Zafira Dance Company's topics - tribe.net

More Music!: Eastern Watershed

Safiya — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 21:29:19 GMT

Maria, if you missed the Balkan Babes, here's a chance at some more good local music:
~~~~~~~~~~
Eastern Watershed in Pittsburgh coming up soon!!

ABOUT Eastern Watershed:
http://easternwatershed.org/
http://www.myspace.com/easternwatershed

Eastern Watershed EVENTS:

*Sunday, July 6th at the Westmoreland Arts and Heritage Festival, Cabaret Stage - 6 to 7:30 pm. Admission charged.
http://www.artsandheritage.com/entertainment.htm#Sunday

*Thursday, August 21st at the Third Pres. Church in Squirrel Hill, corner of Murray and Forbes. 7- 8:30 pm . Free.
http://www.sixthchurch.org/ThirdThursdayConcerts.htm

*Sunday, August 24th as part of the Carnegie Library's World Kaleidoscope Series - 2 - 3 pm on the Bamboo Deck. Free
http://www.clpgh.org/events/details.cfm?event_id=32131

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 2 replies

Zafira will soon be in two places at once! Counterfeit!

kamille — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 01:55:33 GMT

Whoa I'm dizzy! You girls sure do turn a lot! Amazing!

Counterfeit is coming soon, and I can't wait! It's been so much fun to be Zafira. Lots of other groups are doing some amazing cover dances of their own... Clandestine is doing Fat Chance Belly Dance, Unmata is doing Urban Tribal......

Thanks for being such an inspiration Zafira.... Love you girls.
Kamille

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 4 replies

BELLYDANCE S BEAUTIFUL 3 TONIGHT! 7-5-08

mariahamer — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 15:10:23 GMT

Hello everyone!

Just a friendly reminder to everyone not to forget to come to an awesome Pittsburgh BellyDance Show! Advance ticket options are no longer available, but you cna still buy tickets at the show door tonight!

BellyDance Is Beautiful 3!

* TONIGHT!

Saturday July 5th, 2008
**Registration fees are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled**

Registered names for the show will be on a list at the door/no tickets will be mailed

PAYPAL HAS BEEN TAKEN DOWN, FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO'D LIKE TO PURCHASE TICKETS CAN DO SO AT THE SHOW DOOR TONIGHT

Venue:
Your Inner Vagabond!

Show time: doors 7:30/8PM show
Show fee: $10/$15 (door)

PAYPAL HAS BEEN TAKEN DOWN, FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO'D LIKE TO PURCHASE TICKETS CAN DO SO AT THE SHOW DOOR TONIGHT

************************************************************
Line-up:
FEATURING Your hostesses Zafira Dance Co members

Our Phabulous emcee Phat Mandee

The amazing local talents of:
Sadiqa!
Khafif!
Narah! (WV)
Melanie Wood from Kassar!

... our old FABULOUS friend Joyce!

....AND AN OPEN JAM!

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

**Registration fees are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled **

--
Zafira Dance Company
Awarded Troupe of the Year 2007! ~Zaghareet Magazine
Pittsburgh, Pa
http://www.zafiradance.com
http://zafira.tribe.net/
http://www.myspace.com/zafiradancecompany

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 0 replies

More pics from Barcelona Tribal Festival

Moonfire — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 10:40:13 GMT

Hi

If you would like to see more pics from Zafira and other dancers at the festival (Domba, Mandragora Tribal, Alma Oriental), please visit my new site:

http://www.animadance.com

I redesigned the site recently, any feeback or suggestions welcome!

Many thanks,

Maria

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 3 replies

If you are planning on taking Urban Tribal this weekend.... please email me first!

mariahamer — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 14:46:20 GMT

If any peeps out there were planning on taking Urban Tribal this 4rth of July weekend, please email me here or at maria@zafiradance.com

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 0 replies

Balkan Babes & Nikolay Kolev Tonight!

Safiya — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 14:28:14 GMT

The Balkan Babes (accompanied by the Bubs) will be singing for the Tuesday Night Folk Dance Group on 7/1/08 and we will have a very special guest - Nikolay Kolev - master of the Bulgarian gudulka (Bulgarian violin) player. Don't miss this rare opportunity to hear Nikolay play! His website: http://www.gadular.com/

The Tuesday Night Folkdance Group meets at the Friends Meeting House in Shady Side (4836 Ellsworth Avenue). Teaching runs from 7:30 - 8:30pm, Babes and Nikolay at 9 pm or so.

Tell your friends!

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 1 reply

BellyDance Is Beautiful 3! July 5, 2008

mariahamer — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 14:27:35 GMT

BellyDance Is Beautiful 3!

* Saturday July 5th, 2008

To BUY TICKETS:

www.zafiradance.com/bdib3.html

**Registration fees are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled**

Registered names for the show will be on a list at the door/no tickets will be mailed

Venue:
Your Inner Vagabond!

Show time: doors 7:30/8PM show
Show fee: $10/$15 (door), paypal tax added

************************************************************
Line-up:
FEATURING Your hostesses Zafira Dance Co members

Our Phabulous emcee Phat Mandee

The amazing local talents of:
Sadiqa!
Khafif!
Narah Bint Durr! (WV)
Melanie Wood from Kassar!

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

**Registration fees are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled **

To BUY TICKETS:

www.zafiradance.com/bdib3.html

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 0 replies

photos of Zafira at Three Rivers Arts Fest.

Aviva — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 16:33:18 GMT

Lots of photos to enjoy here: http://picasaweb.google.com/smilingvegan/ZafiraAtThreeRiversArtsFest

It's always such a joy watching you ladies dance! It's totally worth staying up past my bedtime :)

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 7 replies

Help Bring Gogol Bordello To Pittsburgh!

oliviakiss — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 22:49:42 GMT

I can't go another year of my life w/out seeing these guys!!

Go on this site and type in Pgh PA & if there are enough requests, they will com.
check it auut!!

http://eventful.com/performers/P0-001-000093518-5/demand?bg=black&fg=FFFFFF

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 14 replies

Zafira w/ Phat Mandee and others! 3 Rivers Arts Fest 6-20-08

mariahamer — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 14:51:55 GMT

Phat Man Dee, Zafira and others....

June, 20 2008 at Phat Squared, Three Rivers Arts Festival
Market Square, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222
Cost : free

Phat Mandee will be hosting an evening of music, art and dance at the Market Square festival stage during the Friday Night of Pride Week at the Three Rivers Arts Festival. From 6-7:30 pm, and then 9-11 pm. And you can get a deep fried oreo.... what more is there??
http://www.artsfestival.net/

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 3 replies

In DC, but ... A Totally Turkish weekend with Artemis

arielarielariel — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 14:41:40 GMT

Shems (local DC dancer) is sponsoring some kick-ass workshops with Artie on the 28th and 29th. Totally late notice, but I thought I'd help her spread the word:

Hello Dancers,

June 28th and 29th, 2008 (that right in two weeks) I'd like to do some Turkish Master classes with Artie at her studio in Silver Spring, MD, but I need some other dancers who are interested in getting down in a Turkish way to help fill the rest of the class. It would be 3 hours each day starting at 2pm - the first two hours movement breakdown and dance, the last hour watching video footage, the cost $35 per day. If you can come to one or both days please email me at shemsdance at gmail dot com - so I can make sure we have enough folks to run the class. Please, please forward this info on to anybody you think might be interested, students, friends or peers.

Shems

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 2 replies

Chrsitine at DID this last weekend

onca — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 02:52:52 GMT

...was great as always. i heart Zafira ferever-n-ever!

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 6 replies

Bellydance is Beautiful 3 question!

Aviva — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 18:08:53 GMT

Will there be stuff for sale at the show?? Just wondering, in case I need to bring some extra cash to buy yet another bellydance t-shirt ;)

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 1 reply

NEW class by Olivia @ Boheme Studios!!!!

mariahamer — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 14:42:25 GMT

***************************************************************
6 Week Class:
Foundation Combinations

W/ Olivia
6 Weeks
Tues. 6:30 - 8:30pm
June 13 - July 22

Let's put the DANCE in Bellydance!
Whether you are new, or a student who has thought: "I can do the moves, but how do I put them together?" This the class for you!

While learning bellydance basics, students explore ways to blend movements together seamlessly. We will learn foundation moves by understanding the muscles involved in each movement, internalizing moves, thereby truly understanding the source of each movement. This approach allows us to add or change the movements to suit our needs, and we are able to string together movements seemlessly and them to express ourselves in the music.

This class will devote time to developing core strength and technique, rhythmic timing and musical interpretation.

VENUE:
Boheme Center for Dance
521 Lincoln Ave,
Pittsburgh, PA 15202
call for more info 412.766.3006
MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: Boheme Center for Dance

COSTS:
PrePay now! 6 classes for $78 (paypal tax added)/ Drop In $15

To Register GOTO
http://www.zafiradance.com/classes.htm

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 0 replies

Saturday workshop with Olivia! Discount! 6-14-08

mariahamer — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 15:12:10 GMT

http://www.zafiradance.com/oliviashimmyseries.html

Zafira Pittsburgh Workshops!

Venue:Breathe Yoga Studio
1113 E Carson St (3rd Floor)
Pittsburgh, Pa 15203
412.481.YOGA

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

Saturday, June 14th 2008:
Kicks, Spins and Accents! W/ Olivia Kissel!

Workshop times: 1-3PM
Workshop fees:
$20 in advance/$25 discount price! ( June 11th), paypal tax added
Workshop descriptions:

Kicks, Spins and Accents! W/ Olivia Kissel!
Learn some of Olivia's favorite combinations that she used on her European tour!

http://www.zafiradance.com/oliviashimmyseries.html
************************************************************

Saturday, July 19th 2008:
Combinations w/ Olivia Kissel!

Workshop times: 1-3PM
Workshop fees:
$20 in advance/$30 ( July 16th), paypal tax added
Workshop descriptions:

Combinations
Description soon....
1-3 p.m. Combinations ************************************************************

**Registration fees are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled **

http://www.zafiradance.com/oliviashimmyseries.html

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 1 reply

Fantastic in Erie!

kamille — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 03:23:23 GMT

You ladies were fantastic! Love what I saw of the new cane piece.... dying to see more!
And it was soooo much fun to hang out and dance together after. Ahhhh!

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 5 replies

Zafira @ Southern Fusion Fest

lauren_liora — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 15:56:08 GMT

Hey y'all,

I just wanted to drop a reminder that the lovely ladies of Zafira will be teaching at Southern Fusion Fest this year - the next registration deadline is June 16th!

August 15th - 17th in Athens, Georgia

Details: http://www.southernfusion.net

Registration: http://sff2008.eventbrite.com

Thanks!
Liora :)

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 0 replies

10 days left to get EARLY BIRD prices for Urban Tribal!!!!

mariahamer — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 15:46:06 GMT

Only 10 days are left to get the OOBER deals on Urban Tribal weekend EXTRAvaganza!!!
Feel free to email me if you have any questions.....

REGISTER HERE:
http://www.zafiradance.com/urbantribal.html

Urban Tribal Weekend Workshops & Show!
July 5&6th!
**Registration fees are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled**

Registered names for the workshops and the show will be on a list at the door/no tickets will be mailed

***********************************************************************************
Workshop times:
12-2PM & 2:30-4:30PM each day!
Workshop fees:
$65 in advance/$75 (after June 14th), paypal tax added
Venue:
Breathe Yoga Studio
1113 E Carson St (3rd Floor)
Pittsburgh, Pa 15203
412.481.YOGA
***********************************************************************************

Individual Workshop Descriptions:
*Saturday, July 5th
Urban Tribal technique, choreo, and combos. There will be a substantial warm up each day. Bring knee pads and yoga mats both days. More details coming soon!

*Sunday, July 6th
Urban Tribal technique with some discussion and exercises in howthey create their pieces. A "playshop" in creating unique & innovative dances. There will be a substantial warm up each day. Bring knee pads and yoga mats both days. More details soon!

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

Package Deals:
*Full Weekend Workshops & Show ticket:
$132/$155(after June 14th), paypal tax added
*Workshops Weekend:
$120/$140 (after June 14th), paypal tax added

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

Show:
BellyDance is Beautiful 3!
Sat. July 5th

Show time:
doors 7:30/8PM show
Show fee:
$10/$15 (door), paypal tax added
Venue:
TBA....

Line-up:
Urban Tribal
Sadiqa! and Zafira! more performers TBA... .

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

Click here to find out about
Urban Tribal

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 1 reply

Zafira in Erie! Shimmy for a Cure THIS WEEKEND! 5-31-08

mariahamer — Mon, 26 May 2008 17:23:55 GMT

REGISTER AT
http://www.shimmyforacure.com/

To benefit: The John Kanzius Cancer Research Foundation www.johnkanziuscancerresearchfoundation.org
Saturday May 31, 2008, show starts at 7:30pm
Doors open at 6:30pm
At the Erie Playhouse Theater, 13 W. 10th St, Erie PA 16501
www.erieplayhouse.org/

Proudly presenting: Zafira Dance Company (voted dance troupe of the year 2007
by Zaghareet Magazine)
also featuring the talents of: Shades of Araby with Valizan (Toronto CA), Sadiqa (Pittsburgh, PA) Euphraxia Buffalo NY), Gypsy RaQ, Evil Peanut Butter, The Houdani Dancers (Eastside YMCA), Jessica Stadtmeuller (Erie Art Museum) and Kadri (Buffalo NY) and more!
Also, see the special “Candle Bellydance” in Honor/Memory of Cancer Survivors/Victims….
Enjoy..
Chinese auction, Henna artists, Vendors, Live music featuring Gypsy RaQ with Carlala, Cash bar

Gala Tickets
Regular seats $15,
Gold seats $30, (includes up front seating and special after performance meet the dancers reception with Wine, Cheese and Chocolate buffet)!

Sunday Workshops with Zafira Dance Company
A portion of the proceeds benefit The John Kanzius Foundation.

"Zafira Choreography"
Sunday, June 1, 2008 from 11am-1pm at the Avalon Hotel.

Let Zafira share some of their secrets of choreography creation. This workshop works on stage presence, posture, working with other dancers, and shows how to make even a simple choreography dynamic. Also, we will work in pairs/small groups to learn a short choreography.

"Supah' Saucy"
Sunday, June 1, 2008 from 1:30pm-3:30pm at the Avalon Hotel.

Kicks, spins, long extensions and locks are the signature of Zafira's current repertoire. This workshop presents some fancy footwork, spins and various movements. Couple these saucy moves with evocative music and emotion, and you are at the core of Zafira's "steal-your-heart" style of Belly Dance.

REGISTER AT
http://www.shimmyforacure.com/

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 6 replies

THANK YOU ZAFIRA from Shimmy for a Cure!!!

Carlala — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 17:08:31 GMT

Erie cannot thank Maria and Olivia enough for bringing your energy, amazing talent, and your gorgeous selves up to our part of Pa and rocking our show!!! Your performances were breathtaking and we love you for kicking our butts at the workshops!!!

In fact, we love you even more than we loved you before... is that possible???

THANK YOU!!!!

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 2 replies

THANK YOU AWESOME LADIES!

Pamela — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 00:10:51 GMT

I just wanted to thank Olivia and Maria for the Awesome workshops in Erie! Kick Booty!
It rocked my booty right off it's hip holders! Hope to see you ladies again soon!
Keep it Casanova cool!

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 2 replies

SWEET SWEAT

Patrice — Tue, 27 May 2008 20:13:14 GMT

Maria,

Thanks for kicking my behind yesterday in class....my aching booty will thank me in a few months when I can pinch a penny between my cheeks! I look forward to my next whoopin' :)

~Patrice

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 2 replies

Devotchka coming to Pittsburgh

Beth — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 14:43:08 GMT

Diesel Club Lounge , Southside
Wed, May 21, 2008 07:00 PM

Tickets aren't on sale yet, but you can save the date!
http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/16004053A287597F

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 17 replies

Zafira at Bellevue Art/Wine Crawl!!!!

mariahamer — Fri, 23 May 2008 16:41:03 GMT

Hello all!
After Maria's ShimmyTastik workshop, join members of Zafira as they support Bellevue in an Art Wine Crawl!

Bellevue ART WINE CRAWL!
http://www.enjoybellevue.com
Click on the link above for more info!

Old Murphy Building
521 Lincoln Ave(Starting on the 3rd floor)

$5 Donation
5-9PM

For email info:lincolnbarber@yahoo.com

Zafira will be dancing in and around the participating businesses throughout the crawl, but their 'Official" performance slots include:

6:15-6:30PM (3rd floor of 521 Lincoln Ave 'Old Murphy's Building')
8-8:15PM(2nd floor of 521 Lincoln Ave)

Attached is a flier for this great event! Hope to see you all there!!
~Maria Zafira Dance Co~

For more info:
http://www.enjoybellevue.com

You start on the 3rd floor of the old G.C Murphy Building located at 517/521 Lincoln Ave in Bellevue.
There you will pay your donation of $5. (read below - the reason for the donation)
On the 3rd floor there will be many artists displaying and selling art. There will also be many musical acts lined up to entertain you from 5pm to 9pm.
once you donate your $5, you will recieve a map/punch card that will lead you to the 12 stores involved in the wine crawl. This punch card is your ticket to a complimentary glass of wine @ each of these stores.
(WHILE SUPPLIES LAST!)
This ticket will also get you back to the 3rd floor after you finished the wine/business tour.
(SO DON'T LOOSE IT!) If all the stores on the tour have been punched - you will be put in a drawing for a prize to be named at the event.
Not only is the 3rd floor a gallery - there are other stops on the tour that have art and music.
There is a lot to check out!
So come to Bellevue on Saturday May 24th from 5pm - 9pm.
Eat at one of our many fine restaurants while you crawl around Lincoln Ave. sipping wine and checking out the art and SHOPPING! in the many stores of Bellevue.

Reason for the donations:
Bottom line: the building is killing Sam ( the owner) financially. He squeaks by every month making the mortgage payment but has nothing left over to put back into the building.
The building needs a ton of work !
Why did he buy you ask? To save the town of Bellevue from getting another Dollar Store.
We already have 2 and one of them is in the old Bellevue Theater.
Sure there were many ideas for this building but so far none of them have been the types of businesses willing to sink some money into the building.
We need some outside help / investors. We need to hold events to pull as many people as possible into the building to show it's potential.
The third floor rarely gets used-it's a great space-a perfect space for a live Theater or Movie Theater.
I have already had someone measure , outline the third floor and sketch the basics for an independant/arthouse Movie Theater. Professional drawings cost money-Business plans cost money-
Miner repairs cost money.
so every little bit counts.

To see my ideas for a different type of movie theater experience click above menu on anything saying Theater on it. (This is part of my Garden Theater ideas on the Northside)

I can go on and on......

Listen: Bellevue has 2 dollar stores and 2 check cashing joints'
and it's a Dry Town!
3 STRIKES!
But we're not out - Bellevue still has a lot to offer !
Bellevue Must become a Destination! For shopping, living and night time activities.
We need to get people back out on the streets eating and shopping.

So please join us on this day to start the ball rolling with many more events planned this summer!

thanks
Aaron
owner of Lincoln Barber Shop

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 1 reply

Pennsic?

alluringshadows — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 02:22:46 GMT

Just checking in to see if you ladies are going to be at Pennsic again this year. *crosses fingers*

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 24 replies

Registration is up...Zafira in Erie!!!

Carlala — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 14:48:12 GMT

Shimmy for a Cure Gala Show and Workshops Event has got

~~~Zafira~~~

for two Sunday workshops, on June 1st
at The Avalon Hotel in Erie!!!

Registration page available at:

www.shimmyforacure.com/workshop.htm

or

www.theflemingschool.com/workshops.htm

ooooh we are gonna party!!!!

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 6 replies

Sign up now for Urban Tribal in Pittsburgh- july 5&6

mariahamer — Mon, 19 May 2008 00:36:18 GMT

http://www.zafiradance.com/urbantribal.html

Urban Tribal Weekend Workshops & Show!
July 5&6th!
**Registration fees are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled**

Registered names for the workshops and the show will be on a list at the door/no tickets will be mailed

***********************************************************************************
Workshop times:
12-2PM & 2:30-4:30PM each day!
Workshop fees:
$65 in advance/$75 (after June 14th), paypal tax added
Venue:
Breathe Yoga Studio
1113 E Carson St (3rd Floor)
Pittsburgh, Pa 15203
412.481.YOGA
***********************************************************************************

Individual Workshop Descriptions:
*Saturday, July 5th
Urban Tribal technique, choreo, and combos. There will be a substantial warm up each day. Bring knee pads and yoga mats both days. More details coming soon!

*Sunday, July 6th
Urban Tribal technique with some discussion and exercises in howthey create their pieces. A "playshop" in creating unique & innovative dances. There will be a substantial warm up each day. Bring knee pads and yoga mats both days. More details soon!

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

Package Deals:
*Full Weekend Workshops & Show ticket:
$132/$155(after June 14th), paypal tax added
*Workshops Weekend:
$120/$140 (after June 14th), paypal tax added

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

Show:
BellyDance is Beautiful 3!
Sat. July 5th

Show time:
doors 7:30/8PM show
Show fee:
$12/$15 (door), paypal tax added
Venue:
Your Inner Vagabond

Line-up:
Urban Tribal and Zafira! more performers TBA... .

http://www.zafiradance.com/urbantribal.html

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 2 replies

Wednesday Class Cancellations! 5-21-08

mariahamer — Mon, 19 May 2008 15:38:55 GMT

Hello Everyone!

Due to the fact that I MAY perform in the Devotchka show, I will have to cancel this wednesdays classes (5-21-08). I hope you all will understand that even though I am not sure I am performing, I can't pass along this amazing opportunity to meet and perform with this amazing band.
Please come to next Wednesdays class May 28th.

Coime see Devotchka at Deisel in the SouthSide! http://www.pamidstate.com/cgi-bin/db/list.cgi?eid=631564

Here is a video from last years Tribal Fest of our dance to Charlotte Mittnacht, one of my most favorite of Devotchka songs.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4XQ1c8u_n1Q

And here's Devotchka music for the soundtrack to Little Miss Sunshine, if you don't know who they are...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7MBjLvlsy2k&feature=related

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 3 replies

SAVE THE DATE! Urban Tribal in Pittsburgh!

mariahamer — Fri, 16 May 2008 07:52:30 GMT

Urban Tribal July 5&6th Here in Pittsburgh!
2 four hour workshops, and an evenoing showcase!!!! These guys are so creatib-ve and innovatie, it hurts!
Don't miss the opportunity to just be around these ladies!

Workshops: Breathe Yoga Studio (July 5&6)

Show: Your Inner Vagabond (July 5th)

Registration will be posted VERY soon.... so be ready!

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 1 reply

May 24th Zafira Activities!!!

mariahamer — Tue, 13 May 2008 16:06:40 GMT

Hello all!

May 24th will provide Pittsburgh with much activity!

Starting that day will be my Shimmy -Tastic workshop at Breathe Yoga Studio in the SouthSide
1113 E Carson St.
1-3PM
http://www.zafiradance.com/oliviashimmyseries.html
To get the Early Bird Discount!

Workshop fees:
$20 in advance/$30 ( May 21st), paypal tax added

Workshop descriptions:

Shimmy-TASTIC!
Take your shimmies to the next level! In this workshop we will cover the classic 3/4 shimmy, with walking, layering exercises and drills. We will also take the 3/4 shimmy to parts of our bodies you never knew were supposed to 3/4 shimmy! We will cover 4/4 shimmies as well to better understand and get better control of our hips. To finish off our workshop we'll cover some unique combos utilizing what we learned, Zafira style! Please bring water and a yoga mat for warm up & cool down.

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

ART WINE CRAWL!

After that, Bellevue will host some arts and wine!

Members of Zafira will support the Bellevue arts community and will be performing through out this event in the old Murphy's Building. Which also happens to be where Boheme Center for Dance is located!

5-9PM $5 donation

521 Lincoln Ave, Pittsburgh Pa 15202 (starting on the 3rd Floor)

For email info:lincolnbarber@yahoo.com

www.enjoybellevue.com

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 2 replies

It's going to happen tonight!!! Right here in The Netherlands!

JK — Thu, 15 May 2008 15:41:22 GMT

Yes, Olivia Kissel will be giving a workshop tonight, here in The Netherlands!
I'm very curious and will be leaving in 20 minutes...
Am looking forward to enjoy myself!

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 4 replies

Jenn performing in New York City

crystaldunlap — Fri, 09 May 2008 11:42:09 GMT

Come on out and see Jenn's performance this weekend in New York City at "Rhapsody"

Other performers include. Kami Liddle, Sonia of the BDSS, Kaeshi of Bellyqueen, Crystal (that is me!!), Fatina of Flordia, Sera and Solistice, Sarah Locke and Alchemy, Sarah Skinner, Morocco, and Athialla.
Oh and live music by Djinn!!

Check it out and get tickets at www.unveiledbellydance.com/newyork

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 2 replies

A HUGE THANKS TO ZAFIRA!!

Nerissa — Mon, 12 May 2008 15:03:11 GMT

Thanks soo much to Olivia for some amazing workshops this weekend in Cambridge!

Such a wonderful teacher, and sooo much fun that even when your working your ass off,head dizzy with spins, and sweating cobs, that it still feels like fun :-)

LOVED every minute of it!!

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 1 reply

To Anyone Interested in Studying Music in Turkey... We've finally got a Guest House designed for musicians!

Nick — Sun, 04 May 2008 16:44:25 GMT

...Hey guys, I'm very excited to finally be spreading the word about this. For those of you who know me or have followed my blog postings in the past, you probably already know that I've been involved in a long term project in Istanbul. I'm proud to say that Sound Fabrika Studios has finally finished preparations and we're open for business!

What we're doing here is trying to help foreigners who come to Turkey connect with some of the great musicians in the city here for lessons and music research. Right now we're running this place as a sort of guest house, but a guest house with a sound-insulated practice space, and some of the best of the youngest generation of musicians teaching and helping people like us network and get involved in the diverse and wonderful music scene here.

For a price comparable to most pensions in the area we are offering a warm bed, bathroom w/ shower, turkish breakfast and free reign to use the practice rooms here from 8am-midnight whenever classes or private lessons aren't going on. (and finding somewhere to play a davul at 11pm at night is no easy task here!). We've also spent a lot of time working out agreements with some really phenomenal musicians, and we can arrange lessons with all forms of percussion (darbuka, bendir, kudum, asmi davul, udu drums etc.) as well as oud, baglama saz, kanun, clarinet, roman violin and many more....

I'd be happy to send you more information about specific teachers and more details about our lesson programs if any of you guys are interested in what we're doing here. I'm also happy to provide some references from some of the americans that I have met coming through who have studied with some of these teachers as well, so feel free to ask. We also have connections with some prominent oriental dance teachers in the city and are happy to help dance students connect with them as well.

I got involved in this project originally because of my own experiences living in the city here my first year and trying really hard to find good teachers.... it's no easy task. I've recently been making an effort to get more video online of what some of these guys can do. You can check out Hakan, our resident percussion teacher on some of the clips I've uploaded the other day:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vh93KRxAp7w

I love being able to find these great musicians work as much as I love being able to help students find really good teachers, and I think the sentiment is shared by everyone working on this with me. I hope some of you guys get a chance to take advantage of this stuff!

Feel free to drop me an email at raghebn@gmail.com with any questions, or you can try me on tribe (though I check my account here less often lately)

Kolay gelsin!

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 1 reply

Boheme studio schedule

mariahamer — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 13:09:42 GMT

So, an update to all students arteests interested in my new studio!

I am going to start teaching there 3rd week of May, sooon! (May 12th....)
I would like your feedback on this schedule presented. It won't necessarilly be permanent because I'm not technically teaching in the actual studio space yet. It's still under construction, and I need as much financial help as possible to help get it ready to be the studio of my dreams (and hopefully yours!) Therefore, I'm teaching upstairs in the store (in the back for privacy) for now. Any support from the PGH bellydance community is HUGELY appreciated!
PLease leave your suggestions and your favorite night for a specific class....

Temporary schedule:

Mondays:
5:15-6:45PM Level 1- basic drills/ basic footwork
7-8:30PM -Intermediate: heavy drills/ layering and footwork

Wed:
5:30-7PM Level 2 - drills/footwork/ w/ an emphasis on basic choreo and performance
7:15-8:15PM Zills

Thursday:
7-8:30PM Advanced heavy drills/ layering and footwork/ performance & presentation (I was thinking about making this one an "by invite only" class)

Boheme Center For Dance
521 Lincoln Ave
PGH, pa 15202

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 16 replies

Zafira in Cambridge 10th May!!

Nerissa — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 18:09:57 GMT

Hello,

Just seeing who else is coming to these workshops on 10th May?

Im sooo excited, and my bra project is almost complete, just need to sort the strapping out and Im done :-)

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 12 replies

Reyhan Tusuz & Turkish Romani Dance: Xpost

mariahamer — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 15:26:41 GMT

I found this on the Turkish Style Tribe page http://tribes.tribe.net/turkishstyle about Reyhan, a well known Rom dancer that has taught some of the best. I've not been able to study with her YET, sooon.... check out her and her husband on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wqiOxO53o7c

Here's the Xpost:
I received a message today from one of Reyhan's longtime students and I want to share it because I think it's important that anyone who has gotten anything from this dance give something back to those who gave it to us.
This is Ferda's email (please read my comments at the end):
"...you know Reyhan Tusuz, the wonderful Turk Roman dance teacher from Gaziosmanpasa in Istanbul. Some of you have met with her and taken a class. I have been a friend and student of Reyhan's for 5 years and on my last visit I learned some very very upsetting news and I felt I had to do something.

Some of you may know about what has been happening in Sulukule in Istanbul the oldest and longest settlement of Roman people in the world. The current city government is demolishing the historic area, forcing the people (who happen to be Roman some of the most marginalized people in the world and very poor) to accept very limited money and leave their homes. The money is not enough for the families to buy another home in Istanbul as the house prices in Istanbul are very high. Therefore the people must leave Istanbul or pay rent (very high rent) until their limited mney is gone and then they will have nothing. The whole community and this unique culture are being scattered and are at risk of being lost. For more about this you can read this here www.casbahdance.org/2006/10/...buls.html or this romnews.com/community/modules.php for more info.

But this email is about our friend and teacher and a great Rom ambassador to the world, Reyhan Tuzsuz. Last week I learned that Reyhan's family is being forced out of the gecekondo neighbourhood where they were born, where they have lived with their extended family, where their mother died, where her children were born and are being raised and where she has brought the world to learn about her clture and especially her dance. The world is richer for it. So, after witnessing Reyhan's sadness about losing her home and her fear for what they would do because the government will not pay the (very little) money until they leave their home, and she has no money to put a security deposit down to rent a new home in her neighbourhood, I felt I had to do something as Im sure you would, if you knew...

So here I am telling you all. If you would like to help, if you would like to contribue to preserving this treasure of a dance teacher in istanbul, THEN ...here is what you can do:

1. Send this message out to others who may want to help

2. Collect money from your community, even little bits will help THEN...2 options I can offer...

Reyhan has no bank account so the safest way to send money is by Western Union, I think. You can do it on-line with your credit card, (there is a 20% fee) give her name Reyhan Tuzsuz and her location (Istanbul Turkey) and then Reyhan goes to the nearest Western Union office to her with her ID card and picks up the money.

OR another option is you can visit the paypal website and go to the account yildizdanz@yahoo.com and the name Janet Shook. You can make a donation with no charge there.
Jennet has been a student of Reyhans for five years. She moved to Istanbul largely for the purpose of studying with Reyhan and helping her with her career. Janet manages many of Reyhans affairs and on several occasions before has used her account to transfer money to Reyhan.

This is our chance to help Reyhan and her family and to give other dancers a chance to learn with her. I hope together we can help this wonderful woman"

There is another way to help Reyhan. She is teaching in Washington, DC on May 17 & 18 at Herdeljezi (& also in NJ on the 19th and in NY on the 20th - if you contact me, I'll put you in touch with her sponsors there....).
Our "cause" this year is helping the Tuzsuz family get housing. Any proceeds after expenses are met and all artists are paid will be split between the WMFC and our gift to the Tuzsuz family. We will also have a collection box available for those who want to make personal contributions directly to Reyhan. Please spread the word and urge others to come as well.

We are also planning a tour with Janet Shook for the Tuzsuz family in the Fall which will include Turkish Romani, Oriental and Folk dance. However, this tour hinges on whether or not we can get artists visas for the Tuzsuz family - which is no easy task after 911.
However, I remain positive that we can pull it together. They will tour and teach and perform across the U.S. and all money will go to help them not only find a house but a studio where they can continue to teach and preserve their art & culture.
For those who don't know, Reyhan's husband is an amazing violin teacher and he also teaches percussion. Brad took classes with him while we were there.
I hope the entire community will come together to support this lady and her family. She is a true gem, and speaking personally I can say that she & Husnu have enriched my life one thousand-fold. I feel a great debt to her, and it is for that reason I will work my butt off to make this happen. But we can't do it alone. We need everyone's support. Please feel free to pass this info. along. I'll be posting everywhere, so I apologize for the crosspost.
yours in dance,
Kostana

For info on Herdeljezi or Reyhan's workshops in DC, please go to: www.wmfolklifecenter.org

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 6 replies

Zafira Tours Europe for the first time!

mariahamer — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 14:37:29 GMT

Zafira Dance Company is gearing up for their first European tour! Zafira was first invited to Barcelona's Tribal Fusion Dance Festival, and once word spread that Zafira was going overseas, more invitations quickly followed. Currently, Zafira has dates in Barcelona, the UK, Dublin and Amsterdam in May of 2008.

* Barcelona, Spain May 3 – 5 Hosted by Mandragora Tribal
* Leister, England May 10 Hosted by Bodhaia Tribal
* Dublin, Ireland May 11 contact info soon....
* Amsterdam, Netherlands May 14 - 17 hosted by The Uzume

For contact and links goto
http://www.zafiradance.com/upcomingevents.html

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 16 replies

ZAFIRA IN THE UK!!

Nicky — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 18:03:10 GMT

Wooooo-Heeee! We get Zafira too!

Workshops are pretty much sold out, all but for two spaces on a choreography workshop.

Tickets still available for the performance hafla, with tribal bazaar and plenty of free dancing - the usual BellyNut family-feel hafla. Come and feel part of the community!

More information on http://tribes.tribe.net/bellynuttribal
Thanks
Nicola

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 1 reply

Triboriginal Commercial on YouTube!

mariahamer — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 19:42:25 GMT

Check it aaaaaaht! so much fun!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zc9tliofyRU

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 3 replies

Last Class in Squirrel Hill! Friday 4.25

mariahamer — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 14:26:48 GMT

~This Friday class at Squirrel Hill location is the last class! Join us for a whoopin' and then come have a goodbye drink!
Friday 4-25
Intermediate/Advanced $12 drop in
7-8:30PM @ Bodiography
Squirrel Hill
5824 Forbes Ave., 3rd Floor
Pittsburgh, PA 15217

~Don't forget to check out Boheme Center For Dance's Schedule and sign up today!
To register goto
http://www.zafiradance.com/classes.htm

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 0 replies

'Official' temporary Boheme Schedule!

mariahamer — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 13:48:11 GMT

So, as I prep for the OFFICIAL space for my studio, I need extra spending money to pay for all the awesome stuff to make make the space soopah swanky for us....
So we will be dancing in a 'temporary' space (with mirrors!).... This will be the OFFICIAL schedule starting the week of May 12th.
http://www.zafiradance.com/classes.htm

Paypal for pre paying will be up soon, you can contact me directly if you'd like to pay by check or money order @ maria@zafiradance.com

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 2 replies

Thanks Hideous Kinky 2!

mariahamer — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 12:14:47 GMT

I just wanted to put a BIG THANK YOU!

To alll of the amazing performers, MIRA (you made me cry!), Sadiqa (love the new layers in the choreo!)and a HUGE thanks for bringing Ms. Betz!, Balafon (the energy just brought everyone in the audience to a great high), Ukulucky( like I said, so simple and perfect... like lemonade and a hot summer day on the porch), Midge Cricket( your voice and the depth, and the comedy and UH! I just love it!) and of course Mandee (you really set the mood for the night and many people complimented me on your magic that night) and Nick!!! (I don't believe that you don't play for dancers that much... UNBELIEVABLE!) DJ SarahClaire, I wanted to hear more!! It got so late, but I LOVED what you did!!!Thanks for closing us out!
and most important to me... Jen, Olivia, Christine & Pata.... LOVE you guys!

DOOGIE!~ your lighting and sound were perfecto! thanks for keepin yer kewl when all was chaos. and I loved the colored lights in the building!

The Volunteers: Rua, Tyreena, Kate, Cindi, Margaret, Rashell, & Stefanie! Thanks for helping to support us and the shows we put on..... your help really HELPS!

The Grey Box, for the amazing chance to perform in your space... I wanna do more!

The V-day foundation..... We would love to work more with you in the future. It just gave all of us the opportunity to say Vagina ruthlessly throughout the evening!

WITH all of that said.....
We won't be having a show in PGH for a while... traveling and seminars all over! The next workshop/show will be with Urban Tribal July 5&6..... so keep your ear peeled for AWESOME GENIOUS... fa reeel!

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 4 replies

Last Day for prereg Maria's Sat workshop!

mariahamer — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 14:58:26 GMT

*****************************************************************
PreReg for Maria's Saturday workshop ends tonight (4.16.08) at midnight!
REGISTER HERE!
http://www.zafiradance.com/oliviashimmyseries.htm

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

Zafira Pittsburgh Workshops!

* Two-hr workshops monthly for 2008 !

Venue:Breathe Yoga Studio
1113 E Carson St (3rd Floor)
Pittsburgh, Pa 15203
412.481.YOGA

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

Sat. April 19th:
Combo-Nation 2: The Cutting Edge! w/ Maria Hamer

Workshop times: 1-3PM
Workshop fees:
$20 in advance/$30 ( April 16th), paypal tax added
Workshop descriptions:

This fast paced and inspiring workshop takes your combos to the next level. Along with an envigorating warm up, we will cover complicated footwork, high technique and combinations that are brimming with innovation! All of the combos will be presented as "in the works" which garauntees it's 'fresh' feel. Some will have a touch of the 'Old' but it will be presented in a way that will inspire you to create 'new works" out of 'old works'.Bring your note pad & yoga mat for the brief warm up.
************************************************************

Sat. May 24th:
ShimmyTastic! w/ Maria Hamer

Workshop times: 1-3PM
Workshop fees:
$20 in advance/$30 ( May 21st), paypal tax added

Workshop descriptions:

Shimmy-TASTIC!
Take your shimmies to the next level! In this workshop we will cover the classic 3/4 shimmy, with walking, layering exercises and drills. We will also take the 3/4 shimmy to parts of our bodies you never knew were supposed to 3/4 shimmy! We will cover 4/4 shimmies as well to better understand and get better control of our hips. To finish off our workshop we'll cover some unique combos utilizing what we learned, Zafira style! Please bring water and a yoga mat for warm up & cool down.

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

**Registration fees are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled **

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 1 reply

Live Drummers @ Friday Class!!!!!

mariahamer — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 14:53:14 GMT

There's nuttin like LIVE musicians for class!
This week, 4.18.08, the amazing talents Simon Yeager, Phil and Nick Regheb (sp?) will be playing for my Friday night class! Be there or be square!
NOT to mention that this will be my 2nd to last class at the Squirrel Hill studio!!
Last class is on 4.25.08
See you there!!

More scheduling info at
http://www.zafiradance.com/classes.htm

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 0 replies

NEWS: new classes. seminars. shows

mariahamer — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 13:57:09 GMT

SO many things are starting fresh this spring for Zafira! As we gear up for our FIRST ever bellydance international tour (Olivia mostly!) We also have news n the Pittsburgh and local front:

* Maria's new studio: Boheme Center for Dance
* Zafira workshop April 19th w/ Maria
* CCAC North Campus International Performance
* Urban Tribal July 5&6!

*********************************************************
So, an update to all students arteests interested in my new studio!

I am going to start teaching there 3rd week of May, sooon! (May 12th....)
I would like your feedback on this schedule presented. It won't necessarilly be permanent because I'm not technically teaching in the actual studio space yet. It's still under construction, and I need as much financial help as possible to help get it ready to be the studio of my dreams (and hopefully yours!) Therefore, I'm teaching upstairs in the store (in the back for privacy) for now. Any support from the PGH bellydance community is HUGELY appreciated!
PLease leave your suggestions and your favorite night for a specific class....

Temporary schedule:

Mondays:
5:15-6:45PM Level 1- basic drills/ basic footwork
7-8:30PM -Intermediate: heavy drills/ layering and footwork

Wed:
5:30-7PM Level 2 - drills/footwork/ w/ an emphasis on basic choreo and performance
7:15-8:15PM Zills

Thursday:
7-8:30PM Advanced heavy drills/ layering and footwork/ performance & presentation (I was thinking about making this one an "by invite only" class)

Boheme Center For Dance
521 Lincoln Ave
PGH, pa 15202

Check here for updates:
http://www.zafiradance.com/classes.htm

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

Zafira Pittsburgh Workshops!

* Two-hr workshops monthly for 2008!

REGISTER HERE!

http://www.zafiradance.com/oliviashimmyseries.html

Venue:Breathe Yoga Studio
1113 E Carson St (3rd Floor)
Pittsburgh, Pa 15203

412.481.YOGA

Sat. April 19th:
Combo-Nation 2: The Cutting Edge! w/ Maria Hamer

Workshop times: 1-3PM
Workshop fees:
$20 in advance/$30 ( April 16th), paypal tax added

Workshop descriptions:

This fast paced and inspiring workshop takes your combos to the next level. Along with an envigorating warm up, we will cover complicated footwork, high technique and combinations that are brimming with innovation! All of the combos will be presented as "in the works" which garauntees it's 'fresh' feel. Some will have a touch of the 'Old' but it will be presented in a way that will inspire you to create 'new works" out of 'old works'.Bring your note pad & yoga mat for the brief warm up.

Sat. May 24th:
ShimmyTastic! w/ Maria Hamer

Workshop times: 1-3PM
Workshop fees:
$20 in advance/$30 ( May 21st), paypal tax added

Workshop descriptions:

Shimmy-TASTIC!
Take your shimmies to the next level! In this workshop we will cover the classic 3/4 shimmy, with walking, layering exercises and drills. We will also take the 3/4 shimmy to parts of our bodies you never knew were supposed to 3/4 shimmy! We will cover 4/4 shimmies as well to better understand and get better control of our hips. To finish off our workshop we'll cover some unique combos utilizing what we learned, Zafira style! Please bring water and a yoga mat for warm up & cool down.

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

International Food & Dance Festival @ CCAC North Campus!

April 17th Thursday

, World Cultures Club Dance and Food Festival, Thurs., 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Atrium, ticket pre-sale $3, $5 day of event

PERFORMANCE BY

Zafira, Khafif and Kristi Ward!

The dance performances would start at 11a.m and will go on until 1 p.m. Two dancers from Zafira would start at 11a.m and will go on until 11.30 a.m. . Khafif would continue from 11.30 to noon (the dancers are Claire Litton & Darcy) followed by Kristi Ward from the Greycloud Studios.

You should enter the building through the main entrance. You will see the reception (first stop). The performance area will be behind that. You will see the tables, food and other arrangements.
For the directions to reach the campus go to http://www.ccac.edu/default.aspx?id=137337

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

URBAN TRIBAL DANCE CO!
HUGE INNOVATORS for Bellydance and the dance world!
These artists have been a huge inspiration to us, and many of the most recognized bellydancers today! Mark your calenders for seminars and show with Heather Stants & Sarah Plaisted of Urban Tribal Dance Company http://www.urbantribaldance.com/
of San Diego!

July 5&6 2008!
more info soon.....

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

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 2 replies

The pics are up from the Knox show!

jaia — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 13:30:48 GMT

http://to-gary.com/gallery/WS2.htm

Show Gary some love, he does such amazing work!!
He also does this really cool thing with poetry and thumbnails.
Just point at the thumbnails from start to finish, and a poem will unfold!!

Also check out the pics from our last photo shoot while you're there...

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 2 replies

Thank You Zafira!

Swabere — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 18:32:12 GMT

Thank you so much Christine & Jennifer for your amazing performances at my gallery opening on Friday. You both added a beauty that can not be recreated with any photograph.

Thank you again

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 3 replies

Everything is Illuminated

Aviva — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 03:19:11 GMT

Ever see the movie? Everything is Illuminated is an amazing movie. The soundtrack is also amazing! I think it would be a lot of fun to dance to. It's a lot of old, Eastern European sounding music, with "Start Wearing Purple" as the final song.

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 8 replies

Zafira so blazed glory in TN

onca — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 03:00:24 GMT

It was an wonderful weekend -
the workshop was awesome and the Speakeasy Show had so much cool material.
The late-night tango, cuddling and capoeira...a gemini's multimedia heaven.
Oh yay Team Zafira!

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 10 replies

Hideous Kinky ON the HOT LIST Post Gazette weekender!

mariahamer — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:54:34 GMT

Check out the actual paper for a purty ass pic of Olivia, but if you just wanna see da blurb about the show check itt!!!!
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08101/871927-42.stm

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 3 replies

Desperately seeking Rua ;-)

Tyreena — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 21:47:47 GMT

Rua (or somebody that has her phone #)... could you please privately send me the phone number?
I left it at the office. We are car-pooling tomorrow and I need her location. :-)

T.I.A.

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 0 replies

Hideous Kinky ~ Show One

Darter02 — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 22:14:01 GMT

Thanks for allowing me to come and shoot the show. I had a really enjoyable time and think I took a few good shots. I'm NOT done processing all the photos yet. As some of you may know, I am now a stay at home dad, so I can only work on the PC for a few hours a day.

Any-who...

I'm breaking the show up by performers, so there will be about 9 galleries once everything is complete. I'll post here as I get them up and running.

If you want a copy of something, just leave a message for me, marked as private, under the photos you want. Be sure to include your email in the little field so I can mail the files. You can also save the web images right off the site, you just have to rename them and make them jpg.

Feel free to leave comments in the galleries or under photos for others to read as well!

See: http://www.pbase.com/darter02/hk1

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 5 replies

Mira Betz this weekend!!!

kari_merlina — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:41:44 GMT

Tomorrow is the last day to register on-line for workshops with Mira Betz. Don't miss the opportunity to study with this very talented and elegant Belly Dancer!!
~ Hosted by Sadiqa ~
www.sadiqabellydance.com
Register now:
http://yogaandbellydance.com/mirabetzworkshop.html

SCHEDULE for April 12th (Andrew Carnegie Free Library and Music Hall):
**Doors open at 8:00am
Yoga with Sterling Painton - 8:30 to 9:30am
Taxeem - 9:45 to 11:45am
LUNCH - 11:45 to 1:00pm
Hot and Spicy Combinations - 1:00 to 3:00pm
**additional fee for yoga and lunch

SCHEDULE for April 13th (venue is at organizer's home):
The Art of Professional Performance (lecture) - 12:00 to 2:00pm

Sadiqa and Mira Betz will be featured performers at Zafira's Speakeasy Cabaret "Hideous Kinky" on the evening of April 12th. The show will be at the Greybox Theatre in Lawrenceville (Pittsburgh), PA. For more details and tickets: www.zafiradance.com/mira.html

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 3 replies

Class on for this FRIDAY only 3 left @ Squirrel Hill location!

mariahamer — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 22:03:27 GMT

Hey all!
I'm very geeked about Mira Betz this weekend, and I just wanted you all to know that I AM having Friday class... so come on and warm up for the weekends festivities!!!!

Not to mention that I am OFFICIALLY moving ,my classes to Bellevue starting in May, so only 3 classes afre left in the Squirrel Hill Location! Get em in fast!!!!
http://www.zafiradance.com

Classes resume at my new studio Bohe,me Center for dance 521 Lincoln Ave... stay tuned for more details!

PS... don't forget to sign up for my WORKSHOP next April 19th!!!
http://www.zafiradance.com/oliviashimmyseries.html

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 4 replies

The Mass poisoning of Humanity: Article on poisons we ingest

mariahamer — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 14:13:24 GMT

I've ALWAYS been afraid of aspartame and things like flouride.... now I know why.... click the link below to read an article I found about such troubling and informative things.... and feel free to share any resources you all might have found as welll.... oy!

http://www.naturalnews.com/008511.html

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 2 replies

this weekendz comin'!!!

Mira — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 15:40:58 GMT

i am getting the flutters in my utters about this coming weekend with you ladies!

just wanted to put it out there i will be bringing my jewelry to sell as well as the infamous RoseHips

cheers!

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 2 replies

Vending at Zafira Workshop this weekend!

amanda — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 16:46:08 GMT

Bring some extra cash on Saturday ladies, we will have the lovely ladies of Zafira selling their merchandise during the workshop! In addition, we are thrilled to announce the launch of Renaissance Couture, a new costuming line owned and operated by Sherry Ward, with over 40 years experience as a seamstress, let her dress you in vintage decadence! She will have a sampling of her work available for sale, as well as information for custom orders for you and your troupe mates!

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 1 reply

Hideous! Kinky! Deux April 12

oliviakiss — Sat, 29 Mar 2008 16:22:53 GMT

Mira Betz
Sadiqa
Balafon West African Music and Dance Company
Ukelucky (The dynamic duo: Ukelizzy and Buddy Nutt)
Zafira Dance Company
Emcee Phat Mandee
and more!

Hideous! Kinky!
Sat. April 12
8 PM
@
Grey Box Theatre
3595 Butler St (Lawrenceville)
Pittsburgh, PA 15201

For info on Workshops w. Mira Betz and to purchase tickets:
http://www.zafiradance.com/mira.html

We are excited about this show because it coincides w/ the 10th Anniversary of Eve Ensler's Vagina Monologues and her V Day foundation whose mission is to stop violence against women.

Hideous! Kinky! will coincide w/ a huge 2 day V-Day spectacular at the Super Dome in New Orleans. Selma Heyak, Oprah, Ellen Degeneres... and a gagillion other stars will all perform at the Super Dome and all the money from these events will go straight to the women of New Orleans!! Here is an article about the event:

http://v10.vday.org/node/401

Here is Eve Ensler speaking about her play, her foundation and its mission and her evolution in Buddhism:

http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/view/id/64

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 1 reply

NEW! Boheme Center for Dance, Bellevue, Pa!

mariahamer — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 19:57:53 GMT

I Got a NEW studio!!!!
I am crazy excited about this... right now we are getting it ready so we can start up classes in May (hopefully!)....
Any suggestions for classes??
Of course we will offer levels 1thru Advncd Bellydance (time suggestions?)
I would like to offer specialty classes like zill or cane... also more experimental things like hula hoops and poi(looking for teachers still)...
Beyond that, world dance and fitness....

I will have a lounge and jam area for late night parties as well as public library of videos and books for people to get smart!

ALSO... I will host salons for students regularly here!
I want everyones input as well as help!
I will have a painting party date TBA... Pizza and drinks will be available!!

Boheme Center for Dance
521 Lincoln Ave (downstairs)
Pittsburgh, pa 15202

I'll keep you all posted!!!!

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 25 replies

caravan serai question

Oona — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 17:34:02 GMT

just one question: you absolutely beautiful ladies were dancing on the caravan serai -vid to a (for me) wonderful music: the basket dance... i even was looking for it at itunes... from wich cd do you have it? i saw the dvd with a friend. and she was (after a looooong, looooooooong, loooooooong time) a little bit angry about 'i want to see and hear it again'. so please, help me and save the nerves of my friend ;)
greeeetz from germany
oona (sorry about my english -last lesson is verry long ago ;) )

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 16 replies

Golden Belly Awards

oliviakiss — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 00:16:02 GMT

Check out this link for Nomination information,
now's the time to make your choices!!!

zaghareet.freeservers.com/poll.html

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 1 reply

Costume Question about the lovely bra-ness

Nerissa — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 19:54:28 GMT

Hello,

The bra's you lovely ladies wear, do you make them yourselves?

Not seen anything like them in the UK & me wants one, sorry that should have been... me neeeeeds one lol ;-)

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 3 replies

workshop wear with Zafira question

genie — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 14:29:53 GMT

probably sounds a bit pathetic but i would like some suggestions on what to wear for a workshop in cambridge u.k.with Zafira
im a tribal beginner and i want to look the part the workshop is called gypsy spins and styling

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 13 replies

Workshop w. Me this Sat

oliviakiss — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 22:33:08 GMT

from 1 - 3 pm at Breathe.

i am going to honor the $20 charge at the door cuz i didn't advertize worth a damn.

I am excited to get back to the home studio and work out w. you all.
we will shape the workshop around your interests.
i am thinking that it will be a mix of bellywork and sassy combinations that mix footwork and torso work.

I hope to see you there.

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 0 replies

Maria-isms

Tyreena — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 23:12:09 GMT

Our class has a lot of fun. Maria has a way of describing a choreographed piece and/or move so expessively, vivid and most of the
time down-right funny (Probably because we all are on the same channel).
We sometimes come up with our own descriptions but for the most part they come from Maria! I lurve her and the classes.

Here is a Maria-ism from class....

- Peanut butter jar licker (can ya guess what move this is?)

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 8 replies

Performing at Dave Urbanic's Opening! Thursday 3.27

mariahamer — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 18:16:08 GMT

Sight of Sound
The Photography of David Urbanic
May 26 - April 8
Geno's Restaurant
5147 Butler St. (Lawrenceville)
Pittsburgh, Pa.

The best of band and music photography by David Urbanic, 2003-2008!

Featuring Performances by:

David Ullman
Acclaimed Cleveland singer/songwriter touring in support of his full length debut, Dog Days
Wednesday, March 26th, 5pm - 8pm
www.davidullman.net

Kill the Unicorn & Zafira
Pittsburgh's own avante-folk/soul marvels!
Thursday, March 27th, 9pm - 1am
http://www.myspace.com/killtheunicorn
http:/www.zafiradance.com

Zelazowa
Incredible, internationally touring rock band from Philadelphia!
Friday, March 28th, 9pm -1am
http://www.zelazowa.com

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 0 replies

Kansas woman kidnapped by bellydancers!

Tanya — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 18:09:12 GMT

I loved it!
You guys are amazing. Thanks for the fabulous class and the ride home... I sat on the plane with sore calves and butt!
I am looking forward to seeing and hearing more from you and Pittsburgh is only 2.5 hours away by air.
Keep rocking out. I wish I lived closer. *cries a little*

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 3 replies

Hey beautiful ladies!

Amber — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 17:08:39 GMT

I know there is supposed to be a workshop with Olivia next week and one in April. Any ideas as to what the topics are?

Thanks lovely ladies!

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 2 replies

Thank you Zafira and Mardi Love!

Molly — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 00:52:05 GMT

The weekend workshops were awesome! A big THANK YOU to Zafira and Mardi Love for making it happen :)

The sloshed-out, crazy, Patty's Day crowd made things a bit more interesting as well, lol!!

You guys Rock!

BTW - I didn't catch the name of that first track we danced to on Sunday...I think it was called 'Oopah Supa' or something? I probably just butchered that name!

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 17 replies

Shimmy for a Cure in Erie PA: Featuring Zafira!

stadtica — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 00:14:34 GMT

To benefit: The John Kanzius Cancer Research Foundation www.johnkanziuscancerresearchfoundation.org
Saturday May 31, 2008, show starts at 7:30pm
Doors open at 6:30pm
At the Erie Playhouse Theater, 13 W. 10th St, Erie PA 16501
www.erieplayhouse.org/
Proudly presenting: Zafira Dance Company (voted dance troupe of the year 2007
by Zaghareet Magazine)
also featuring the talents of: Shades of Araby with Valizan (Toronto CA), Sadiqa (Pittsburgh, PA) Euphraxia Buffalo NY), Gypsy RaQ, Evil Peanut Butter, The Houdani Dancers (Eastside YMCA), Jessica Stadtmeuller (Erie Art Museum) and Kadri (Buffalo NY) and more!
Also, see the special “Candle Bellydance” in Honor/Memory of Cancer Survivors/Victims….
Enjoy..
Chinese auction, Henna artists, Vendors, Live music featuring Gypsy RaQ with Carlala, Cash bar

Gala Tickets
Regular seats $15,
Gold seats $30, (includes up front seating and special after performance meet the dancers reception with Wine, Cheese and Chocolate buffet)!
Tickets NOT YET for sale, but will be available at the Erie Playhouse Box office and via the Shimmy for a Cure website

Zafira Workshops!!! (not part of benefit)
(To be held at the Avalon Hotel) Hosted by The Fleming School of Dance (Carlala) www.theflemingschool.com/

“Bellydance Bootcamp”
Saturday. May 31, 2008 from 1-3pm
This bellydance workshop includes aerobic dance combinations and conditioning exercises to build strength and endurance, while hip, chest drills and belly work are used to develop technique. Bring a yoga mat and some water.

“Zafira Choreography”
Sunday. June 1, 2008 from 11am-1pm
Let Zafira share some of their secrets of choreography creation. This workshop works on stage presence, posture, working with other dancers, and shows how to make even a simple choreography dynamic. Also, We will work in pairs/small groups to learn a short choreography.
Registration info TBA very soon!
Hope you all can come and be a part this very special event!

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 23 replies

TribOriginal Early Bird Deadline ENDS SOON!

mariahamer — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 16:08:41 GMT

EMERGE into SPRING with TRIBORIGINAL!

TRIBO EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT ENDS MARCH 15

September 18-21, 2008
Triboriginal: Tribal Dance, Music & Culture Camp

Triboriginal is an annual event
in gorgeous Black Mountain, NC.

TribO is dedicated to nourishing not just the Tribal bellydancer, but
the community & the family.

In addition to workshops & master classes with national drum & dance
artists, TribO provides classes in the circus arts, stagecraft &
presentation, business training for artists, melody & culture, a full
children's program with a scholarship fund, rustic country lodging,
all whole foods catered meals, & a full weekend of parties and
excellent performance.

Early Bird Discounts only last till March 15. That's just one week.

* With the discount, the Full Access Package is just $300, $225
for Teens/Adult Limited Access, $175 kids, & $150 Saturday pass.

* Add an extra day of meals, fun, lodging & best of all, intimate
Master Classes with Zafira Dance Company, Troupe of the Year 2007, for
just $110.

* March 15 through September 14, prices go up: $350 full package,
$250 teens/adult limited, $195 kids, and $155 Saturday pass.

* September 15 through the gate will be: $400 full package, $300
teens/limited adult, & $160 Saturday pass.

GOOD NEWS! 10% GROUP DISCOUNTS APPLY TO ALL EARLY REGISTRATIONS!

The Work Study option is also available this year. Many hands make
light work.

GOTO the TribO site HERE
http://www.barakamundi.com/triboriginal/

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 5 replies

Question about barrell turns

nari — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 19:52:15 GMT

I think I'm gonna barf if I try it again without help!
Olivia, please post tips for non-barfy barrell turns.
:)

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 14 replies

April 5th Knoxville Show

jaia — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 02:21:04 GMT

Raks Knoxvillia: a Speakeasy Event

The show that evening will be held at World Grotto at 9:30, and will feature Zafira, along with Ananda, Dandasha and the Mezmer Society. Set in the 30's and 40's, this show will weave a tale of lovelorn desire, ambition, comedic relief and heart wrenching loss: in the form of a silent film. Travel back in time as we explore antics and romantics of early theatre, dance and music.

Workshop space still available. Contact Jaia for registration information.

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 7 replies

Tonight's FRIDAY CLASS IZ STILL ON!!! 3.14.08

mariahamer — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 14:22:25 GMT

We have Mardi Love alllll weekend, but tonight you have me to warm up those bellydance muskkkles.... so everyone coming to town, COME TO MY CLASS!!!!!
here's a mapquest to the class...
http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?country=US&countryid=US&addtohistory=&searchtab=address&searchtype=address&address=5824+Forbes+Avenue&city=Pittsburgh&state=pa&zipcode=&search=++Search++

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 2 replies

Last Day to Pre-Register for Mira Betz!!!

kari_merlina — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 14:18:11 GMT

Don't miss this GOLDEN opportunity to Study with the talented Mira Betz. Her unique blend of Traditional, Cabaret & Tribal belly dance styles ~ is worth a million.

She'll share her knowledge, expertise & experiences to help create the growth of belly dance and YOU as a DANCER!!

We highly recommend the Lecture/Discussion Workshop so that you can enhance your knowledge of the inner workings of the belly dance performance world!

Mira Betz
Saturday, April 12 and Sunday, April 13, 2008
~Sponsored by Sadiqa ~
(formerly Purple Matilda)

THREE Fabulous Belly Dance Workshops &
Only 1 More Day for Early Bird Registration!

Register Today at:
http://www.yogaandbellydance.com/schedulefeespay.html

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 0 replies

Olivia kicked my arse...

Jessie — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 03:20:41 GMT

But it a good way.

The African class has inspired to seek classes. What an amazing dance with high energy. I'm so glad I got there early for this.

Olivia's energy was entoxicating! Her teaching style was very clear and she made us laugh continuously which made me feel very much at ease. Her performance was beautiful as well as inspiring.
My legs and stomach are sore from the little bit of pilates we did in the warm up. The dances helped as well and even though I was tired for the last hour I pushed through to get every minute squeezed. I wasn't able to attend the cane class on Sunday but I'm sure it was just as fun as Saturday.

I can't wait for Triboriginal in Sept to learn more from you again.

I love you, Olivia!!!!

Jessie

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 30 replies

Hideous! Kinky!

oliviakiss — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 21:42:20 GMT

Join us on March 15th at the Rex for a wildly exotic evening of comedy, music, dance, and side-show soliloquy!!!

Hideous Kinky:Speak-Easy Cabaret
Sat. March 15
Rex Theater
Pittsburgh, PA
8pm (Doors 7:30)
$12 Advance/ $15 Door

Performances by:
Mardi Love (Vaudeville Bellydance, Bellydance SuperStar, San Fran)
Phat Mandee and guests (emcee and songstress)
Buddy Nutt (Musical Saw and more..)
Midge Cricket (Whimsical Songs to delight your funnybone)
Mandara (Vaudeville Bellydance, VA)
Crystal Dunlap (Bellydance, NYC)
Ariel (Gypsy-Jazz Bellydance, DC)
Jen Pascoe (Roving Accordian)
Kill the Unicorn (To get us all out of our seat and dance!)

and of course, your hostesses:
Zafira Dance Company

Check www.zafiradance.com for more info on the show & artists and accompanying dance workshops.

Visit https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr to purchase tickets in advance!!!

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 6 replies

April 12th Show with Mira Betz!!!

mariahamer — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 01:32:39 GMT

A SpeakEasy Cabaret!
..we love that kinda entertainment!

mixing varieties of entertaining spectacles!

BUY YOUR TICKETS TODAY!
http://www.zafiradance.com/mira.html

* Saturday April 12th, 2008

Venue:
Grey Box Theatre
3595 Butler St
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
412.586.7744
greyboxtheatre@aol.com

Show time: doors 7:30/8PM show
Show fee: $10/$15 (door), paypal tax added

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

Line-up:
*FEATURING MIRA BETZ!

*Show hostesses: The ladies of Zafira Dance Co

*The hostesses who brought Mira here for intensive seminars:
Sadiqa! (formerly known as Purple Matilda)

* and more tantalizing performances to come soon.....

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

**Registration fees are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled **

* Email us if you have any questions!
zafiradanceco@gmail.com

BUY YOUR TICKETS TODAY!
http://www.zafiradance.com/mira.html

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 0 replies

Don't miss the opportunity.....

kari_merlina — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 22:11:38 GMT

***Early Bird Registration for workshops with Mira Betz in Pittsburgh, PA ends March 13th.***
Don't miss the opportunity to learn from the lovely and talented Mira Betz!!!
~ Hosted by Sadiqa
Register today!! www.yogaandbellydance.com/schedulefeespay.html

Taxeem (April 12, 2008 - 9:45 to 11:45am):
An articulate workshop designed to enhance the poise and fluidity of the taxeem, with an emphasis on arms and hands, introducing dancers to movement vocabulary beyond the “Tribal Frame” as well as polishing transitions. We will address such issues as timing, musical and personal interpretation, illusions of the boneless dancer, and sensual vs sexual.

Hot and Spicy (April 12, 2008 - 1:00 to 3:00pm):
An exhilarating and inspirational workshop, designed to be accessible to all levels, with a playful array of drills, combos and hot new moves. Through a series of technical drills and improvised combos students will engage in such topics as dynamic phrasing, musicality, personal expression and the art of creating your own combos.

The Art of Professional Performance (April 13, 2008 - 12:00 to 2:00pm):
This innovative workshop is open to dancers of all levels and backgrounds. After hours of preparation in classes, practice in front of the mirror, and rehearsal, how are you presenting yourself as a professional performer? This workshop offers the tools both practical and theoretical to break into or enhance your professional appearance. It will provide insight into job seeking, costuming, make-up tips, promotional packages, as well as explore the illusive notions of stage presence, charisma, "handling" the audience and much more. This workshop is tailored to the participants present. Bring any promotional material you have on yourself, dance photos, your make-up, a costume you are working on, and dress in comfortable clothing.

Don't forget......Sterling Painton will start off the April 12th event with Yoga Stretches for Belly Dancers from 8:30 to 9:30. Also, we will have an on-site buffet lunch for $5. And lastly......Mira Betz and Sadiqa (formerly PurpleMatilda) will perform at Zafira Dance Company's Speakeasy Cabaret Evening Show on April 12th. For more info and tickets: www.zafiradance.com

Pre-register for all 3 workshops, yoga and on-site lunch now until March 13, 2008!!!
www.yogaandbellydance.com/schedulefeespay.html

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 2 replies

Keeping in touch w our neighbors

Carlala — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 14:34:28 GMT

Hey guys, here's links to join Erie Pa Bellydance and Shimmy for a Cure...come say Hi!

Erie <3 Pittsburgh!

http://tribes.tribe.net/eriebellydance

http://tribes.tribe.net/charitybellydanceevent08

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 0 replies

gogol bordello live

Kelly — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 13:03:12 GMT

i know this is a bit OT but i thought you guys would appreciate it. this is my review of gogol bordello live.

i recently went to go see gogol bordello in chicago and it was a phenomenal show. their music sounds even better live and all the band members are excellent showmen/women. their performance, like their music, was high energy and passionate and you could not help but be swept away.

what grabbed me the most about the whole experience were the audience participants. it was a total mosh pit but they/we were the happiest people i had ever seen in a mosh pit. they/we were signing every word as we did the pogo and pushed to get ever closer to the front. people showed good pit etiquette as well.

if you are remotely interested in rromany music/dance from eastern europe that has been fused with punk, i highly recommend that you go to one of their shows or if you just like good music and a show that is a lot of fun.

posted in Zafira Dance Company - 7 replies