Vashti's Middle Eastern Dance

Regional Performance Night June 13, 2009
New venue, new star performer, new organizer and nothing but good times at this year's Regional Performance Night. Dancers from all
around the province of Alberta and British Columbia have graced this stage, all giving breath to a movement that is world wide in the art of
Belly Dance. Grande Prairie's Regional College is grand indeed. A stage big enough for first time group performers with no fear of falling
into the lap of Grandma Jones, but intimate enough for those solo, duet, and trio numbers to connect with the audience.
Suzy, the evening's star performer, did not let anyone sitting in the audience or peeking from behind the curtain backstage down. Her
expressive face, energetic, intricate choreographies are trend setting and pleasing to the eye. There is an authenticity in her pursuit of
Middle Eastern Dance. Demurely dressed in a beautiful red baladi dress and matching head scarf for her first number, did not hamper the
sultry and sweet moves that so drive her to perfection. In her second number, few can match Suzy's athletic talent when it comes to
breaking new ground when performing with the sword. Balance, timing, and nerves of steel look like a walk in the park as she smiles at
her audience sending out energy; knowing full well it will be returned two fold!
Each year the performers who travel for this night to be in the spotlight are reaching goals only hard work, love, and devotion can provide.
Every time each individual decides to try new moves and combinations in a new choreography, it's a step forward literally and figuratively
speaking. Their skill level to the audience is on a personal level, but being able to shine, and then responding to an audience's approval
are all gifts to hold in their hearts. Know that as performers someone has picked you as their favorite; well, does it get it better? An
admirable job indeed!
Oksana Termeer, being a former student and a close friend, did not bite off more than she could chew. She does not sit still long
enough...and the result was a evening she should be proud of. As with any event, expect the unexpected, and on with the show! Of
course this writeup is my own personal opinion, but who better to make light of the setbacks and the most of her accomplishments!
Joanne Fullerton, July 2009

This was one of the most amazing and varied shows I've ever attended, thanks to the performers, from beginner to advanced levels, all carefully and
professionally choreographed and performed. Special thanks to Oksana, for making this evening possible; her skill and dedication as a performer and
her hard work are an inspiration. Thanks to Joanne, our MC! See Joanne's writeup below for her writeup about our guest performer, Suzy of Airdrie;
she says it all! Also we gratefully thank Michelle, our stage manager and the staff at the College Theater for their patience and skill. The show was
recorded by North West Video Productions (www.northwestvp.com) and I don't believe I've seen a better quality DVD. They are available for purchase
from Oksana; to contact her, see the "Classes" section.
Many of the performers attended from far away, but I believe if you ask them if it's worth it for their few minutes on the stage, they would definitely say
"yes". Not only for the dance, but for the chance to connect with our friends and fellow performers. It's wonderful to see everyone and I wish it could be
more often.
We had some great prop performances; Shaun from Beaumont wowed everyone with his drum solo, performed balanced on a dumbek, a small Arab
drum...very amazing, followed by double veil. There were two Isis wings duets, many beautiful veil performances, a wonderful cane dance by Oksana
and an awesome sword dance by Suzy.
I found all the group dances to be exceptionally well done this year; all the performers carefully placed, beautifully danced; hard work and practice
really shows. I also found a lot of energy and "electricity" in this year's show; more than usual, and I believe it came from each and every performer;
whether they were dancing a fast or slow number.
Thanks to a really exceptional audience as well. One of the best...always ready to appreciate each and every one of us.
Vashti, July 2009