For the past two days, Randa has been teaching our class her signature choreography and opening number for which she is known around the world. I was amazed and so surprised (and overcome with excitement and happiness!) to learn that she was sharing it with us. Certainly, Randa’s generosity is rare to find and a treasure to be cherished.

I have met new friends from around the world – Scotland, Japan, Germany, Spain, Italy, Latvia, Russia, Poland, England and of course, the good ol’ USA! (There are five Americans here – two of which are in the final leg of the competition tonight!)

Speaking of the competition tonight, the finalists were asked to provide a list of ten (10) well known and loved Egyptian songs that her orchestra could play. Then, Randa selected each dancer the music to which she will dance this evening. It was my good fortune to be assigned Fi Youm Wa Leyla, one of my favorite
Oriental songs in the whole world. It is the first time I have ever danced with
a full orchestra and I am so excited for this opportunity.

While, as in all competitions, there will only be one “winner”of the Randa crown, I do firmly believe in my heart and soul that each of us who competed is a winner. Part of the competition was direct feedback and evaluation from Randa herself. For me, this information is a gift – because I am a teacher, I rarely receive feedback on how to improve and grow. To see myself through her eyes is wonderful because actionable items and points to focus on and develop on.  And my goal is to be able to show demonstranble improvement when I see Randa again in Chicago in May when she comes with Dee Dee Asad from Little Egypt. (Btw, if you have not done so now and are in the area, you should take the opportunity to register because as a dancer, Randa is a teacher, choreographer and performer that you simply MUST experience. Not only is Randa a lovely person, her impact on our dance and art form is global – and she is changing Oriental dance. For belly dancers who are interested in knowing the modern trends and technique, you will be left behind if you do not take the opportunity to study with and see her perform.)

So, tonight, it will be magical. Not only do I have the opportunity to perform with one of the best Oriental orchestras in the world, but I am dancing in a new costume from my dear friend, Mohammed. He is the brother of Hanan, the designer known as Queen Hanan, and he started his own design business about two years ago. On the plane ride home, I am going to write an article about him so that you get to know him. His quality is as high as Eman Zeki and I predict he will quickly become one of the premier designers of Oriental belly dance costumes.

For this evening, I am going to release all expectations and let go of all worries and concerns. I am going to simply focus on the magic of the moment – dancing in Cairo in the shadows of the pyramids, to a magnificent orchestra, in front of the woman who inspires my dance and artistically influences me beyond measure, surrounded by friends and loved ones I consider part of my extended family. Tonight is simply perfect.

And, another nice thing is that I signed up to dance with the orchestra for the open show to Alf Layla We Layla, another of my absolute favorites.

I am so thankful and grateful for the chance to be here and send much love to my husband and best friend, David, for making it possible for me to live out my dreams. For without him, I don’t know where my life would be. I love you, David!

The course is organized by Sarah, who has done an outstanding job on making sure every detail is taken care of. As a fellow dancer and actor, she has keen insight as to what is important to a dancer and it is apparent by the high level of service and little extras typically not found from non-dancers.

There are 49 students in the course and this size is perfect to ensure that everyone gets feedback from Randa and can see and hear what is being taught. There are several countries represented – including Russia, Germany, Poland, Japan, England and the United States. The dancers are very friendly and there is a shared sense of excitement at studying with one of
today’s top Oriental stars. I have made two new friends from America, Aurel and Canina, both from the East coast. It’s their first time to visit Egypt and their excitement is contagious.

Yesterday was day 1 of the course. We started with a warm up from Mohammed of Reda Troupe. He led us through a balletic warm up, followed by folkloric technique and patterns. Then, Randa taught her hallmark technique for an hour and a half. She fine tuned our style, worked complex pattens and left us all breathless, sweaty and eager for more.

After the break, she brought in four members from her orchestra – the male singer, the accordion player, the keyboardist and of course, Karim, her table player.  The afternoon was split into three fundamental categories: morwar and hoour, rhythms and beledi. The morwar and hoour discussion was very insightful and illustrated the importance of matching the proper style to go with the component of a song. While I am still working on the concept and it will take some time to really comprehend and illustrate it in my own dance, the discussion and examples were very insightful and important for any dancer interested in demonstrating his or her knowledge, professionalism and expertise with Arabic music.

During the rhythms section, we worked through eighteen (18) rhythms commonly found in dance. Randa, along with the orchestra, presented the rhythms and then provided patterns and technique to go along with the rhythms. From Ayub to Dareg Smaal to Khamsa Arbaa to Smaae Sakel, we dove headfirst into understanding and feeling the music.

Beledi was really fun. Karim, the tabla player, put on his dancing hat and demonstrated how men dance beledi. He has a playful style and was beaming with happiness to showcase his style. Randa showed the difference between the style of men beledi and women dancing the men beledi style and the female style of beledi. It was nice to be able to enjoy the freedom of beledi
and enjoy the rich music.

After a fantastic 7 hour day, I showered and joined my friends for dinner. We stayed in the hotel and enjoyed the Italian restaurant menu and then followed up with a nightcap, talking into the wee hours of the morning about dance, politics, love and more.

Coming to Cairo, for me, is really important. I feel so energized here – it sounds so incredibly wackadoo, but I honestly feel that there is a special energy here. Maybe it is from the pyramids, maybe it is because this area is the cradle of civilization, I don’t know what exactly it
is. But I love Egypt very much. There is a special magic that reenergizes me at
the very core … and perhaps that is why I continue to return time after time.

I just looked at the course agenda for today and it looks like a lovely mixture of warm up, technique and Saidi (one of my favorites!). It should be a fantastic day!

Until next time – hugs and shimmies!

PS My cord to my camera is still at home in the US. I’ll upload photos when I get back! And when my friends share them, I’ll try and piggy back on them. For example, check out my friend Aurel’s blog!  www.ancientartstudios.com/blog

Pyramids and Sphinx of Egypt

I fly from Chicago to Cairo on Wednesday to attend a weeklong intensive dance course and competition by my all-time favorite and long-time friend, Randa Kamel.  This is not my first time to go to Egypt; in fact, I have been traveling there twice a year for several years now – teaching in the Ahlan Wa Salan festival in June and studying at Raqia Hassan’s
wonderful Intensive Teachers Course each December.

Each time I go to Egypt, I come back a better dancer, a different person and a stronger Oriental artist. I
expect that this time will be no different and I am very excited to go again.

Given recent events that have transpired in the Middle East, it is no wonder that friends and family alike look at me as though I have purple hair or that I am a little on the loony side when they find out I am heading out in less than two days. Their concern is certainly well placed – the media has made it sound as though the end of the world is near and, as usual,
playing on the public’s fears through sensationalism.

I learned first-hand this summer just how much the media does skew things to increase their ratings. I once again traveled to Cairo to teach at Raqia’s Ahlan Wa Salan festival. This event, which typically draws over a thousand dancers from across the world, is in my opinion, the premier dance festival in Cairo. Held the breathtakingly beautiful Mena House, you’ll find a wonderful blend of dance classes, gala shows, available tours and of course, shopping, shopping,
shopping!   It is easy to dance away two straight weeks and immerse yourself in the very unique, very fabulous Egyptian culture.

As mentioned, most years bring in over a thousand dancers to the festival. This past June, however, there were less than 200 students in attendance. I am absolutely positive that the reason there were such few dancers is a direct result of the media coverage and news-created perception of what was taking place.

As I prepared for the trip in June, I watched the news. In light of the news coverage, I was expecting to find mayhem and turmoil in the streets of Cairo.

Nothing could have been further from the truth.

What I found was that life was going on as usual, with the exception that the unemployment levels have risen to near historic highs due to the lack of tourism to the country. And for a country that depends on tourism for the majority of citizen’s livelihood, it’s a hit where it hurts.

I remember the opening gala of the festival. Raqia arranged to have it on the beautiful Nile Maxim where Aziza of Cairo, Katia and of course, Dina, performed for us. Raqia hired tour buses, with police escorts, to take all the dancers to the boat. As the buses passed the people on the streets, the people cheered, clapped and yelled out, “Welcome to Egypt! We need you! Thank you for coming!”

While I was there in June, I made my usual rounds of visiting friends, dining at favorite restaurants and visiting Kahn el Kalili, the old market place. It was a fabulous trip, as always, without any blips or glitches.

Fast forward to this week.

Today, I’m in the midst of finishing up last minute administrative work, cutting music for my competition piece and organizing what I need to pack (and writing down what I need to buy!).
The elections have been moved up to January 25^th, a week before I come home. Yes, there are still protests going on in the Square – but the action, when there is action, is isolated to that area of Cairo. Sure, I can hone in and obsess over the news … but I’d rather practice safe traveling tips (like I do to any country or city – or even in my own home town).

For me, I plan on enjoying the stay. Randa is teaching several different genres of dance styles and of course, I love her amazing choreography and her strong technique. She is one of the best teachers I have ever learned from and I am so excited to see my friends from across the world who are attending the course with me.

Time permitting, I plan on blogging and posting photos, etc. So, keep an eye on Face Book and sign up for my newsletter – and I’ll let you know how things are in the shadows of the Pyramids!

I realized about three years ago that I’m not really good at New Year’s resolutions. Sure, I excel at writing down specific goals that are SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time bound) – and even mapping out the exact steps needed to achieve the goals.

But year after year, the result was the same. Within about a week, I had forgotten the goal and life continued at its crazy, hectic pace.

In the summer of 2009, my best friend at the time died from esophageal cancer. This was a turning point in my life in many respects and on many levels – and one fundamental aspect was my lifelong philosophy.

I have always believed that if I put ideas and dreams out into the Universe, they will come back to you. And if you look at my life’s journey, I’ve seen this truism time and time again.

So, in 2009, I decided to give up New Years’ resolutions and instead, fine tune my life’s philosophy from carpe diem to something with a little more focus. I thought about what is important to me personally (outside of God, family and country) and
developed a living, breathing mantra that I incorporate to my daily meditations.

Today, my decisions are focused on healthy longevity, joyful success, financial abundance and prosperity.

Since I made this mental shift, life has been really great. No more guilt about not achieving New Years’ resolutions, weight management is a lifestyle as opposed to a check-the-box type of goal, financial stress (while always a part of our lives) has been managable and both my personal and professional relationships have become deeper and more meaningful.

This is not to say, of course, that life doesn’t bring enough challenges to keep it all interesting. But it does mean that I’m more grounded in my approach to daily experiences as well as long-term decisions.

So, for you, my friend, I wish you health, joy, financial freedom and prosperity.

Here’s to a wonderful 2012!

Raksanna Productions Receives 2011 Best of Aurora Award

NEW YORK, NY, October 25, 2011 – Raksanna Productions has been selected for the 2011 Best of Aurora Award in the Health & Fitness The USCA “Best of Local Business” Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USCA identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.

This is the first year that a business has qualified as a Four-Time Award Winner. Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2011 USCA Award Program focuses on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the USCA and data provided by third parties.

About U.S. Commerce Association (USCA)

U.S. Commerce Association (USCA) is a New York City based organization funded by local businesses operating in towns, large and small, across America. The purpose of USCA is to promote local business through public relations, marketing and advertising.

The USCA was established to recognize the best of local businesses in their community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations, chambers of commerce and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to be an advocate for small and medium size businesses and business entrepreneurs across America.

SOURCE:  U.S. Commerce Association

CONTACT:
U.S. Commerce Association
Email: PublicRelations@uscaaward.com
URL: http://www.uscaaward.com

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As our beautiful art form continues to grow in popularity, dancers are faced with many opportunities to take workshops, attend haflas and perform in multiple venues.  Among the performance opportunities are a plethora of competitions, as well.

Raksanna competes in Queen of Raks Sharki

Although I have been performing and teaching for more than a decade, I entered the competition scene in early 2006.  Before I made the decision to compete, I had to make sure I truly understood my motivation for competing. After sincere introspection, I realized these were my top three reasons for competing:

Setting and Achieving a Goal

As a “type A” personality that is driven to do more than humanly possible – and to do everything to the absolute best of my ability, I’ve found that goals enable me to reach greater heights.

During a “normal” schedule, I teach classes and workshops and continue my own personal dance training on a weekly basis.

Deciding to compete gives me a target and helps me go to the next level of professional dance.

Competitions also enable me to concentrate my time and efforts on specific results.  By identifying an event, there is a hard and fast deadline.  This means that I have to
focus my energy and resources in a very specific way and manage my time effectively. It certainly would not do to be unprepared when on stage in a competition!

While it’s great to win – and to set your sights on winning – it’s important to understand and keep in mind that anyone who participates in a competition is a winner. The hard work, commitment and courage it takes to get up on stage and ask someone (usually, three or more people!) to judge you is in and of itself a feat to be recognized and celebrated.

Kindred Spirits: A Network of Beautiful Artists

One of the largest benefits I’ve found to competing is the wonderful network of like minded spirits.  When I first started the competition route, I had many stereotypes of what kind of culture would be present at the events.  To be candid, my preconceived notions were that the line up would be filled with cutthroat and vindictive diva’s.

The great news is that the stereotypes could not be further from the truth! My personal experience is that 98% of dancers involved in competitions are wonderful, warm women who love the dance. Backstage, dancers help each other to make sure that all of us do the best we can when we’re performing.

One example I can share is about Susan, a delightfully fun dancer from Oregon. I met her at the recent Belly Dancer USA competition sponsored by Mezdulene.

We were backstage, preparing for our event and she helped hook my costume together.  As she was pinning my bra, she realized that the hook had come off.  Susan gave me a quick lesson in emergency costume repairs (did you know that a safety pin can act as a solid pin to hook your bra eyelet and guarantees the bra will remain fastened for you?) and had my costume fixed in two minutes and ready for competition.

Susan also made sure that she was in the audience when I danced and she shouted her support for me. As I had traveled alone from Chicago to Canyonville, Oregon, Susan’s acts of kindness and support meant so much to me. It is this kind of bonding and camaraderie that I’ve enjoyed immensely throughout the competitions.

Keeping It In Perspective: Feedback is a Gift

Sometimes, when you’re a teacher, you don’t get a lot of feedback on how you can improve. After all, students look to the teacher as the expert and the source of knowledge. I’ve enjoyed getting feedback from the judges so that I can see myself from the outside in. Feedback truly is a gift – it provides you with insight that you may not have had before and, when taken in a spirit of reception and thankfulness, I’ve found that constructive criticism has really given me the tools to progress as a dancer and performer.

To illustrate, I am a curvy, voluptuous dancer with a full-figured body.  Recently, I received a suggestion from two judges to try a different style of costume that would be more appealing to my figure. Rather than take the feedback offensively, I researched a variety of vendors and found a costume in the style suggested. I tried it on and – guess what? The judges were right!

The difference between the previous costume style and the new style was simply amazing!

Belly Dancer USA – A Must Do Experience!

Throughout the year, I participate in four to five competitions across the country. Most recently, I had the pleasure to enjoy Mezdulene’s annual Belly Dancer USA competition held at the Seven Feathers Resort and Casino in Canyonville, Oregon. (If you’ve never been to Oregon, it’s a state that you simply must visit. Complete with an ocean coastline, high mountains and lakes, there’s something for everyone!) Mezdulene and her husband, Don, are gracious hosts and sponsors and make every attendee feel welcome.

The event was well organized.  When I checked in, the schedule was readily available and I had all the information I needed to make sure I knew where to go and when.  The line up and competition was professionally run. When there was an occasional skip of a CD, the technical team took care of the issue promptly and with a friendly personality.  The gala show was so much fun to watch! I had the chance to see dancers from across the country and experience their interpretation of the music we all love. The vendors had beautiful goods to sell and were easy to work with. I thoroughly enjoyed myself at the event and plan on participating again next year – hopefully, bringing a few of my troupe members from Raksanna’s Desert Flames to compete in the troupe category.

Competing is an experience that will help you grow, both as a dancer and as a person. By setting a goal and achieving it, receiving feedback that can enhance your dance and meeting wonderful women who will become lifetime friends, the competition circuit can bring you many great experiences to be treasured and cherished.

When I was a little girl growing up in a small town, I fell in love with the performing arts! Experiencing the passion of artists through their songs, dance, music and acting was inspirational. I dreamed of being able to do the same … and secretly longed to dance my heart out one day in a magical place called New York City.

 In 2007, Morocco made my dream come true.

Where dreams come true!

Between Broadway and Lafayette street,Moroccohosts a monthly show, “Marvelous Magical Mideastern Moments,” at The LaFayette Grill. This regular gathering features her students, her professional dancers, her protégé Tarik andMoroccoherself in a showcase of Middle Eastern belly dance.

One day, as we were talking via email,Morocco invited me to perform in her June show as a special guest artist. Needless to say, my heart soared and I literally jumped up and down with the excitement of a child on Christmas morning!

The Big Day

I flew in from Chicago O’Hare to NYC’s La Guardia airport, checked into my hotel, grabbed my dance bag and headed to the subway.Moroccohad sent me precise directions on how to get from the hotel to the restaurant for which I was very grateful, as there was a train change in the middle of the journey.

What’s It Like In The Big Apple?

The first thing I can tell you is that Manhattan has a very special energy to it. The air crackles with the creativity of artists, the hustle and bustle of millions of people getting to and from work and the amazement the visitors as they experience the city for the first time.

The subway system is no different. On my way to the restaurant, an all-male quintet played the melophone (the marching French Horn), baritone, trumpet, trombone and drums greeted workers as they made their way from offices around Lexington Avenue down to the subway.  As I changed trains to catch the #6, a soulful guitar player strummed the relief of the end to another work day and walking down Broadway, music played from a local restaurant while a street dancer tapped his way to paradise and people passed by, throwing tips in his tin.

Nervous, Scared, Excited – All at Once!

I arrived at The LaFayette Grill about an hour before show time and made my way to the dressing room. Excitement filled me – this was my first time to dance inNew York! And I was nervous and shy, too– after all, NYC is known as the capital of the dance world and NYC dancers are arguably among the best in the world. All sorts of questions were in my mind – would they accept me? Would they be friendly? The scared little girl inside wondered if they would like me – and, not only that, I was afraid my hips would freeze and my feet would be swallowed into the earth!

As I entered backstage, I was greeted by friendly faces, warm smiles and open arms. My fears quickly melted away like cold ice cream on a hot summer day! It meant so much to me to be accepted and supported.

I felt the connection between dancers that only dancers know – that pre-show exhilaration, the last minute “can you please help me pin my costume,” “how does my make up look,” and the last minute choreography cram sessions of listening to IPods and marking the dance just one more time.

Morocco arrived shortly after I did and greeted me in the dressing room with a big hug. Knowing this was my first performance in NYC, she quietly coached me as to what to expect and the proper etiquette for this particular show, both backstage and as an audience member. She informed me that dancers were more than welcome to watch the show, as long as we were in cover up. I was thrilled – what a tremendous treat to be able to see the other dancers from the audience as opposed to back stage. I knew I was in for a great time.

Ladies and Gentlemen: Let the Show Begin!

I quickly covered up and took a seat in the audience.  The music started playing and the dancers came on stage, one after another. Each dancer created a special moment on stage – some sharing a fun side of his or her personality, some a sensuous side, some flirted and some played… and all were wonderful!

Torkom, a male dancer wearing a gorgeous royal blue costume, played the zills in perfect rhythm, matching both hip and foot movements precisely to the music.  Samiha graced the stage with lovely sensuality that oozed from the soul. Karima Nadira lit up the place with her fantastic smile.

I was fourth from the last number. Almost too soon, it was time for me to go back stage to prepare. I took a deep breath and did my usual pre-dance ritual. I envisioned myself spreading joy to each and every person in the room through my dance, connecting and leaving them happier than they were before they came to the show. The words of my primary teacher, Jasmin Jahal, came back to me … “be the magic” … and I felt them reverberate in my soul.

My music started. The intro played and the time had come! I felt the wind lift my feet and I danced my heart out – giving every ounce of energy to the people. I smiled – and they smiled back! They clapped, they had fun, zaghareets filled the air and their joy come back to me, touching me deep in my heart. As I danced,Morocco caught my eye with a special look that made me feel her love and support.

It felt great! As the music made its final crescendo, I took my bow to a happy, spirited crowd and enjoyed the moment, one I will remember for my entire life. Time stood still for an instant and I drank in every delicious drop of the enchanted experience.

After my number, I hurried backstage to get dressed so that I could enjoy the rest of the show. I had the pleasure of watching fellow guest artist Paola Planton ofKuala Lumpur, who recently starred onMalaysia’s version of “So You Think You Can Dance.” She mesmerized the crowd with vibrant moves and sizzling hip work.  Tarik’s sassy, light hearted dance was a pleasure to experience – I had heard so many great things about him and they are all true!

Morocco came on stage and performed a wonderful routine. That woman can move her hips! She had fun with the audience, singing along as she danced during a high energy pop song, paid tribute to Classical Oriental with a beautiful piece of music and dazzled us with a dynamic drum solo.

Tarik and Morocco closed the show with a tantalizing duet. It was spellbinding to watch them mirror each other, moving as though they were one. Their fondness and deep love for one another shined through and created a very special kind of energy on stage. It was truly the perfect ending for a perfect evening.

A Treasured Experience

All too soon, it was time to head back to my hotel. I said my “see you very soon!” goodbyes to everyone, wishing them the best of everything. As I made my way back to my room, I floated on air with an elated heart, tears of ecstasy and every fiber of my being on fire!

Thank you,Morocco, for making a dream come true. I will cherish this memory forever.

Until we see each other again, my friend, happy shimmies.

And directly following the show, be sure to get out your dance shoes because DJ MATT MORAN joins us again for an evening of fun, excitement and a great time!

• Location: VFW, Judd Kendall Post, 908 Jackson, Naperville, IL 60555, 630.420.9820, located just past a residential area. Continue through the residential area until you come almost to the end of the street. On the left hand side of the road, you’ll see a flag pole and the Hall is set back from the road. Parking is in the back.
• Dancer Check In: 6:00 pm
• Doors Open: 6:30 pm
• Show Starts: 7:00 pm

Tickets include the show, open dancing and snacks. Prices are as follows:

Dancers – $10 each, plus a food dish to share, please also bring a toy for the drive

Guests – $20 each with a toy; Bring a new and unwrapped toy

On or after November 4th, or at the door – $25

SPECIAL: Buy 5 tickets, get 1 free!  Buy 10 tickets, get 2 free! (Coupon codes shown when purchasing guest tickets)

Please note – there’s a really great cash bar with wonderful prices!!! (** Please note: If the Paypal button below does not work, please send money via Paypal to Raksanna Productions; raksanna@raksanna.com)

Visit Raksanna’s Store to buy and download your tickets!

The legendary Momo Kadous and Raksanna have joined creative forces to present Momo’s critically acclaimed masterpiece Zaro in Chicago, Fall 2012. This iconic production is the epic story of the tortured soul, Zaro, his romance with a beautiful lover and his personal transformation.

Originally presented in the late 1990’s, Zaro toured Europe to sold-out theaters in multiple countries. In 2012, this beautiful show graces the stage in one of Chicago’s prestigious theaters for the first time in the United States.

Open Call for Dancers
Raksanna seeks talented dancers to join Raksanna’s Near East Dance Ensemble for this project. Dancers do not necessarily have to be Oriental dancers, although it is a plus and a working knowledge of belly dance movements (shimmy, hip articulations, etc.) is required. All ages, all sizes, all genders, all forms of dance and all locations welcome to audition. Characteristics that are more important than dance style are a shared value system (see below), ability to learn, take direction and be a team player.

Dancers outside of Chicago area are also welcome to participate in this experience; please email Raksanna (Raksanna@raksanna.com) for information.

General Information
• Project Duration: Sept 18, 2011 (auditions) to early fall 2012
• Rehearsal days: Sundays, 2:30-4:30 pm; Fridays, 7:30-9:30 pm (two Fridays on, one Friday off); occasional rehearsals as needed
• Rehearsal location: Fry Family YMCA, 2120 W 95th Street, Naperville, IL 60564 (intersection of Book and 95th), Studio 1 (small studio)
• Major Dates: ChicagoRaks ™ 2011, Oct 7-9 (half of show); March 16-18, 2012 (remaining half of show)
• Show dates and Location: TBA (to be finalized by Sept 15, 2011)
• Tuition Associated and Anticipated Fees: Regular class tuition, Production Company dues, workshop tuition to learn the choreography, some costuming fees (purchase and rental), travel related expenses, show tickets for guests

Chicago based dancers: If you are a member of Raksanna’s Near East Dance Ensemble, then you are not a member of any other dance company in Chicago. Solo work is accepted, but the commitment to Raksanna’s Near East Dance Ensemble is first priority and takes precedence over solo commitments. (The philosophy is the same as a sports team – players for the Cubs do not play for the Sox or any other team. The same holds true for Raksanna’s Near East Dance Ensemble.)

Shared Value System
Members of Raksanna’s Near East Dance Ensembleshare these values:
• Loyalty: dedicated to the project, faithful to the team, trustworthy, dependable and reliable
• Honesty: open, honest communication between team members that originates from a place of love and intent to better each other
• Team Player: puts the common goal of the team before personal ego/agenda, understands there is one director and one director only, knows and plays fairly by the rules, takes direction, supports fellow team members, always speaks highly of the team, seeks to build and inspire others, kind, empathetic and caring
• Respect: exhibits pride and respect to self, team, project and art form in behavior, appearance, conversation
• Professionalism: dependable, prepared for rehearsal, strong work ethic and positive attitude required, punctual, ability to compartmentalize personality conflicts (if any) and eliminate drama through focus on the goal
• Commitment to common goal: understands and follows through from beginning to end of the project – the common goal is to present the famous Zaro with first class artistry and have fun in the process

What this project IS:
• An opportunity to train with a world famous and respected artist
• An chance to grow and develop as a dancer and an individual
• A prestigious experience for a resume/vitae
• A rewarding event to network and achieve a common goal with like-minded colleagues
• The possibility of a life time

What this project is NOT:
• A paid performance or position (there are associated fees with the project and there are no paid positions)
• A hafla (it is a theatrical production)
• Targeted only at the belly dance community (Zaro is aimed at the general theater audience)

How to Get Involved:
Dancers interested in this project are required to go through an audition and interview process. Audition requirements are as follows:
• Date: Sunday, Sept 18, 2011
• Time: 2:30 to 4:30 pm (may run slightly longer, depending on number of auditions)
• Location: Fry Family YMCA, 2120 W. 95th Street (corner of Book and 95th), Naperville IL 60564, 630-904-9595
• Requirements: (a) 15 minute solo – 2/3 learned choreography, 1/3 original choreography, must include the use of the following props: veil, stick/sword/tray/shamedon (demonstrates ability to balance), zills a plus, other props welcome, but at least 6 minutes must show case dance without props/accessories; (b) group work – presented a small routine, dancer then demonstrates solo dancer and then with staging for multiple dancers
• Non-Chicago Dancers: video audition required following the same guidelines as the 15-min solo; also need video of you dancing in an ensemble to demonstrate ability to dance with others

Interview is approximately 15-20 minutes takes place via phone or in person with Raksanna and her Assistant Creative Director.

For detailed information such as schedule of events, requirements for non-Chicago based dancers, fees and more, please email Raksanna@raksanna.com or call 630-689-3611.
Divas, drama queens, lone wolves and individuals whose values do not meet the Shared Value System described above need not inquire

The beatiful Fahtiem

A tiny dancer with a huge, lovable personality, Fahtiem is well-known and loved across the world. This dynamic blond bombshell is an inspiration to me, both as a dancer and as a person, and I recently had the blessed opportunity to watch her performance in the one … the only … Carnegie Hall.

One of World’s Most Prestigious Venues

Located on Seventh Avenue, between West 56^th Street and West 57^th Street in Midtown Manhattan, Carnegie Hall stands with its majestic architecture and rich legacy. 881 Seventh Ave is home to performances from the world’s top talent for musicians, artists, dancers and other performing artists.

The Hall is named after Andrew Carnegie, a philanthropist who paid for the construction of the building.  Carnegie is considered to be the second-richest man in history after John D. Rockefeller; he founded the Carnegie Steel Company in the 1870’s and made the majority of his fortune in the steel

Street View of Carnegie Hall

industry.  By the time of his death, Carnegie had given away most of his riches and when he died, the remaining funds were given away to charities and foundations.

Carnegie Hall The architecture was designed by William Burnet Tuthill. Built in 1891, it is one of the last standing large buildings in New York without a steel frame; it was built entirely of masonry. Although the exterior has been renovated several times throughout the past 120 years, the institution underwent a $60 million restoration and renovation effort that began in 1985. The job was tremendous and included fresh paint, new seats, carpeting and a new stage floor.

There are three auditoriums within Carnegie Hall. Stern Auditorium/Perelman Stage (also known as the Main Hall) seats 2,804 people, Weill Recital Hall is an elegant, intimate space that seats 268 people and Zankel Hall, Carnegies’ newest space, seats 599 patrons.

Belly Dance (Middle Eastern, aka Oriental Dance) at Carnegie

In addition to musical concerts, Carnegie Hall hosts a myriad of performing arts presentations including dance, even belly dance.

Of note, Ibrahim “Bobby” Farrah both taught Oriental dance at the International School of Dance, Carnegie Hall and presented his legendary dance company, Ibrahim Farrah Near East Dance Company, on the Perelman Stage.

Speaking of Bobby, Fahtiem trained and mentored under him. She grew and developed her own depth and understanding of Oriental Dance to our art form.  On her website is a quote from her inspiration: “Fahtiem brings a touch of class to Oriental Dance, as well as a delightful sauciness, making her not only a grand entertainer, but an artist as well. It’s no wonder that as a performer, teacher, and choreographer, she is so in demand.”  (Ibrahim Farrah).

It is no wonder, then, that she followed his guidance and graced the stage of this celebrated Hall.

A Benefit Concert to Turn Up the Peace

Inside the "Great Hall" of Carnegie Hall

Normally, when we think about peace, thoughts of world peace come to mind. However, that’s looking at the big picture … and sometimes, that view can be a little overwhelming.

Two pioneering spirits decided to take a different approach.

Phillip Kanakis and Nandapriya Sattva joined forces to create a not-for-profit organization called Turn Up the Peace. Their overriding philosophy is that peace is not merely the absence of war, but rather the compassion and good will that we, as fellow human beings, show ourselves, the planet around us all and all surrounding forms of life.

To achieve peace, according to Turn Up the Peace, it is essential to create permanent uplifting solutions to people in at-risk situations. For example, one current project is to provide food for communities in Sri Lanka by planting Jackfruit trees to grow fruit that can feed families for 100-200 years.

As you can imagine … achieving this vision takes money.

In order to kick start their efforts, Kanakis and Sattva created a Benefit Concert to raise funds for the initiative. This Benefit Concert premiered on one of the world’s greatest stages – the Isaac Stern Auditorium at Carnegie Hall.

Top World Talent – from Marla Maples to Chamber of Orchestra of New York to Dan Reed to Fahtiem

The evening began with world famous Marla Maples as the Master of Ceremonies. Her sunny personality known around the world for her co-hosting of Miss Universe Pageant, Miss USA Pageant and Fox after Breakfast, to name a few, set the tone for an enjoyable experience.

Acts included beautiful music from the Chamber Orchestra of New York, whose violinist, French Hornists, cellos and other members of the orchestra filled the Hall with rich notes filled with passion and joy and at times, stirred the audience to tears.

Dan Reed, known for his work as an opening act for RUN DMC, UB40, David Bowie, Bon Jovi and more, graced the stage with songs from his newest album Coming Up for Air. He played acoustic guitar and was accompanied by a fantastic drummer (whose drum was a wooden box that he used as a chair AND a drum). One song depicted the Wall in Jerusalem. His gritty voice sang out of Jews who prayed at the wall at sunset on the Sabbath and the Muslims who prayed at dawn on the other side.  The audience could feel the pain and tension and the longing for a peaceful co-existence; Dan literally transported us to the Holy Land.

Backstage at Carnegie Hall, Fahtiem with her dancers

Our lovely Fahtiem presented a gorgeous choreography featuring male modern dancers, ballerinas, jazz dancers and her own Oriental dance. The piece showcased veil work, Isis wings and dancers without any accessories.  The music was light, uplifting and beautiful. Fahtiem’s work highlighted her talent for beauty, grace and elegance by skillfully incorporating the different dance genres that honestly “put the magic into every step” in a magnificent, spellbinding performance.

From My Perspective

Fahtiem is one of my personal inspirations. Her dance is beautiful, she is a professional role model for dancers like me who seek to dance and teach for an entire lifetime and her personal life philosophies of creating the reality we want have resonant at a deep level for me.

As a friend and a colleague in Oriental Dance, it was such an honor to share this special, magical moment with Fahtiem. To share what is arguably the pinnacle of her career – to dance our art form on the Stern Auditorium of Carnegie Hall – was deeply meaningful and I thank her for the invitation to be a part of the experience with her. I am so proud of her and happy for her!!!!

Gilae, Fahtiem and Raksanna celebrate at Planet Hollywood, NYC

And in my personal opinion, it is not a stretch to say that the same spirit felt on the May 5 1891 … the official opening night at 881 Seventh Ave in Midtown Manhattan when Tchaikovsky set the stage for musical excellence … Fahtiem has once again set the standard for excellence in Oriental dance.