The "Blog" . . .

Shimmy for the Cure! Colorado 2009 with Artemis Mourat . . .

selayma — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 08:15:45 GMT

. . . is gonna RAK! For more information go to: www.shimmyforthecure.bravehost.com . . . www.myspace.com/shimmyforthecure . . . OR . . . www.people.tribe.net/shimmyforthecure Workshop space is limited . . . sign up early! See ya there :-D

Learning, and Loving Your Veil! - workshop with Selayma Anan

selayma — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 04:35:05 GMT

Learning and Loving Your Veil! - Workshop with Selayma Anan - Fruitridge Recreation Center in Sacramento, CA - November 11 & 18 - Class size strictly limited to 10 - $30.00 for one week / $50.00 for both weeks (must have some experience to take just second week) - 7:00pm Week 1 -- This first class will focus on handling, technique and skill development, as well as discussion of fabrics and types of veils. We will be working on presentation, slinky moves, and hypnotic spins! And yes, I too, hated my Veils . . . however, you, too can learn to understand and embrace your Veils, at least with some affection! Week 2 -- The second class will cover a choreography, utilizing all theory taught in the first class, as well as learning to "bond" and become one with your Veil; adding drama and/or theatrics to your presentation and performance! If you feel have had, and are comfortable with handling a veil, you may take just the second class. Veils are required for this workshop . . . One 3 yd rectangle, and one circular veil (the bigger, the better!). Contact Selayma for more information on purchase options and guidelines. Cost of veils not included in workshop fee.

Sword 101 - Back to Some Basics! - workshop with Selayma Anan

selayma — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 04:32:41 GMT

Sword 101 - Back to Some Basics! - Workshop with Selayma Anan - Fruitridge Recreation Center in Sacramento, CA - December 9 & 16 - Class size strictly limited to 10 - $30.00 for one week / $50.00 for both weeks (must have some experience to take just second week) - 7:00pm Week 1 -- The first class will cover types and purpose of various sword styles, handling, technique and yes! Skill Development! Not to mention developing your "persona" as a sword dancer and presentation. Sometimes I call this class "Balance Basics" as most techniques, tricks and movement can be performed with any object that is being balanced on the head. So if you're not quite ready for the long, sharp pointy object (the sword), then bring a basket, tray or pot (non-breakable, please : ) Week 2 -- Surprise! A sword choreography! And the choreography will be taught to a piece of music by Zel Hayal . . . for information on how to purchase the music, please contact me. If you have had, and feel comfortable with sword, you are welcome to take just the second class. A sword is preferred for this class, again, however you may bring a basket, tray or pot (non-breakable) . . . you will still get much from this class, although when we hit the choreography, you will have to make a couple of adjustments vs those with a sword. Please contact Selayma to discuss all options, as well as for information on vendors offering dance swords. Cost of sword, baskets, trays, pots, etc., are not included in workshop fee.

Separation of Tribe Sites

selayma — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 18:14:34 GMT

Hey, Everyone . . . Just wanted to let you know that moving forward, you will see very little info for Shimmy coming from my personal Tribe, or MySpace for that matter. You will get quick reminders from these, however, for all details, you will be referred to www.people.tribe.net/shimmyforthecure and/or www.myspace.com/shimmyforthecure . . . and/or the temporary website at www.shimmyforthecure.bravehost.com. Also, to help balance info being put out there, etc., vs duplicating a bunch of stuff, again, sites of performers/volunteers will be referencing quick reminders, and referring back to these other sites for full details as well. SO! If you do not belong to the Shimmy Tribe or the Shimmy MySpace, AND you want to be kept up to date with ALL information in one quick and easy reference, please log into either/both of these and shoot me an 'add' . . . Thanx Mucho!

And we're moving along!

selayma — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 06:54:49 GMT

Check out www.myspace.com/shimmyforthecure for ALL the details! SO! . . . NOW we're on to the Shimmy Hafla! To be held at the Mercury Cafe, with a fab-U-lous line-up of dancers! Come on out and enjoy great food, great company and your fav dancer, while supporting a great event :-D Suggested donation: $5.00 . . . doors open at 6:00pm . . . 2199 California St in Denver. THEN . . . it's SHIMMY Time! Shimmy for the Cure! Colorado starts bright 'n early on Saturday mornin' June 7th. to be held at the Denver Consistory . . . 1370 Grant St in Denver, at . . . 10:00 am with Laylia of Ohio!!! . . . followed by . . . . . 1:00 pm with TribalTique of Colorado! And don't forget drum classes with Lawrence and Bret of Kara Nomadica . . . 10:00 am with Lawrence - Beginning Drum 1:00 pm with Brett - Intermediate Drum Following the end of the day's workshops, there will be . . . Evening Dance Concert with KARA NOMADICA! Playing live performances, as well as hafla-style dancing immediately following Shimmy :-D Sunday, we are back for more workshops at . . . 10:00 am with Selayma Anan of Colorado/California!!! . . . followed by . . . . . 1:00 pm with Laylia of Ohio! ____________________ The Shimmy Henna Party, was great! And Anita of Hummingbird Henna does absolutely beautiful work! Pix to follow. You can check Anita's work out at www.hummingbirdhenna.com . . . 20% of all sales went to Shimmy! And if you want something really cool for your house, or a unique gift . . . ya gotta check out Real Things Imports! Again, 20% of all sales goes back to Shimmy! And that's for the dates from June 5 - 8, 2008! Amy is awesome! Check out the store over at 3986 S Broadway in Englewood! Get yer reservations in and see ya there :-D And don't forget to check out www.myspace.com/shimmyforthecure for FULL details!

Henna Party - Tomorrow - June 5, 2008!

selayma — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 23:50:14 GMT

YES! We are about to kick off Shimmy for the Cure! Colorado - 2008 . . . with our first Henna Party! Location: Real Things Imports @ 8968 S Broadway, Englewood, CO Time: 5:00 - 8:00pm When: June 5, 2008 Reservations: Please call Amy at 303.789.5960 Henna by Hummingbird Henna Design - Anita will be your artist for the evening! 20% of all Henna sales goes directly to SFCCo! Also, 20% of all sales for Real Things Imports (June 5-8, 2008) will also go to SFCCo . . . so come out and get beauty-fied for an upcoming performance, just-because-its-Thursday, and/or to support a wonderful event! There will also be informal dancing, sounds like some drumming could be happening, and lots of FUN!

Shimmy Happenings! New this year: Shimmy Henna Party!

selayma — Sat, 31 May 2008 03:09:10 GMT

Come and beauty-fied . . . whether for your performance for Shimmy, an upcoming special event, or just for fun!!! Henna is a beautiful art form, and our sponsoring henna artist, Anita of Hummingbird Henna Deisgn, is a-MA-zing! Real Things Imports will be sponsoring the event at their location in Englewood, CO. Please call Amy to schedule your time slot at 303.789-5960 . . . designs start at $10.00 for a simple design. Bring your own idea/design, or use one of Hummingbird's . . . Located at 3986 S Broadway, Englewood in Colorado, 20% of all sales will go directly to Shimmy for the Cure! Colorado. For more details on all upcoming events for Shimmy, please go to www.myspace.com/shimmyforthecure . . . or visit at www.shimmyforthecure.bravehost.com . . . and of course, let me know if you have any questions!

Early Bird Rates are almost gone! And Shimmy's almost here :-D

selayma — Thu, 22 May 2008 01:01:59 GMT

It's almost Shimmy time!!! Make sure and get your reservations in . . . . . don't forget: Early Bird prices disappear May 25th! Quick recap of classes: Saturday the 7th: Laylia of Columbus, Ohio -- 10:00am Lawrence of Kara Nomadica -- 10:00am TribalTique of Colorado -- 1:00pm Brett of Kara Nomadica -- 1:00pm Saturday Evening Dance Concert -- 6:30pm Sunday the 8th: Selayma Anan of CO/CA -- 10:00am Laylia of Columbus, Ohio -- 1:00pm And of course, on Friday night the 6th, there is the Shimmy Hafla at the Mercury Cafe! That program is about full . . . contact Saira if you have any questions at tstriegl.comcast.net Lots of stuff happening . . . including the availability of three, yes, THREE new DVDs/CDs from local Colorado artists! 1) Isis Wings with Phoenix 2) Kara Nomadica's brand new CD 3) A new EP by Zel of Raks Benazir Come on out . . . learn something new . . . support your favorite dancers . . . support a great event! And don't forget to keep an eye out for more info on the Shimmy Henna Party, to be held at Real Things Imports, with henna by Anita of Hummingbird Henna Design! See ya there! www.myspace.com/shimmyforthecure

New Class Starting Tonight - May 6th! . . . and Shimmy is Coming!!!

selayma — Tue, 06 May 2008 23:43:27 GMT

Hidy-Ho, Ever' body! Don't forget . . . new class at Fruitridge Rec Center starts tonight! Get registered in advance to save time :-D And don't forget Shimmy for the Cure! Colorado - 2008! Here's the skinny . . . The deadline for early bird workshop registrations is fast approaching! And don't forget, we have the Shimmy Hafla on the night of the 6th, at the Mercury Cafe! Schedule of events follows, as well as registration information :-D June 6th . . . Friday Schedule: Shimmy Hafla - Mercury Cafe in Denver . . . show begins between 6:30-6:45 pm . . . suggested donation: $5.00 Performers, please arrive at 6:00pm to check in. If you're interested in performing at the Shimmy Hafla, please contact Saira at tstriegl@comcast.net June 7th . . . Saturday Schedule: Keep Up & Break Down with Laylia of Ohio - Denver Consistory in Denver . . . 10:00am - 12:00pm Beginning Drum with Lawrence Osborn - Denver Consistory in Denver . . . 10:00am - 12:00pm Bridging Belly Danc Styles with TribalTique - Denver Consistory in Denver . . . 1:00pm - 3:00pm Intermediate Drum with Brett Bowen - Denver Consistory in Denver . . . 1:00pm - 3:00pm Evening Dance Concert with Kara Nomadica and some of Colorado's Best Dancers! - Denver Consistory . . . doors open at 6:30pm June 8th . . . Sunday Schedule: Sword Dancing 101 - Back to some Basics with Selayma Anan - Denver Consistory in Denver . . . 10:00am to 12:00pm Mystic Touch Choreography with Laylia of Ohio - Denver Consistory in Denver . . . 1:00pm - 3:00pm All workshops are $35.00 each, or one day for $60.00 (ie: Saturday = 2 workshops, or Sunday = 2 workshops). If you are looking at registering for all day on Saturday, you may take one dance workshop and one drum workshop, or you may take two dance workshops . . . or two drum workshops. Choice is yours : ) If you'd like to "have it all", you can take both days for $110.00 (4 workshops in whatever combo) . . . these rates are effective through May 25th . . . after that, they go up! Evening concert tickets for the 7th of June are $15.00 in advance; $18.00 at the door. Payment accepted: Check, Money Order, Cashier's Check, made payable to SFCC and mailed to: PO Box 2196, Longmont, CO 80502 You may also use PayPal, with recipient ID of shimmyforthecure@gmail.com . . . please ADD $3.00 for PP fees. For more information, as well as forms, flyers, etc., please go to myspace.com/shimmyforthecure. All flyers/forms are printable . . . right click on the required doc, copy to your desktop and print it from there! If you have problems, let me know :-D I've also attached the "sponsor" pledge form, in the event that you, or someone you know, would be interested in sponsoring Shimmy for the Cure! Colorado - 2008 . . . Look forward to seeing everyone there!

Check out www.people.tribe.net/shimmyforthecure . . .

selayma — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 00:33:03 GMT

. . . or www.myspace.com/shimmyforthecure . . . there has been a change to the drum workshop schedule! Any questions, le'me know :-D

New Class May 6th!

selayma — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 06:47:30 GMT

Finally . . . Getting Close . . . New Class in Sacramento! Register Now - - - Where: Fruitridge Rec Center, 4000 Fruitridge Rd, Sacto.. When: Tuesday Evenings.. Time: 7:00-8:00pm.. Cost: $70.00/8 week session.. Pay: Fruitridge Rec directly @ 916.395.0601 Don't know what to wear? Think "comfort", "stretching", & "sweating" . . . whatever works for you and allows ease of movement! Class content will focus on basic isolations and movements. Depending on actual enrollees, this can and will change. Any questions, please let me know!

59 Days 'til SFCCo - 2008! Don't miss it :-D

selayma — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 05:54:58 GMT

Check out www.myspace.com/shimmyforthecure for ALL the details, printable flyers, forms, etc! Lots of Changes! Lots of Fun! FOUR workshops over the course of the week-end June 7 & 8, PLUS two drum workshops! An Evening Dance Concert on the night of the 7th An open hafla on Friday night at the Mercury Cafe, on the 6th Instructors: Laylia of Ohio - Keep Up & Break Down technique & Combos, as well as Mystic Touch Choreography TribalTique of Colorado - Bridging Belly Dance Styles Selayma Anan of California - Sword 101; Back to Some Basics (no sword? bring pot, basket, or tray : ) Members of Kara Nomadica - Beginner and Intermediate drum workshops Performers on the 7th will be varied and exciting! And some will also be performing live to Kara Nomadica, who will also be sharing their musical talents again this year, so bring your hip scarf and get your shimmy on! We've also mapped out the alternate routes for you, to help avoid the problem with street closures for People's Fair, we have marked off the "approved" parking, and created a great list of food options all within easy walking distance for your mid-day meal, or afternoon snack! Or even dinner :-D Contact Saira at tstriegl@comcast.net if you'd like to get on the schedule for the hafla . . . and we should be posting out the line-up for the evening dance concert soon! See ya there

Yes, only 71 Shopping Days until . . . SFCCo - 2008!

selayma — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 21:12:32 GMT

As I'm still working on separating out my personal stuff from Shimmy stuff, I won't be giving much info here, however . . . you can go to www.myspace.com/shimmyforthecure for all of the luscious details! And no, you do not have to join the Space to get the info or print out the flyers, etc., however if you want to read the Blog, as usual, you do : ) So . . . briefly: There will be four workshops offered this year! And ALL offer something to all dancers, regardless of preferred style! And yes, we are crossing "the line" :-D Tribal to Cabaret, and Cabaret to Tribal . . . and no, that doesn't mean changing your style ; -) Instructors will be: Laylia of Ohio TribalTique of Colorado Selayma Anan of California Members of Kara Nomadica of Colorado (yes, DRUM classes for the non-dancers . . . or dancers not taking an afternoon workshop : ) We're back to a local org for recipient this year . . . www.y-me.org/rockymountain . . . check 'em out! AND . . . our Emcee for our Evening Dance Concert this year will be comedian, Ernie Ruiz! And let's not forget the Silent Auction : ) So c'mon down . . . support a great event . . . spread the word!

SFCCo - 2008 . . . Almost There!

selayma — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 08:42:28 GMT

. . . but wanted to give you a little something to think about :-D Finalizing a few small details, such as when each of the instructors will be teaching, however . . . as a little teaser . . . Mark your calendars now for June 7 & 8, 2008!!! Shimmy for the Cure! Colorado - 2008 with . . . Laylia of Ohio! TribalTique of Colorado! Selayma Anan of California! So . . . how will this work??? Well, we listened! And we're changing up the format of the workshops a bit. For 2008, we will be offering FOUR workshops, each 2 hrs in length, with two workshops to be held on Saturday June 7th, and two workshops on Sunday June 8th. What can you expect as workshop choices? Something for ever'body! There will be technique, combos, choreography and props taught . . . how's that for a selection :-) And for those that had a hard time with the parking and detours re: People's Fair . . . we will be sending out parking information, as well as directions to make it easier for everyone to get there, as we will be back in the beautiful hall of the Denver Consistory! Also, I believe there will be accommodations available 1.5 blocks from the Consistory at an INCREDIBLE rate, for those wishing to come in from out of town, or just stay closer in. There is also the Ramada Inn (nice!) located just 8-9 blocks east of the Consistory as well. And as for the silent auction . . . we are working on that again as well! But . . . this is just to give you something to think about :-D More details will be forthcoming by the end of the week! For those that don't know: Shimmy for the Cure! is an annual fund raiser for breast cancer. Going into it's third year, SFCCo has seen small, but steady growth . . . past instructors include Tasha Banat and Jim Boz. For more info on SFCCo, or the plans to start up SFCCa, please shoot me an email at shimmyforthecure@gmail.com or go to Shimmy's Tribe at people.tribe.net/shimmyforthecure . . . See ya there!

Rakkasah-West . . .

selayma — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 02:11:12 GMT

I made the schedule by default! Someone else had to bow out, and I was next on the list :-D I will be performing on Saturday, the 15th on the East Stage . . . time: 2:51pm! Hope to see y'll there :-D Note: Just in case you were ever wondering, yes, there really is a waitlist, and yes, it really gets used. So if you don't make it through the call-in proper, keep dialing until you get that vmail so you can leave your info for the waitlist . . . there's always something happening out there in the world, so there's always someone getting in through the 'second chance' method : )

New Class Starting in May!

selayma — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 07:31:29 GMT

Yes, there will be a new class starting up in May (I believe the 8th is the start date . . . ) Where: Fruitridge Recreation Center @ 4000 Fruitridge Rd, South Sacramento When: Tuesday Evenings Time: 7:00 - 8:00pm Cost: $70.00 / 8 week session - no drop ins This class will be directed towards first-time and/or "beginning" level students. If you have studied Belly Dance in the past, please contact me so we can talk. Class format will be on-going, and will include basic isolations and movements to develop control and technique, with a short choreography at the end of the session. Finger cymbals (aka: Zils) and veils will be discussed at first class meeting. Participants under age 16 require approval to enroll.

To Play . . . or Not To Play . . .

selayma — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 06:47:21 GMT

LOL - Okay, so in response to several questions (which are all basically the same question). Yes. I play zils. I even teach zils. However, I do not like to play zils. Story time! I think it was back in '88, Shukriya was having a dance event at the Namora(?) School in El Cerrito . . . I believe it was Robaire's birthday . . . and I was so not feeling well! I was on the schedule to dance; got up there and started my show wearing my zils with every intent to play them. I kept telling myself, "I'll start in a second . . . I'll start after this phrase . . . I'll start . . . nope. I won't. I don't wanna!" I actually have it on video still; I took my zils off, put them on the piano and I've not played them really since, although there are a couple of exceptions : ) So . . . we fast-forward to around '92-'93. I was dancing at the [old] El Morocco in Concord on a Thursday night . . . it was a really quiet night, with maybe like three tables (yes, it was unusual), and while I was doing a set, Fadil said "Selayma ... why don't you put on your zils. Maybe that will liven them up a little bit." I told Fadil, "I don't play zils." Fadil said, "Yes, you do. I've heard you." And I chuckled and told Fadil, "I don't play zils when I dance in restaurants." Well, I finished my set and was talking with Fadil and a few others afterwards and the topic of the zil playing came up . . . of course : ) Fadil told me that he "knew" he'd heard me play before and that I played very well . . . I reminded Fadil that he'd heard me play when I was standing and just jammin' . . . and then I clarified that I do not play zils when I dance in restaurants. Then I explained to Fadil that at one point, my dancing changed. My zil playing did not. And they just no longer "jived". So Fadil told me he wanted me to start playing my zils the following week . . . and I said "Okay : )" So I did :-D The first 30 - 60 seconds were fine, and then they went off on their own little tangent (the zils, I mean) . . . and I was watching Fadil, and I saw him shake his head and make a "CUT" sign with his hand . . . so I graciously took off my zils and continued my show, for which I am quite sure that audience was eternally grateful! Playing while you are standing and jamming with some drummers/musicians is very different from playing while dancing . . . think about it : ) To play completely out of sync with your dancing, and inevitably the music is pure torture for those that you are supposed to be entertaining! Now, for those that know Fadil, you know there are two basic requirements (other than being a competent dancer/entertainer) for the El Morocco . . . one is balancing something, preferably sword, and playing zils. Sword . . . not a prob! In fact, got another story about dancing with sword the one night, but that's for another time. I had been dancing at the El Morocco for 2.5 years, before this conversation ever came up . . . Fadil truly thought I'd been playing zils all this time. Which moves me into the next part of this story . . . Several months after Fadil and I had our discussion and little demonstration, I was talking with another student/dancer named Bonnie. She was having a conversation with a couple of other students and/or dancers about being "professional" . . . what it took . . . and the fact that in order to be a "professional" dancer, you MUST play zils when you dance. During this portion of their conversation, Bonnie turned to me and said, "Right, Selayma? You have to play zils to be a professional dancer, huh?" I told Bonnie I don't play zils when I dance in restaurants, and Bonnie said, "Yes, you do. I've heard you." LOL - And I told Bonnie, "No, you haven't. I don't play zils when I dance . . . especially in restaurants." So Bonnie thought about that for several moments and said, "OMG! You're right! I haven't seen you play zils! But you keep my attention?!?!? My teacher (who I know) told us that you have to play zils to be a professional and to keep the audience's attention." Okay . . . so let's think about this: What are you there for? Are you there to entertain and impress the audience with your technique, skill, personality and charm as a dancer/performer??? Or are you there to keep their attention by making a lot of noise? And this is something I honestly think every dancer and club owner/manager should think about when it comes to zils . . . there are a BOAT load of dancers out there that really,REA-lly should not play zils . . . at least not in a restaurant situation where the sound is more closed in, and the not-so-rhythmic quality is more obvious. I have watched dancers play zils literally to either side of a customer's head . . . just to make sure that the customer is "paying attention". Why in the world would someone want to abuse their audience like that? Well, my response to Bonnie was simply: "Thank you. I appreciate that, because if I have to make noise to keep your attention, then I'm not much of a professional dancer." So to wrap this up . . . I do believe that learning zils and/or drum to one degree or another is helpful to a dancer. Gets you understanding the rhythms, breaks and patterns . . . and at the very least helps you find the beat when you're stressed out there on stage and you forgot what you wanted to do next . . . you can pick out the down beat of a beledi rhythm, etc! I teach zils for just that reason, to those that want to learn . . . I've never made it a 'requirement'. However, that's gonna be changing because more and more students are just gettin' kinda lazy about that aspect, and wanna look like "Shakira" as fast as they can! And while I can appreciate the thought . . . even Shakira didn't become the dancer or musician that she is over night . . . took time and working on it. To me, zils are just another step in that direction . . . I just don't see the need to make it a 'requirement' to be considered a "professional" dancer. OH. My exceptions re: playing zils . . . outside/percussive events. Like Ren Faire . . . that sort of thing. Why? Because I no longer dance percussive, nor do I play percussive, and zils are a percussive instrument. I start taking over the melody when I play zils with orchestrated music (even if there's a vocalist), and then my body "fights" to follow the melody of the zils, although I reflexively revert back to percussion when I play zils. Hard to explain . . . really sucks, actually. If I'm dancing to a drummer, I can do whatever with zils and it's all good; I basically end up dancing a "zil solo" with the drum as an accompaniment. If an oud or mizmar/ney is thrown into the mix, I have to focus and really concentrate on the zil playing and I start to lose either the zils or the dancing at some point . . . no idea why . . . just the way my brain seems to work with it all. But here's the good news! Apparently I can dance without them, and no one notices ; -> Thoughts??? Le'me know . . .

Need a Vendor!

selayma — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 23:51:35 GMT

Hey, Everyone . . . Do y'll know of anyone that sells just the plain ol' basic brass cymbals from the "olden days"??? I'm looking for size 10 and they generally have "India" stamped on the rim somewhere. Nope! I know they aren't "the best" out there, but they're work quite well for students just starting to play zils, and quite frankly, I still luv mine :-D Although, yes, I have my Zildjian(?) cymbals as well. And for those wondering why I would be looking for zils . . . 1) Yes, I do play zils . . . never said I didn't. I just don't like playing them :) and 2) Yes, I can and do teach zils :-D Got new classes gonna be starting up in May (more to come!) and students are gonna need 'em! Thanx Mucho!

BOO Fest / Holiday Bash - 2007 Video . . .

selayma — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 05:16:52 GMT

. . . is really available! Had the slight issue of not being able to edit the files, however . . . resolved that problem via file converter at www.Square5.com! Couple things to note: it was recorded by an amateur videographer, and it is a little dark (Trilogy's lighting was jacked up and we only had spotlights available for the show - not because of the videographer), but it's not as dark or grainy as I thought I would be :-D) That being said . . . the video is now available for $12.00, which includes shipping/handling/PayPal fees. Performances by: Baptism by Fire! (Northglenn/Parker) Christine (Boulder) Scheherazade & Melissa (Boulder) Tovah (Denver) Habina (Boulder) Countess Rafi'ah and the Daughters of the Night (Littleton) Frank (Colorado Springs) TribalTique (Denver/Ft Collins) Marjorie & Natalie (Ft Collins) If you would like a copy of the video, please send me a quick note and I will forward payment ID information to you. Please include your mailing address with your order request. Hope all is well! See y'll at Shimmy-Colorado!!!

Yes ... another technical "blip" in my life :-D Please Read!

selayma — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 09:01:50 GMT

Okay . . . here's the deal: I have a JVC Everio digital cam. It creates .MOD files of whatever is filmed. I have tried my Adobe programs, and Roxio, and Windows Movie Maker . . . NONE of these can open the .MOD file format to allow for editing! However, I can open these files for viewing on the PC with no problem in these same relative programs. I also have the program software that came with the camera . . . it does not recognize this file format either!!! Has anybody else ran into this type of file??? Were you able to edit them??? How??? And JVC customer service is worthless in terms of support, let alone getting a response :-< So . . . any help would be HUGE-ly appreciated! Thanx :-D S

Just stuff . . .

selayma — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 02:18:03 GMT

Well . . . the workshop with TribalTique was a blast! Personal recommendation: Take it the next time you see it offered!!! No. It's not just for tribal stylists. Every dancer does something with their hair and puts on make-up . . . this teaches some really cool techniques and offers you many, many ideas to expand on. And gives you a whole 'nother reason to shop :-D The Parker Asian Festival . . . really had fun! It's actually a good-sized event with many forms of Oriental/Asian entertainment . . . and we were very well received; and we have already been asked back for next year! Hopefully y'll get a chance to check it out . . . the evening closed with a troupe of Chinese Dragon dancers . . . totally COOL! I luv, luv, LUV Chinese Dragons :-D And this was a great group! And yes, I am now in Sac-Town! And trying to make a quick adjustment! Still waiting for the clothes and the costumes and the papers and all that other 'stuff' to get here . . . weather delayed everything about a week :-p But I'm glad y'll got some snow out there! I got palm trees :-/ Although we've had some wonderful weather for the past 1.5 days, we had rain and clouds/high fog until yesterday afternoon. Pretty standard for this area this time of year . . . and yes. It's cold! Anyone that tries to convince you that Cali is not cold is tryin' to sell ya somethin'! Hmmm . . . maybe a used car : -D Anywho . . . hittin' stuff hard and fast to get settled, and to get some things rolling . . . hopefully I'll start having a schedule to post after tomorrow ; -)

Parker Asian Festival . . . Tonight!

selayma — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 18:40:06 GMT

Don't forget to come on out to the Parker Asian Festival tonight! Doors open at 7:00pm and Baptism by Fire! performs at 8:00! Here's some info: Parker Asian Festival Location: Parker Fieldhouse Address: 18700 E. Plaza Dr, Parker, CO 80134 Cost: $5.00/person (3 & under free) Time: 7:00pm - 9:30pm Hope to see ya there!

Questions re: Hair & Make-up Workshop with TribalTique!

selayma — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 09:03:56 GMT

This Sunday, January 13th at 1:00pm in Longmont! Only four spots left! I've had a few folks asking questions, so I thought I'd post these out, just in case they answer one for you : ) Q: Is the workshop for tribal dancers? A: It is a "tribal" hair and make-up workshop . . . however, make-up technique is something that ANYone can use, any time, any where. Once you learn the technique and tips and tricks, you can play with it and adapt them to your look. And the same goes for hair . . , I've talked with MANY dancers who have said that they wish they could do something different with their hair (cabaret dancers, too) . . . this gives you an opportunity to explore different options. Q: Can I pay you when I get there? A: At this point, I prefer PayPal, however it may be possible to pay at the door, keeping in mind that if you do not show up, you still owe the workshop fee. Q: What is supplied? A: Whatever you bring . . . upon registration, I will send you the suggested supply list. Although I will supply some light munchies and a few "treats" to sample : -D Q: How long is the workshop? A: About three hours . . . and it covers a lot of material. Don't forget that you will walk out of the workshop lookin' all glam! Just in time to head down to India's Castle for dinner and our student night ; -) Le'me know if you have any other questions . . . and see ya there! S

Hair & Make-Up with TribalTique!

selayma — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:48:24 GMT

You know how you look at some of your pictures from shows and think, "Hmmm . . . something's missing . . . My face doesn't look right . . . I look washed out . . . I look like I need some sun . . . Where are my eyes! . . . etc" ??? OR . . . you really HATE your hair! You have lovely straight hair that you can't do a thing with . . . or you have super baby-fine hair that you can't do a thing with . . . or maybe you have one of those really curly mops (that I am always so jealous of!) and are tired of that look . . . or maybe you just need some fresh ideas for your hair! Well! Then it is simply time to learn how to add some excitement to your make-up! And learn something new for your hair while you're at it :-D And here is the way to do just that . . . and yes, I know it's last minute, however if you're like me, that is sometimes the best way to get to where you wanna be :-D Hair & Make-up with TribalTique Date: January 13, 2008 Time: 1:00pm Where: Longmont Cost: $30.00/person Registration is limited to ONLY 10! Please contact me if you would like to attend so as to verify whether there is still space available (tentatively, I think there are 4 spots left at this time). At that time, I will also forward payment options re: check, cash (if paid in person), or PayPal. Upon registration, I will forward directions as well as a suggested supply list. And here's a thought for those that are a little more on the conservative side, or just 'shy' about making changes to their appearance . . . you will learn techniques and tips and tricks through hands-on application with both make-up and hair. Colors that you choose are up to you, so you can still wear your browns and beiges, but with a little kick! Or you can try magenta or teal or yellow or green for something funky, just to see how it feels : ) As with any workshop, you will take away what works for you . . . and you have fun while doing it! Light munchies will be provided, as well as an item or two to "sample" (must be 21 or older to sample : ) And don't forget: India's Castle at 6:30pm . . . my last gig in Colo for a while, as well as student dancers! And the food is fabulous. too ; -)

Well . . .

selayma — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 19:27:35 GMT

. . . . . you know how when you say something one too many times, especially if it's something kinda negative, that it kinda-sorta happens??? Yeah . . . I sorta put something out to the Universe one too many times . . . . and it reminded me of someone that once asked me if I essentially, relocate every 5 yrs. I was kinda surprised at the question, as this was just before my relocating to Colorado, following a 5 yr stint out in Columbus . . . and my moving to Columbus was the first time I'd ever been out of California. I remember sorta laughing and replying in the negative and explained that due to company reorgs and jobs, etc., etc., I'd accepted a position out by Denver. So . . . for those that know me, and have listened to me for the past almost-7 yrs, you know there's only really one thing that I've said I would never do! That would be moving back to California; that it would take an awful lot to facilitate my moving back . . . and that it would more than likely involve my daughters or my grandkids in some fashion. Okay . . . so enter the "OMG!" moment . . . 'cuz I find that I must now move back to California, and among other things, it is tied to one of my daughters and my grandkids, although it is again, an economic decision. I'm told by a couple of sources that this is a really good thing for me! And the attitude is getting better about the whole idea, but I luv Colorado! I luv the people that I've met here and that I've really gotten to know . . . luv my classes . . . I luv the mountains . . . I LUV the snow and four seasons . . . I am going to miss so much of this and all of y'll when I leave! I can say that hopefully I'll move back [one day], but right now, it feels like I'll never be able to leave Cali again . . . (LOL) I sometimes refer to Sacramento (a personal beginning as it were) as a black hole that sucks the life force from ya! And yes, I can say that . . . I was raised in that black hole, and I've experienced it's life-force-sucking capabilities :-D But as one so wisely put it, I was a different person then . . . and I was. Very, very different. And I find that I am now starting to actually get excited for the change and the possibilities I might find out there and getting to know the whole new dance scene that I am completely alien to! Met Amy and Shelly of Unmata at Moab in September - totally cool! Really looking forward to getting to know these ladies more . . . I know Fatima and Jamilla al Wahid are still out there. Luv 'em both! Watched Jamilla grow up in the dance community : ) So there are some definite good things! And yes, I'll be out there contacting places I once danced at . . . already called Fadil at the El Morocco . . . I've had a couple folks refer me to Zaheea re: Marrakech . . . I know the Taj Mahal is still up there (I was "the" dancer in three different movies that were filmed on location there - that was fun!). And I'll definitely be setting up shop for classes as well. Not so sure if I want to do troupes anymore tho'. It seems like every time something REALLY starts rolling, I've moved out of the area. Massive bummer all the way around. This time I'm leaving what would have been my "dream" troupe, Baptism by Fire! . . . they like weird, off-the-wall stuff as much as I do! And we've just been working at "settling in" together. Good news is that that Arianna and Heather plan on continuing together . . . and Duende is born! Keep an eye out for 'em :-D AND . . . yes, Shimmy will continue! The plan is that I'll be out for SFCC, with possibly a new partner helping to keep stuff together on this end, AND I'm planning on pulling one together for Cali as well! One of my first thoughts when we'd come up with the original idea of Shimmy was that it would spread across the Nation! I'd talked with a gal out in the Bay Area, as well as out east about maybe doing one simultaneously at the time . . . didn't happen . . . but hey! Maybe this is the way to get this thing growing and spreading! Please keep an eye out for more on this . . . working on the guest instructor/performer as we speak! As for my current classes with Northglenn and Parker rec centers . . . these are going to be covered by Phoenix and Rafi'ah respectively . . . so catch up with them about what's happening and get registered! Both Norhglenn and Parker have new sessions beginning after the New Year, and they've both been filled and overflowin', so get registered early to avoid disappointment :-D