My Blog

New Video: Ariel at Spring Caravan with Beatbox Guitar

arielarielariel — Mon, 11 May 2009 20:23:51 GMT

Here's my spring caravan video, finally got it posted: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8SyGan9QfiE Find out more about Beatbox Guitar at: http://www.myspace.com/beatboxguitar

FOUR Awesome Shows this Weekend!!!

arielarielariel — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 19:41:28 GMT

Friday: Beatbox Guitar, Breaks, and Bellydance at the Palace of Wonders 10 PM, $10 www.palaceofwonders.com Pete List, Rob Mastrianni, Ariel, Shems, Gwo, Matt, Nick Saturday: Vive La Decadence at the Load of Fun Gallery in Baltimore $10 - 7:30 pm and 10:00 pm at the LOF/T 120 W. North Ave. Baltimore, MD 21201 FOR TICKETS, GO HERE: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/59809 The last Saturday of every month, I'm producing a different burlesque/variety show at the LOF/T. March will be see the return of VIVE LA DECADENCE! Hosted by PACO FISH, with music by New York's BEATBOX GUITAR, belly dance from DC's finest ARIEL, champion juggling by LAURA ERNST, radical performance art by REBECCA NAGLE, and cabaret dancing by MIMI ANTOINETTE! Sunday: DC Tribal Cafe 6PM-9PM Asylum Bar & Lounge 2471 18th Street, NW Washington DC 20009 Part dinner show, part gathering of friends DCTribal Café is a great way to spend Sunday night! DCTribal café is the only monthly event where you can sit back and be entertained by cutting edge tribal fusion belly dance performances by three professional dancers while enjoying Asylum’s down-to-earth but oh so heavenly menu – full of the regular standard American fare and extensive vegan and vegetarian offerings. With your tribal café admittance you get ½ price discount on burgers and $2 off select draft beer. This month DCTribal Café is proud to host performances by: Belladonna (www.BelladonnaDance.net) Troupe Hipnotic’ (www. troupehipnotic.com) Ariel (www.arielbellydance.com) Beatbox Guitar (www.beatboxguitar.com) With the music of DJ MELLIE MEL in between dancer's sets! Doors at 6pm, performances start at 7pm – get there early for the best seats!

Beatbox Guitar, Breaks, and Bellydance --- Friday, March 27th

arielarielariel — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 02:17:20 GMT

Presenting a variety show at the Palace of Wonders featuring: Beatbox Guitar (www.beatboxguitar.com) Ariel (www.arielbellydance.com) Shems (www.shemsdance.com) Poppers Gwo Yang and Matt Shoffner Palace of Wonders 1210 H St. NE Washington, DC www.palaceofwonders.com Friday March, 27th Doors at 8 PM. Show starts at 10 PM. $10 admission. The Brooklyn based duo, Beatbox Guitar creates an innovative mix of flamenco, world, psychedelic rock, hip hop and punk. Pete List’s effortless flow of beat and breath on the mic showcases Rob Mastrianni’s innovative, intricate guitar and electric sitar stylings.

Feb 5th - Variety Show for Canines for Disabled Kids - at the Palace of Wonders

arielarielariel — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 19:01:28 GMT

A sizzling hot variety show at the Palace of Wonders --- Raising money to give guide dogs to disabled children who can't afford them. Palace of Wonders 1210 H St. NE Washington, DC www.palaceofwonders.com www.caninesforkids.org Doors at 8 PM, Show at 9 PM, $10 Featuring: Burlesque by Paco Fish Bellydance by Ariel, Damiena, Eugenia, and Samira Shuruk Drag King Ken Vegas and Belladonna Fire performance by Dance Afire About Canines for Disabled Kids: Canines for Disabled Kids is a small non-profit located in Princeton, Ma. They raise money to provide disabled children ages 6-18 with "scholarships" for service dogs. The wait list for a service dog can be up to 5 years. By providing these scholarships, the kids get on a much shorter waiting list and receive their service dog more quickly. Canines for Disabled Kids sponsors social dogs for autistic children, balance/walker dogs for mobility impaired children, hearing dogs for deaf children and general service dogs. In some cases we will also sponsor therapy dogs used specifically for children. Even if you can't come to the show, consider making a donation! To donate, go to: https://www.givedirect.org/give/givefrm.asp?CID=4067. If you would like to donate through your work, send a check, donate a car, or auction an item for us please go here: http://caninesforkids.org/resources/donate.htm.

Robots and fMRIs

arielarielariel — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 14:30:22 GMT

Two neuro articles for all you other neuroscience lovers out there (er...I know you're out there somewhere!): The fallacies of fMRIs (this is something I've written articles about): http://www.mindhacks.com/blog/2008/06/the_fmri_smackdown_c.html Scary: http://www.mindhacks.com/blog/2008/10/pentagon_requests_ro.html

Ariel at the Vixen Variety Show---this Thursday!

arielarielariel — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 15:53:41 GMT

at the Palace of Wonders --- 1210 H St. NE, Washington, DC www.palaceofwonders.com The variety show featuring foxy & fierce females, who will engage you with their enigmatic and energetic exhibitions. This month we are excited to bring you the funky & folkloric inspired belly dancing of Ariel, the pop performance of drag king Zack Las Vegas, the amazing aerialist Moira Lee, student belly dance troupe Bella'Trix. And last but not least an all new performance by Ken Vega & your host for the evening, Belladonna! Celebrate the new year with us at this fabulously foxy show! Bring your self your friends & your Stupid Human Tricks to the Palace of Wonders!

Video clips from Yasmin's comedy show on Dec. 17th

arielarielariel — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 06:40:22 GMT

Cairo Blues and comedy... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9LPLr4Lxe0 Thanks for putting this together, Yasmin!

Facebook. I joined.

arielarielariel — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 02:39:01 GMT

So add me. :-) http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1107000454

Dec. 17th --- Cairo Blues, Comedy, and Beladi - Yasmin's show at MemSahib

arielarielariel — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 14:03:01 GMT

From Yasmin: Tis the Season to be Jolly! at Mem Sahib on Wednesday December 17 Show starts at 8:00 PM We have been studying COMEDY and fusion in one class and Beladi Progressions in another. This should make for a very eclectic but entertaining evening. Also, please join me in welcoming 6 new students to the stage. Damiena - I Dream of Jeannie and her own Marilyn Monroe impersonation, harem style. Gwen - My Drag + Beladi blues Suzanne - selling a chair ... Samira - Jessica Rabbit + Hey Big Spender Ariel - Mein Heir + Sugar in my Bowl Francesca - Rumba Blues More traditional Egyptian fare by: Zareen Zaira Fifi Selene and other lovely ladies who have not chosen a name yet... If you would like to join us, please contact the restaurant to make a reservation. Neelu will be preparing a lovely buffet for us.

Aszmara at All Seasons on Sunday!

arielarielariel — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 04:24:09 GMT

You are all coming to see Aszmara at All Seasons in Towson on Sunday, right? She is one of my favorite dancers, ever, period, and the show is going to be AWESOME. You seriously HAVE TO see this woman dance. All Seasons Hafla, featuring Aszmara 321 York Rd. Towson, MD $22 includes the show and the buffet. Featuring dancers: Aszmara Ariel Nesmah Carey Lorelei Shems Thalia Amara and Belly Dance Delight with Nina Amaya http://marylandbellydance.com/allseasonshafla/bios.php

Website link exchange?

arielarielariel — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 04:28:37 GMT

updating my website. lemme know if any of y'all want to exchange links. www.arielbellydance.com

Another new youtube clip

arielarielariel — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 13:49:35 GMT

Thanks to Beatbox Guitar for the music, and Shems for the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hjFuAQspeI8

November 5th: Ariel at Je'Bon in NYC...with Djinn and Kaeshi

arielarielariel — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 14:06:11 GMT

I'm headed up to NYC on November 5th (WEDNESDAY) to Je'Bon. I hear it is an awesome venue, I'm excited. Djinn Djam at Je'Bon Starts around 8 PM... 15 St. Marks Pl. New York, NY 10003 www.jebonusa.com www.djinnnyc.com www.bellyqueen.com www.arielbellydance.com Ooh, and I hear there will be other fun dancers there too, like Tanya...and, mmm...and I'm not sure who else, but I'd love to see any familiar or unfamiliar faces! PS> Happy Halloween! I include a picture of me from the DC belly horror show from this year for your amusement.

YouTube clip: Ariel at Rakkasah East --- with Djinn

arielarielariel — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:11:24 GMT

An improvisational beat box solo. Enjoy! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k58cvYMEvVE www.djinnnyc.com www.arielbellydance.com

Bizarre Bazaar --- October 30th --- At the Palace of Wonders!

arielarielariel — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 16:51:13 GMT

Halloween Spooktacular! Featuring Aisha, Ariel, Eugenia, Hilary, Jen, Mayyadah Sabri, and Suzana! This Thursday, October 30th! Bizarre Bazaar Palace of Wonders 1210 H. St. NE Show starts at 9:30 PM $10 cover If you missed my belly horror piece, here's your chance to see it!

October 25th: Workshop at Studio Artemis

arielarielariel — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 12:57:28 GMT

Emoting for Rational Thinkers As dancers, we are also actors. With each dance, we express what the music provokes. Often, we become a character on a stage. But as rational, logical thinkers, emotions can be hard to create and sustain. In this class, we will identify logical ways to recognize and express emotions, create a self-portrait, develop a character, and break down emotional expression into its physical components. We will work on reacting without rationalizing. Participants should come with a sketchbook in hand, relaxed and ready to have some fun! Irrational thinkers also encouraged… October 25th at Studio Artemis, 1–3 PM 2945 Woodstock Ave. Silver Spring, MD Cost: $40/$35 with pre-registration To register, email arielbellydance@graffiti.net. About the instructor: Ariel performs belly dance in the Washington, DC metro area. She has always been a drama geek, received her first role at age 6, and studied theater throughout her childhood and into college. For more information about Ariel, please see www.arielbellydance.com.

Sept 6th --- Eugenia and Ariel at Mira Betz show in Washington, DC

arielarielariel — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 11:28:50 GMT

Presenting... the weirdest fusion duet I have ever had the pleasure to co-concoct... (thanks Eugenia, for enabling me). A fusion duet from Eugenia and Ariel. World debut live at the Mira Betz show... September 6th, 2008 8 PM Jack Guidone Theater 5207 Wisconsin Avenue, NW Washington D.C. 20015. (202) 362-3042. Metro: Red Line to Friendship Heights station, Jennifer St. exit $25 www.meahunaproductions.com The rest of the show is going to rock too. Just check out the awesome lineup: Asharah (Washington, DC) Eugenia and Ariel (Washington, DC) Fire in the Belly (Charlottesville, VA) Kallisti (Baltimore, MD) Lisa Zahiya (Asheville, NC) Naimah (Baltimore, MD) Romka (Washington, DC) Sarah J. Locke and Quartet (New York, NY) Shakra (Washington, DC) Shems (Baltimore, MD) And of course… Mira Betz. No, you don't want to miss this show. BUY TICKETS!

This Friday! Vive La Decadence! --- a naughty French variety show

arielarielariel — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 12:17:12 GMT

starring Monsieur Paco, Strange Powers, Ariel, Telfair Cardaci, and the Bow-Legged Gorilla Friday June 13th, at 10 PM $10 Palace of Wonders 1210 H St NW Washington, DC www.palaceofwonders.com It's Friday the 13th and there's only one safe place to hide from your bad luck! France! Well, France, via the Palace of Wonders, I guess, where black cats bring Belly Dancing, Hoola Hooping, Beatboxing, Burlesque, and Comedy. Join host Monsieur Paco in a variety show without boundaries, without borders, from the gutters of Monte Carlo to the penthouses of the prairie. With Strange Powers, Ariel, the Bow-Legged Gorilla, and New York City's favorite country boy, Telfair Cardaci. Vive la Variety! Vive la Decadence!

soooo I AM going to PennSIC

arielarielariel — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 14:35:26 GMT

Ok...I debated going this year, but decided at this last minute to pre-reg for PennSIC. After debating whether I could afford the time off (I can take a day or two) and the costs associated with PennSIC, I think I can make it for a long weekend (say 3-4 days). YAY! Of course my camp (Concusare) is going to be miniscule this year. Who else is going?

Inspiration? someone? please?

arielarielariel — Fri, 02 May 2008 18:07:39 GMT

The problem with being a professional writer/journalist is that you need a constant stream of inspiration. Your boss says “give me a story” and you have to be ready to propose exciting ideas at all times of day. Today, I’ve spent 7 hours trying to motivate myself to write an article. I have my idea, I have my notes, I have Microsoft Word open, and I just can’t force myself to write. I search for words and come up with air. Empty empty air. And so, in place of an article, I have written this lovely blog post. And consumed about a gallon of herbal tea. Great…

Davul/Zurna CDs?

arielarielariel — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 13:11:10 GMT

Looking for suggestions for some good Turkish music CDs with juicy, gooey slow 9s. Specifically interested in CDs that feature davul/zurna with no/few other instruments. I guess I'm looking for the backbone. But dern it, I know it's out there, cause Artie plays it in class sometimes. (And I plan to ask her, but she's in Japan right now).

I have a webpage!

arielarielariel — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 18:32:46 GMT

www.arielbellydance.com Thanks to Shems for the awesome design skills! I'd love to exchange links with people. Please add me and I'll add you back! (If I know your website address, I may have already done so).

April 6th: Workshop with Ariel at Studio Artemis

arielarielariel — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 14:33:13 GMT

I'm teaching a workshop! at Studio Artemis in Silver Spring, MD Sunday, April 6th, 2008 11 AM – 1 PM Lines and Geometric Shapes: A Guide to Carving Your Place in Space Dancers create lines and shapes with their bodies as they move through space. This class will teach you how to frame your movement to suit the aesthetic your dance aspires to. We will discuss how to—use lines to define and accentuate a movement, effectively use the space on a stage, create interesting shapes on stage with other dancers, create shapes to compliment a musical phrase, cater movements to a certain style or mood. Class is open to all levels, although at least 6 months of study is suggested. $35 preregister/$40 at the door To register, contact Ariel at: arielbellydance @ graffiti.net Stay tuned for an upcoming workshop at Studio Artemis with Miasia!

Read an electronic book?

arielarielariel — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 13:11:33 GMT

OK, I'm curious. Will anyone enjoy reading an electronic book? I think I'd find reading a book on a computer screen ungodly annoying. Not to mention that staring at a screen for too long can make you more nearsighted (according to my optometrist, at least). Clearly Steven Jobs seems to agree with me (see article), although I disagree that "people don't read anymore." Ride a metro in DC and 70 percent of people the train have their noses buried in the midst of a book or newspaper. But online reading? Reading a newspaper article or blog online, sure. They're short and not optically painful. But a book? Does anyone think the Kindle will successfully encourage book readers? My experience in school was that people tended to print out anything posted online to read... http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/27/business/27digi.html?ref=business For me, I plan to stick to my hardcore, tree-killing ways. Although I mostly frequent libraries, so you could say that I recycle.

Thank you, Gloria Steinem.

arielarielariel — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 12:38:43 GMT

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/08/opinion/08steinem.html?em&ex=1200114000&en=f7ff1506bb86d225&ei=5087%0A