April 2001

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THE.. FAFYRUS
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April
200 1
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5AME_DA
SAMEDA Monthly News
All Fees are per issue and reflect a SAMEDA member
discount. 10% discount on 3 or more issues.
All ads must be paid for in advance.
For further information, contact
Jolie Lucas, Director of Advertising at (619) 294-9400
the official publication of the
San Diego Area Middle Eastern Dance Association
Chief Officer:
SAMEDA Board Members
President:
Sohaila
(760) 743-7501
Vice President:
Meleah
(619) 280-8424
Treasurer:
Cindy Scheidt
(619) 449-1744
Secretary:
Newsletter Editor:
(858) 689-1142
Donna Dutton •
Lynn Perry [email protected]
(619) 280-8424
Assisting Editor:
Meleah
Member Secretary:
Susan Teal
[email protected]
Advertising Director:
Jolie Lucas
(619) 294-9400
Marketing Director:
Dave Dhillon
(619) 284-5367
Proofreader:
Richard Steiger
(619) 283-6325
Newsletter Assembly Persons:
Vicki Deriso • Susan Teal
SEND NEWSLETTER SUBMISSIONS, ADS, AND FLYERS
(SEE BACK COVER FOR ADVERTISING RATES) TO:
SAME DA• PMB #51 • 3401 Adams Avenue, Suite
A• San Diego, CA 92116-2490 • [email protected]
All SAMEDA business correspondence & membership
goes to the following address:
SAM EDA• P. 0. Box 16821 • San Diego, CA 92176
[email protected]
Submissions deadline is the 1s of each month. Due to
occasional space constraints, non-time-sensitive items may be
held over till the next issue.
Submissions should be typed or legibly handwritten-preferably
double-spaced with adequate margins. Submissions on disk are
acceptable (even preferred) in PC platform. Disks will be returned
if you include a postpaid mailer. Due to the new streamlined format,
we accept typeset material onlyfor advertisements.
If you scan your own photos, please do not halftone themscan them as "grayscale" (16 grays) or "black and white photo"
in your scanning program.
Advertising R.ate Sheet
Add $10.00 per item for non-members
$7.00
Classified ads
6 lines or less
Non-member
Business card ad-one issue
Half-page ad
Full page ad
(inside front or back cover)
Flyer insert (275 copies)
$10.00
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EXTRAS:
$20.00
$20.00/$30.00
Creation of a flyer master
Creation of a camera ready ad
WEB SITE Advertising
First page on the SAMEDA website-monthly
Template webpage setup (one-time fee)
~
$5.00
$35.00
All ads submitted must be on white paper
and clean for scanning. Text must be
crisp & legible, original photos if possible.
Otherwise, if extra typesetting needs to
be done, an extra charge of $10
will be added.
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T HE__ FAFYR.US
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We are making the appropriate actions to get more involved with outdoor
festivals and street faires so SAMEDA can be seen more in the public eye.
We want the public to know more about our dance community. What better
way. On that note, I wish everyone a wonderful Easter.
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We are still looking for a volunteer cooordinator. If you think you have
what it takes to get involved, by all means give us a call.
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Plans are well under way for the SAMEDA Faire. It is progressing
nicely and hoping to hear from more volunteers to help out in this fun event.
We are having wonderful and successful meetings, not to mention great
atmosphere among members wanting to help out. Try out one of our meetings,
it would be a good time to come out for the evening and have a nice dinner
and enjoy some enthusiastic company. Not to mention see how much
SAMEDA is progressing in future activities for YOU!
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T HE. FAFYRUS
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April 200 I
)"1embmi' Comer
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New Membeti:
Nilia Carreno
T HE. FAFYRUS
200 1
29
)
Shimmy Into Spring - Apri1 8th
PllA!I NOTI TIii IH,,lttlNT l)ATI!!!!!
IN THE EVENING: Model YOUR Fabulous Creation to a musical
accompaniment at the SHIMMY INTO SPRING Fashion Show and
Fashion Competition!
Welcome Back To ~AM ~D A
Rene wing Mernbeti:
Chris Khalil - Sabah
Terri Lynn Wert - Athena
A pril
A Detailed Workshop With Judeen "IAMED'S 2000 CABARET
DANCER OF THE YEAR " · 1993 Belly Dancer of the Year Winner
of the Belly Dancer of the Year 2000 (Duet Catagory) · Don't miss
this chance to explore all the possibilities with Locks, Shimmies,
&. Accents . Judeen Will Teach a Creative Choreography to
"Journey of the Gypsy" by Jali\ah 's Raks Shark\ Ill
Welc ome To ~AM~DA
Evelyn Perez
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Prizes&. Recognition JOIN THE FUN! Call Marula (619) 298:2599
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
(l)G@@O
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* Dessie Owens, a new member • who celebrated on 3/28
* Scottie Schultz, April 7
~
Mission Statement
SAMEDA is dedicated to provide educational and performance opportunities
for those interested in the art of Middle Eastern dance and to promote this art to the
general public by sponsoring seminars, workshops, and events, which are available
to all.
SAMEDA is also dedic ated to the production of a monthly newsletter
co ntaining listings of such events and items of related interest as well as
providing a public forum in whi ch the membership is enc ouraged to participate .
Artic le 11 o f the Byl aws.
The Workshop will take place at the Mission Valley YMCA ·
The Show will be in the Lahaina Room at the beautiful
Red Lion Hanalei Hotel
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April showers are beautiful and cleansing. Let's wish away any self doubts and
resentments for others in the dance community. Be fulfilled by knowing there is only
one YOU , and only you can lend your own special creative talents to this dance.
AFFIRMATION:IAMAUNIQUEANDCREATIVEEXPRESSIONOFTHIS
BEAUTIFUL ART FORM AND I RESPECT THE UNIQUENESS OF OTHERS
AS WELL.
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THE.. FAFYR.U5
April
200 I
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THE.. FAFYR.U5
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SAMEDA WEBSITE: ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• www.sdsameda.com
By Kathleen Thomson/Alia
Like many dancers who have had the opportunity to see a performance by Reza
Farnoush, I was delighted to hear he was teaching a master class in San Diego on
January 21, 200 l . Marnia sponsored the workshop and donated the proceeds, after
expenses, to a scholarship program for YMCA summer camps.
Part of the workshop was a short drum solo choreography that we all had down
by the end of the class. The movements were not difficult and perfectly matched the
music. There was just enough material that we could move on from the task of
memorization to work on infusing the choreography with flair and polish.
Taking breaks from practicing the drum solo, Reza walked us through four
other very distinct pieces of music; a classic Egyptian number, an Arabic folklore
piece, a slow ballady and a funky Arabic hip-hop mix. Again, he kept the
movements simple and included a lot of repetitions so we could keep up with
him and experience the music the way he interpreted it. A tape of all the mu sic
used in the class was available for later practice. Personally, I find this very
helpful in retaining new materal.
During class, Reza made sure that each dancer was able to grasp what he was
trying to teach. Dancers of all levels attended this class and I believe they all
benefited. Reza Farnoush radiates with joy when he performs, and he carries this
same feeling into his teaching. I'm sure everyone left the class infected with a new
enthusiasm for dance.
)
[email protected]
SAME DA
..... aleia @worldnet.att.net
Aleia
[email protected]
Morwenna Assaf
[email protected]
John Bilezikjian .. ...
[email protected]
Vicki Deriso
[email protected]
Dave Dhillon
www.thecyberside.com/dondi
Dondi
. ddutton @san.rr.com
Donna Dutton .. ..... .
[email protected]
Elle
www.fahtiem.com
Fahtiem
[email protected]
Claudia lmmerzeel
[email protected]
Arnie Lamer
[email protected]
Frank Lazzaro
[email protected]
Jolie Lucas
[email protected]
NoraLuchs
[email protected]
Mariah
[email protected]
Marguerite ...... .. .. .
[email protected]
Marula
www.meleah.com
Meleah
www.mesmera.com
Mesmera
[email protected]
Niki .. .............. .
[email protected]
Lynn Perry
[email protected]
Larysa Shmorhay
[email protected]
Jheri St. James ....... .
[email protected]
Francena Sherburne
........ www.sohaila.net
Sohaila ............ .. .
Heather Stants ........ .... ...... ... .......... www.urbantribaldance.com
Tonya & Atlantis ............ ... ............ www.tonya-and-atlantis.com
(
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. THE..~FAFYRUS
April
200 I
)
(
April
2001
THE. f AFYRUS
~AM ~DA Pl!tfotml!t' ~ Ditl!ctoty
C
=> C
DANCERS
Aleia ... ... ...... .... ... . (760) 721-0080
Amalya ........ .... .... (760) 432-6574
Ana ...................... 660-6965
Morwenna Assaf .. (760) 757-4470
Cyriana . .. .. . .... .. . .. . (909) 987 -1670
Dondi ........... ....... (858) 483-2719
Fahtiem ............ ... (626) 810-9470
Jamila .. .... ... ..... ... 466-8233
Jasmina ........ ..... . 449-1744
Jinaan ...... ... ..... .. . (760) 471-8747
Jheri .... ....... ......... (949) 494-5031
Luisa ..... ............. . 299-1129
Marguerite ........... (310) 370-5155
Mariah .. . .. .. .. .. .. .. . . (760) 727 -4545
Marula ... .............. 298-2599
Cassie Mavis .... ... 230-9442
Meleah ... .. ... ....... . 280-8424
Mesmera . .. .. .. .. .. .. (323) 669-0333
Niki ... ...... ....... ... ... (760) 634-3680
Nora .................... (858) 457-7741
Pamela ...... .. ....... 299-7337
Abhi-lrena Peraich . (760) 751-3436
Sahar .................. (760) 433-9993
Sahra Saeeda ..... (909) 359-6782
Salimah .... ........... (760) 739-8179
Sanura ................ (760) 630-7063
Scherazade ... ...... (858) 581-0135
Sheerah ...... .. ... .. . (858)792-7496
Shirin ..... ... ...... ... .. 660-5225
Sohaila ................ (760) 743-7501
Heather Stants ..... 696-3788
Theresa .... ........ ... (619) 521-0849
~~
Walid Assaf .. ...... ..
John Bilezikjian ....
Dave Dhillon ..... ...
Frank Lazzaro ......
Richard Steiger ....
Var Daghdevirian
;
~
(760)757-4470
(949) 581-5664
284-5367
(760) 942-1326
283-6325
(909) 987 -1670
C .
TROUPES
-:=)
Arab-esque .......... . (760) 293-3243
BellyDancers of the Universe
(562)433-6615
C*E*D*A*R ............. [email protected]
Sohaila's Shining Stars
... (760) 743-1235
Urban Tribal Dance Company
..... 696-3788
(,·\ \,
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MUSICIANS
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Scheherazade and Dave Dhillon, circa 1972
27
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26
TH E. FAFYR.US
April 2001
]
sang, and had appeared in Las Vegas at the Aladdin Hotel with Yacoubian's "Nymphs
of the Nile" stage production. I learned much from him about stage setup, lighting,
performance timing, pacing, sound production and what to look for in auditioning
dancers. Richard died ofliver cancer in May 1998.
LENA "THE PERSIAN KITTEN": I'm not sure of what became of her. I can only
assume that she also went back to Los Angeles and continued to dance there.
This is the first in a series of historical articles about Middle Eastern nightclubs in
Southern California in what we used to call "the good old days." I called upon the
people who were there and they have supplied me with valuable recollections of
those times which will be included in future articles. A special heartfelt thanks to
John Bilezikjian, Tonya Chianis, Desiree and Marta Schill.
Dave Dhillon, Richard Barham & Scheherazade, circa 1972
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April
[:
200 1
T HE. FAFYR.US
ClxlnR You!
7
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Marguerite would like to thank SAMEDA: Sohaila, Meleah, Lynn Perry, and
Susan Teal, for your patience and for helping me promote my activities in San
Diego. And a big thanks to Scottie Schultz and Richard Steiger- our work together
was a great success.
[~:
Classifieds
:~J
•
Costumes from Egypt and Spain. Contact Nicki (760) 634-3680, email:
nikistal @aol.com, website: geocities.com/nikistal @aol.com
•
Sohaila just got a new shipment of beautiful costumes direct from Egypt. Call to
make an appointment or come up as a group to see new items (760) 743-1235 .
•
Zills, beginner size, brand new Saroyan or Turquoi se, 6 pairs @ $15 each. Call
Malika (858) 274-0767 or mreedOO [email protected].
• Beautiful costumes, well cared for, for sale. aqua/silver $350; fuschia/silver $350;
dark green/gold $350; Madame Alba gold/maroon $450. Fit sizes 8-10. Leave
message at (858) 486-1952, e-mail: [email protected]
~AM fDA Co!:tutn{!t Li!:t
Aleia .. ... .. ............ .. ................................. ... ........ .... (760) 721 -0080
Abhi-lrena Perakh .... ...... .. ... ..... ..... ....... .. ......... ...... (760) 751 -3436
B.D. Patterns ....... .... ..... ... .. .. .... ... ...... ....... .. .... ....... (619) 444-4197
MorwennaAssaf .... .. ..... ............. ........ .. .... ... ... ....... (760) 757-4470
Crist6bal ... ... ..... ... ..... .... ... ... ........... .... ......... ..... .... .... .. .. .. 697-9121
Gypsy Wea r (Rebecca Long) ..................................... ... . 579-9526
Nicki Vacca r ............... ........ .. .. .. .. .... ... ... ...... ........... (760) 634-3680
Scherezade's Sauk ..... ..... .. ..... ........ ........... ........... (858) 581 -0135
Sohaila ..... .. .. ........ .. ..... .. ......... ... ..... ... ..... ............... (760) 743-7501
Zarifa . .. . .. . . . . .. .. . . .. . . .. .. .. . .. . .. . ... .. ... .. .. . .. . .. .. . .. .. . .. .. . . .. . . (619) 453-0811
[
8
T HE_ f AFYRUS
April
dr
)
Hnncummmts
~-··®J
(. . Please note date change for Shimmy Into Spring Workshop - it is
ON APRIL 8TH, NOT April 18th as stated in last month's newsletter.
Greek Palace-2 for I dinners with SAMEDA membership card. Holidays/
events excluded. Call for more info.
DANCE COMPANY MEMBERS WANTED! If you are into learning &
performing authentic representations of traditional women 's dances of North
Africa & the Middle East, then you are into Arab-esque ..."not the real thing ,
but pretty damn close!" Contact Elle at (760) 293-3243/
[email protected].
AITENTION MIDDLE EASTERN CHEFS-A Middle Eastern Cooking show
April
200 I
T HE_ f AFYRUS
25
)
In the main bar area, they had a small stage with a Hawaiian singer/guitar player, Kimo.
He would play for 45 minutes and then announce the Bellydance show starting in ten
minutes. People would enter the showroom ($2.00 cover charge) and sat in-the-round.
Shows lasted about 45 minutes, each dancer was on stage no more than 20 minutes.
There was an exit hallway stage left with two private dressing rooms for the dancers
and wall lockers for the musicians and the entertainers could depart through this back
door if they did not want to go through the lounge. We were paid weekly through the
hotel payroll department and the checks were for gross amounts and we were
responsible for our own taxes. Because it was a stage show, there were little or no tips
from the audience. Entertainers were not permitted to leave the stage during the
performance. Out of town performers were housed in hotel bungalows with kitchenettes
and they were given food discounts in the restaurants.
Where did they all go? Well, to the best of my knowledge:
hosted by Sohaila. Looking for Chefs and personalities in the San Diego area.
Call 760-743-1235.
LEM! PASHA: Due to partnership problems, the Turkish Village folded and Lemi
returned to Los Angeles and may have gone back to Ankara, Turkey.
A NOTE FROM RICHARD STEIGER. Complete versions ofmy articles on
music in the Papyrus are available to SAMEDA members & teachers. Call (619)
283-6325 for details.
PRINCESS NADIA (Nadia Simone): Eventually moved to Las Vegas and ran her
own bellydance boutique and also taught dance . Rumors are that she passed away
several years ago partly due to a congenital heart condition.
SAMEDA wants to acknowledge your birthdays! Let us know your birthday
AISHA ALI: Appears to be active in the dance community in Los Angeles. I see her
ads in various publications from time to time.
month & day!
I'm looking for people who are knowledgeable of traditional mid-eastern dances
or folk dances. Please call me Nicki 760-634-3680 or e-mail: [email protected].
•
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200 I
Looking for a Volunteer Coordinator to help coordinate SAMEDA parties. If
interested, please email [email protected].
May 20th-Grand Opening of Yoga Studio Carlsbad, 3138-J Roosevelt St. in
downtown Carlsbad. Performance by Mariah. Details, call (760) 434-3469.
Meleah.com is here! Check it out!
The San Diego chapter of MECDA will be hosting the Marrakesh Spring Festival
on April 29th at the Masonic Lodge in El Cajon at 695 Ballantyne St. Just like the
Marrakesh Fall Festival last August, there will be vendors, workshops and
performers. Call Ninah Sahar (619) 561-5675 to perform. Vendors call Julia (619)
988-0902. Volunteers call Cristobal (619) 697-9121.
Please noteArt/Dance's new name : Art/Dance Complex, Arabic Dance Academy.
April 9- Marula has a class beginning intermediate/advanced belly dance at
the Hazard Center YMCA Mondays from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. Call (619) 298-2599.
April 12- Meleah is forming a new class on Thursdays 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. "Gotta
Dance" Studio, North Park for beginner/intermediate level with a focus on
props : sword , cane , veil , zill s, etc.
ZENUBA: Her first husband was a set designer for film director, Cecil B. DeMille.
They met while he was on location in Egypt. When she left the Vacation Village
show, I believe she resumed dancing at The Fez in Hollywood and married a Middle
Eastern musician.
MYLEEN KAY: Put herself through medical school while dancing (5 years at Vacation
Village) and graduated with top honors in her class and went on to become a doctor
of internal medicine. She may have returned to her home country, Australia to
practice.
ALI AZADAN: A phenomenal doumbek player, played three drums and foot
tambourine (sound familiar?) . While performing five nights weekly, studied video/
film making and got his degree and returned to Tehran, Iran to help to develop their
fledgling television industry.
RICHARD BARHAM: He was my friend and associate for many years. We performed
at many events and clubs for years . Born in Allentown, Pennsylvania of Palestinian
descent, he had set up and decorated and performed at the original Fez Restaurant
in Hollywood. He was a man of many talents and abilities, played o ud , violin and
[
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THE.. FAFYRU5
April
200 I
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by Dave Dhillon
Vacation Village Resort, San Diego • 1966 - 1972
Bellydancing, as a form of full time lounge entertainment, did not exist in San
Diego prior to 1966. The owner, general manager and management team at what was
then, the Vacation Village Hotel, featured Jive stage shows in the Carnival Lounge.
In particular, I remember a stage act that featured a Caribbean singer known as the
Mighty Panther, along with a troupe of Calypso and Limbo dancers. It was a very
colorful and entertaining fast paced show. The percussionist was a friend of mine,
Mel, who played hand drums. Towards the show finale, he would pass out bongo
drums, shakers and scratchers to the audience and everyone would get into the act.
It was lots of noisy fun.
The ensuing belly dance shows were booked from the Hollywood area. The
music was by a Turkish kanoun player named Lemi Pasha accompanied by a local
American/Lebanese doumbek player, Fred Haddad. The two dancers at that time
were also veterans of the Hollywood club scene, Princess Nadia and Aisha Ali. I
used to frequent a Clairemont piano and jazz bar called the Stardust Lounge. The
manager from Vacation Village, who was a pop music and jazz buff, heard me playing
bongos and approached me asking if I could play Turkish music and also, would I
be interested in replacing his doumbek player who had given notice? I answered
that I had never played Middle Eastern music but I was willing to try. He arranged an
audition and I was hired. There was very little time to rehearse so I picked it up the
hard way . .. Jive on stage. It was difficult to say the least. After all, I had never heard
of chefti telli or karshilama. The bongo rhythms were similar in some ways, i.e., the
Latin martillo beat resembled a 4/4 gallop and the beguine was similar to the bolero
(veil work). Later, we worked with a dancer from Alexandria, Egypt, named Zenuba
and another singer/dancer named Myleen Kay.
I left this job after eight months and followed Lemi Pasha to a club he started on
Midway Drive called the Turkish Village. The first half of the show featured a
Tahitian dance troupe complete with fire and sword dances and we presented belly
dancing the second half. The Vacation Village show continued on with a constant
flow of dancers and musicians from the Hollywood area. The show lasted until 1972
and during the last few years was run by a Persian doumbek player, Ali Azadan and
he periodically would hire me to sub for him. This was also where I met American
born oudist, Richard Barham, with whom I worked for many years. We also presented
an Iranian dancer, Lena, who billed herself as "The Persian Kitten ," and was very
dynamic and danced with marabou feather boas or capes hemmed in feathers.
Working conditions were good at the Carnival Lounge. We did two shows
nightly Tuesday through Thursday and three shows nightly on Friday and Saturday.
(
April
[=-
200 1
~wa
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• Thursdays, April 12 & 26/Sunday, April 22 - Jamila's Belly Dance Dinner
Showcases at Greek Town Restaurant, 431 "E" Street, San Diego (Gaslamp District)
at 7:00 p.m. To schedule dancing, call Jamila at (619) 466-8233; for reservations,
(619)232-0461.
• Friday, April 20 - C*E*D*A*R's Tales of Scheherazade st udi o concert
7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
• Friday, April 20 - Sultan 's Symposium Dinner Show - 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
• Saturday, April 21 - Sultan's Symposium - features Abhi of Israel in a seminar and
show. Seminar includes luncheon 11 :30a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Dinner show is on Friday, April
20th from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00p.m. See flyer in this issue for details. Call Scottieat(858) 5810135. Vending available.
• Saturday, April 21- Open House at Art/Dance Academy. Free classes. From I :00
p.m. to 3:00 p.m. You may also sit in on C*E*D* A *R's rehearsal. Come and visit
(760) 757-4470.
• Sunday, April 22 - Avocado Festival at Mission Theater by C*E*D* A *R in
Fall brook. Show time is I :30 p.m.
• Wednesday, April 28 - A benefit for Multiple Sclerosis in Kearny Mesa. Call
Meleah to perform (619) 280-8424.
• May 20 - C*E*D* A *R will Cafe Scheherazade for the benefit and fun for all in
Oceanside. Contact Arabic Dance Academy for more information (760) 757-4470.
• May 27 - Marguerite will present her paper "Physiological/Psychological
Indications for Trance-like Behaviors in Middle Eastern Dance and their Possible
Origins" for the 2nd International Conference on Middle Eastern Dance at Orange
Coast College in Costa Mesa, Ca. Coordinators of the Conference are Shareen El
Safy, Angelika Nemeth, Sahra C. Kent.
• June 24 - Summer Student Concert at Hajji Baba restaurant downtown . Call
Meleah (619) 280-8424 or Jasmina (619) 334-8745 to register.
• July 22 - the SAMEDA Faire - in a NEW location • the Scottish Rite Temple in
Mission Valley ::::music, dancing, food and fun :::: Vendors call Susan (619) 444-4197;
dancers call Meleah (619) 280-8424.
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this great woman•
Rev. Ron Fox
"On these pages, through her spiritual connection to dance, Tonya graciously created stepping
stones for our own journey_ This book seNes as a beacon to brighten our path.•
Marta Schill, President Middle Eastern Culture and Dance Association
"Tonya is a star because she dances with passion and teaches with compassion She is a friend
whos heart is open to all. Who Tonya is, makes it possible for dancers around her to experience
transfonnation May this little book inspire you to catch the vision of your greatness and express it
through your dance.·
Rev. Margie Clark
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Evening," presented by Marnia in February, 2000, and the year 2000 "Belly Dancer
of the Universe Competition," an annual event produced by Tonya and Atlantis . Of
course dancing in restaurants and cafes is the bread and butter of most dancers and
Tim taped dancers working in various locations all over San Diego. Whether belly
dancing in Southern California is an accurate reflection of belly dancing in America
is open for debate. Among the dancers featured in this section are women who have
performed nationally and internationally. Some of them are master teachers who
have been invited to give seminars across the USA. To my knowledge, differences
between dancers tend to be individual rather that regional, but I'm sure this could
be the subject of an interesting discussion .
When Tim first began his research for this video, he was surprised by the number
of dancers who expressed the same wish; that he would make an effort to validate
their art form . Approaching the subject as someone who already saw it as a valid art
form, this gave him an extra incentive to create a respectful presentation on belly
dance. While technically this documentary may be a little rough around the edges,
it is full of good general information and enough evocative content to keep one
pondering the art of belly dance for a long time. So far thi s documentary has been
broadcast on Cox Cable three times and on Time Warner Cable twice. Tim's proudest
moment came after the first broadcast, when he was contacted by Kellog Elementary
School in Chula Vista. This school is a performing arts magnet and Tim gladly gave
them his consent to use this program as educational material. Both Cox and Time
Warner have promised future broadcasts of Belly Dance in America. Check the
SAMEDA website for future dates and times.
For more information on Public Access in San Diego call Cox Communications
Public Access at (619) 596-3290 or TI me Warner Public Access at (858) 635-8730. To
contact producer Tim Wayne call (619) 807-4014.
(
April
200 I
T HE. FAFYRUS
I I
)
Effie Horning (760) 630-7063
•Privatecoachingbyappointment
Jheri (949) 494-5031 • Laguna Beach
•Beg. Belly Dance
• lnl Belly Dance
T
F
8:00-9:30
5:00-6:30
Frank Lazzaro (760) 942-1326 • Encinitas
•Drumming
M
7:00-8:30
&I
9:00-10: 15a
12:00-1 :15
7:00-8:15
•Private lessons by ap(Xlintment
Mariah (760) 727-4545 • Yoga Studio Carlsbad
•Yoga all levels
•Yoga all levels
•Bellydance-reefmt
Sohaila (760) 743-1235 •Escondido • Sohaila's Studio
-chm:ography clas.5
•Int/adv improvisation/technique
Sohaila's Studio
•Int imrrovisatiorv'technique
•Beginning chumming classwith Dave Dhillon
Poway Adult Education
•Beginning belly dance
•Bellyrobics
•Pri Vale coaching by ap(Xlintment
Learning Annex seminars once a month . Call for info.
w
11-1
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T
8:00-9:00
7:00-8:00
s
11-1
I0:00-11 :OOa
7:00-8:00
M
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8:00-9:00
8:00-9:00
Kathy Stradley (909) 699-5606 • Temecula Community Rec. Center
•Beginningbellydance
•Intermediate/Advancedbellydaoce
w
w
6:00-7:00
7:10-8:20
T
6:30-8:00
11-1
7:30-8:30
Tonya (562) 434-3987
Golden West College • 714-89 I -3991
•Mixedlevelbellydance
So. Calif. Dance Academy (562) 434-3987
•Mixedlevelbellydance
~dGG0\1Cr
. ll4"J
Cerritos College, (562) 860-2451, ext. 2521
•Mixedlevelbellydance
F
Santa Monica College (310) 434-3400
•Mixedlevelbellydance
S
Nicki Vaccar (760) 634-3680 • Carlsbad Parks & Recreation
•Mid Eastern Beg.
M
•Mid Eastern Begllnter.
M
7:00-8:30
I0:0:h-Noon
7: 15-8 : 15
8:15-9:30
(
I2
TH E.. FAFYR.U5
San Dieguito Adult Ed
•Mid Eastern Beg.
•Mid Eastern Begllnterm
•Flameoco, Beg'Intenn
•Flameoco,Beg
Coast Athletic Club (Encinitas)
•Mid-EasternTechniqoo'InL
•Mid-EastemAdv/Perfonnance
San Dieguito Adult Ed - March Workshops
•Mid Eastern Beg
-Greek:Folk I &2
Greek Village Restaurant -- Free (twice a month)
-Greek Daoce les&x1.5
•Privarecoochingbyawointment
April
200 I
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7:00-8:00
8:00-9:00
5:00-6:00
6:00-7:00
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7:15-8:15
8:15-9:45
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S\ 10:30-12illn
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6:00-7:00
Metro
Luisa (619) 299-1129 • Dancing Unlimited, 4569 30th St, North
Park & La Jolla Rec Center
•Intennediatebellycm:e
•Privarecoochingbyawointment
Layla Sidonia (619) 229-8250 • Tierrasanta Rec. Center
•BhnicArabic&F.gy¢anDaoceBasics
M
7:15-8:15
Mahara (619) 688-9467 • Oasis/Robinson's May in Mission Valley
•Beg. belly dance for women over 50
F I0: 15-11 :45a
Marula (619) 298-2599
Mission Valley YMCA, 5055 Friars Road
•Beg.bellydance
S
1:30-2:30
•Adv.Begllnt.bellydance
S
2:45-3:45
Hazard Center YMCA
•Int/Adv. belly dance
M
8: 3 0- 9 : 3 0
Private Coaching also available
Meleah (619) 280-8424
Centre City Ballet, 928 Fl. Stockton, Mission Hills
•Beg,foundationsofbellydance
W
7:30-8:30
•Int/Adv technique& combinations, zills,double veil
W
6:25-7:25
2805 Maple St, North Park
•Be!}"Int use ofprops
lH
7:30-8:30
Taoist Sanctuary, 4229 Park Blvd., North Park
•Intermediate technique &zills
F
1:30-2:30
•Pri vatecoaching by appointment
(
April
200 I
TH E.. FAFYR.U5
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)
contacted Ramzy Music International LTD. regarding use of some of the footage of
old Egyptian movies featured in their video series, "The Stars of Egypt." They were
vague about who actually owned the rights to these movies and didn't offer any
further potential contacts.
Although there was never any belly dancing in the show it is hard not to think of
"I Dream of Jeanie" when the subject of belly dance arises. For use of a segment of the
animation that accompanied the opening credits of the show, one first needs
permission from Columbia Tri Star (the owners), Barbra Eden (whose likeness is
represented), the Animators Union and the Musicians Union and then pay the standard
fee! An episode of the original "Star Trek" called "Wolf in the Fold" featured a short
performance by Tania Lamani. Tim received no response to his inquiries about using
this sequence.
I have personally tried to find a new copy of the National Geographic Special,
"Cairo Unveiled," which focuses in general on belly dancing in modern Egypt and
specifically on dancer Lucy. Tim was told that there have been so many National
Geographic specials that they are owned by many different entities. Sadly, he was
not able to track down the owner of this particular special.
Atlantis was featured on the Channel 2 news in Los Angeles on January 14,
2000, speaking about the health benefits of belly dancing . Tim thought this would
show a positive media image of belly dancing but was told by that news show that
they never release any of their material.
What we do get to see, besides a rerun of Fatima at Coney Island, is a short scene
from the 1916 movie, "Intolerance," produced by D. W. Griffith, who also created
"Birth of a Nation." 1bis film comes courtesy ofAmerican Film Preservation Associates,
an organization dedicated to the restoration of old films. They would have liked to
receive the standard fee but since Tim couldn't pay and this movie is in the public
domain , they granted their permission in exchange for credits.
It would have been wonderful to see all these different film clips in one place. I guess
all it takes to do it legally is a big budget and a skilled research department.
This section would not be complete without acknowledging the world of video.
There are numerous instructional videos made by qualified teachers. Some are
available at local public libraries. Shown here is a segment of "Belly Dance: Fast
Moves ," courtesy of Alea. Also, there are many music and dance videos made in
America, Europe and the Middle East. Besides being for sale at belly dance events,
they can sometimes be rented from Middle Eastern markets. Concluding the media
section is a performance by Atlantis in "Midnight Farewell ," from Raja's video,
"Dance Reaction."
The performance part of Belly Dance in America includes several different venues.
While most people see belly dance in cabaret settings, which are usually controlled
by business owners, some dancers have made the effort to put on dance concerts
and events where the belly dancers' art is shown to its best advantage. Tim chose
to show some highlights from two of these programs; the annual "One Enchanted
(
20
THE.. FAFYR.US
April
200 I
)
A few still photos and some video footage are included in the history section but
it would have benefited from more. Donna Carlton graciously gave Tim permission
to reproduce anything in her book except the photo of Fahreda Mahzar (the one he
really wanted I) because of her agreement with the owner of the original.
Tim's efforts to contact anyone connected with Serpent of the Nile were in vain.
This book is a treasure chest of photos and art related to Middle Eastern dance and
it is a shame some of them did not appear in this video . Probably some of the
pictures are available through other archives but Tim's time frame precluded further
research in this direction. He had also hoped to include some maps from a video
called "The Romany Trail" but the owners wanted the "standard fee," which turns
out to be $3000 a minute or $1500 for 30 seconds. Like most public access productions,
this one was on a tight budget, so there are no maps.
Among the first performers Thomas Edison ever recorded with his new invention,
the kinetoscope (the first movie camera), was Fatima, a belly dancer who entertained
at Coney Island around 1897. This little gem exists in the public domain so the
movie you see reproduced in the video is courtesy of Ninah Sahar.
Surrounded by Middle Eastern percussion instruments, Richard Steiger gives
the presentation on music. He plays some of the instruments and talks about their
origins and use in those musical traditions. Richard has an MA in ethnomusicology
and has been performing with musicians from Bali to the Near East for more than
twenty years . He has also accompanied belly dancers in a wide variety of venues.
He is very qualified to speak on the subject of music! I wish there were some audio
samples of some of the non percussion instruments mentioned in this section.
Richard 's presentation was enhanced by the appearance of belly dancer Rose,
playing finger cymbals. The humble finger cymbals are the only "live" music some
audiences will ever hear.
Reviewing a belly dance class was an interesting addition to a documentary on
belly dance in America. While these movements may be as natural as breathing for
women from the cultures that spawned belly dance, for the rest of us it is often like
learning a foreign language, in this case a foreign body language. Tim uses Ninah
Sahar's class as a model, showing warm-ups, veil work, finger cymbal practice and
other aspects of a typical class. Perhaps this little glimpse of a class will give general
audiences of this video an appreciation for the hard work that backs up a good belly
dance performance.
Tim and Dondi introduce the media section and tell a little about why it is so
short. I thought it would be interesting to provide more details here. There was no
response from the producers of the 1968 movie "Head" which stars the sixties pop
group the Monkees and has a several minute magical montage of solo and group
belly dancing. Owners of the following movies, which have belly dance scenes in
them, all wanted the previously mentioned "standard fee" ($3000/$1500). The list
includes; "Kings Pirate," "Barefoot in the Park" (both from the sixties), "The Man
With the Golden Gun" (James Bond), and "Son of the Pink Panther" from 1995 . Tim
(
April
THE. FAFYR.US
200 I
I)
Scherazade (858) 581-0135 • 3234 Idlewild Way, Clairemont
•Private coaching by appointment
Heather Stants (619) 696-3788 • 2323 Broadway, San Diego
•Beg.tribalbellydaoce
w
•Int tribal belly daoce
w
•Private coaching by appointment
Richard Steiger-Drumming (619) 283-6325
•Private coaching by appointment
Theresa (619) 521 -0849 • Centre City Ballet, 928 Ft. Stockton
•Beg. thru Int belly daoce
M
Charlotte Zinn (619) 522-8911 • Coronado Adult School
•Beg. belly daoce 1/31 to 3n
w
•Intbellydance3/21 to5/2
W
7:00-8:00
8:00.9:00
7:00-8:30
7:15-8:30
7:15-8:30
East County
Amy Janeke (Shirin) (619) 667-1333 • La Mesa Rec Center
•Belly dancing
1H
Ana Goebel (619) 660-6965 • Spring Valley Rec Center
Cyrena (619) 698-9421 • San Carlos Rec Center, 6445 Lake Badin Ave.
•Beginningbellydaoce
M
•Multi-level bellydaoce
M
Jamila (619) 466-8233 • La Mesa
•Beginningbellydaoce • Privatecoachingbyappointment
Jasmina (619) 660-4350 • Cuyamaca College, Room R205
•Beg.session
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1H
• Int session
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6:30-7:30
6:00.7:15
7:15-8:30
4:30-5:30
4:40-6:00
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T HE_ FA FYRU5
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By Kathleen Thomson/Alia
Wednesdays-Tonya and Atlantis present their Original Belly Dance Showcase
from 8:45-11 :30 p.m. at the Los Angeles Harbor Sheraton Hotel, 601 S. Palos Verdes
St., San Pedro. For show information, call Tonya at (310) 434-3987; for reservations,
call (310) 519-8200.
Thursdays-Mediterranean Kebob Room, 610 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia, 8:00 pm
to 11 :00 pm. An Evening of Belly Dancing with guest dancers, dancing to Turkish,
Armenian, Arabic, Greek & Persian music performed by John Bilezikjian, Var
Daghdevirian & Cyriana. Open dancing & Greek folk dancing. To reserve a dance
slot, call Cyriana (909) 987-1670. Show includes 5 solo dance spots. Student dancers
are encouraged to dance as well as instructors & professionals. Troupes welcome,
live music or taped show could be arranged . Reservations call (626) 357-0512.
May 25-27-2nd International Conference on Middle Eastern dance to be held at
Orange Coast College, Costa Mesa, CA.
June 24-July 1-Shareen el Safy's retreat at Shambala Ranch • "The Spirit of
Egyptian Dance." Call (805) 962-9639.
C
Tvfobrouht
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Congratulations to Sandra Schrift for the great article in the February 200 I
edition of Senior Life titled " Dancing Coach Teaches Women the Art of Personal
Expression."
5AMEDA Faire
Will be held on J ul,:1 22nd
at the Scottish Rite T emple in Mission Valle,:1
Belly Dance in America is the second documentary produced by Tim Wayne
through the auspices of Cox Cable Public Access Department. Everyone may not
be aware that cable television companies are required by law to provide public
access to air- time. To comply, they offer free television production classes to the
community they serve. They also make video equipment and a fully equipped
studio available to persons who have completed their classes. They will even
provide a list of volunteer technicians to assist in a public access production. If
approved, the final product will be broadcast on cable television public access
stations. It is a good way to get one's feet wet in the world of television.
Tim Wayne has a degree in history and a long time interest in dance. One of his
fond childhood memories is of seeing the tail end of the neighbor girl's ballet class.
While, unlike Billy Elliot, this did not inspire him to become a dancer himself, he
became a big fan of dancing and especially enjoyed old musicals with Gene Kelly.
The real clinchers came when he was a teenager. He was awed by the beautiful
Tahitian dancing in the movie, "Mutiny on the Bounty." A belly dance by Tanya
Lemani in the mid- sixties movie, "King's Pirate," also captured his imagination.
The on-going Dance Jam in San Diego was the subject ofTim's first documentary,
titled "Dance Jam 1999." After completing that, he decided he would like to focus on
belly dancing. During the making of Belly Dance in America, which took about a
year and cost over $1000, Tim has been working full time as a truck driver on the
graveyard shift. Since most ofus are on a different schedule, much of the work was
completed during the time he would normally be sleeping!
Belly Dance in America has five sections. The first half hour includes a discussion
of ancient origins of the dance and how it came to America; a section about belly
dance music ; a look at a belly dance class; and a brief discussion about belly dance
in the media. The second half hour is devoted to performances, mostly by dancers
living in southern California.
Along with Ninah Sahar and Cristobal, I was given the opportunity to contribute
to the history section. Some references used for this video are Serpent of the Nile
by Wendy Buonaventura, Looking for Little Egypt by Donna Carlton , and The
Oldest Dance by Zarifa Aradoon . Some non specifically belly dance references
used are When God Was A Woman by Merlin Stone and Time and the Dancing
Image by Deborah Jowitt.
Other people who are qualified to speak on the subject of hi story were asked to
contribute but chose not to. Their voices and views are mi ssed but I think we
managed to cover the basics.
(
18
THE. FAFYR.US
k.--E--EK
l~~A<$.--E
April
2001
(
)
April
T HE. FAFYR.US
200 1
15
)
Restaurant & Taverna
RESTAURANT. TAVERNA
Dance, Dine & Drink
in the Greek Fashion
Thursdays- Garet Bedrosian and Judith Greer Essex offer a women 's expressive
arts therapy group on Thursday evenings. Explore and discover yourself through
the arts. Call Garet at (619) 295-8002 or Judith at (619) 239-1713.
B e Greek once a week
April 8th- Shimmy into Spring • 12:30- 7:00 p.m.- Workshop with Judeen and a
spectacular costume fashion show, performances and costume competition. The
workshop will be at the Mission Valley YMCA, the show & competition will be at
the Red Lion Inn. Call Marula 619-298-2599 or Susan 619-444-4197 for information.
April 21st- Sultan's Symposium• Abhi oflsrael in a seminar with luncheon from
11 :30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Contact Scottie at (858) 581-0135. Vending available. See
details in flyer this issue.
April 29th- Stage make-up workshop from l 2noon to 3 :00 p.m. with Meleah in
North Park. Focus will be eyes and facial decoration; new glitter tricks. $20 for
members. Call (619) 280-8424.
June 24th- Bellydance!yoga workshop from l :00-3:30 p.m. at Yoga Studio Carlsbad.
Cost is $35 . For information call Mariah (760) 727-4545.
G)G@OO
Professional instructors & student bellydance performances are welcome. Please
contact Kostas or Emilia to make arrangements • Call (760) 603-9672 • LIVE MUSIC
r-~'ii,;~;;~;Ni;~~-TFiliEMGANrn~
I Lamb Shanks • gyro Plate • Pastitsio • Chicken Souvlaki I
Reg. $12.95 & up Sun-Tues-Wed-Thurs 5-Spm
I
I Dine-i~ ~nly. Not valid with other specials or coupons. I
I L1m1t 2 per coupon, 4 per table. Exp.4/30/0I
<tGOOGG
§Ait-~·~l)At IJ0Atl2l) /\~,~~Tl/!!!i'7
with purchase of2
lunch or dinner entrees
I
• Thursday, April 5th at 7:30 pm.
at the Scottish Rite Temple • 1895 Camino del Rio South
$6.95 value
Not valid with other specials
I
I
in Mission Valley
~--------------L--------~
6030 PASEO DEL NORTE • CARLSBAD • (760) 603-9-0PA (672)
CATERINGAVAILABLE •PARTIESWELCOME •PATIODININGAVAILABLE
Hours : Mon J Jam-3pm , Tues thru Thurs I lam-3pm & 5-!0pm
Fri & Sat 11 am-midnight, Sun I I am- I I pm
• Dinner served until close on weekends
•See our menu online at SanDiegoReader.com!
Call (619) 280-8424
ALL MEMBERS ARE WELCOME!
SAMEDA Faire, future rummage sale
come join us & get involved -- it's fun!
• Next meeting will be May 3rd • Location TBA
(
I
THE_ FAFYRUS
6
( ove,·
;r
OCUS
,,,.,
April 2001
)
rS.t o,·1:
cJ\,1eleA7
By Jolie Lucas
I just bought yet another hat this weekend, and it reminded me that I needed to
sit down and finish writing this story about Meleah. Why did the hat remind me of
Meleah? Because I never met anyone who wears as many "hats" as she does!
Many of you are familiar with this graceful, willowy dancer/instructor, but I
wonder how many of you know about all the varied facets of her busy life? As she
described, "I don't like to get bored, so I do a lot of different things! " There's an old
saying, "Jack of all trades, master ofnone." For those who are familiar with any of
her work, you know that nothing could be further from truth about Meleah! Perhaps
this is because each of her endeavors has built upon her prior experience. If you
wanted to synthesize the things she does down to one area, you could describe
them as all being creative and artistic - and GIVING - in nature.
Meleah has been in the fashion business for twenty years. Did you know
that she is the Dean of Fashion Merchandising at Fashion Careers of California
College? She is also on the teaching staff where she teaches various classes
including the History of Costume, the Sociology ofFashion, Visual Merchandising
(display) and Image & Color Consulting. And that's just ONE category of the
things Meleah has mastered.
She began modeling and working as a fashion stylist for models' photo shoots.
Before long she was busy helping other models with their make-up application.
This reinforced her interest and knowledge of cosmetics and make-up techniques
so that she eventually developed her own line of cosmetics. While still actively
involved in modeling, she is also a make-up artist for special events such as weddings
and for models and actors' photo sessions; she does "makeovers" and teaches
workshops and classes in make-up for stage as well as "real life;" and she works
part-time for plastic surgeon Dr. Kincaid (in La Jolla) teaching patients how to cover
their post-operation scars and how to enhance their new look. (She does hair, too!)
As part of this branch of her "tree oflife," she publishes a newsletter which forecasts
trends and keeps her clients up to date on the ever-evolving cosmetic technologies.
Besides teaching make-up and fashion, Meleah teaches dance and aerobics.
Her interest in dance is varied, so for inspiration she makes a point of attending as
many different dance venues as possible, from African to ballet. (Wait, that's only
from A to B. Well, you know what I mean!) In fact, she has even developed her own,
fun "afro-belly" class! Meleah teaches 6-10 classes of belly dance, afro-belly,
aerobics and private dance classes every week. She teaches or performs every
night of the week except Mondays! At one point in her dance career, she was the
creator and part of the dance group "Urban Vibrations," along with drwnmers Frank
Lazzaro and Dave Dhillon and dancer Desiree. Gee, Meleah, what happened to
[
April
2001
THE_ FAFYRUS
1
7
)
Urban Vibrations - you still have Monday nights free? (She said what anyone who
is part of a troupe can tell you, "It's the rehearsal time that will kill you!")
Role models for her were Delilah, for her "rebellious style" and Shareen El Safy,
for her strong Egyptian technique. Meleah believes in breaking the rules, but she
believes in knowing the rules first! She views dance as a moving art form. While
she admires the traditional Egyptian techniques, she said, "if dance doesn't move
and grow, it dies. Ifit doesn't change and evolve, it ceases to be art." Surprisingly,
she never imagined that she would be a performer. She credits Sultana and Marola
for recognizing when she was ready and encouraging her to perform even when she
didn't think she was good enough. To new students she says, "The most important
thing is that you always enjoy the feeling it gives your body."
If she could change one thing about dance, she would take away the
competitiveness. We talked a little about that. She agrees that actual competitions have
their place because they are great showcases and inspire us all to work to perform at our
best for a competition. But she thinks it is sad when someone who doesn't win believes
that the winner is "better" than they are. "1bis dance form is so extremely personal.
There's no way to compare that to someone else - it's YOU. One is not better than
another, just different." And there's plenty of room for lots of differences!
Meleah is currently serving on the board of directors ofSAMEDA in the position
of Vice-President, and has been actively involved both with the board and in the
publication of Papyrus for quite some time. In fact, along with current Membership
Director Susan Teal, Meleah formed the board of directors as a way of spreading
the work load to preserve SAMEDA, which
was in danger of collapsing as an
organization. She was also a vital founding
member of SAMEDA's "Teacher's
Committee" which has sprouted it's own
wings and is now the Middle Eastern
Dance Teacher's Association, of which she
remains an involved member as co-chair to
chair Cindy Scheidt (Jasmina).
The newest hat she wears is that of
interior designer. If you've ever visited
her house, you saw that she definitely has
a flair for that line of work! She likes to
think of it as "make-up for the house."
Who knows what this designing woman
will be up to next? Whatever it is, I'll wager
it will involve beauty, sharing, and
teaching. And she'll do it beautifully.
Photo by Kathleen Thomson
(
I
THE_ FAFYRUS
6
( ove,·
;r
OCUS
,,,.,
April 2001
)
rS.t o,·1:
cJ\,1eleA7
By Jolie Lucas
I just bought yet another hat this weekend, and it reminded me that I needed to
sit down and finish writing this story about Meleah. Why did the hat remind me of
Meleah? Because I never met anyone who wears as many "hats" as she does!
Many of you are familiar with this graceful, willowy dancer/instructor, but I
wonder how many of you know about all the varied facets of her busy life? As she
described, "I don't like to get bored, so I do a lot of different things! " There's an old
saying, "Jack of all trades, master ofnone." For those who are familiar with any of
her work, you know that nothing could be further from truth about Meleah! Perhaps
this is because each of her endeavors has built upon her prior experience. If you
wanted to synthesize the things she does down to one area, you could describe
them as all being creative and artistic - and GIVING - in nature.
Meleah has been in the fashion business for twenty years. Did you know
that she is the Dean of Fashion Merchandising at Fashion Careers of California
College? She is also on the teaching staff where she teaches various classes
including the History of Costume, the Sociology ofFashion, Visual Merchandising
(display) and Image & Color Consulting. And that's just ONE category of the
things Meleah has mastered.
She began modeling and working as a fashion stylist for models' photo shoots.
Before long she was busy helping other models with their make-up application.
This reinforced her interest and knowledge of cosmetics and make-up techniques
so that she eventually developed her own line of cosmetics. While still actively
involved in modeling, she is also a make-up artist for special events such as weddings
and for models and actors' photo sessions; she does "makeovers" and teaches
workshops and classes in make-up for stage as well as "real life;" and she works
part-time for plastic surgeon Dr. Kincaid (in La Jolla) teaching patients how to cover
their post-operation scars and how to enhance their new look. (She does hair, too!)
As part of this branch of her "tree oflife," she publishes a newsletter which forecasts
trends and keeps her clients up to date on the ever-evolving cosmetic technologies.
Besides teaching make-up and fashion, Meleah teaches dance and aerobics.
Her interest in dance is varied, so for inspiration she makes a point of attending as
many different dance venues as possible, from African to ballet. (Wait, that's only
from A to B. Well, you know what I mean!) In fact, she has even developed her own,
fun "afro-belly" class! Meleah teaches 6-10 classes of belly dance, afro-belly,
aerobics and private dance classes every week. She teaches or performs every
night of the week except Mondays! At one point in her dance career, she was the
creator and part of the dance group "Urban Vibrations," along with drwnmers Frank
Lazzaro and Dave Dhillon and dancer Desiree. Gee, Meleah, what happened to
[
April
2001
THE_ FAFYRUS
1
7
)
Urban Vibrations - you still have Monday nights free? (She said what anyone who
is part of a troupe can tell you, "It's the rehearsal time that will kill you!")
Role models for her were Delilah, for her "rebellious style" and Shareen El Safy,
for her strong Egyptian technique. Meleah believes in breaking the rules, but she
believes in knowing the rules first! She views dance as a moving art form. While
she admires the traditional Egyptian techniques, she said, "if dance doesn't move
and grow, it dies. Ifit doesn't change and evolve, it ceases to be art." Surprisingly,
she never imagined that she would be a performer. She credits Sultana and Marola
for recognizing when she was ready and encouraging her to perform even when she
didn't think she was good enough. To new students she says, "The most important
thing is that you always enjoy the feeling it gives your body."
If she could change one thing about dance, she would take away the
competitiveness. We talked a little about that. She agrees that actual competitions have
their place because they are great showcases and inspire us all to work to perform at our
best for a competition. But she thinks it is sad when someone who doesn't win believes
that the winner is "better" than they are. "1bis dance form is so extremely personal.
There's no way to compare that to someone else - it's YOU. One is not better than
another, just different." And there's plenty of room for lots of differences!
Meleah is currently serving on the board of directors ofSAMEDA in the position
of Vice-President, and has been actively involved both with the board and in the
publication of Papyrus for quite some time. In fact, along with current Membership
Director Susan Teal, Meleah formed the board of directors as a way of spreading
the work load to preserve SAMEDA, which
was in danger of collapsing as an
organization. She was also a vital founding
member of SAMEDA's "Teacher's
Committee" which has sprouted it's own
wings and is now the Middle Eastern
Dance Teacher's Association, of which she
remains an involved member as co-chair to
chair Cindy Scheidt (Jasmina).
The newest hat she wears is that of
interior designer. If you've ever visited
her house, you saw that she definitely has
a flair for that line of work! She likes to
think of it as "make-up for the house."
Who knows what this designing woman
will be up to next? Whatever it is, I'll wager
it will involve beauty, sharing, and
teaching. And she'll do it beautifully.
Photo by Kathleen Thomson
(
18
THE. FAFYR.US
k.--E--EK
l~~A<$.--E
April
2001
(
)
April
T HE. FAFYR.US
200 1
15
)
Restaurant & Taverna
RESTAURANT. TAVERNA
Dance, Dine & Drink
in the Greek Fashion
Thursdays- Garet Bedrosian and Judith Greer Essex offer a women 's expressive
arts therapy group on Thursday evenings. Explore and discover yourself through
the arts. Call Garet at (619) 295-8002 or Judith at (619) 239-1713.
B e Greek once a week
April 8th- Shimmy into Spring • 12:30- 7:00 p.m.- Workshop with Judeen and a
spectacular costume fashion show, performances and costume competition. The
workshop will be at the Mission Valley YMCA, the show & competition will be at
the Red Lion Inn. Call Marula 619-298-2599 or Susan 619-444-4197 for information.
April 21st- Sultan's Symposium• Abhi oflsrael in a seminar with luncheon from
11 :30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Contact Scottie at (858) 581-0135. Vending available. See
details in flyer this issue.
April 29th- Stage make-up workshop from l 2noon to 3 :00 p.m. with Meleah in
North Park. Focus will be eyes and facial decoration; new glitter tricks. $20 for
members. Call (619) 280-8424.
June 24th- Bellydance!yoga workshop from l :00-3:30 p.m. at Yoga Studio Carlsbad.
Cost is $35 . For information call Mariah (760) 727-4545.
G)G@OO
Professional instructors & student bellydance performances are welcome. Please
contact Kostas or Emilia to make arrangements • Call (760) 603-9672 • LIVE MUSIC
r-~'ii,;~;;~;Ni;~~-TFiliEMGANrn~
I Lamb Shanks • gyro Plate • Pastitsio • Chicken Souvlaki I
Reg. $12.95 & up Sun-Tues-Wed-Thurs 5-Spm
I
I Dine-i~ ~nly. Not valid with other specials or coupons. I
I L1m1t 2 per coupon, 4 per table. Exp.4/30/0I
<tGOOGG
§Ait-~·~l)At IJ0Atl2l) /\~,~~Tl/!!!i'7
with purchase of2
lunch or dinner entrees
I
• Thursday, April 5th at 7:30 pm.
at the Scottish Rite Temple • 1895 Camino del Rio South
$6.95 value
Not valid with other specials
I
I
in Mission Valley
~--------------L--------~
6030 PASEO DEL NORTE • CARLSBAD • (760) 603-9-0PA (672)
CATERINGAVAILABLE •PARTIESWELCOME •PATIODININGAVAILABLE
Hours : Mon J Jam-3pm , Tues thru Thurs I lam-3pm & 5-!0pm
Fri & Sat 11 am-midnight, Sun I I am- I I pm
• Dinner served until close on weekends
•See our menu online at SanDiegoReader.com!
Call (619) 280-8424
ALL MEMBERS ARE WELCOME!
SAMEDA Faire, future rummage sale
come join us & get involved -- it's fun!
• Next meeting will be May 3rd • Location TBA
(
1+
TH E_ FAFYRU5
Ar~iT2~-=1
CilolrHmtil!Jtill"
11:JJJJ:.W:i:J.JI
1..,..,.,,, · Out-of-Cown 6fflltl.l~...,,,,.,,J
(
April
200 1
T HE_ FA FYRU5
19
)
}g,el/ SZ) ~"ce h, u4nie,·fr~
1
u4 J{ev,e,-v ~,..,~ 1§.eJ'"'~ t7e rSce,-,es fl ccft.
By Kathleen Thomson/Alia
Wednesdays-Tonya and Atlantis present their Original Belly Dance Showcase
from 8:45-11 :30 p.m. at the Los Angeles Harbor Sheraton Hotel, 601 S. Palos Verdes
St., San Pedro. For show information, call Tonya at (310) 434-3987; for reservations,
call (310) 519-8200.
Thursdays-Mediterranean Kebob Room, 610 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia, 8:00 pm
to 11 :00 pm. An Evening of Belly Dancing with guest dancers, dancing to Turkish,
Armenian, Arabic, Greek & Persian music performed by John Bilezikjian, Var
Daghdevirian & Cyriana. Open dancing & Greek folk dancing. To reserve a dance
slot, call Cyriana (909) 987-1670. Show includes 5 solo dance spots. Student dancers
are encouraged to dance as well as instructors & professionals. Troupes welcome,
live music or taped show could be arranged . Reservations call (626) 357-0512.
May 25-27-2nd International Conference on Middle Eastern dance to be held at
Orange Coast College, Costa Mesa, CA.
June 24-July 1-Shareen el Safy's retreat at Shambala Ranch • "The Spirit of
Egyptian Dance." Call (805) 962-9639.
C
Tvfobrouht
:J
Congratulations to Sandra Schrift for the great article in the February 200 I
edition of Senior Life titled " Dancing Coach Teaches Women the Art of Personal
Expression."
5AMEDA Faire
Will be held on J ul,:1 22nd
at the Scottish Rite T emple in Mission Valle,:1
Belly Dance in America is the second documentary produced by Tim Wayne
through the auspices of Cox Cable Public Access Department. Everyone may not
be aware that cable television companies are required by law to provide public
access to air- time. To comply, they offer free television production classes to the
community they serve. They also make video equipment and a fully equipped
studio available to persons who have completed their classes. They will even
provide a list of volunteer technicians to assist in a public access production. If
approved, the final product will be broadcast on cable television public access
stations. It is a good way to get one's feet wet in the world of television.
Tim Wayne has a degree in history and a long time interest in dance. One of his
fond childhood memories is of seeing the tail end of the neighbor girl's ballet class.
While, unlike Billy Elliot, this did not inspire him to become a dancer himself, he
became a big fan of dancing and especially enjoyed old musicals with Gene Kelly.
The real clinchers came when he was a teenager. He was awed by the beautiful
Tahitian dancing in the movie, "Mutiny on the Bounty." A belly dance by Tanya
Lemani in the mid- sixties movie, "King's Pirate," also captured his imagination.
The on-going Dance Jam in San Diego was the subject ofTim's first documentary,
titled "Dance Jam 1999." After completing that, he decided he would like to focus on
belly dancing. During the making of Belly Dance in America, which took about a
year and cost over $1000, Tim has been working full time as a truck driver on the
graveyard shift. Since most ofus are on a different schedule, much of the work was
completed during the time he would normally be sleeping!
Belly Dance in America has five sections. The first half hour includes a discussion
of ancient origins of the dance and how it came to America; a section about belly
dance music ; a look at a belly dance class; and a brief discussion about belly dance
in the media. The second half hour is devoted to performances, mostly by dancers
living in southern California.
Along with Ninah Sahar and Cristobal, I was given the opportunity to contribute
to the history section. Some references used for this video are Serpent of the Nile
by Wendy Buonaventura, Looking for Little Egypt by Donna Carlton , and The
Oldest Dance by Zarifa Aradoon . Some non specifically belly dance references
used are When God Was A Woman by Merlin Stone and Time and the Dancing
Image by Deborah Jowitt.
Other people who are qualified to speak on the subject of hi story were asked to
contribute but chose not to. Their voices and views are mi ssed but I think we
managed to cover the basics.
(
20
THE.. FAFYR.US
April
200 I
)
A few still photos and some video footage are included in the history section but
it would have benefited from more. Donna Carlton graciously gave Tim permission
to reproduce anything in her book except the photo of Fahreda Mahzar (the one he
really wanted I) because of her agreement with the owner of the original.
Tim's efforts to contact anyone connected with Serpent of the Nile were in vain.
This book is a treasure chest of photos and art related to Middle Eastern dance and
it is a shame some of them did not appear in this video . Probably some of the
pictures are available through other archives but Tim's time frame precluded further
research in this direction. He had also hoped to include some maps from a video
called "The Romany Trail" but the owners wanted the "standard fee," which turns
out to be $3000 a minute or $1500 for 30 seconds. Like most public access productions,
this one was on a tight budget, so there are no maps.
Among the first performers Thomas Edison ever recorded with his new invention,
the kinetoscope (the first movie camera), was Fatima, a belly dancer who entertained
at Coney Island around 1897. This little gem exists in the public domain so the
movie you see reproduced in the video is courtesy of Ninah Sahar.
Surrounded by Middle Eastern percussion instruments, Richard Steiger gives
the presentation on music. He plays some of the instruments and talks about their
origins and use in those musical traditions. Richard has an MA in ethnomusicology
and has been performing with musicians from Bali to the Near East for more than
twenty years . He has also accompanied belly dancers in a wide variety of venues.
He is very qualified to speak on the subject of music! I wish there were some audio
samples of some of the non percussion instruments mentioned in this section.
Richard 's presentation was enhanced by the appearance of belly dancer Rose,
playing finger cymbals. The humble finger cymbals are the only "live" music some
audiences will ever hear.
Reviewing a belly dance class was an interesting addition to a documentary on
belly dance in America. While these movements may be as natural as breathing for
women from the cultures that spawned belly dance, for the rest of us it is often like
learning a foreign language, in this case a foreign body language. Tim uses Ninah
Sahar's class as a model, showing warm-ups, veil work, finger cymbal practice and
other aspects of a typical class. Perhaps this little glimpse of a class will give general
audiences of this video an appreciation for the hard work that backs up a good belly
dance performance.
Tim and Dondi introduce the media section and tell a little about why it is so
short. I thought it would be interesting to provide more details here. There was no
response from the producers of the 1968 movie "Head" which stars the sixties pop
group the Monkees and has a several minute magical montage of solo and group
belly dancing. Owners of the following movies, which have belly dance scenes in
them, all wanted the previously mentioned "standard fee" ($3000/$1500). The list
includes; "Kings Pirate," "Barefoot in the Park" (both from the sixties), "The Man
With the Golden Gun" (James Bond), and "Son of the Pink Panther" from 1995 . Tim
(
April
THE. FAFYR.US
200 I
I)
Scherazade (858) 581-0135 • 3234 Idlewild Way, Clairemont
•Private coaching by appointment
Heather Stants (619) 696-3788 • 2323 Broadway, San Diego
•Beg.tribalbellydaoce
w
•Int tribal belly daoce
w
•Private coaching by appointment
Richard Steiger-Drumming (619) 283-6325
•Private coaching by appointment
Theresa (619) 521 -0849 • Centre City Ballet, 928 Ft. Stockton
•Beg. thru Int belly daoce
M
Charlotte Zinn (619) 522-8911 • Coronado Adult School
•Beg. belly daoce 1/31 to 3n
w
•Intbellydance3/21 to5/2
W
7:00-8:00
8:00.9:00
7:00-8:30
7:15-8:30
7:15-8:30
East County
Amy Janeke (Shirin) (619) 667-1333 • La Mesa Rec Center
•Belly dancing
1H
Ana Goebel (619) 660-6965 • Spring Valley Rec Center
Cyrena (619) 698-9421 • San Carlos Rec Center, 6445 Lake Badin Ave.
•Beginningbellydaoce
M
•Multi-level bellydaoce
M
Jamila (619) 466-8233 • La Mesa
•Beginningbellydaoce • Privatecoachingbyappointment
Jasmina (619) 660-4350 • Cuyamaca College, Room R205
•Beg.session
T
1H
• Int session
j
,<t\.. .-~·~~J .
1
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•... - ~
r·--,-\J
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··.
j
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- ·
h
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/
6:30-7:30
6:00.7:15
7:15-8:30
4:30-5:30
4:40-6:00
)
(
I2
TH E.. FAFYR.U5
San Dieguito Adult Ed
•Mid Eastern Beg.
•Mid Eastern Begllnterm
•Flameoco, Beg'Intenn
•Flameoco,Beg
Coast Athletic Club (Encinitas)
•Mid-EasternTechniqoo'InL
•Mid-EastemAdv/Perfonnance
San Dieguito Adult Ed - March Workshops
•Mid Eastern Beg
-Greek:Folk I &2
Greek Village Restaurant -- Free (twice a month)
-Greek Daoce les&x1.5
•Privarecoochingbyawointment
April
200 I
w
w
7:00-8:00
8:00-9:00
5:00-6:00
6:00-7:00
lH
lH
7:15-8:15
8:15-9:45
T
T
)
S<\ 9:00-10:To
S\ 10:30-12illn
~
6:00-7:00
Metro
Luisa (619) 299-1129 • Dancing Unlimited, 4569 30th St, North
Park & La Jolla Rec Center
•Intennediatebellycm:e
•Privarecoochingbyawointment
Layla Sidonia (619) 229-8250 • Tierrasanta Rec. Center
•BhnicArabic&F.gy¢anDaoceBasics
M
7:15-8:15
Mahara (619) 688-9467 • Oasis/Robinson's May in Mission Valley
•Beg. belly dance for women over 50
F I0: 15-11 :45a
Marula (619) 298-2599
Mission Valley YMCA, 5055 Friars Road
•Beg.bellydance
S
1:30-2:30
•Adv.Begllnt.bellydance
S
2:45-3:45
Hazard Center YMCA
•Int/Adv. belly dance
M
8: 3 0- 9 : 3 0
Private Coaching also available
Meleah (619) 280-8424
Centre City Ballet, 928 Fl. Stockton, Mission Hills
•Beg,foundationsofbellydance
W
7:30-8:30
•Int/Adv technique& combinations, zills,double veil
W
6:25-7:25
2805 Maple St, North Park
•Be!}"Int use ofprops
lH
7:30-8:30
Taoist Sanctuary, 4229 Park Blvd., North Park
•Intermediate technique &zills
F
1:30-2:30
•Pri vatecoaching by appointment
(
April
200 I
TH E.. FAFYR.U5
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)
contacted Ramzy Music International LTD. regarding use of some of the footage of
old Egyptian movies featured in their video series, "The Stars of Egypt." They were
vague about who actually owned the rights to these movies and didn't offer any
further potential contacts.
Although there was never any belly dancing in the show it is hard not to think of
"I Dream of Jeanie" when the subject of belly dance arises. For use of a segment of the
animation that accompanied the opening credits of the show, one first needs
permission from Columbia Tri Star (the owners), Barbra Eden (whose likeness is
represented), the Animators Union and the Musicians Union and then pay the standard
fee! An episode of the original "Star Trek" called "Wolf in the Fold" featured a short
performance by Tania Lamani. Tim received no response to his inquiries about using
this sequence.
I have personally tried to find a new copy of the National Geographic Special,
"Cairo Unveiled," which focuses in general on belly dancing in modern Egypt and
specifically on dancer Lucy. Tim was told that there have been so many National
Geographic specials that they are owned by many different entities. Sadly, he was
not able to track down the owner of this particular special.
Atlantis was featured on the Channel 2 news in Los Angeles on January 14,
2000, speaking about the health benefits of belly dancing . Tim thought this would
show a positive media image of belly dancing but was told by that news show that
they never release any of their material.
What we do get to see, besides a rerun of Fatima at Coney Island, is a short scene
from the 1916 movie, "Intolerance," produced by D. W. Griffith, who also created
"Birth of a Nation." 1bis film comes courtesy ofAmerican Film Preservation Associates,
an organization dedicated to the restoration of old films. They would have liked to
receive the standard fee but since Tim couldn't pay and this movie is in the public
domain , they granted their permission in exchange for credits.
It would have been wonderful to see all these different film clips in one place. I guess
all it takes to do it legally is a big budget and a skilled research department.
This section would not be complete without acknowledging the world of video.
There are numerous instructional videos made by qualified teachers. Some are
available at local public libraries. Shown here is a segment of "Belly Dance: Fast
Moves ," courtesy of Alea. Also, there are many music and dance videos made in
America, Europe and the Middle East. Besides being for sale at belly dance events,
they can sometimes be rented from Middle Eastern markets. Concluding the media
section is a performance by Atlantis in "Midnight Farewell ," from Raja's video,
"Dance Reaction."
The performance part of Belly Dance in America includes several different venues.
While most people see belly dance in cabaret settings, which are usually controlled
by business owners, some dancers have made the effort to put on dance concerts
and events where the belly dancers' art is shown to its best advantage. Tim chose
to show some highlights from two of these programs; the annual "One Enchanted
[
.
22
TH E. FAFYRU5
April
200 1
)
Evening," presented by Marnia in February, 2000, and the year 2000 "Belly Dancer
of the Universe Competition," an annual event produced by Tonya and Atlantis . Of
course dancing in restaurants and cafes is the bread and butter of most dancers and
Tim taped dancers working in various locations all over San Diego. Whether belly
dancing in Southern California is an accurate reflection of belly dancing in America
is open for debate. Among the dancers featured in this section are women who have
performed nationally and internationally. Some of them are master teachers who
have been invited to give seminars across the USA. To my knowledge, differences
between dancers tend to be individual rather that regional, but I'm sure this could
be the subject of an interesting discussion .
When Tim first began his research for this video, he was surprised by the number
of dancers who expressed the same wish; that he would make an effort to validate
their art form . Approaching the subject as someone who already saw it as a valid art
form, this gave him an extra incentive to create a respectful presentation on belly
dance. While technically this documentary may be a little rough around the edges,
it is full of good general information and enough evocative content to keep one
pondering the art of belly dance for a long time. So far thi s documentary has been
broadcast on Cox Cable three times and on Time Warner Cable twice. Tim's proudest
moment came after the first broadcast, when he was contacted by Kellog Elementary
School in Chula Vista. This school is a performing arts magnet and Tim gladly gave
them his consent to use this program as educational material. Both Cox and Time
Warner have promised future broadcasts of Belly Dance in America. Check the
SAMEDA website for future dates and times.
For more information on Public Access in San Diego call Cox Communications
Public Access at (619) 596-3290 or TI me Warner Public Access at (858) 635-8730. To
contact producer Tim Wayne call (619) 807-4014.
(
April
200 I
T HE. FAFYRUS
I I
)
Effie Horning (760) 630-7063
•Privatecoachingbyappointment
Jheri (949) 494-5031 • Laguna Beach
•Beg. Belly Dance
• lnl Belly Dance
T
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8:00-9:30
5:00-6:30
Frank Lazzaro (760) 942-1326 • Encinitas
•Drumming
M
7:00-8:30
&I
9:00-10: 15a
12:00-1 :15
7:00-8:15
•Private lessons by ap(Xlintment
Mariah (760) 727-4545 • Yoga Studio Carlsbad
•Yoga all levels
•Yoga all levels
•Bellydance-reefmt
Sohaila (760) 743-1235 •Escondido • Sohaila's Studio
-chm:ography clas.5
•Int/adv improvisation/technique
Sohaila's Studio
•Int imrrovisatiorv'technique
•Beginning chumming classwith Dave Dhillon
Poway Adult Education
•Beginning belly dance
•Bellyrobics
•Pri Vale coaching by ap(Xlintment
Learning Annex seminars once a month . Call for info.
w
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8:00-9:00
7:00-8:00
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7:00-8:00
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8:00-9:00
8:00-9:00
Kathy Stradley (909) 699-5606 • Temecula Community Rec. Center
•Beginningbellydance
•Intermediate/Advancedbellydaoce
w
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6:00-7:00
7:10-8:20
T
6:30-8:00
11-1
7:30-8:30
Tonya (562) 434-3987
Golden West College • 714-89 I -3991
•Mixedlevelbellydance
So. Calif. Dance Academy (562) 434-3987
•Mixedlevelbellydance
~dGG0\1Cr
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Cerritos College, (562) 860-2451, ext. 2521
•Mixedlevelbellydance
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Santa Monica College (310) 434-3400
•Mixedlevelbellydance
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Nicki Vaccar (760) 634-3680 • Carlsbad Parks & Recreation
•Mid Eastern Beg.
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•Mid Eastern Begllnter.
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7:00-8:30
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by Tonya Chianis, R.Sc.P.
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Long Beach, CA 90803-5354
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"A wonderful book of lnsplratfon One need not be a dancer to appreciate the deep spirituality of
this great woman•
Rev. Ron Fox
"On these pages, through her spiritual connection to dance, Tonya graciously created stepping
stones for our own journey_ This book seNes as a beacon to brighten our path.•
Marta Schill, President Middle Eastern Culture and Dance Association
"Tonya is a star because she dances with passion and teaches with compassion She is a friend
whos heart is open to all. Who Tonya is, makes it possible for dancers around her to experience
transfonnation May this little book inspire you to catch the vision of your greatness and express it
through your dance.·
Rev. Margie Clark
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by Dave Dhillon
Vacation Village Resort, San Diego • 1966 - 1972
Bellydancing, as a form of full time lounge entertainment, did not exist in San
Diego prior to 1966. The owner, general manager and management team at what was
then, the Vacation Village Hotel, featured Jive stage shows in the Carnival Lounge.
In particular, I remember a stage act that featured a Caribbean singer known as the
Mighty Panther, along with a troupe of Calypso and Limbo dancers. It was a very
colorful and entertaining fast paced show. The percussionist was a friend of mine,
Mel, who played hand drums. Towards the show finale, he would pass out bongo
drums, shakers and scratchers to the audience and everyone would get into the act.
It was lots of noisy fun.
The ensuing belly dance shows were booked from the Hollywood area. The
music was by a Turkish kanoun player named Lemi Pasha accompanied by a local
American/Lebanese doumbek player, Fred Haddad. The two dancers at that time
were also veterans of the Hollywood club scene, Princess Nadia and Aisha Ali. I
used to frequent a Clairemont piano and jazz bar called the Stardust Lounge. The
manager from Vacation Village, who was a pop music and jazz buff, heard me playing
bongos and approached me asking if I could play Turkish music and also, would I
be interested in replacing his doumbek player who had given notice? I answered
that I had never played Middle Eastern music but I was willing to try. He arranged an
audition and I was hired. There was very little time to rehearse so I picked it up the
hard way . .. Jive on stage. It was difficult to say the least. After all, I had never heard
of chefti telli or karshilama. The bongo rhythms were similar in some ways, i.e., the
Latin martillo beat resembled a 4/4 gallop and the beguine was similar to the bolero
(veil work). Later, we worked with a dancer from Alexandria, Egypt, named Zenuba
and another singer/dancer named Myleen Kay.
I left this job after eight months and followed Lemi Pasha to a club he started on
Midway Drive called the Turkish Village. The first half of the show featured a
Tahitian dance troupe complete with fire and sword dances and we presented belly
dancing the second half. The Vacation Village show continued on with a constant
flow of dancers and musicians from the Hollywood area. The show lasted until 1972
and during the last few years was run by a Persian doumbek player, Ali Azadan and
he periodically would hire me to sub for him. This was also where I met American
born oudist, Richard Barham, with whom I worked for many years. We also presented
an Iranian dancer, Lena, who billed herself as "The Persian Kitten ," and was very
dynamic and danced with marabou feather boas or capes hemmed in feathers.
Working conditions were good at the Carnival Lounge. We did two shows
nightly Tuesday through Thursday and three shows nightly on Friday and Saturday.
(
April
[=-
200 1
~wa
THE.. FAFYRU5
9
)
~ 8pccial 6 ~ ,:·]
• Thursdays, April 12 & 26/Sunday, April 22 - Jamila's Belly Dance Dinner
Showcases at Greek Town Restaurant, 431 "E" Street, San Diego (Gaslamp District)
at 7:00 p.m. To schedule dancing, call Jamila at (619) 466-8233; for reservations,
(619)232-0461.
• Friday, April 20 - C*E*D*A*R's Tales of Scheherazade st udi o concert
7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
• Friday, April 20 - Sultan 's Symposium Dinner Show - 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
• Saturday, April 21 - Sultan's Symposium - features Abhi of Israel in a seminar and
show. Seminar includes luncheon 11 :30a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Dinner show is on Friday, April
20th from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00p.m. See flyer in this issue for details. Call Scottieat(858) 5810135. Vending available.
• Saturday, April 21- Open House at Art/Dance Academy. Free classes. From I :00
p.m. to 3:00 p.m. You may also sit in on C*E*D* A *R's rehearsal. Come and visit
(760) 757-4470.
• Sunday, April 22 - Avocado Festival at Mission Theater by C*E*D* A *R in
Fall brook. Show time is I :30 p.m.
• Wednesday, April 28 - A benefit for Multiple Sclerosis in Kearny Mesa. Call
Meleah to perform (619) 280-8424.
• May 20 - C*E*D* A *R will Cafe Scheherazade for the benefit and fun for all in
Oceanside. Contact Arabic Dance Academy for more information (760) 757-4470.
• May 27 - Marguerite will present her paper "Physiological/Psychological
Indications for Trance-like Behaviors in Middle Eastern Dance and their Possible
Origins" for the 2nd International Conference on Middle Eastern Dance at Orange
Coast College in Costa Mesa, Ca. Coordinators of the Conference are Shareen El
Safy, Angelika Nemeth, Sahra C. Kent.
• June 24 - Summer Student Concert at Hajji Baba restaurant downtown . Call
Meleah (619) 280-8424 or Jasmina (619) 334-8745 to register.
• July 22 - the SAMEDA Faire - in a NEW location • the Scottish Rite Temple in
Mission Valley ::::music, dancing, food and fun :::: Vendors call Susan (619) 444-4197;
dancers call Meleah (619) 280-8424.
[
8
T HE_ f AFYRUS
April
dr
)
Hnncummmts
~-··®J
(. . Please note date change for Shimmy Into Spring Workshop - it is
ON APRIL 8TH, NOT April 18th as stated in last month's newsletter.
Greek Palace-2 for I dinners with SAMEDA membership card. Holidays/
events excluded. Call for more info.
DANCE COMPANY MEMBERS WANTED! If you are into learning &
performing authentic representations of traditional women 's dances of North
Africa & the Middle East, then you are into Arab-esque ..."not the real thing ,
but pretty damn close!" Contact Elle at (760) 293-3243/
[email protected].
AITENTION MIDDLE EASTERN CHEFS-A Middle Eastern Cooking show
April
200 I
T HE_ f AFYRUS
25
)
In the main bar area, they had a small stage with a Hawaiian singer/guitar player, Kimo.
He would play for 45 minutes and then announce the Bellydance show starting in ten
minutes. People would enter the showroom ($2.00 cover charge) and sat in-the-round.
Shows lasted about 45 minutes, each dancer was on stage no more than 20 minutes.
There was an exit hallway stage left with two private dressing rooms for the dancers
and wall lockers for the musicians and the entertainers could depart through this back
door if they did not want to go through the lounge. We were paid weekly through the
hotel payroll department and the checks were for gross amounts and we were
responsible for our own taxes. Because it was a stage show, there were little or no tips
from the audience. Entertainers were not permitted to leave the stage during the
performance. Out of town performers were housed in hotel bungalows with kitchenettes
and they were given food discounts in the restaurants.
Where did they all go? Well, to the best of my knowledge:
hosted by Sohaila. Looking for Chefs and personalities in the San Diego area.
Call 760-743-1235.
LEM! PASHA: Due to partnership problems, the Turkish Village folded and Lemi
returned to Los Angeles and may have gone back to Ankara, Turkey.
A NOTE FROM RICHARD STEIGER. Complete versions ofmy articles on
music in the Papyrus are available to SAMEDA members & teachers. Call (619)
283-6325 for details.
PRINCESS NADIA (Nadia Simone): Eventually moved to Las Vegas and ran her
own bellydance boutique and also taught dance . Rumors are that she passed away
several years ago partly due to a congenital heart condition.
SAMEDA wants to acknowledge your birthdays! Let us know your birthday
AISHA ALI: Appears to be active in the dance community in Los Angeles. I see her
ads in various publications from time to time.
month & day!
I'm looking for people who are knowledgeable of traditional mid-eastern dances
or folk dances. Please call me Nicki 760-634-3680 or e-mail: [email protected].
•
C.
i@JJJ?C444AI
IJJ!!tJl'Jl:Jl.!!EJ!'t·
t. .
200 I
Looking for a Volunteer Coordinator to help coordinate SAMEDA parties. If
interested, please email [email protected].
May 20th-Grand Opening of Yoga Studio Carlsbad, 3138-J Roosevelt St. in
downtown Carlsbad. Performance by Mariah. Details, call (760) 434-3469.
Meleah.com is here! Check it out!
The San Diego chapter of MECDA will be hosting the Marrakesh Spring Festival
on April 29th at the Masonic Lodge in El Cajon at 695 Ballantyne St. Just like the
Marrakesh Fall Festival last August, there will be vendors, workshops and
performers. Call Ninah Sahar (619) 561-5675 to perform. Vendors call Julia (619)
988-0902. Volunteers call Cristobal (619) 697-9121.
Please noteArt/Dance's new name : Art/Dance Complex, Arabic Dance Academy.
April 9- Marula has a class beginning intermediate/advanced belly dance at
the Hazard Center YMCA Mondays from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. Call (619) 298-2599.
April 12- Meleah is forming a new class on Thursdays 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. "Gotta
Dance" Studio, North Park for beginner/intermediate level with a focus on
props : sword , cane , veil , zill s, etc.
ZENUBA: Her first husband was a set designer for film director, Cecil B. DeMille.
They met while he was on location in Egypt. When she left the Vacation Village
show, I believe she resumed dancing at The Fez in Hollywood and married a Middle
Eastern musician.
MYLEEN KAY: Put herself through medical school while dancing (5 years at Vacation
Village) and graduated with top honors in her class and went on to become a doctor
of internal medicine. She may have returned to her home country, Australia to
practice.
ALI AZADAN: A phenomenal doumbek player, played three drums and foot
tambourine (sound familiar?) . While performing five nights weekly, studied video/
film making and got his degree and returned to Tehran, Iran to help to develop their
fledgling television industry.
RICHARD BARHAM: He was my friend and associate for many years. We performed
at many events and clubs for years . Born in Allentown, Pennsylvania of Palestinian
descent, he had set up and decorated and performed at the original Fez Restaurant
in Hollywood. He was a man of many talents and abilities, played o ud , violin and
(
26
TH E. FAFYR.US
April 2001
]
sang, and had appeared in Las Vegas at the Aladdin Hotel with Yacoubian's "Nymphs
of the Nile" stage production. I learned much from him about stage setup, lighting,
performance timing, pacing, sound production and what to look for in auditioning
dancers. Richard died ofliver cancer in May 1998.
LENA "THE PERSIAN KITTEN": I'm not sure of what became of her. I can only
assume that she also went back to Los Angeles and continued to dance there.
This is the first in a series of historical articles about Middle Eastern nightclubs in
Southern California in what we used to call "the good old days." I called upon the
people who were there and they have supplied me with valuable recollections of
those times which will be included in future articles. A special heartfelt thanks to
John Bilezikjian, Tonya Chianis, Desiree and Marta Schill.
Dave Dhillon, Richard Barham & Scheherazade, circa 1972
(
April
[:
200 1
T HE. FAFYR.US
ClxlnR You!
7
J
:J
Marguerite would like to thank SAMEDA: Sohaila, Meleah, Lynn Perry, and
Susan Teal, for your patience and for helping me promote my activities in San
Diego. And a big thanks to Scottie Schultz and Richard Steiger- our work together
was a great success.
[~:
Classifieds
:~J
•
Costumes from Egypt and Spain. Contact Nicki (760) 634-3680, email:
nikistal @aol.com, website: geocities.com/nikistal @aol.com
•
Sohaila just got a new shipment of beautiful costumes direct from Egypt. Call to
make an appointment or come up as a group to see new items (760) 743-1235 .
•
Zills, beginner size, brand new Saroyan or Turquoi se, 6 pairs @ $15 each. Call
Malika (858) 274-0767 or mreedOO [email protected].
• Beautiful costumes, well cared for, for sale. aqua/silver $350; fuschia/silver $350;
dark green/gold $350; Madame Alba gold/maroon $450. Fit sizes 8-10. Leave
message at (858) 486-1952, e-mail: [email protected]
~AM fDA Co!:tutn{!t Li!:t
Aleia .. ... .. ............ .. ................................. ... ........ .... (760) 721 -0080
Abhi-lrena Perakh .... ...... .. ... ..... ..... ....... .. ......... ...... (760) 751 -3436
B.D. Patterns ....... .... ..... ... .. .. .... ... ...... ....... .. .... ....... (619) 444-4197
MorwennaAssaf .... .. ..... ............. ........ .. .... ... ... ....... (760) 757-4470
Crist6bal ... ... ..... ... ..... .... ... ... ........... .... ......... ..... .... .... .. .. .. 697-9121
Gypsy Wea r (Rebecca Long) ..................................... ... . 579-9526
Nicki Vacca r ............... ........ .. .. .. .. .... ... ... ...... ........... (760) 634-3680
Scherezade's Sauk ..... ..... .. ..... ........ ........... ........... (858) 581 -0135
Sohaila ..... .. .. ........ .. ..... .. ......... ... ..... ... ..... ............... (760) 743-7501
Zarifa . .. . .. . . . . .. .. . . .. . . .. .. .. . .. . .. . ... .. ... .. .. . .. . .. .. . .. .. . .. .. . . .. . . (619) 453-0811
(
6
. THE..~FAFYRUS
April
200 I
)
(
April
2001
THE. f AFYRUS
~AM ~DA Pl!tfotml!t' ~ Ditl!ctoty
C
=> C
DANCERS
Aleia ... ... ...... .... ... . (760) 721-0080
Amalya ........ .... .... (760) 432-6574
Ana ...................... 660-6965
Morwenna Assaf .. (760) 757-4470
Cyriana . .. .. . .... .. . .. . (909) 987 -1670
Dondi ........... ....... (858) 483-2719
Fahtiem ............ ... (626) 810-9470
Jamila .. .... ... ..... ... 466-8233
Jasmina ........ ..... . 449-1744
Jinaan ...... ... ..... .. . (760) 471-8747
Jheri .... ....... ......... (949) 494-5031
Luisa ..... ............. . 299-1129
Marguerite ........... (310) 370-5155
Mariah .. . .. .. .. .. .. .. . . (760) 727 -4545
Marula ... .............. 298-2599
Cassie Mavis .... ... 230-9442
Meleah ... .. ... ....... . 280-8424
Mesmera . .. .. .. .. .. .. (323) 669-0333
Niki ... ...... ....... ... ... (760) 634-3680
Nora .................... (858) 457-7741
Pamela ...... .. ....... 299-7337
Abhi-lrena Peraich . (760) 751-3436
Sahar .................. (760) 433-9993
Sahra Saeeda ..... (909) 359-6782
Salimah .... ........... (760) 739-8179
Sanura ................ (760) 630-7063
Scherazade ... ...... (858) 581-0135
Sheerah ...... .. ... .. . (858)792-7496
Shirin ..... ... ...... ... .. 660-5225
Sohaila ................ (760) 743-7501
Heather Stants ..... 696-3788
Theresa .... ........ ... (619) 521-0849
~~
Walid Assaf .. ...... ..
John Bilezikjian ....
Dave Dhillon ..... ...
Frank Lazzaro ......
Richard Steiger ....
Var Daghdevirian
;
~
(760)757-4470
(949) 581-5664
284-5367
(760) 942-1326
283-6325
(909) 987 -1670
C .
TROUPES
-:=)
Arab-esque .......... . (760) 293-3243
BellyDancers of the Universe
(562)433-6615
C*E*D*A*R ............. [email protected]
Sohaila's Shining Stars
... (760) 743-1235
Urban Tribal Dance Company
..... 696-3788
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MUSICIANS
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SAMEDA WEBSITE: ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• www.sdsameda.com
By Kathleen Thomson/Alia
Like many dancers who have had the opportunity to see a performance by Reza
Farnoush, I was delighted to hear he was teaching a master class in San Diego on
January 21, 200 l . Marnia sponsored the workshop and donated the proceeds, after
expenses, to a scholarship program for YMCA summer camps.
Part of the workshop was a short drum solo choreography that we all had down
by the end of the class. The movements were not difficult and perfectly matched the
music. There was just enough material that we could move on from the task of
memorization to work on infusing the choreography with flair and polish.
Taking breaks from practicing the drum solo, Reza walked us through four
other very distinct pieces of music; a classic Egyptian number, an Arabic folklore
piece, a slow ballady and a funky Arabic hip-hop mix. Again, he kept the
movements simple and included a lot of repetitions so we could keep up with
him and experience the music the way he interpreted it. A tape of all the mu sic
used in the class was available for later practice. Personally, I find this very
helpful in retaining new materal.
During class, Reza made sure that each dancer was able to grasp what he was
trying to teach. Dancers of all levels attended this class and I believe they all
benefited. Reza Farnoush radiates with joy when he performs, and he carries this
same feeling into his teaching. I'm sure everyone left the class infected with a new
enthusiasm for dance.
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[email protected]
SAME DA
..... aleia @worldnet.att.net
Aleia
[email protected]
Morwenna Assaf
[email protected]
John Bilezikjian .. ...
[email protected]
Vicki Deriso
[email protected]
Dave Dhillon
www.thecyberside.com/dondi
Dondi
. ddutton @san.rr.com
Donna Dutton .. ..... .
[email protected]
Elle
www.fahtiem.com
Fahtiem
[email protected]
Claudia lmmerzeel
[email protected]
Arnie Lamer
[email protected]
Frank Lazzaro
[email protected]
Jolie Lucas
[email protected]
NoraLuchs
[email protected]
Mariah
[email protected]
Marguerite ...... .. .. .
[email protected]
Marula
www.meleah.com
Meleah
www.mesmera.com
Mesmera
[email protected]
Niki .. .............. .
[email protected]
Lynn Perry
[email protected]
Larysa Shmorhay
[email protected]
Jheri St. James ....... .
[email protected]
Francena Sherburne
........ www.sohaila.net
Sohaila ............ .. .
Heather Stants ........ .... ...... ... .......... www.urbantribaldance.com
Tonya & Atlantis ............ ... ............ www.tonya-and-atlantis.com
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T HE. FAFYRUS
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April 200 I
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New Membeti:
Nilia Carreno
T HE. FAFYRUS
200 1
29
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Shimmy Into Spring - Apri1 8th
PllA!I NOTI TIii IH,,lttlNT l)ATI!!!!!
IN THE EVENING: Model YOUR Fabulous Creation to a musical
accompaniment at the SHIMMY INTO SPRING Fashion Show and
Fashion Competition!
Welcome Back To ~AM ~D A
Rene wing Mernbeti:
Chris Khalil - Sabah
Terri Lynn Wert - Athena
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A Detailed Workshop With Judeen "IAMED'S 2000 CABARET
DANCER OF THE YEAR " · 1993 Belly Dancer of the Year Winner
of the Belly Dancer of the Year 2000 (Duet Catagory) · Don't miss
this chance to explore all the possibilities with Locks, Shimmies,
&. Accents . Judeen Will Teach a Creative Choreography to
"Journey of the Gypsy" by Jali\ah 's Raks Shark\ Ill
Welc ome To ~AM~DA
Evelyn Perez
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Prizes&. Recognition JOIN THE FUN! Call Marula (619) 298:2599
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
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* Dessie Owens, a new member • who celebrated on 3/28
* Scottie Schultz, April 7
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Mission Statement
SAMEDA is dedicated to provide educational and performance opportunities
for those interested in the art of Middle Eastern dance and to promote this art to the
general public by sponsoring seminars, workshops, and events, which are available
to all.
SAMEDA is also dedic ated to the production of a monthly newsletter
co ntaining listings of such events and items of related interest as well as
providing a public forum in whi ch the membership is enc ouraged to participate .
Artic le 11 o f the Byl aws.
The Workshop will take place at the Mission Valley YMCA ·
The Show will be in the Lahaina Room at the beautiful
Red Lion Hanalei Hotel
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April showers are beautiful and cleansing. Let's wish away any self doubts and
resentments for others in the dance community. Be fulfilled by knowing there is only
one YOU , and only you can lend your own special creative talents to this dance.
AFFIRMATION:IAMAUNIQUEANDCREATIVEEXPRESSIONOFTHIS
BEAUTIFUL ART FORM AND I RESPECT THE UNIQUENESS OF OTHERS
AS WELL.
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We are making the appropriate actions to get more involved with outdoor
festivals and street faires so SAMEDA can be seen more in the public eye.
We want the public to know more about our dance community. What better
way. On that note, I wish everyone a wonderful Easter.
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We are still looking for a volunteer cooordinator. If you think you have
what it takes to get involved, by all means give us a call.
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Plans are well under way for the SAMEDA Faire. It is progressing
nicely and hoping to hear from more volunteers to help out in this fun event.
We are having wonderful and successful meetings, not to mention great
atmosphere among members wanting to help out. Try out one of our meetings,
it would be a good time to come out for the evening and have a nice dinner
and enjoy some enthusiastic company. Not to mention see how much
SAMEDA is progressing in future activities for YOU!
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April
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5AME_DA
SAMEDA Monthly News
All Fees are per issue and reflect a SAMEDA member
discount. 10% discount on 3 or more issues.
All ads must be paid for in advance.
For further information, contact
Jolie Lucas, Director of Advertising at (619) 294-9400
the official publication of the
San Diego Area Middle Eastern Dance Association
Chief Officer:
SAMEDA Board Members
President:
Sohaila
(760) 743-7501
Vice President:
Meleah
(619) 280-8424
Treasurer:
Cindy Scheidt
(619) 449-1744
Secretary:
Newsletter Editor:
(858) 689-1142
Donna Dutton •
Lynn Perry [email protected]
(619) 280-8424
Assisting Editor:
Meleah
Member Secretary:
Susan Teal
[email protected]
Advertising Director:
Jolie Lucas
(619) 294-9400
Marketing Director:
Dave Dhillon
(619) 284-5367
Proofreader:
Richard Steiger
(619) 283-6325
Newsletter Assembly Persons:
Vicki Deriso • Susan Teal
SEND NEWSLETTER SUBMISSIONS, ADS, AND FLYERS
(SEE BACK COVER FOR ADVERTISING RATES) TO:
SAME DA• PMB #51 • 3401 Adams Avenue, Suite
A• San Diego, CA 92116-2490 • [email protected]
All SAMEDA business correspondence & membership
goes to the following address:
SAM EDA• P. 0. Box 16821 • San Diego, CA 92176
[email protected]
Submissions deadline is the 1s of each month. Due to
occasional space constraints, non-time-sensitive items may be
held over till the next issue.
Submissions should be typed or legibly handwritten-preferably
double-spaced with adequate margins. Submissions on disk are
acceptable (even preferred) in PC platform. Disks will be returned
if you include a postpaid mailer. Due to the new streamlined format,
we accept typeset material onlyfor advertisements.
If you scan your own photos, please do not halftone themscan them as "grayscale" (16 grays) or "black and white photo"
in your scanning program.
Advertising R.ate Sheet
Add $10.00 per item for non-members
$7.00
Classified ads
6 lines or less
Non-member
Business card ad-one issue
Half-page ad
Full page ad
(inside front or back cover)
Flyer insert (275 copies)
$10.00
$10.00
$15.00
$25.00
$35.00
$30.00
EXTRAS:
$20.00
$20.00/$30.00
Creation of a flyer master
Creation of a camera ready ad
WEB SITE Advertising
First page on the SAMEDA website-monthly
Template webpage setup (one-time fee)
~
$5.00
$35.00
All ads submitted must be on white paper
and clean for scanning. Text must be
crisp & legible, original photos if possible.
Otherwise, if extra typesetting needs to
be done, an extra charge of $10
will be added.
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