The Gilded Serpent Archives
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Events,Videos & Film, Music, Books, Other

Events (31 articles) Sometimes events are documented at reports and not reviews. Event reports are listed under articles.
2008
8-26-08 Elena Lentini and Carvanserai Dance Theatre: “ Argumentum Ornithologicum” Report and Review by Elaine
November 7-10, 2007, Hudson Guild Theatre, New York City, most photos by author, show photos by Mia Moy

8-12-08 Review: "Allure of the East: Orientalism in New York, 1850-1930" at the New York Historical Society by Thalia
This small one-room exhibit with its narrow geographic focus--the city O. Henry dubbed “Baghdad-on-the-Subway”--presents much for dancers to consider. As belly dance continues to gain popularity, what is this continuing "allure" of the Orientalist inspired arts? When is attraction to this aesthetic drawn from a desire to understand other cultures and when is it driven by desire to market ourselves?

3-28-08 Gypsy…Un, Deux, Trois, A Review on the “Journey Along The Gypsy Trail” Workshop by Denise
with Hadia, Jalilah Zamora, and Amrita Choudhury, Photos by Denise and Tracey Vilbert, Event held on January 5, 6, 2008, in Montreal, Canada

2007
12-27-07 Californian Adventure " Prop til ya Drop" The San Francisco Chapter of MECDA Gala Concert Dec 3, 2006 Reviewed by Renee of Australia
A stage presentation is totally different from dancing at a restaurant, party entertainment, school concerts, haflas and displays.
At these venues you do not necessarily expect all of the above. The stage gives dancers the opportunity to strut their stuff in an entirely different light.

12-3-07 Bellyqueen vs. Barbary Coast: It’s an east coast west coast showdown! Gina Grandi puts on a show of astronomical proportions. Review and photos by Surreyya. Comedic timing, clever costuming and an endless supply of mojo bring about the wonderment of the early settlers of the California gold rush, with a taste of burlesque, and a taunt of influences from around the globe.

7-16-07 Fifi Reloaded! Review of Fifi Abdo Workshop and Show by Catherine Barros photos by Monica Bereni
Sponsored by Little Egypt Holiday Inn Select, Dallas, Texas May 18-20, 2007

7-11-07 Dahlena, The Classic Style Prevails, Workshop review by Rebecca Firestone
Raqia does everything from the knees, and Dahlena said not to do that! What's a girl to do?

6-13-07 Le Serpent Rouge Reviewed by Yasmela
The blending of theater and dance was really outstanding with broad comedy moving seamlessly into dance.

5-24-07 Elegance and Power, A Weekend Workshop with Raqia Hassan, Gala Performance Show, Review and Report by Rebecca Firestone
April 21 and 22, 2007, Odd Fellows Hall, Redwood City, CA. Her personal style was an oddly elusive mixture of street attitude and elegance, both "fierce and friendly" as one person said.

5-18-07 An Evening with The American Bellydance Superstars, Reviewed by Sierra
Marin Civic Auditorium, March 3, 2007. "Even though the dancing from Egyptian cabaret to tribal and venues in between is incredibly bold, excellent in stylizing and format… it truly is an American tableau of how we represent this art."

5-15-07 Thribal Throwdown Photos and Workshop Review for Heather Stants’ “Appetite for Deconstruction: Urban Tribal Style” Review by Eleyda Photos by Brad
March 17, 2007 Live Oak Center in Berkeley. Heather’s task was to transmit that fusion thought in the workshop. She did an excellent job.

4-18-07 Fresh off the Plane from Cairo, A Workshop Review of Astryd Farah deMichele by Betsey Flood
So how does Astryd select the signature moves she wants to teach? What she looks for first and foremost is being entertained.

4-13-07 Ballet Afsaneh and Carmen Carnes Dance Ensemble Reviewed by: Rebecca Firestone
Full Circle Little Theater Marin Civic Center, San Rafael, CA February 16, 2007 And since when was Rumi associated with Mother Earth?

4-6-07 My Experience in a Suhaila Salimpour Weekend Workshop by Erin
It’s a good kind of tired, one that makes you want to sleep, dream and then wake up and do it all over again. That’s the way I felt after a weekend in Austin, Texas, with Suhaila Salimpour, one of northern California’s most renowned dancers.

3-9-07 The Flame and Shadow Performance Review by Princess Farhana
To this observer, the production seemed like an important breakthrough in oriental style Dance Theater.

1-17-07 Perfectly Masterful Teaching: Drum Solo Master Class with Jim Boz Reviewed by: Rebecca Firestone
With his shaved head tied up in a bandanna, with a burly torso, powerful legs, and a thick neck, he looks more like a biker, a bouncer, or a circus strongman. Thus, his grace and posture is even more amazing.

1-10-07 Ansuya's San Francisco Performance Reviewed by Surreyya
Superstar Ansuya and Belly dancer enthusiast and event producer Gina Grandi provide warm environment to feature up and coming local talent.

2006
12-19-06 Oriental Dance Festival in Belgium reviewed by Artmeisia
I went to this festival for my two heroes–Aziza and Jillina–and came home with three!

9-13-06 Luna’s Café Bellie Serves Up a Mix of Dance Delights Review and Photos by Surreyya
Ten bones gets you a great lesson, and the best local talent worth absorbing…

4-17-06 In a New England Snowstorm, Hopes of Spring...Amel Tafsout, workshop review by Rachel Scherer
At some point, one collapses into a dream, but this dream world is the most real of realities.

4-3-06 Rachel Brice Goes Balkan: Pogonometric Revue Reviewed by: Rebecca Firestone, Photos by Brad Dosland
Sunday, March 12, 2006, CELLspace, 2050 Bryant St., San Francisco, Cost: $15 and worth every penny

2-17-06 Belly Dance Superstars ~Raks Carnivale! Review by Dondi Simone Dahlin
Am I jaded because I was part of the company for so long? Am I unable to view the show from unbiased lenses? How I yearn to have virgin eyes, seeing belly dance for the first time.

2005
11-4-05 A Weekend with Horacio & Beata Cifuentes, Part 2, Event & Workshop Review by Dondi Simone Dahlin. For me, if I am still thinking about it and what I gained from it as a dancer, months or years after I took it, then that is a “golden” workshop. Making it “golden” takes the effort of a lot of people involved.

10-13-05 A Weekend with Horacio & Beata Cifuentes, Part 1, Event & Workshop Review by Dondi Simone Dahlin. What is it about certain workshops in which the profundity and joy of the workshop stays with you long after it is over?

9-28-05 Haft Paykar: "Seven Beauties" Seeking Love and Enlightenment in 12th Century Persia, Event reviewed by: Rebecca Firestone, performed on April 2, 2005 produced by Laurel Victoria Gray . Even when a show attempts to borrow at least the external forms from some body of myth or literary work, it is unusual for the producers to be as aware of the allegorical content as Gray is of the deeper meanings behind Haft Paykar.

8-17-05 Workshop with Issam Houshan March 26, 2005, San Francisco Reviewed by Rebecca Firestone
In the solo improvisational forms of Middle Eastern Dance, the chemistry between the drummer and the dancer is a vital ingredient.

6-14-05 Dancing With A SuperStar Jillina’s Drum Solo Workshop in Vancouver by Erica
If you have the opportunity to dance with this amazing, educated, experienced, beautiful, and did I mention fun? woman, do not hesitate to do it. It is worth every penny and every minute!

5-18-05 Sultans of the Night performing Pandora’s Legend Event review by Said el Amir
Olympic Hall Munich, Germany April 27, 2005. What progress it is to see Belly dance as something more than a flesh show!

1-12-05 Farida Fahmy Workshop review by Perizad
What you know, leave at the front desk in a little bag.

2004
11-15-04 Hakim’s Washington DC Concert Rates a “C” A Review by Taaj
From the moment I found out about the concert, it was like nothing I’d ever experienced.

8-6-04 Suhaila Salimpour’s “Sheherezade” review by Perizad of Santa Cruz, most photos by Susie Poulelis
"...while I can't comment on what percentage of the show was new material, it kept me very well entertained nonetheless."

4-15-04 An American Belly Dancer: The Significance of Jillina, Review by Arabia, Photos by Carl Sermon
workshop sponsored by Amina Goodyear, at Dance Mission, San Francisco, California, January 25, 2004
It seems quite evident that it wasn't Jillina's motivation to become the Superstar title which now precedes her -- that she is, in fact, just doing what she loves, being who she truly is, working hard at it -- and the rest sort of fell into her hands.

3-16-04 Yair Dalal in Boulder, Colorado, by Daune C. Greene
The concert received a standing ovation from a packed house

2-26-04 Celebrating the 5 Elements: Earth, Air, Fire, Water & Ether with Morocco and Tarik Sultan, Review by KJ Mushung
Presented by World Fusion Dance Theatre in April 2003. This is definitely a show I’ll never forget. And that’s not necessarily a good thing.

2002
12-01-02 Review of Dalia Carella's "Transparancy" by Susie
While I have seen a few outstanding belly dance shows in the San Francisco Bay Area...

8-2002 Magana’s Marathon: Belly Dancer of the Millennium Contest! Review mostly by Lynette, Photos mostly by Susie

3-4-02 Hakim and Cheb Khaled Concert Review by Mark Kraft
...a revealing look at Arabic music today and an indicator of how exciting the possibilities are when cultures share influences, yet retain their individuality.

1-6-02 Building Bridges Benefit by Susie Poulelis
Nobody seemed to mind the tight quarters and a good time was had by all.

2001
11-11-01 SUMMER CARAVAN 2001 Lumbers Through the Bay Area with Heavy Feet by Lilly
Born and raised in Lebanon, Lilly puzzles over an American bellydance festival in Oakland, CA

10-23-01 The New Bal Anat, A Personal View, June 30, 2001 by Shelley/Yasmela
The premiere of the New Bal Anat reviewed by a former student of the old Bal Anat's originator.

9-11-01 Bellydancer of the Year Pageant, May 19th, 2001, by GS Staff
Are the dancers setting the trends, showcasing the trends, or simply trying to appease the judges? This was one of the questions we pondered during Leah Aziz's 28th Bellydance of the Year Pageant.

8-2-01 Tara Al Nour's aim is off in solo recital Concert Review by George Row
Much-hyped instructor and Raks Sharqi dancer fails to find heart of the material in program of Lebanese and Egyptian songs

7-10-01 Tarzan & Jane in the Jungle, Oriental Fantasy in Germany Review By Roswitha Mohl
The pace of the show is almost unbelievable!

2000
12-27-00 Special Master Class Weekend with Amina Goodyear and Jacques al Asmar, by Leyla Lanty
....This is why there are many repetitions of words, verbal and musical phrases in Arabic music so that the musicians, singers, and dancers can build on movements with the repetition.

12-3-00 "Where's The Hook When We Need It?" Desert Dance 2000
Review by Bobbie Giarratana, Photos and Layout by Susie Poulelis

11-7-00 Googoosh's World Tour by Bobbie Giarratana
Only the truly fashionable need attend.

10-4-00 Magana's Marathon: Belly Dancer of the Millennium Contest! by Lynette and Susie,
' There were those who were sitting close enough to the stage that felt his performance was
emotionally moving, "straight from his heart!".

9-22-00 Aisha Ali Workshop in Phoenix, AZ, by Lucy Lipschitz
Aisha Ali, a long time pioneer in North African-style dancing, was the teacher for the Saturday workshop.

9-15-00 Club Galia Grand Opening by Bobbie Giarratana
Salamat Sunday and Babylon Friday moves to a new venue

7-28-00 Belly Dancer of the Year 2000, review and photos by Zu Zu/Susie Poulelis and GS staff
Leea's contest in San Ramoan, California, for troupes, duets, soloists and Grand Dancer.

5-28-00 The performance of "Transcendance of Inanna by Titanya Monique Dahlin" Synopsis by Maria She refers to herself as a "StoryDancer".

1-4-00 Workshop Review-Raqia Hassan by Rhiannon/ Shanna
Raqia Hassan is one of the top choreographers in Egypt.

7-28-00 Pyromaniac's Dream Event! by Bobbie Giarratana

1999
7-2-99"The Living Goddess", June 18, 1999, Marin County, CA by Najia El Mouzayen
Theatrical Dance production by Dhyanis

Videos & Film (25 articles)
2008
12-18-08 Fabulous Fan Veilzz w/ Mahsati Janan DVD Review by Tracey Farmer
Like I said before, this video is for those who are familiar with belly dance already. The fan veil is a new concept and performance skill , as well as a new prop in Middle Eastern dance.

12-15-08 Kaleila’s Belly Dance Baby DVD, Dancing While Pregnant Review by Merika
In this touchingly personal video, Kaleila sets out to “inspire other pregnant women to feel beautiful."

12-15-08 Unveiled: 3 Instructional DVDs on Veil Dancing Reviews by Martha E. Duran
Fabulous 4-Yard Veils by Shoshanna, Seven Veils Romantic Bellydance by Sarah Skinner, Bellydance With Veil by Sarah Skinner

12-5-08 Getting in Shape: Three Core Training DVDs and One Special Treat Review by Rebecca Firestone
Core Training for Bellydancers Bellydance, Yoga Conditioning with Ariellah, Industrial Strength Dance Workout with Shakra, Bellydance Arms & Posture with Rachel Brice

11-8-08 2 DVD Reviews: Must or Must Not for Your Library? FCBD DVD Steps and Combinations, Vol.7 Fluid Precision Belly Dance DVD Review by Martha Duran
In search of the perfect library for a bellydancer I have found these wonderful elements for the bellydancer in need of fundamentals.

11-3-08 Teach, Reach and Dance- 3 DVD Reviews: “ Hilary Live: Belly Dancing Around the World with Hilary Thacker”, “ Angelika Presents: Oasis at the Races” and
“Belly Dance with Jrisi” by Amani Jabril
This uneven exchange between music and dancer, I feel, took away from a performance that had the potential to be much more dynamic.

10-15-08 Bellydancing With Fire with Leslie Rosen Reviewed by Rebecca Firestone
Leslie gets an "A" on fire safety. Her safety section is a great overview, covers just about everything, and has clear visual demonstrations of fuel handling, dipping, and shaking out the excess fuel.

10-13-08 One DVD reviewed by Two- Pop, Lock and Shimmy! Belly Dance with Michelle, by Yasmin and John Clow with Introduction by Shira
With the current titling issues of Pop, Lock and Shimmy and IAMED’s upcoming Kaya and Sadie release however, I decided to pull out my notes and give the original drill DVD its due.

9-11-08 Sacred Bellydance: Level One DVD Review by Eugenia
Produced by Temple of Jehan. This is followed by a “body prayer” performed by a number of women in similar garb. While this segment is graceful and calming, I found it at the same time somewhat creepy, perhaps due to the haunting background music and repeating vocals.

6-4-08 Jillina Redoux- Bellydance with Jillina DVDs Reviewed by Yasmela
On the whole, this is a great set of instructional DVDs. They are top-notch quality and well worth the price. Even the minor annoyances of the camera work on the performance sections is very small compared with the wretched production quality of many comparably priced instructional DVDs. These are definitely top of the line.

5-30-08 Welcome to the Gothla! Dancing Along the Sulk Road Review of 3 DVDs by Rebecca Firestone
The costumes are fabulous. It's almost like—who needs all that dance technique if you're wearing an enormous leather headdress that makes you look like an alien refugee from Star Wars? Tempest's approach in particular is a painterly one, not surprising from a student of the Rhode Island School of Design.

4-16-08 Journey of Desire: A Foreign Dancer in Cairo, 2006, Review by Catherine Barros
I believe that any dancer who has the desire to go to Cairo to work will benefit from the experiences of Yasmina and the other working dancers whom she asked to contribute. One will come away having a better understanding of the Arabic culture and how the dance is viewed within that culture.

3-11-08 Serpentessa – Do not try this at home…. DVD review of "Belly Dance with Snakes: Embody Your Inner Serpent" Review by Surreyya
There are things in this video I can get behind and things I can’t. A blessing and a curse of this video is that there is so much information that it is difficult to navigate through it all.

2-07-08 Aruna's "Dancer's Body" Reviewed DVD review by Rebecca Firestone
One of Aruna's claims to fame is being 50 and being tougher than chicks half her age. And it's true, at least with regard to the strength training - which was her profession for many years. Considering that most belly dancers want to be as youthful as possible, it's a nice change to have someone so athletic who's still improving with time.

1-2-08 Dance Today! Bellydance with Neon DVD review by Dina Peace
My pride, however, was not insulted. Go ahead Neon, clap your hands and count from one to eight as if I just stopped teething yesterday. I don’t care; I want to learn how to be a better bellydancer and if I learn effectively from a professional performer who reminds me of my kindergarten teacher, then so be it.

2007
12-19-07 A Review of 2005’s Tribal Fusion Bellydance, Yoga, Isolations and Drills: a Practice Companion with Rachel Brice, DVD review by Erica
Overall, this is a fantastic workout that I recommend to anyone. It will tone and strengthen your abs like a lying-down, crunches workout cannot do.

11-29-07 Tribal: Fusion, Bedouin, What's the Difference? 4 DVDs reviewed and compared by Rebecca Firestone
When I see a dancer I really like, I want to *be* her, or him, right at that moment. My heart leaps at the music and then leaps again when I see what they're doing. With this one, I was interested, but not that engaged.

11-21-07Farida Dance presents Cairo Nights: 2005 and 2006 DVDs reviewed by Catherine Barros
There are so many nuggets packed into these 3 DVDs other than the 3 dancers for which I purchased them. I keep finding things that I really enjoy as I go back to watch them time after time.

11-5-07 Two For One, Two very different DVDs on Turkish Dance reviewed, DVD review by Surreyya
I Love Turkish Dance by Sarah Skinner & Turkish Style Belly Dance by Elizabeth Artemis Mourat

10-24-07 Four Bellydancers... I AIN'T SCARED! Bellydance Superstars- Introduction to Bellydance DVD review by Dina
The ladies seem to enjoy each other’s company (except for an occasionally withdrawn Sonia) and the chemistry that they have with each other comes across well in their instruction. That is if you don’t get bored or tired before the video ends.

10-9-07 Working the Core, Bellydance Core Fitness DVD review by Erica
What I found instead was a not-very-flashy production of a good workout that is filled with unexpected and unusual (for bellydance) moves accompanied by sound anatomy and posture advice and coaching.

10-7-07 Glimpses Into the Past:On DVD at Last! by Terry Del Giorno
Some current dancers may find that the sentiment of the 70’s feels alien and therefore unable to relate to it. However, I believe many dancers will be thrilled to see faces attached to the names of some of our dance legends like Bert Balladine in Gameel Gamal.

9-14-07 Dancing the Big Belly, Bellydance Prenatal Fitness and Dance Instruction Program DVD review by Erica
The slow pace may seem agonizing for a fit, nonpregnant dancer and may seem slow during earlier stages of pregnancy, but as that weight starts adding up and the fatigue returns in the third trimester, I have a feeling the pace does not seem so slow.

8-14-07 Tamalyn Dallal's DVD- 40 Days and 1001 Nights, reviewed by Barbara Sellers-Young
Thus, the film did expand my visual awareness. Now, did it deepen or extend my understanding of what that diversity implied? My response would have to be no.

6-2-07 By Dancers, For Dancers DVD reviewed by both Davina and Eleyda
As working professionals, these dancers present the style of performance you would see in an intimate restaurant or at a house party.

5-9-07 DVD Review: Oriental Dancers of Europe by Ligaya
This is not your slick Hollywood production...

4-27-07 Rhythms of Oriental Dance, Starring Nesma and Khamis Henkesh, DVD Review by Leyla Lanty
Nesma and Khamis's discussion of the complexity of Arabic music and dance is both appealing and easy to grasp.

2-2-07 Bellydance Basics and Beyond, Technique for a solid foundation with Jenna DVD Review by Monet
This is probably one of the best and most complete beginner instructional DVD that I have seen in a while.

1-16-07 Bellydancing the Sacred Shapes with The Goddess Dancing DVD Review by Eugenia Chao
Ultimately, this is an excellently taught video which a beginner bellydancer may benefit greatly from, if only for the anatomical breakdowns of movements.

2006
11-30-06 Fitness and Dance Fusion, Multiple DVDs Reviewed by Jawahare
It may be a challenge to adequately achieve all three fitness parameters while also offering a technically solid and tasteful representation of the dance form.

11-27-06 Azar’s Belly Dance Workout Volume 1, DVD review by Monet
The first section is “alignment” which I was thrilled to see. Far too few teachers stress the importance of proper alignment.

10-31-06 Dancers Arms by Aruna, DVD review by Surreyya
Why you must get this DVD and why some instructors don’t want you to know about it…

8-22-06 Expo: Magic of the White City The Chicago World's Fair of 1893 DVD Review by Shira
Alas, there is a dark side to what could have been a superb documentary – the way it handles nearly every subject related to women, including the Middle Eastern dance performers.

7-27-06 Shades of Goth Fall Upon Belly Dance Gothic Bellydance: The Darker Side of Fusion DVD Reviewed by Amulya produced by WorldDance New York. "There have been heated discussions on several Belly dance forums about this DVD..."

3-20-06 Leyla Jouvani's DVD 21 shimmies and 1001 variations Review by Monet
An IAMED production. I would recommend this video. This video is very long at about 2 hours and 15 minutes running time. You certainly get your monies worth.

3-15-06 Princess Farhana's Instructional DVD Bellydance Basics Reviewed by Monet
The best section in the video is the “Figure Eight.” P. Farhana does an excellent job explaining all types carefully.

1-27-06 "How to Bellydance with Dondi" DVD Review by Megan Marietti
Dondi is a beautiful, voluptuous woman, who's pleasing voice direction matches her visual cues in perfect sync.

2005
11-25-05 Rakset Assaya: An Introduction to Egyptian Saidi Technique DVD Review by Lauren
So what could be better than learning Egyptian Saidi technique from an Egyptian of Saidi background who is the renowned master of the dance? How about learning it from his partner, who breaks the steps down verbally in the American teaching style!

11-15-05 Shareen el Safy's Exploring the Drum Solo “DVD” DVD Review by Mara al-Nil
I am pleased to report that what she said was true—everything she covered in the workshop is on the DVD. Finding it, however, is another matter.

9-26-05 The Superstars Back In Action, A Review of the DVD, "Bellydance Superstars Live in Paris at the Folies Bergere"
by Erica Fritch. The show is well staged and well filmed, the music is fabulous and the dancing superb...

9-24-05 American Bellydancer, the Film Review by Karin Haerter,
Film reviewed on April 10, 2005, postscript added about DVD edition with bonus features

9-16-05 The Golden Apple: Bellydance Stars of New York DVD Review by Eugenia
Released by WorldDance New York, this DVD provides an almost spiritual viewing experience.

7-26-05 Review of Princess Farhana's Bellydance & Balance: The Art of Sword and Shamadan by Eugenia Chao
This may not be the most professional-looking bellydance video you ever bought, but it definitely serves its instructional purpose -- perhaps more so than many high-budget productions.

5-11-05 Visual Melodies produced by Serena and Hossam Ramzy DVD Review by Debbie Lammam
The essence of Oriental dance is in a dancer’s ability to interpret Arabic music.

3-12-05 Keti Sharif’s A to Z Advanced Stage Instructional DVD and booklet review by Monica Berini
It is rare that an instructional video marketed to advanced dancers follows through to actually challenge experienced students or performers. This one does.

3-11-05 Wings, The Complete Technique, a private lesson with Ayshe a review by Mara al-Nil
Well, I have to say that I must take a bit of an issue with the title of this DVD. “A private lesson” with Ayshe? More like an intensive, private seminar! This 2-hour “workshop” is one of the most comprehensive instructional DVDs for dancers I’ve seen.

3-8-05 Belly Dance Super Stars Video Review by Amina Goodyear
Produced and Directed by Jonathan Brandeis Executive Producer: Miles Copeland. "... However, as there is no audience, most of the dancers have a difficult time conveying the emotions of the dance to the video viewer. Only Jillina and Dondi seem to overcome this obstacle. "

2-4-05 Comments On American Bellydancer Film Review by Gregory Burke
A documentary film or video is made up of "real" images constructed in such a way to reflect the point of view of its maker. So a documentary film is a fiction, especially when financed by its key subject..

2004
8-5-04 DVD Review - "Instant Bellydancer, Curves, A Crash Course in Belly Dance" by Neon, Review by Mara al-Nil. So, with a somewhat more open mind, I popped the DVD into my computer and from the opening shot found myself captivated!

6-1-04 "Raqia Hassan presents Ahlan Wa Sahlan Oriental Dance Festival Opening Cairo 2003." A video review by Mara al-Nil
While my personal preference is to focus on the dancers, some people may enjoy celebrity spotting, or looking for friends and fellow dancers fortunate enough to have attended the gala.

10-15-04 Video Review: Veena and Neena’s Discover Bellydance by Eugenia Chow
Marina’s three performances are worth the price of the entire set of DVDs.

12-14-04 DVD Review of Bellyqueen’s Bellydance Jam by Mara al-Nil
The videography is still excellent, even in the darkened club setting,...

2-5-04 Marquerite's Video, "Spins & Turns," Video review by Yasmela
Her spotting technique was intriguing and involved a finger-snapping exercise.

2003
7-7-03 An Evening of Experimental Middle Eastern Dance Video Review by Dhyanis
...this genre encourages performers to intermingle other dance forms with belly dance, to develop a theme or make a statement.

9-12-03 Classic Cabaret Floor Work with Anaheed Video reviewed by Yasmela/ Shelley Muzzy
Good lighting, good sound, clear instructions and good camera work seem to be the hallmarks of IAMED videos.

12-5-03 Jillina’s DVD or All Jillina, All the Time Video reviewed by Yasmela/ Shelley Muzzy
In fact, the production quality is exemplary.

9-17-02 Raven and Zephirah Dance In Light Rain Reviewed by Wendy Meluch
"...dared to go public with a depiction the sensual, sexual nature of belly dance and have managed to do so in an artistic way."

2002
9-20-02 Satin Rouge a film by Raja Amari, movie review by Bobbie Giarratana
Subtle communication is the film’s core strength. The characters struggle with public vs. private life through a delicate balance of “don’t ask, don’t tell”...

5-23-02 "Festival of the Nile XXI" from Beledi Productions Featuring Shoshanna, Video Review by Sadira
To market such a video for profit is a travisty, in my opinion.

4-29-02 Fire at the IAO, Video Review by Lilly
This high quality of dance is rarely seen.

2-21-02 Egyptian Drum Solo Choreography Video, Volume 1
By: Al Wahid Productions Featuring: Jamilla Al Wahid and Reda Darwish on drum by Gennevie Hebranson
If you are looking for a video that will inspire you ...

2001
12-12-00 Armando's Drumming Dazzles the Dancer by Claire
Video review of "Uncle Mafufo's Riqs & Defs: a practical approach to Middle Eastern Frame Drums"

Amaya's Gypsy Fire Video

Music (26 articles)
2008
11-14-08 Unveiled Musical Gems, 3 CD Reviews by Joette Sawall
Raqs El Qamar by Chris Marashlian, Rhythms of Turkey by Tayyar Akdeniz, Angelika Unveiled, by Angelika Nemeth and Raul Ferrando

11-6-08 "Aheb Masr, Music and Songs for Oriental Dance" CD Review by Catherine Barros
produced by Nader Zakaria, at Merryland Studio Heliopolis, Artistic direction by Yasmina. Depending on your mood and tastes, there should be something for just about everyone on this CD.

4-15-08 Bellylicious Raks CD review by Andrea
So many other songs end abruptly and leave you hanging or just take too long to finish--not unlike an unsatisfying lover. Hasan, however, is truly satisfying. It will be my next new entrance piece for 2008!

3-15-08 The Magic Sounds Studio of Cairo, 3 Albums reviewed and Compared by Amina Goodyear
CDs- Oriental Fantasy #12- Talisman, Nesma:Del Nilo al Guadalquivir (From the Nile to the Guadalquivir),Nesma, Memories of Cairo.
In a world where Egyptian dancers dance in the "less is more" tradition, the world of musicians seemed to be - more is better and lots more is best.

2007
11-7-07 Review of “Tribal Beats for the Urban Streets” by Roz
Most songs had hardly any trace of Arabic music influence. Tribal Beats for the Urban Streets contains pop club music that is taking a risk when delving into the realm of the belly dance world. Will the electronic music on this CD still be the trend in ten years or will it be old news?

7-24-07 The Zar, Trance Music for Women, CD Review by Amina Goodyear
produced by Yasmin of Serpentine.org. “Once a spirit is called, it must be appeased. Then it will always be there.” And it will have to be periodically dealt with.

6-27-07 Outi's CD, "Al Amoura" Review by Catherine Barros
I think that there is something for everyone on this CD as it contains some very useable pieces of music for performing.

4-2-07 “In a Beirut Mood”: Jalilah's Raks Sharki 6, A Review by Amina Goodyear
I found the selections included make exciting listening. Each selection is a beautiful arrangement and a good mix. Best of all: each musical selection is useful and conducive for dance.

3-27-07 Macedonian Bellydance CD Reviewed by: Rebecca Firestone
On one of the mailing lists I'm on, there was recently a heated discussion on whether there was such a thing as "Balkan bellydance".

2-21-07 Veiled Visions: A Trip Down Memory Lane CD review by Amina Goodyear
The CD titled “Veiled Visions” is a re-release of music that was formerly produced on vinyl.

2006
12-7-06 Jazayer's "Enchanted Journey" CD Reviewed by Surreyya
“It is easy to make easy music sound good…” they say.

2005
3-23-05 Turbo Tabla Arabic music re-imagined Review by Sadira
Traditional Arabic and Turkish with House, Hip Hop and Techno. "Mostly, the Techno style appeared in the tabla solos. I loved this CD because it has a mix of songs that are traditional, old Arabic, and Turkish."

3-18-05 Leila Haddad Presents: Traditional Vol. 2 SidiMansour. Songs and Beats from Tunisia. A CD review by Sadira
This recording goes beyond mere music for dancing and listening. Whether one is a dancer who is studying North African /Tunisian Dance, a world music enthusiast, or an ethno-musicologist who specializes in traditional regional songs and music at its most pure level….this CD encompasses all of that --and more!

2004
12-26-04 Scott Wilson's CD "Efendi" review by Ma*Shuqa Mira Murjan
Scott's quest is to make Mid-East music more accessible to American audiences...

8-11-04 Scott Wilson's CD “An American in Istanbul” review by Dhyanis
The entire CD is laced with instrumental solos featuring each artist, many of whom are from the Mid-East, most notably George Strathos on clarinet, plus Rip Wilson, Scott's darabuka-playing Dad.

3-16-04 Millenium by Amir Sofi and Orchestra El Musaya CD review by Latifa
Some parts of this CD would work well in a performance...

3-7-04 Jalilah's Raks Sharki 6 “In a Beirut Mood” feat. Ihsn al Mounzer review by Alexandria and Latifa
This is a CD to enhance any collection! It will definitely delight the beginner or expert of Raks Sharki style dance.

2-27-04 Review of Americanistan CD “Mosaic” by Yasmela
This CD will certainly be a welcome addition to a Tribal dancer’s music library.

2003
3-15-03 Review and Rating of 2002’S MIDDLE EASTERN DRUM CD/TAPES by Sierra/Sadira
This is a review of eight of the most popular Middle Eastern Drum recordings produced this year. Incuding works by Reda, Susu, H Ramsy, Zaid, Mafufo, and more...

2-22-03 “Itneen- Tribal Dance, Tribal Drums” by Helm Review by Yasmine, Sirens In Sanity
Drumming like this is a gift.

2002
10-1-02 "Zig n Zag", a Music Review CD Review by Claire
All of the instruments used for this recording are acoustic, providing a warm and genuine sound; nothing is looped, sampled or synthesized.

8-14-02 "Right Where I Want To Be" Mimi Spencer's newest CD reviewed by Sadira
...will be spellbound by this CD.

8-13-02 "Yarus” by Mirage CD Review by Najia
The Mirage sound is exceptionally clean ...

7-16-02 “Pangia, Classic & Original Music Arranged with the Dancer in Mind” CD Reviewed by Najia El-Mouzayen
this well recorded music gives the “Belly Dance” a decidedly fusion flavor

5-30-02 Leila Haddad presents Traditional Tunisian Rhythms (2001) CD Review by Sadira
Be prepared to fall in love...

4-27-02 “Amera “Wahyatak Habibi: Music for Middle Eastern Dance” CD Review by Najia El-Mouzayen
...the production is meant to be "dancer-friendly" ...

3-16-02 “Modern Bellydance from Lebanon, The Enchanted Dance” Produced and arranged by Emad Sayyah, Reviewed by Najia El-Mouzayen You are going to have to strap on your dancin’ stiletto heels tightly...

3-15-02 Review of “Qanun El Tarab” By H. Ramsy and M. Serour Reviewed by Najia El Mouzayen
Ramzy has fired yet another musical salvo across the bow of your tall ship...

3-6-02 Nourhan Sharif Presents: "Arabic Rhythms Volume Wahid" Reviewed by Najia El-Mouzayen
...consisted of rhythms disembodied from the motivational force of complete music

2001
10-28-01 "Faddah" (Silver) by Hossam Ramzy, A Review and Commentary by Najia El-Mouzayen
Dancers who have enjoyed many of Hossam Ramzy's 16 other CDs will doubtlessly be thrilled by this
beautifully produced collection of new music.

10-22-01 CD Reviews- MahaMaya & Shri Durga by DJ Cheb I Sabbah reviewed by Harry S. Pariser
It mixes ragas with techno sounds in a special synthesis that will appeal to lovers of trance music.

10-15-01 Turkish Bellydance: Nasrah By the Ensemble Huseyin Turkmenler CD reviewed by Najia
What an absolutely delightful surprise it was...

10-15-01 CD review -Fil Waha by Helm, reviewed by Yasmela
From raucous funky tribal tunes to lovely complex rhythms from southern Persia, ...

2000
10-27-00 Tribal Tales review by Kajira Djoumahna
The moods and flavors of the varied songs on this CD are sure to be useful for dancers and listeners who like something out of the ordinary to challenge and delight.

9-29-00 "Halawah" on Compact Disc by Reda Darwish review by Najia El-Mouzayen
San Francisco's favorite Egyptian drummer has again produced a musical offering for the dancer and Middle Eastern music fans.

Amorphia's Audio Tape Fyom Weleleh: A Day and A Night

Leila Haddad's Tape #2 The Music of Mohamed Sultan", Ya Leila", Volume Two.

Books (17 articles)
2008

12-19-08 Training Aids or Trainer's Ads? 3 Books Reviewed by Martha
The E.D.A. Handbook for Middle Eastern Dance by David of Scandinavia, Tribal Vision by Paulette Rees-Denis, Belly Dance for the Versatile Dancer V. 1: Foundations by Zanbaka

12-15-08 Love and Romance, Egyptian Style, Book Review of The Poison Tree, planted and grown in Egypt by Marwa Rakha Review by Bonita Oteri
Bravely baring her soul and laying her innermost fears on the altar of Truth as she sees it, the author gives us a rare glimpse into the inner workings of Love and Romance, Egyptian Style.

10-9-08 A Big Picture Book Review: Martha Burns' "Belly Dance, Celebrating the Sacred Feminine" Reviewed by Stasha
Every page is a work of art, a truly astonishing array of images. The content is very inclusive and features all age ranges, body types and styles. You will see yourself, your best self, in these pages.

7-14-08 Jenna Wood' s "The Dancing Cymbalist– How to play music with finger cymbals and dance at the same time." Book Review by Yasmela
I was eager to review this book in hopes that it would be a new tool to help revive the dying art of finger cymbal playing. Jenna Woods seems to share that hope.

5-26-08 A Trade Like Any Other: Female Singers and Dancers in Egypt, Book Review by Kathleen Wittick Fraser
Van Nieuwkerk had as her main objective an examination of the professions of musician and belly dancer in contemporary Egypt and an identification of the influence of these professions on the status of their practitioners, the underlying question being "Are dancers and singers considered disreputable, and if so, for what reasons?"

3-3-08 Academics and Belly Dance, Two Books Review by Rebecca Firestone
Belly Dance: Orientalism, Transnationalism & Harem Fantasy edited by Anthony Shay and Barbara Sellers-Young & Choreographic Politics: State Folk Dance Companies, Representation, and Power by Anthony Shay

2-18-08 Have Belly Will Travel by Tanya Lemani book review by Birute
The process of getting booked on these shows and her relationships with other artists, both famous and unknown, who help her on her way is the most interesting part of the book

2007
12-9-07 Dynamic Belly Dance, The Joyful Journey of Dancemaking and Performing by Ramona Reviewed by Dina Peace
This book would be excellent when coupled with a good dance instructor or Ramona herself. She is thorough with her information and was successful creating a book that people can enjoy, if their wallets were big enough.

11-23-07 Danza Del Vientre by Devorah Korek Book Review by Gregory Burke Translation by Amina Goodyear
Book is in Spanish. Once in a while an object of desire comes along, which is deemed important by its obscurity. Such could be the case with this hardcover, difficult to acquire tabletop adornment from Devorah Korek, an American-born Belly Dance teacher living and thriving in Spain.

10-10-07 Belly Dance Wisdom– For Fitness, Pregnancy and a Divine Sexuality Book Review by Surreyya
This book, although not as deep on certain subjects as some may expect, does a great job at rustling the leaves away from a crooked sidewalk or blowing the dust off an old spice jar revealing an inner glow of warmth to share with others.

8-21-07 Flamenco Dance: Secrets of the Professionals Book reviewed by Surreyya Hada
Paco Sevilla, one of the foremost flamencologists, writes nearly an encyclopedia and professional reference book for the ambitious dancer let alone, flamenco enthusiast, musician or dancer.

2005
3-5-05 A Book Review: "Also Known as Sadzia! The Belly Dancer" written by Merrill Joan Gerber, review by Karen Roberts The dance information portrayed in the book is, largely, sound, (although Sandy’s instant success as a “natural belly dancer” is a bit unbelievable!) and Sandy’s growing self-acceptance and brightening future are compelling.

2003
3-9-03 On The Costumer’s Bookshelf, a series of book reviews by Dawn “Davina” Devine Brown
Beaded Embellishment Techniques & Designs for Embroidering on Cloth by Amy C. Clarke & Robin Atkins
Well-written directions for all of the most useful stitches for the application of beads are accompanied by clear illustrations. 

5-21-03 Tribal Bible Reviewed by Shelley Muzzy/Yasmela
And I suppose to some dancers, it is a way of life. There is repeated emphasis placed on the concepts of bonding, healing, empowering, and connecting throughout the book. From the sound of it, American women are desperate to connect, to be part of a tribe, to belong.

9-11-03 Embellished Bras: THE How To of How Tos A great book by Dawn Devine Brown, review by Robin Ackerman-Gray
The subtitle on the cover is “Workshop in a book”. That’s no joke. This is the most complete “how to” costume book I’ve read in a long time.

10-16-03 “Snake Hips: Belly Dancing and How I Found True Love” by Anne Thomas-Soffee book review by Lilly
To say I enjoyed the book would be a gross understatement.

2002
12-6-02 A Young Woman's Multicultural Adventures in Columbia, by Tamalyn Dallal book review by Sierra/Sadira,
If we had the farsightedness to use dance as a form of diplomacy and ambassadorship towards human rights and dignity throughout the world

12-3-02 “Adventures In Belly Dance Costuming” by Stasha Vlasuk, Vol 1 book review by Robin Alnisa Wood
This is a good book for both sewing veterans and beginners alike.

10-11-02 Review of "Style File, A Visual Vocabulary of Middle Eastern Dance Costume" , book review by Aziza!
Dawn Brown has created a handy reference guide to the main costuming trends...

5-16-02 To Cabaret or Not Cabaret? Book review by Krista Gettle
"Cabaret Belt and Bra" Book 3 in Dina Lydia's Costuming Series

1-16-02 BOOK REVIEW-“The Belly Dance Book" Edited by Tazz Richards" Reviewed by Sadira
This book has a surprising change of format from all the various books that have been published recently...

2001
12-20-01 Frank Words about the Whimsy of Costume, A Review of The Costume Goddess’
Flattering Costume for Bellydancers by Krista Book 1 in Dina's costuming series

10-25-01 Belly Laughs Gives Reviewer Terrific Case of Reader’s Indigestion, Reviewed by Sadira
“Belly Laughs: Adventures with Celebrities & Other Unusual Characters” book written by Rod Long.

9-1-01 On The Costumer’s Bookshelf, by Dawn “Davina” Devine Brown
Indian Embroidery by Rosemary Crill, Davina's second in a series of book reviews. This book includes a chapter on textiles made specifically for export to Europe and other parts of the globe.

5-21-01 Learning from the Goddess, Book Review of Dina's #2 by Ignatia
No matter what your body type, there is a style in there for you. This is the first reference guide I have ever found of this sort.

5-8-01 On the Costumer’s Bookshelf by Dawn 'Davina' Devine Brown,
The Splendor of Ethnic Jewelry. For the reader or researcher interested in ethnic jewelry, this sumptuous coffee table book is worth every penny of its rather steep price. This is the first in a regular series by Davina!

3-21-01 A Book Review: Iris Stewarts's "Sacred Woman, Sacred Dance" review by Rhonda Stengl
For years, I've used dance and movement to commune with the Divine.

2000
9-18-00 Tribal Style Made Easy by Jay Bangle
Book review of "Turban to Toe Ring", by Dawn Devine Brown and Barry Brown

Other- including web sites, restaurants, other products (5 articles)
2004
12-14-04 My Disastrous Experience at the New Luxor Restaurant in South San Francisco! by Sadira
We noticed patrons around us being brought drinks, and food, yet not one waiter stopped by our table. In true Egyptian style she was showered with dollar bills during her performance from both men and women alike.

12-4-04 A review comparison of Mini-kit gift items:
-The Art of Belly Dancing: Box Set written by Valerie Rushmere and Jennifer Worick
-Facial Expressions for Dancers by Natica Angilly, Review by Sadira
This would be perfect for young girls, teenagers, any age, as a wonderful, unique primer on dancing and the exotic appeal it portrays to the regular population.

1999
9-23-99 Review of the Sultan Restaurant, Santa Clara CA, by Aileen
You'll have more power in numbers.

Web Site The Egyptian Castle

February 1999
A full report of Dalia Carrella's Workshop & Show by Baraka
Snake Tossing in Taiwan by Natica Angilly
Second Annual Giza Academy Awards by Amina Goodyear