Vashti's Middle Eastern Dance

I will keep you posted on upcoming workshops, performances and recitals in the Alberta, Canada areas
generally covered by myself of Hinton and troupes of Grande Prairie and area. For events covering other
areas of Alberta, please regularly check the other Alberta web pages in the "Links" section of this web
page, as these web pages will advertise events happening not only in Alberta, but Canada, the United
States, and world-wide.

Regional Performance Night May 12, 2007
Our show this year was once again at the Grande Prairie Live Theatre, the perfect venue to
showcase all this northern Alberta and British Columbia talent. We had gals from
Chetwynd, Fort St. John, Wembley, Beaverlodge, Hinton, Edson, Valleyview, Sexsmith,
Edmonton and Grande Prairie. Our male dancer hails from Beaumont.
Included was a tray, candle and shamadan dance, sword, wings, tribal, veil, Egyptian pop,
Oriental, Khaleegy and drum solos. A wonderful assortment for the audience and a perfect
mix from the dancers.
The Level I group, who are first time performers, did two numbers which set the tone for
the rest of the evening. The Level IV group also did two numbers which made their teacher
very proud. The out of town guest performances included some first time performers
coupled with those who had danced in last year's show. This show also showcased those
students who are choreographing for themselves in the process of striking out on their
own. Balanced swords, flowing veils, expressive wings and even a gymnastic ribbon
graced the stage. Also, tribal surfaced as it is rapidly being included under the Middle
Eastern umbrella. Fusion of hip hop, modern, ballet and a youthful display of
interpretational also kept the audience guessing up until the final number. Our special
guest Aldiya from Edmonton was the icing on the cake. Everything from her playful
Khaleegy number at the end of the first half to her articulate and exciting Oriental and
masterful drum solo seduced the audience into wishing for more.
The audience not only indulged their senses but also their taste buds as a wonderful
buffet was provided.
Half the proceeds will go to the women's shelter in town, with the knowledge that beauty
from the inside leads to beauty on the outside.
- Joanna, May 24, 2007