.net . Mighty Fine Promoter Michelle De Vine Having grown up in the belly dance community as an appreciative observer, dancer, instructor and promoter, gives her a unique perspective on belly dance as an art, outlet and industry. Having had (and continuing) to study the many faucets of belly dance, combining this training with person visualization and life experience allows her to bring to life her version of this dancing art form. Originally from the SF Bay area she is currently residing in NJ where she teaches weekly classes and directs Spring Caravan, assistant director to Rakkasah East and West, she also travels instructing workshops and performing with her troupe Mahalat. Michelle currently serves as the Director of Spring Caravan, Assistant Director Rakkasah East and West, Organizer of Green Knoll dancer nights, and Creator/Director of the Mystical East Section of the Wrightstown Ren Faire. www.rakkasah.com , http://www.michelledevine.org/ Mighty Fine Vendor AMIRA MOR AS "PEOPLE'S CHOICE FOR FAVORITE BELLY DANCE VENDOR 2009" Amira Mor is a favorite for finding your perfect costume, dance wear, belly dance shoes, coin belts swords for balance dancing, Isis Wings and hip scarves along with her own line of exciting, instructional DVDs! See her shopping mall site at www.bellydancemall.com where she frequently gets new, gorgeous arrivals of merchandise as well as her full series of DVDs, and her own CDs. Come and visit her studio where she has her own boutique filled with glittering costumes of every kind. She has a seamstress on staff to fit you in your costume to perfection. Amira and her team will take time to see that your wish is their command regarding your belly dancing needs. She also has many hot deals and mega sales each month along with Gift Certificates of any amount. Her studio and boutique are located at 182 Boulevard, Hasbrouck Heights, NJ. (201) 257-8710 Amira Mor has produced an educational and informative series of instructional Belly Dance DVDs that sell internationally which she designed to maximize fat burning and body toning, while maintaining a balance between fun and fitness. These DVDs promote a lifestyle of fitness and vitality which Amira exemplifies and helps all students whether in her school or through virtual teaching to strive to be their very best. She sells a unique line of costumes and props with her label, all designed to accentuate the positive attributes of each person who wears them. Her DVD series is the most exciting and popular exercise for woman of all ages, body shapes and sizes. A new angle in the world of fitness and a new attitude taught. This is fitness made simple and easy with step by step technique and choreography that will empower you and change your body & your life style! Amira Mor’s techniques have helped improve the bodies and lives of thousands of women, from teenagers to grandparents, around the world. This is the affordable, fun and natural approach to improve your way of life, health and appearance. Take it to the next level and enjoy it with partners such as daughters, mothers, sister or best friends. Improve your relationships and enjoy the feminine bonding experience! It is so easy and so enjoyable which makes it great for long term fitness and a fantastic weight loss program. You will be addicted to this beautiful and exciting form of fitness immediately. THINK LIKE A BEAUTIFUL PERSON AND LEARN TO MOVE LIKE ONE! Health Fun and Fitness, Passion, Body Mind and Soul~this is Amira Mor's philosophy. Create, Stimulate, Inspire & Energize with her DVDs! Belly Dance - it is the celebration and the excitement of youth, the pride of motherhood and the wisdom of age. Amira Mor's DVDs will guide you to: * Lose weight while you have fun * Flatten your belly * Firm your butt, hips and thighs * Sculpt a curvy, beautiful body * Improve your muscle strength * Look and feel younger * Create and Tone beautiful abdominals * Build Core Strength and Increase Endurance * Belly dance to slow down the aging process * Create positive thinking, love your body, love yourself, * Belly dance for natural healing * Adopt the attitude of a beautiful strong person! * Relieve stress in your lower back and neck and improve posture * Build confidence and self esteem For information on Amira Mor please visit www.amiramor.com . Amira Mor currently has a series of 14 Incredible DVDs! Community Pom-Pom Winner Amira Mor has been a performer for and supporter of many non-profit and charity benefits, including Susan G Komen for the Cure For Breast Cancer, The Humane Society USA, Eve Ensler's V-Day, Meals on Wheels, the Henry Street Settlement House Foundation, the Tourette Syndrome Association and the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America to name a few. Amira Mor also donates her time to give fun, uplifting and well received Belly Dance classes to breast cancer survivors at the Albert Einstein College Of Medicine as well participating in numerous Health Fairs and Health Expos educating people on the health advantages of Belly Dance. In addition to Amira Mor's Performing Arts Center's bi-annual student showcases, the students under her direction perform and organize fund raisers for many research foundations such as The Leukemia Society, and an upcoming benefit extravaganza show for Autism NJ, Amira’s talented dancers perform all over including The State Fair at the Meadowlands and The Hambletonian Society Parade and Festival. Feb 27 2010 Amira Mor and students will perform in A DAY OF DANCE, A DAY OF CARDIO VASCULAR HEALTH sponsored by Holly Name Hospital. Then on March 7th, 2010 Amira Mor Performing Arts Center presents "MARDI GRAS" a fundraiser for Autism Awareness. JOIN US EITHER ON STAGE OR IN THE AUDIENCE. Amira Mor is also the CEO and Artistic Director of "AMPAC" (Amira Mor Performing Arts Center) located in Hasbrouck Heights NJ where she teaches Belly Dance Beginner/Open Level through Advanced with a full boutique of professional costumes, coin belts, hip scarves, belly dance shoes, chiffon shirts and veils, jewelry, her own series of DVDs and everything belly dance! Her beautiful school and studio also has classes in Kids Ballet, Adult Jazz and Kids Hip Hop. Amira is always researching her next cause to help raise awareness and raise funds for through her amazing and carefully created dance shows. Amira Mor's Next Benefit Show to raise money for NJ Autism free web tracker
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