AT THE HEART OF BELLY DANCE
THE GARAGE INTERNATIONAL @ NACC, SAT FEB 19
Showcasing different styles of belly dance, this show was a spectacle of colour and movement. Each dance told a story from the heart; some of longing, some of liberation, others of joy, love and passion. With Egyptian, Arabic and Turkish influences, the dancers performed a mix of traditional and contemporary styles. Their veils of intricate colour, fluid movements and elegant hand gestures mesmerised us and transported us to far away exotic places. Beautiful costumes shone like diamonds, some tribal, some exotic and even a mermaid confined into an intricate costume, enticing and hypnotic. It was crowd-clapping entertainment with pulsating beats, and an alternative music mix, incorporating blues and even techno elements. The show finished with an African drum solo, all dancers on stage parading their glory.

The belly has power!

Final Word: Mesmerising.
Terry Izatt & Karen Bailey

BELLY DANCE FOR FUN
THE GARAGE INTERNATIONAL @ NACC, SUN FEB 20
I've seen a number of exhibitions of belly dancing at various venues of late, and always enjoyed the show. It always seems so much fun for the dancers. So now I know an Arab step and I can walk like an Egyptian… well, not really, but I do know the Egyptian step too! I've done the shoulder shimmy and snake arms; been personally tutored by the amazing Rania; and I've got some new moves for my visit to WOMAD next month! Evidently there's no prohibition about blokes like me attempting to dance at such a workshop and being on the dancefloor with such cool movers – well, what can I say...

Final Word: Shimmy.
Clayton Werner

A Belly Dance Collective
The Garage International @ NACC, Sunday Feb 21 2010
Who knew there were so many types of belly dancing?! I went in thinking I'd get caught up in the tummy shaking and hip swirling and would want to get up and have a go myself…how hard could it be? I couldn't have been more wrong. I sat there the whole time amazed at how these women managed to move their bodies with such precision. And the core strength they need to be able to do so, let alone the natural ability they must possess! My favourite was the “Tribal Fusion” performance by Sarah Maeer (Johnson) as the controlled slow, flowing movements had me enchanted. The dancing, the music, the colours, this show is sure to impress the whole family.

Final Word : Enchanting
Bridie Toomer

A Belly Dance Collective
The Garage International @ NACC until Saturday

Suspense, mystique, seduction. This show has it all.
Divine Elements Belly Dance Company gives a seamless performance that transports the audience from the origins of the art to its modern-day revival. Incorporating stunning, spangly costumes, dramatic lighting and music and amazing moves, the Adelaide-based group stages a truly entertaining concert.
The talents shown by the performers are highly commendable and their enthusiasm for the dance style is contagious. The crowd was mesmerised by the body isolation movement as belly dancing toured through Gypsy fusion to cabaret, classical and American tribal style. An element of danger was introduced through the sword dance – an amazing show of skill, balance and hours and hours of training.

The Advertiser, Thursday February 25, 2010
**** Four Stars
Candice Keller

Stage Whispers www.stagewhispers.com.au
A Belly Dance Collective
The Garage International @ NACC until 27 Feb

Presented by the Divine Elements Belly Dance Company, A Belly Dance Collective was aimed at showcasing the depth and breadth of this centuries-old dance form. Originating in the Middle East , it has diversified in modern times to encompass African, Indian, Spanish and American influences.
Seven local artists performed a total of 12 routines in a mix of solo and en troupe, each grounded in different style. In a dramatic opening, the show began with a cabaret dance featuring the spectacular golden capes known as Wings of Isis. The routines that followed encompassed classical Egyptian, American Tribal Style ( ATS ), Baladi and Fusion.
Audience favourites included a high-energy Saiidi set by Sarafina, an impressive display of strength and balance by Soraya in the Sword dance and a Tribal piece featuring the Zills, or Finger Cymbals. The show was rounded out by two captivating performances; an intense and mesmerising Dark Fusion routine by Rania and a brilliant solo Veil dance by Melinda Skeklios.
In the roomy surrounds of the North Adelaide Community Centre, cabaret seating would have provided a clearer view for all, though this was only really a problem during routines featuring floor work.
From start to finish the audience were treated to an entertaining and educational mix of colour, sound and style. An art form that requires a spectrum of emotion and technique, the skill and experience in this company was hard to miss. The choreography was polished and costuming a visual feast. Moments of improvisation were smooth and synchronised.
The audience was left in no doubt as to why the art of Belly Dance continues to dazzle and delight.

Nicole Russo