ATS's topics - tribe.net

ATS in NYC?

2009-12-18T21:38:20Z

I'm a bit weirded out asking this, but here goes...

The sister of Valizan who lives in New York City is interested in ATS, but doesn't think there are any teachers near either her work (Manhattan) or her home (Long Island).

I know Manhattan Tribal in is Manhattan (natch... "Hi Mimi... be good to the sister of Valizan!") but is there anyone on Long Island?

posted in ATS - 5 replies

tribal belly dance calendars--- looking for!

2009-12-16T09:36:12Z

Anyone? Have one for sale?? My Mucha calendar is almost expired and I need a new calendar! Does anyone know of a Tribal belly dance calendar out there for 2010? Please msg me privately to avoid any Spam tendencies!

posted in ATS - 5 replies

zills?

2009-12-14T20:30:23Z

when do you end 3's.

123 123 123
RLR RLR RLR
......................D?
D?

Is the doum at the beginning or the end of the three? are you playing the upbeat or down? i hope this makes sense...i'm confusing myself. I tend to play with the Doum at the 3 of 123 so it's at the end...i think that's the downbeat way to play right?
what is correct for ATS?

posted in ATS - 5 replies

Wet dog

2009-12-11T17:29:48Z

Any tips our visualizations on the wet dog? Thanks. Joan

posted in ATS - 17 replies

Reverse other moves

2009-12-10T23:53:01Z

The other day the question was asked about the reverse shimmy. I also remember that the Maya is called a reverse taxeem. Soooo, may other moves be reversed? Like choo choo with hip drops versus lifts, Arabic using a camel, Turkish with the reverse shimmy, etc? Would reversing just be seen as a variation of the basic move and be allowable?

posted in ATS - 4 replies

GS/TT session in summer 2010??

2009-12-10T18:42:36Z

Any chance there will be a GS/TT held in California [central/northern: i know there is one in Highland, but that will make for an extra long drive home afterward to BC], Oregon, or Washington State over the summer of 2010..
I think there is a GS happening in Alaska, but don't think it has the TT with it.
ideally there would be a GS/TT in San Fran ;) *GIGANTUOUS HINT*

*hoping hoping hoping*
:D

posted in ATS - 8 replies

props dvd?

2009-12-04T23:05:22Z

does anyone know if there are plans for a FCBD props dvd? I love love love dancing with my sword but I'd really like to see some instruction on it in FCBD format, you know? :)

posted in ATS - 0 replies

choli tops - where?

2009-12-04T17:19:31Z

I have a couple of new ladies dancing with me who are quite large up top.
Both have ordered several cholis from different vendors, but none have been large enough.

What's your advice? What is your favorite choli top for larger women?
One of the ladies (a 54E) says EVERYTHING is just too small.

Help! Please.
I KNOW larger cholis must exist somewhere.

Thanks!!

posted in ATS - 9 replies

Should you, could you, have you ever seen..

2009-12-03T12:34:56Z

a shoulder shimmy faded? I've been searching youtube, but I don't think I've ever seen it. In my mind it seems pretty simple and neat looking to fade back while doing the 8 count of shoulder shimmies and have the new lead take over with the hip bumps. Is my mind's eye seeing weird stuff again?

posted in ATS - 10 replies

technical question...camel walk and circle step

2009-12-03T02:45:38Z

okay....here we go...

these questions came up in class tonight...

1)in the circle step, we have seen a couple of uses of a ribcage rotation between turns. is this a sanctioned variation?

2)when the leader turns the camel walk facing into a circle, what is the smoothest way to change leader using the camel walk? as many times as my ladies and I have seen it done, for some reason it isn't clicking.

thanks in advance!

posted in ATS - 14 replies

Meaning of the Moving Meditation- First Figure.

2009-12-02T19:19:21Z

Hi,
Does anyone know somethng more about the first figure in the Carolena's Moving Meditation? I know it's a kind of opening, but I've also heard some theories about dedication the dance to one of the goddesses (I'm not sure, which one). I've always thought that the ATS style is generally for being together with dance sisters, have fun and so on, but on the other hand, if it is true- does it becoming a kind of ritual dance? What is its philosphy?

posted in ATS - 0 replies

ATS in Madison, WI?

2009-12-02T04:49:52Z

My father lives nearby in Middleton, and I visit him a few times a year. Are there any ATSers down in our capital? Interested in any improv style, actually. :D

posted in ATS - 2 replies

what are these combos?

2009-12-02T04:31:19Z

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQYf-VDQl2g

1:05 and 1:47

are they new fcbd combos?

posted in ATS - 43 replies

drummers and dancers

2009-11-30T01:27:59Z

Okay, I am vewy vewy tired. Have looked for the threat discussing what works for interaction between dancers and drummers. Does anyone have a sparking memory where this thread might be? My dance students/troupe are growing a lovely friendship with some local percussionists in our town and would love to find that thread.

posted in ATS - 5 replies

Looking for New Music

2009-11-29T22:23:17Z

What are you dancing ATS to lately? I'm feeling like I've been dancing to the same stuff for a while. Anything - just throw it out...

posted in ATS - 3 replies

If you could design Belly Dance University . . .

2009-11-27T00:44:59Z

what would that look like?

This is something I’ve been seriously pondering lately. I’m a mature woman. I spent my younger years birthing
my children and devoting myself 100% to their needs. I’m proud of what I accomplished with my family. But,
now I’m ready to dedicate some . . . whatever is needed . . . to myself. I’ve taken a few belly dance classes over the
years and know that I prefer American Tribal Style belly dance. There is one loosely ATS group close to my home.
But they are quite advanced and not offering beginners classes at the moment. There is another group which I
think is a bit more strictly ATS about 1 1/2 hour drive from home. Treacherous mountain roads to that class are
very bad in the winter but I would sign up for Spring 2010.

So can we have some fun here designing Belly Dance University ????? If I was straight out of high school and
wanted to study to be a teacher, nurse, midwife, what-have-you, I would probably have not much more than a
powerful passion for my goal and little else. What would I be studying to become an American Tribal Style belly
dancer. Please offer your suggestions from the simple to the complex, semester break-down and all if you want to.
I’ve got 3 years to graduate.
~ Janice

posted in ATS - 10 replies

Music...

2009-11-24T20:01:04Z

So I like to dance to a number of things outside of Arabic, drums, etc.

My favorite song that is a little outside the box is Cecilia by Simon and Garfunkle and then Sexy Back by JT (the high school girl in me LOVES JT)

Sooooo....do you have a non-standard favorite song to dance to?

~The girl who thinks Violent Femmes is a viable ATS option~
Tasha

posted in ATS - 16 replies

Reverse Shimmy

2009-11-24T00:08:51Z

What is it the reverse of?

posted in ATS - 17 replies

Camel

2009-11-21T18:10:52Z

I'm learning more and more that small steps are needed, in general, in ATS. I'm thinking the camel is no exception. As far as I understand it, it begins like this:
R foot steps pretty much in place, and there's a centering over the right, but not a step off to the right, gaze goes slightly to the right as well.

R arm plunges down in front of the right side of the body, as if the palm's gently pushing something to the floor.

L arm floats up and out to the left on left side, to be eventually pointing upward, parallel with the head/neck.

---
Is this right? Corrections are appreciated. I've noticed a tiny change in any one of these things really changes the look/feel/mood of the move.

posted in ATS - 10 replies

Double Back

2009-11-21T18:07:30Z

GRRRR. has been and continues to be the most challenging movement for me. Can anyone offer advice on how to get past this? I know what my feet are to be doing, I know what my arms are to be doing, getting them to do what they are suppose to do independent of each other is NO PROBLEM. putting them together, my brain just doesn't want to do it! HELP!!!

posted in ATS - 15 replies

Which shoes do you wear??

2009-11-21T17:19:31Z

Ok, so I've had an issue finding the right dance shoes for me! I've gone through 2 pairs of Sandasols, 2 different sizes and they always do the same thing.......that is after they stretch the padding on the bottom slides too far back and doesn't protect the ball of my foot. I actually like these the best but it hurts alot when I'm up on my toes once they stretch. The first pair I had did this so I got a smaller size and those did the same thing. You're supposed to go down a couple sizes from your street shoes, but now I'm wondering if I should get a bigger size???? Then I got the Capezio Dancesleaker, but those made my feet too hot and squashed my toes. Then I got some gymnastic shoes and those are ok, but can be slippery when spinning and I feel like I have no control. The last pair of shoes I bought were ballet shoes and holy moly.........i have zero control when spinning! It's ridiculous! I don't know what to do.

Any feedback out there is much appreciated.

posted in ATS - 34 replies

On being a male bellydancer (xposted to maledudes.tribe.net)

2009-11-21T11:57:07Z

I was recently asked by a guy who is thinking of taking up group improv about what I thought about being a male ATS dancer.

I thought I'd share my reply and see what everyone thinks.

Mark

To be honest when I went to my first lesson I never expected to be still doing it months later. Only went under pressure from my wife and a couple of friends. I initially thought that belly dancing was going to be very emasculating ; in fact I found it far from it. The style seams to work with the qualities of what body you have, big, small, female or male. It’s taken me in and addicted me now; doing two lessons this week. I do find that some of the moves you have to tweak a little I find to make it a big more manly as such, I tend to arms slightly less curved and a little more angular then the ladies do. You have to be mindful not to change too much though, as it’s a group form you have to match the others in the group. The basic posture can look good on a man as much as a women, well pretty much standing tall, shoulders back and chest out.
Part the reason I’m pleased with carrying on with the lessons is that I’m starting to get a respectable torso, getting quite toned though it all. I’ve never been good at motivating myself to exercise in the past.
I do find that ATS is more then just a passive dance, trying not to sound too much like a hippy, but I think that’s unavoidable. You build a connection with the people you’re dancing with, though the cues you build up this non verbal language and you end up all moving in harmony and there is something so beautiful with that in many levels. You end up almost reading the minds of the lead dancers. I guess that’s why they call it tribal and people refer to each other as sisters and brothers.
I booked marked a couple of threads on tribe.net that you might find interesting: http://ats.tribe.net/thread/fa79f39d-ae96-4599-bedd-f5d3ba9e7d9a
http://ats.tribe.net/thread/fd0fa418-f885-4f22-b234-4170a585d4d5

You will have to get used to references to ‘girls’, ‘ladies’, ‘sisters’ etc… just have to remember it’s not that we’re not welcome, it’s that we’re rare.
Let me know how you get on. If you have any questions feel free to message.
Perhaps one day I’ll see you at a hafla and we’ll show the world that men can kick arse at ATS!

I guess sounds cheesy but I'd have to say it's made me feel empowered, proud of my body and connected as part of this tribe. You can meet a stranger from the other side of the world, catch their eye and instantly know how to dance with them.

Mark

posted in ATS - 7 replies

Taking notes...Circle Step

2009-11-20T08:01:28Z

I am taking notes for class (FINALLY) for specific finer points in teaching and I have a query regarding the Circle Step.

I am confused because I see it sometimes performed as a four corners movement and sometimes as a half turn...how, after one has turned the first round of the circle, do your followers know you are going to only do half turns? is there a cue to distinguish this before hand? Or am I seeing and doing and teaching it entirely incorrectly?

posted in ATS - 5 replies

rib cage rotation

2009-11-19T19:20:55Z

Hi, what's the cue for this movement? Is it a wrist lift? If so, could anyone post a video -- it's not understandable for me.
Do we start moving to the right or left?

Thanks in advance)

posted in ATS - 20 replies

100% ATS!

2009-11-18T01:07:52Z

Flock of birds indeed! Inspiring! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=81wFZavdhPU

posted in ATS - 7 replies

The Torso Rotation

2009-11-17T00:21:02Z

I am having difficulty in explaining this move to my girls. They just don't seem to get it, and I would LOVE some ideas on how to explain it in new ways through which they might connect.

I currently break the move down into 6 parts. Slide to the left, tilt right shoulder to back wall, scoop chest around inside of barrel, tilt right shoulder to front lifting out of barrel, center chest and release.

How do you teach this move?

posted in ATS - 4 replies

Dance Sandals

2009-11-13T19:21:40Z

I've been wearing Nativearth/Mesmera Sedona sandals for dancing, but have a lot of trouble with the sole material, which has too much traction for me to spin in. I actually thought I was completely hopeless at spinning, until I tried it barefoot and figured out it was the soles. (Love 'em for streetwear, but just can't dance in them)

Has anyone here worn the Hera sandal by Renboots/Marcie's? They are an almost identical style, with a different sole material, but the side tabs that the laces go through are set farther back than on the Sedona, leaving the toes a lot more exposed and possibly making the front of the sole prone to flopping around, although I don't know if that's the case. Any experience here?

posted in ATS - 0 replies

Would you come to TribalPura / GS in the Rockies?

2009-11-11T16:56:50Z

We are envisioning holding a TribalPura in Southern Colorado in 2011, and eventually a GS if that were possible. We would like to hold this/these workshop(s) in our remote little town of Crestone, in a facility where all the accommodations and (delicious healthy) meals would be offered in one place and we could stay and practice together in a more retreat-like setting. Megha has mentioned that creating this "village atmosphere" is actually really conducive to the experience they want to offer. The cost per participant would be low if we can get a good group together; and we're talking lovely rooms and excellent food (the cook used to be at Greens in San Francisco!)

I'm checking to see what kind of response this gets, given that our locale, beautiful and wonderful as it is, is not convenient to airports. We are about half-way between Denver (3.5 hrs. by car) and Albuquerque (4.5 hrs); even closer driving distance from Colorado Springs, Santa Fe, Taos, Durango, and a longer haul for the hardcore from Wyoming, Utah, Kansas, etc. Our town is an hour's drive from Alamosa, which has a small-plane route connecting to Denver (1hr.) There is the possibility of coordinating shuttles or shared airport trips, but conceivably this would be a drive-only event.

Can I get a show of hands?
xo Katie

posted in ATS - 8 replies

Regarding membership on the ATS FAQ tribe

2009-11-10T07:20:32Z

http://tribes.tribe.net/atsfaq/thread/5c7a0ee2-062e-43ba-91e7-ab697db17fe2?newpostingid=a114b195-b5cc-4730-b866-748cf2c19298#a114b195-b5cc-4730-b866-748cf2c19298

posted in ATS - 0 replies

peripheral vision exercises

2009-11-09T08:29:07Z

My students are finally starting to get comfortable with leading so I can start taking a backseat and be a follower, but I am noticing that all of us are all looking at the leader too much... Any ideas or exercises that you use in class that will help witht this? I have a few things that I try to do with them but I figure some of you would have some really good suggestions..thanks !
Lisa

posted in ATS - 6 replies

Military Zill Pattern & the Chorus?

2009-11-08T11:25:31Z

I'm sorry if this has been covered before.... I did a search and couldn't find it...

Anyhoo, my question is about what happens in the chorus. If the center dancing group does a movement that has a military zill pattern, does the chorus then do the military as well? It seems to me that they would, but before covering it with my students I'd like to know for sure. :)

Thanks bunches!
Ameena

posted in ATS - 9 replies

Raqset Al Sajat

2009-11-06T23:29:18Z

has anyone used this cd yet for honing their zil work? I just bought it today on iTunes and it sounds fantastic, but I haven't been able to zil along with it yet...tomorrow. what do you think of it?

posted in ATS - 10 replies

I AM GOING CRAZY!!!!!!

2009-10-31T17:00:32Z

Hi guys......I have been away for a while but I'm back in business
So if it seems that I;m new,it's because I have been out of the country
for a while.
Anywho.......This is my problem-
I have 5 girls in my troupe.
3of the are absolutely flawless
We have 2 verry inportant performance coming up in 3 weeks
2of the troupe members decided to DROP OUT AT THE LAST MINUTE.
I cannot do a 3o-45 nim performance with 3 girls (one of them is 9months pregnant)
Upon speaking to my dropouts, one of them said the she is haveing health problems and the other
said that it's too much.she cannot handle the stress Of 2 hours a week practice.
I mean, i understand if you are sick and need medical attention.
But I also have a family, 2 jobs and can still make it to practice, and classes on top of that.
What the Hell am i going to do?.
Any suggestions will be cherished.
Thanks

posted in ATS - 27 replies

Corkscrew turn?

2009-10-21T06:20:52Z

hi everyone! i'm hoping someone can help me with a better description of a "corkscrew turn?" i went to Tribal:Pura (heart heart heart!) in Orlando, FL and they touched on this very briefly. sadly, i wasn't too quick with the notation and didn't get a very good description. if any of you well-versed tribal folk could help me out with a better description i'd be much obliged!

here's what i got (and this could be totally wrong...i appologize in advance for any mistakes!):
1. Bring arms up over head, in "temple" pose (wrists together, elbows bent a bit)
2. gesture to R and then gesture to L...gesture = one arm up over head and other is out to side with floreo
at this time, set up feet - R should cross over L to prepare for turn
3. arms open slow to side (hold in circular position at shoulder level and then open it up)...then pull them up and push down, very deliberately...then cross them in front of the body as you execute a pivot turn
4. arms remain crossed in front of the body as you turn
5. step out R in order to re-align feet

x-posted all over da place!

posted in ATS - 29 replies

Turkish Fade & cue

2009-10-17T18:12:40Z

I'm watching a Devyani clip on You Tube, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8Gg1TUGebo&feature=related, and at 2:54, they go into a Turkish Shimmy that starts with a 1/4 Turn but fades as the group faces the left wall, faces back normally, and then fades back to original position as the group faces the right wall.

Is there a name for this, and what is the cue, or is there a set sequence that goes into it? Looks like the dancers do a Turkish 1/2 turn set plus a couple in place preceding the fade.

posted in ATS - 10 replies

A Wet Dog Never Fades...

2009-10-06T16:24:24Z

Would it be fair to say that?

posted in ATS - 23 replies

ATS or ITS, how can one tell?

2009-10-03T12:56:20Z

I've been studying with my troupe members based on ATS moves (we're studing only Fat Chance videos) but some of us have some experience with blacksheep moves and gypsy caravan moves (from videos too), we're trying to set our vocabulary mostly in fat chance moves and combos but some of the moves derived from the other groups tend to show sometimes... Are we an ATS group or an ITS group? We understand the concept of coordinated group improvisation and keys but i stil have doubt about this issues...

salutes from brazil
aline

posted in ATS - 33 replies

Spins during slow

2009-10-01T10:07:53Z

Do you use them?
How do you cue/set them up?
Do you adhere to any rules or specifications, such as how many spins to do in a row?

posted in ATS - 3 replies

knee problems and turns

2009-09-30T23:38:39Z

I have 'bad knees'. Won't go into details but I find I put a lot of stress on my knees when doing full turns, like the Sahra turn, wrap around turn, even the egyptian full turn. I find it's better if instead of keeping the left foot planted, I pick it up halfway through the turn, but then I have problems with balance. Any advice?

posted in ATS - 6 replies

Forward Drops?

2009-09-24T15:54:18Z

I've been re-reading Tribal Talk and came upon a reference I don't understand. On page 31, the header and text refer to a move called "Forward Drops" ("Reach & Sit, Single Bumps, Forward Drops"). Anybody know what "Forward Drops" are?

posted in ATS - 4 replies

TT - have I made a mistake?

2009-09-23T11:23:57Z

Hello ATS dancers.
I have a question for those of you who have completed the Teacher Training offered by Carolena.

Last fall I did the General Skills workshop. (I went into the workshop thinking I knew ATS and it would be a breeze. As it turns out the tribal moves my teacher taught me are not actually ATS moves.) I was so frustrated that real, true ATS was so different from the "ATS" I'd been taught. But I had a blast at GS and fell madly in love with ATS!!

I've been attempting to teach a handful of girls (all with "tribal" experience) authentic ATS. We've been playing around with it for about 9 months. There is a serious lack of ATS in North Carolina, so I don't have the option to go train with someone who actually knows what they are doing.

But, I'm always watching my videos and reading workshop notes and I feel like I'm getting it.

And, now I've signed up for TT. Have I made a mistake? I'm terrified I won't be able to keep up.
I'd love to hear about your TT experiences! Was it difficult for you?

Thanks!!

posted in ATS - 18 replies

Recommendations for instructional dvd's: dancing with swords, veils and candles

2009-09-22T14:43:20Z

I am looking for instructional dvd's on how to dance with swords, veils and candles. There are no workshops in my area on these specialties. Prefer tribal style.

Thanks. Joan

posted in ATS - 7 replies

ATS in Gainesville Florida?

2009-09-22T11:27:43Z

Heya!

Have a possible new student in Gainesville Florida. Do we have anyone down there teaching?

posted in ATS - 5 replies

Legs?

2009-09-16T13:57:23Z

I'm new to ATS.
I have been practicing daily and watching DVDs and you tube as much as I can.
Now forgive me if this isnt worded right.
But it seems that legs are fairly nonexistent. Not that they're not fundamental. Just not expressive in this form.
When I see some "ATS" troupes adding expressive legs, to me, it seems out of place. And nothing against that. In fusion too.
Personally any woman enjoying herself moving her body. Is beautiful to me.
But really, leg expressions aren't part of original ATS, are they?

posted in ATS - 11 replies

Arabic 123 half tun que

2009-09-11T02:14:27Z

Can someone please tell me what the que for the Arabic 123 half turn is? It is the que taking place during the 3 chest lifts and before begining the half turn. Thanks. jms

posted in ATS - 16 replies

Stealing the lead during a Doubleback turn

2009-09-10T15:59:39Z

Just learned the doubleback turn, and of course as the girl who "reads ahead" I had to ask if you could steal the lead during the turn. We assumed that you could, but only after the left-side double bump. Is this correct?

posted in ATS - 5 replies

A Costume Question

2009-09-10T00:45:25Z

It just occurred to me today that FCBD doesn't seem to be wearing the turban as part of the standard costume anymore--now I see flowers, head scarves, mung tikka, and other jewelry. Everything still looks lovely, but I'm just wondering when y'all decided to let go of the turban?

posted in ATS - 36 replies

ATS at burning man?

2009-09-09T04:38:22Z

Going to burning man and looking for other ats dancer to have some fun with. Anyone going?

posted in ATS - 3 replies

Difficulty with body wave

2009-09-08T22:18:33Z

I seem to have difficulty with the lower half of the body wave. Are there some tips and visuals that someone can provide to help me over this hump. I have been dancing for almost one year and I am still stuck on this. Thanks! Joan

posted in ATS - 21 replies

costuming as a troupe

2009-09-04T23:00:23Z

To what extent do you costume as a troupe?

We have finally worked up to enough dancers to actually start a troupe. Most of us have tribal basics. We have skirts in fabulous jewel-tone colors that just happen to coordinate! And we all have choli tops and coins bras. So, already we're looking okay.
I have one student who built a bra top out of junk jewelry and it looks great, however it looks very out-of-place with all of our plain coins bras. (We can't decide if we should make her conform - she's a very independent and slightly rebellious dancer, anyway; but that's an entirely different topic.)

I'm sure it's mostly based on troupe preference but how much effort do you put into costuming as a way of helping your group to look united. Does it matter to you if your group matches, coordinates or somehow looks like they belong together?

When you see other troupes perform does it matter if they look "together" costuming-wise?

-just looking for opinions.
Thanks!

posted in ATS - 13 replies

GS in Dallas?

2009-09-01T02:18:38Z

Hello, I'm new to tribe.net and ATS. I live in Tyler,Tx, 2 hrs east of Dallas. I saw the post about the GS being cancelled in Dallas. Which troupe or studio was hosting this?
Thank you so much.

posted in ATS - 2 replies

Student Troupe Question

2009-08-31T21:34:46Z

Those of you that are in a student troupe, how often do you practice together? In my situation, we have class for 1.5 hour 1x a week and we had student troupe practice every other Sunday for 3 hours. Recently, the troupe practice was cut back to 1x a month for 3 hours. At the same time, everyone that was in the student troupe was also in a mixed level class that has now been split into two different level classes. The opportunity to all dance together is 1x a month. There are only about 10-12 people in total in the troupe and originally in once mixed class. I am looking for some feedback and what works for other troupes as well as mixed level classes.

One other question, how long is it recommended for one to dance (take lessons) before joining a pro troupe? And once joining a pro troupe, should one drop out of the student troupe?

Thanks. jms

posted in ATS - 6 replies

Lack of Instructor Feedback

2009-08-28T01:48:56Z

Hello, I have a situation I am hoping someone can help me with. I have been taking ATS FCBD style lessons for a little over a year. My instructor does not give feedback when she sees that I am not doing something correctly. I recently learned that I have been holding my arms incorrectly and was only told this because I asked. I am becoming frustrated that I am paying each week to learn new moves but also expect feedback. What good does it do me if I learn a move but do it wrong. If someone has suggestions on how to approach this without my having to ask on a continuous basis whether I am doing something correctly, I would appreciate it.

Thank you.

posted in ATS - 6 replies

Egyptian with arms in folk 2d?

2009-08-24T06:24:50Z

I noticed during a few FCBD performances that there is a modified Egyptian meaning, instead of arms up, arms are down in folk 2d and was traveling fwd. Is this common practice? I like it, just curious :) Thanks!

posted in ATS - 43 replies

visiting Portland, OR looking for a class to pop into

2009-08-23T16:15:58Z

HI all!
i am visiting Portland from NYC this week and i would like to take a session or two while there. any ongoing classes that anyone could recommend?

posted in ATS - 2 replies

Working an audience

2009-08-22T16:04:54Z

Hello all. Last night two of us danced in a restaurant. The restaurant space is long and rectangular with booths on both sides of the restaurant. About 3/4 way down, there is a room divider with bigger tables on one side. Our musicians were seated behind the divider on one side. I've read what Carolena says about dancing center stage. Saying that, it was somewhat difficult dancing to both sides of the restaurant and then somewhat up and down the aisle so those behind the divider could easily watch at times.

My partner and I pretty much knew the space configuration but it was still kinda difficult to let everyone have a looksie. How is the best way to treat dancing space that isn't a 'stage'?

Thank you so much.

posted in ATS - 5 replies

Sahra

2009-08-21T18:26:25Z

I feel like I'm getting a different perspective on this move after seeing this video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aEzgJMKH2hc

At around 6:45, Wendy does the Sahra turn, and, although I heard the names of the actresses whose stances are being emulated in that move, I've seen on the instructional DVD as well as in person that there's an angle to the beginning of the move, it all didn't hit me as much as it did when I had seen it (or done it) otherwise. My guess is that it's a camera angle thing (that I notice so much more particularly the pronounced angling at the beginning of the move). Or, has something changed/has something in the move been tweaked?

Don't get me wrong, I like how it appeared to me before, but I love the way the move looks in this example. It seems to flow, and I get the attitude. (I've been a little slow in grasping the attitude/flow of the Sahra in the past, so this was a major a-ha for me.)

posted in ATS - 2 replies

San Diego?

2009-08-19T23:55:22Z

Are there ATS classes in San Diego? I'm headed out there for the first couple of weeks of August.

posted in ATS - 7 replies

ATS is Austin, Texas?

2009-08-17T21:41:21Z

Hi everyone!

I have a student who has recently moved to Austin and was wondering if there are any FCBD teachers there?

I know Lily Tsai teaches there....but she's more Tribal Fusion.

Any help is appreciated!

xj

posted in ATS - 2 replies

Undulation Arms... how should they "feel"

2009-08-16T16:15:43Z

I have a question for all you dancers. But more specifically for those doing FCBD ATS.

I recently started re-working on my undulation arms. It's amazing to me how much I struggle with the mechanics of this move. I understand it's not in the shoulders, at all, despite how many of the 'fusion' styles I have seen doing this move with such a definite shoulder 'shrug' movement. But there is *NO* shoulder shrugging movement whatsoever, correct?

Any shoulder movement is really just sympathetic to the compression of the shoulder blade (pushing down?), right? So it's more of LIFT (from the deltoid), and DOWN (in the shoulder blade/trapezius muscle) -- not up, arouind DOWN, right, in a rolling, shrugging motion, right?

But my real question is: how should this move FEEL? Can anyone describe to me how it should feel if you are doing it correctly? I really need some help with this one because I am struggling.

Thanks so much!!

posted in ATS - 6 replies

teaching without mirrors

2009-08-11T07:44:52Z

I teach a group in a rural area regularly, in a space without mirrors. I find this much harder - I can not see them when dancing in formation (unless we are in circle but that makes it trickier for everyone to get the correct rights and lefts!) Also they (in general) are not progressing as quickly/confidently as students in my regular classes do.

I have done several one-off general workshops (ie intro to tribal) without mirrors, and this is fine. What I am finding hard is teaching this group over a period of time when they are not getting the feedback of a mirror during class. And, as mentioned, I can't teach in the way I generally do (I rely a lot on the mirror in earlier levels).

Does anyone have tips for class content/structure with no mirrors?

posted in ATS - 5 replies

Tribal Student Soiree in Newcastle (Australia)

2009-08-07T09:40:16Z

Hi to all the downunder tribal dancers (you know who you are)

There was some discussion on another tribal dance group about whether or not Newcastle (in Australia) would be hosting the next student soiree. So the 8th and 15 November are back on the board.

It would be really helpful if

1. I could have some feedback about who can and who can't make it on either of these days.
2. What date is your preference.
3. What vendors would like to attend.

Your quick replies would be appreciated. I know some of you are busy in Queensland for Feast of the Senses - hope you are having fun!!

Cheers, Susan

posted in ATS - 1 reply

Troupe Guidelines

2009-07-28T19:39:47Z

When forming a dance group, do others set forth guidelines, bylaws, or other set of rules? I mean like, what kind of dance style the group will perform, costuming, attendance at practices, etc.

It seems like something would be necessary to ensure all members are on the same page and are able to ascend to a higher level of amateur professionalism.

Thoughts?

posted in ATS - 6 replies

Interview with Carolena and Megha!

2009-07-27T03:53:08Z

YIP Podcast had the pleasure of interviewing Carolena Nericcio and Megha and the first of two episodes is up now!

You can listen at www.yippodcast.com episode 11A.

Part two (episode 11B) will be posted tomorrow night!

They were also kind enough to flex their acting chops in an episode of Shimmy Cove - our very own belly dance soap opera! Watch out for that during episodes 13 & 14.

Thanks for checking it out!

posted in ATS - 0 replies

Significance of the Lotus in the moving meditation

2009-07-27T01:25:18Z

I've already posted to the FCBD tribe, but....

Could anyone help me with this? Carolena has explained the significance of a lot of the movements in the moving meditation ie: the space you dance on, your ancestors, your teachers etc.....but I'm not sure I remember an explination of the lotus. In egyptian lore,it stands for creation and rebirth. Is this the cas in the meditation or is there another significance?
Thanks!

posted in ATS - 15 replies

Sahra clips

2009-07-26T16:51:54Z

Ok, where have I been all this time that I didn't know about the magic that is Sahra by Khaled?????
I can't stop listening to it! (and Aicha too, the people near me at work are going to be SO sick of the two songs by the end of the day)

my question, does anyone know of any youtube clips where Sahra is used? I looked for a FCBD one and couldn't find anything. I'm looking for pure FCBD ATS btw. I'd like to see how troupes have interpreted the song.

Thanks!!
now back to my Sahra trance

posted in ATS - 21 replies

Instructor's in Sarasota

2009-07-25T12:10:01Z

Looking for ATS instructors in Sarasota, FL? Know of any??

posted in ATS - 2 replies

Dance, body proportion, and synchronization.

2009-07-20T17:21:11Z

Per Sooz's request, I'm copying/posting this blog entry here to the ATS tribe to see what you all have to say about this:
---

I noticed when watching a fusion troupe dancing (YouTube, from TF9), that the group was good, but that there were definite synchronicity problems. not just because there were slight expression/interpretation differences, but also because those differences were exacerbated by the difference in body type. Two of the troupe members had about a medium torso length but long arms and legs, while the other person was shorter in stature, with shorter limbs, and a longer torso, in contrast to her troupemates' proportions.

This kind of thing is also present in ATS troupe dancing, and, I'm just wondering if there's a way to synchronize more effectively. Troupe practice, of course, is key, but I'm not in a troupe at the moment. Good form and posture is a must. I'm also beginning to think that it's very important to keep the movements small. ATS or ITS-inspired troupes at TF9 seemed to give away their troupe age and/or level of experience based on the size of the steps. (I'm thinking this particularly showed up in moves like the Turkish Shimmy or the Sunanda.)

But, is there something I should do differently with my steps and moves as a long-torsoed, short-limbed person? Or is it all about good form?

posted in ATS - 11 replies

question regarding stealing the lead

2009-07-09T21:37:14Z

I'm new-ish to ATS and in my travels and dancing I've heard a few people mention "stealing" the lead. How do you take the lead away from the lead dancer? Can someone explain to me how this happens, pretty please??

Thanks!!

posted in ATS - 9 replies

Staying motivated in mixed classes?

2009-07-06T16:56:14Z

I take classes with a fairly large group. We have quite a range of skill levels-- from those who have just graduated the fundamentals courses all the way up to those who have been dancing for years. I am one of the more advanced students, and lately have been having trouble staying motivated in class. I feel, in some ways, like I'm not being challenged enough now that I don't have to learn a brand-new move each week. My teacher does her best to keep the advanced students busy alongside the beginners, but sometimes that doesn't work out. Any tips on making the best use of class time when it's a mixed class with only one teacher? I know you FCBD ladies continue taking classes even though you know the steps and formations and it's not "new." How do you stay motivated and excited?

posted in ATS - 14 replies

The "rhythmic" body wave

2009-06-30T23:11:13Z

Hey all...

I'm a bit confused about something. I was watching the '20 Years' DVD, and I noticed Carolena said something about how they no longer use 'a rhythmic body wave'.

What exactly is that? Just a faster version of the body wave? Yes?

posted in ATS - 5 replies

5 people in a stagger formation?

2009-06-30T04:19:06Z

In this video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IezoTI31Dls

at 5:00 FCBD begins to dance in group of 5. I thought it`s imposible. Why can we see this?

posted in ATS - 8 replies

Question about move - Hip Drop/Shimmy Up???

2009-06-17T18:58:31Z

I asked about this move back in the thread about Red Lotus' performance at Rakassah, but I think it got lost in the shuffle. Figured it was time to give the question it's own thread.

What is this move??? It begins at about 5:54 of the Red Lotus performance
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJa6IFkRDW0
It looks like a hip drop on each side for 8 counts with a level change and then 8 counts of shimmying up.

I saw the move about a week before I saw the Red Lotus vid, on FCBD Vol 5 DVD. I don't ever remember learning it in GS or TT, or seeing it on DVDs 1,4, or 7. Looks like alot of fun though. I wanna try if it is still in the FCBD format. What's the name of this sucker? And, is there a cue?

Thanks!

posted in ATS - 7 replies

Devotion 2009!

2009-06-17T16:50:38Z

I'm so excited about heading out to SF next week for the Devotion '09 shows. Last year was such an incredible experience for everyone involved. I'm also looking forward to seeing friends I haven't seen in a while.

Give a shout out if you're planning to attend. And if you haven't gotten your tickets yet, go ahead and order them. This show sold out last year and I'm sure this year will be no different.

:-)

posted in ATS - 10 replies

Cues for Shimmy and Egyptian?

2009-06-17T15:23:10Z

If this has already been answered, I apologize for repeating the question. I couldn't find the thread in my initial search.

Is there a cue for going into the shimmy? Or do you just watch closely?

Is there one for going into the Egyptian? I know in the video, when the right hip goes forward the right arm goes back slightly, and the left arm goes forward slightly (I think I wrote that right), is that the cue?

Thank you!
-Jen

posted in ATS - 4 replies

What's the cue for the new formation (from staggered quartet to two duets facing inward?)

2009-06-08T05:35:34Z

FCBD had some really creative formations in the Tribal Fest 07 set. I've been trying to figure out the formation where you moved from a 4-dancer stagger into a formation where there were 2 inward facing duets (hips at an angle to the audience).

Is there a cue for that?

Once the stagger changed into the inward facing duets, it looked like there was a cannon of movements going on.

It was really dynamic to watch.

:)

posted in ATS - 23 replies

ATS FAQ

2009-06-07T14:51:31Z

Okay, I'm saying this once again, since I've been getting membership requests for the FAQ tribe.

** The ATS FAQ tribe is a read-only tribe. Sandi and I are the only members, because I want it merely for your reference. **

And until Tribe gives us the option to moderate posting, it's going to remain this way, so please don't send me membership requests, and don't bitch at me about how it's too much effort for you to bookmark it. Believe me, if I open up membership, it's going to be a lot more work for me to keep the traffic down, than it is for you to bookmark it.

So just bookmark it, m'kay?

posted in ATS - 13 replies

ATTN DEVYANI STUDENTS!!!! ALL CLASSES ARE CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

2009-06-02T17:50:22Z

ATTN DEVYANI STUDENTS!!!! ALL CLASSES ARE CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. The studio and shop flooded today. Please pass along the info to anyone who might need to know.

posted in ATS - 4 replies

Sister Studio Google Map

2009-06-02T00:57:42Z

FCBD Sister Studios

I'm finding that my husband and I are going to be traveling more and more due to work and school so I decided to make a map of all of the FCBD Sister Studios. Google will let you save points on a map so that you can refer back to it later. =)

I went based off of the list that’s currently posted on the FCBD site. I figure I’ll update it every few months by checking to see if any have been added to Carolena’s list.

I had only included the State Side Studios as I didn’t see myself doing a lot of traveling outside of the US right now…but since we’re moving to MI in less then a month I think I just might add them in the next few days. Going to be super close to Canada!

Now I have something to glance at when were planning our travels to see if there will be a studio near me during our travels! With a quick glance I can check on where I might be able to drop in for dancing with my ATS sisters! Hurray!

http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&msa=0&msid=101131321503564578210.0004692bc91940d576972&ll=43.500752,-81.364746&spn=11.632794,20.236816&z=6

It dawned on me that some of you might find it helpful too! Enjoy!

~ Tehani

P.S. be sure to zoom out in order to see the whole US...for some reason that I can't figure out it defaults on the NE area of the map?

posted in ATS - 24 replies

Resham-ka and the Dueling Resham-ka w/ E.B - a question

2009-06-01T15:31:55Z

Hello,
I have a question about the “Dueling Resham-ka w/ Egyptian Basic (E.B.)” - I learned this step and how to use it as a dueling duet at TribalCon from Megha (I do remember this!) and would like to add it to my regular vocabulary but I feel like I am missing something.

For the dueling part, you face your partner and the leader queues the Resham-ka which is used to pass each other. Then 4 counts of E.B flat (back to partner), queue for the ½ turn of the E>B (even though your partner cannot see you, which bring you back to facing your partner.

If you are done dueling, easy peasy, you use a transition step to circle or someone just takes the lead.

But, if you want to duel again, this is where I get fuzzy…

Do you go right into the Duel again?

Or, if you want to Duel again, do you use an 8 count transition before doing the Resham-ka to pass your partner?

The latter is what we did and felt more natural to get hands at hip height for the Resham-ka, but perhaps I am just fighting the past 4 years of my own habits of not going for over head arms (E.B) to hip height arms.

Your advice is appreciated!!

posted in ATS - 17 replies

ACL Surgery - Have You

2009-05-28T03:50:05Z

As some of you know, I was not able to attend Tribal Fest 09 because I tore my right ACL in April and was heading into surgery at that time. I do have to give props to my troupe who did an amazing ATS performance on Saturday afternoon! (I'll be teaching at TFest - 10)

I wanted to check in with the Tribe family and find out if other's have stories to share about ACL tears, recovery, performing post-ACL recovery, resources or advice that you care to share

I live in Califonia, but after much research, I found an amazing ACL doctor located in Bend, OR. Her name is Cara Walther of Desert Orthopedics. She is the US Women's Olympic Ski knee doc, and has made it her life's passion to study knees of women and girls. Seems that our physical make-up makes us more prone to ACL injury.

I am banished to Bend, OR for 6 weeks, through end of June due to the type of ACL surgery I had. It's a great technique called Healing Response that allows for 1/2 time recovery, so I'll be dancing again in 4 months, v.s 6-9 months. It can only be done if the ACL tear is very close to the femer and the ligament still in good shape. They tap a few holes into the femer bone causing it to bleed. The stem cells cause a blood clot and the ACL binds to the clot, in the femer and all is well again.

The physical therapy requires a lot of dedication on the patient's part. PTs say the love working with dancers because we are so motivated to get our knees back to 100%.

Would love to get a thread going for others to learn and share. This is also cross-posted on San Jose Tribal Dance, Black Sheep Belly Dance sites as well.

posted in ATS - 3 replies

Instructors in eastern Orlando area?

2009-05-22T12:25:35Z

I've got a friend that lives just east of Orlando that is considering starting ATS classes, at my nudging...;-)

Any good ATS instructors in that area?

posted in ATS - 2 replies

Skirts for us tall girls

2009-05-20T05:38:01Z

I am starting to build up my costuming essentials and am trying to buy some different 25 yrd skirts. However, I am 5'10 and am having a hard time finding really long ones. Anyone have any advice?

<3 Amira

posted in ATS - 24 replies

drumming for beginners

2009-05-20T04:15:24Z

Can anyone recommend a middle eastern drumming dvd for beginner?. My husband wants to give it a try.
~ Janice

posted in ATS - 2 replies

ONE OF A KIND skirt for sale!

2009-05-19T16:09:21Z

I made some of the ats skirt with printed cotton fabric instead of plain one.
Just want to see if anyone might be interested in.
Light fabric, great for 2nd layer of wear it alone.
Please check out my store
www.nakara.ecrater.com

posted in ATS - 0 replies

urgent request for help

2009-05-18T21:43:37Z

I've finally had the last of my music choices in for tomorrow night's hafla and because the sound system is based in such a bloody awkward place I'm trying to get everything on iPod so that we can literally just plug in and play without disrupting any of the bar staff. Unfortunately there are several pieces I haven't got and I can't find them on iTunes. Does anyone know where I can (safely and legally) download bellydance music???

posted in ATS - 6 replies

Single bumps on 1/2 turn - 2 questions

2009-05-17T00:37:41Z

Hello,
I have 2 questions about the “Single bumps on 1/2 turn” - I learned this step at a workshop (TribalCon perhaps, or maybe the G.S I took shortly after that, I can’t quite recall though) and would like to add it to my regular vocabulary.

I understand how to queue it, but something my students are having trouble with is how to turn it. I am a heel turner for 90% or more of my turns and spins and that is how I turn this step, but one girl said her heel was on fire from the turning.

How do you all turn this?

And another question - it seem more like it is hip bump to the corner and a pause to step off for the turn rather than really hitting both the front and back of the single bumps. Am I correct is understanding what I am seeing on my volume 7 performance clip and on this video:
Single bumps on 1/2 turn (3:24)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_qi_My1yIU&NR=1

posted in ATS - 2 replies

What are your feet doing when you spin?

2009-05-13T16:43:27Z

I thought I had my spins under control, but now have doubts. I was taught that you step out with your right foot as it propels you around, but have recently been told, keep your feet close, this has really helped with the speed of my spins. I have had a long time habit of planting my left foot firmly and use it as a pivot point, (from my ballroom dancing days). Confession I always dance with some kind of foot covering, but thats another post. The friction would be unbelievable without shoes. Which leads me to ask "do you lift that left foot as you spin?" Even if it's ever so slightly? I've looked at clips of the pros spinning but can't make out exactly whats going on apart from the right foot doing most of the work.
So the question is do you lift both feet?

I didn't really get any definitive answers last time I posted this.
So I recorded myself, using various spin methods and picked the one that looked best. I did have fast spins in mind...but am interested in all tempos. I get all the other guidelines, staying low, spotting @1 o'clock, holding your core etc.
Would love to hear how the greats do it.
thanks so much

posted in ATS - 13 replies

Arc Turn, for traveling in a circle/formation/lead change?

2009-05-11T20:18:26Z

I know that normally it is drop the left arm to the right arm in the first two counts, slight lift of the wrist on the AND between 2-3 and then arc while doing the pivot for a regular arc turn, but for the traveling version, I think the drop of the left to the right is delayed by two counts. Or I could be totally mad, and confused this with something else.....

Anyway, I feel like I have learned this before at one of the Tribal Pura events or at the G.S but I was trying to teach it in class this week and I feel like I have the count wrong. I can't seem to find it on any of my 7 volumes, so can anyone point me to a video clip, and or give me the right count for use the arc turn to turn a formation??

Much appreciated,
Joyce

posted in ATS - 10 replies

101 Reasons Why We LOVE American Tribal Style Bellydance

2009-05-10T19:49:18Z

This was in my blog, but I decided to share it with others who I KNOW will add to it :0

The other night, Diana and I got to thinking about ATS and why we love it as much as we do. Thanks to the Buffalo infringement Festival, we had been attending many local bellydance performances. We're also preparing to host our first "ATS Open House" next week (VERY EXCITING!!!!!), so, we've had Bellydance on the brain in a big way.

On that note, we got to talk with our students last night, and all these reasons for why we love ATS as much as we do, started to come up with. Which lead to the idea of having a ...

... '101 Reasons Why We LOVE American Tribal Style Bellydance' ... LIST!!!

... which was at first, going to be written between the two of us, and our students. But I think it would be fun to let others who also love ATS as much as we do, contribute. I know we all think a little differently and have different angles on things, our training and experience differers, but in the end, we all still wind up drawn to this dance for many of the same reasons. My reasons may make you go "OH!", and your reasons may make me think, "WOW!!!" ... and thus, I am posting this.

.... so ATS'ers, if you're reading this, and you want to add to our growing list, PLEASE DO!!!

1) .... and this is a big favorite of mine: that when we attend a 'modern fusion' bellydance performance, we know the performers can rest assured that we will NOT 'steal' any of their moves, or their choreography. Seriously.... :)
2) The energy that we create when we dance TOGETHER.
3) FADES!!!
4) Having so many beautiful, talented 'sisters' we could potentially dance with, given the chance - even with only a moments notice
5) The freedom to express yourself - yet, 'fit in' so magically.
6) The excitement that we're overcome with, each and every time we watch other ATS dancers perform.
7) Being inspired to work hard, not because of "competition", but so that we can be better dancers - period.
8) That what we create during a performance, will almost always be different, each and every time, like snowflakes.
9) Getting a chill when I hear zils.
10) Feeling naked without our zils.
11) Sharing ATS with our students, and being able to dance with them - and create even more good energy that nobody can take from us.
12) Escaping from the mundane world, into an ATS costume, a song, and the movement.
13) Megha and Carolena's smiles - especially when they are dancing together.
14) I love Melos, don't get me wrong, but I do not really much love dancing in them (I'm the moron who steps on mine and has to avoid falling) -but I LOVE dancing in big, poufy pantaloons :)
15) Giant impromptu ATS lead-and-follow circles at dance events.
16) The way *ALL* women look, in a backless choli...
17) The awe that comes over some audience members, who later hunt us down, wanting to know when and where they can come take an ATS class.
18) Um... Sooz, mmmkay?
19) Not feeling like the "choreography monster" is sitting on our chests, breathing down our necks... ahh, the freedom!!
20) The posture.
21) Wendy's laybacks.
22) Sandy's egyptians.
23) Being able to lead... and follow, and feel balanced and grounded in both.
24) Feeling confident not only because of skill, but because you are always in the presence of other women who just wanna' dance with you :)
25) The skirts... mmmm.

Traci (of Trillium Tribal in Milwaukee added)

26. CAROLENA!!!
27. It makes sense.
28. Learning, feeling, and understanding why my body moves the way it does when doing ATS.
29. Confidence
30. Beauty in Strength

Jenny

31. Getting to experiment with pretty bindis
32. Getting to play with all the ways you can adjust a 25 yard skirt
33. two words- kuchi jewelry

Diana

31. Doing the Puja before each performance and knowing why we do it and how it makes us feel.
32. The pom-poms! Srsly :)
33. Having an excuse to travel to Milwaukee again :)
34. We don't have to coordinate costuming. We can throw on a choli, skirts, a pair of pantaloons, some zils and look so put together :) No more running to the store in horror to find a top that matches everyone else's!!
35. Tassels!! Colorful ones :)
36. Tattoos! Well....that comes with all forms of dance but I like em wit mah ATS...supersized!
37. The entourage that comes with us to performances :)
38. Live drumming to fabulous musicians!
39. Big bindis!
40. The beauty of improv and creating magic on the spot! That performance at the Allendale with Daughters of Creative Sound and Red Moon will always be with me...especially the last song...so not planned and fabulous!!
41. No acting.
42.No more getting nervous for performances. Improv just rocks!!
43. And being able to wear two 25 yard skirts without dying of heat exhaustion!

Quinn

44. Trust. The kind that is born through surrendering yourself to the dance, and to the leader of the moment.
45. Communication: born of trust, and sharing the joy in the dance.
46. Sisterhood: I've made some of my best friends through this dance, and I believe that it's because the dance makes us all so vulnerable, and opens our hearts to trust (see 44. ;) ) We learn so much about ourselves, our fears, our judgments, our strengths, and it teaches us to strip that all away to be truly in the moment, and dance!
47. It is truly *transformational*!!! And it ripples out through our whole lives.
48. Antique textiles and jewelry....and instead of just collecting it to enjoy looking at it, we get to wear it!!!
49. It's got a good beat and you can dance to it! (hee hee!) But, really, there's nothing quite like a driving drum to make you wanna shimmy!
delete this comment

Tonje

50. The group creative process. Sometimes when we are building back and forth on each others' ideas I get shivers.

Carrie

51. SPINNING!!!!! and spinning and spinning and spinning and spinning...
52. The drummers
53. The rhythms
54. Kristine's torso twist (aooooga!)
55. Anita's hands

Traci

45. Communication: born of trust, and sharing the joy in the dance. ">>
delete this comment

Leana

46. Finding new and inventive ways to add as many things to your head as possible and making them stay so they don't fall off, yet still look absolutely beautiful!
47. The amazing connection you have with ALL tribal sisters everywhere....it's an amazing community and everyone is on each other's side.

Traci

48. Being able to rinse your hair in the shower with a bulging disc in your neck by doing a mini layback!
delete this comment

Susan

49. Costuming. I love sewing and making new costumes. Kinda like making your own "dress ups". Is that an Australian phrase?
delete this comment

Ottavina

(Note: Starting with 60 - the numbering got off when Traci's quote was taken as new numbered items by following posters):
60. I love how good the steps and movements look on all body types.
61. Arm undulations are like intense shoulder massages - they seem to really get the heat and the lymph moving.
62. ATS is the best therapy ever. I have yet to dance and feel bad - it always uplifts my spirits.

Heather

63. My dance sisters (and brothers!) - the ones I know and love, the ones I don't know yet but will meet someday, and the ones I will never meet.
64. Walking through the house before a show and shoving random things into my hair. (Oh look! Giant gemstone cicada pin! *shove* Barrette I stole from the doll! *clip* Plastic Pocky! W00t! *jab* )
65. Pantaloons. And 25 yard skirts that stand up on their own. O_o
66. Getting a bite to eat after a show, despite rude stares, lots of questions from people, and rude waiters.

Traci

67. Getting a bite to eat ....ok, or a glass of wine....after the show and forgetting that not everyone dresses this way all the time. So much fun to be a "magnet" for admiring passersby, interested future students, and muggles in general!

posted in ATS - 67 replies

Saqra Turn-Hands & Arms

2009-05-09T01:56:47Z

I absolutely love this move but I'm having some issues with it lately! Watching the DVD, youtube video performances and actually performing it in class with members of FCBD and in performance or with Sister Studio members, I come up with the same question:

Positioning of the hands--up or down.

After what I call the "serve the pizza" move which is the first turn with the right arm swirling above you..... then the right arm floats up and the hand floats down with the palm facing UP or DOWN?

Please clarify!!??!?! My students and I wait with baited breath......

posted in ATS - 10 replies

Dueling Duets - alignment/positions

2009-05-08T16:13:24Z

I have watched the FCBD videos with dueling duets over and over and I'm still unclear on something. How exactly are the two duets aligned on stage?

It seems (from the videos) that if the stage is a clock with the audience at 12 and the back of the stage at 6, that the duet to stage L is angled to about the 1 o'clock position, with the follower right behind and slightly to the right of the leader.

The following duet seems to be slightly upstage (towards the 6 o'clock position), but I can't tell the angle. Are they directly facing the other duet (so facing around 7 o'clock) with the follower behind and slightly to the right of the leader? Or is this duet angled more to the 8 o'clock position, opened up to the audience more?

Man, I wish I had an ariel view of these videos!

Thanks so much!
Amy

posted in ATS - 13 replies

Devyani Studio Update

2009-05-08T03:57:06Z

On Sunday, May 3rd Devyani Dance Center sustained devastating damages due to flooding.

For this reason we are sad to report that all classes are canceled until further notice.

We are currently trying to find an alternate space to hold our May 9th workshop.

As of right now, our May 16th workshop and hafla has been postponed.

We will keep you posted on all classes, workshops and events as we receive information. Please check our website often for updates. www.devyani.net

The amazing support we have received in just a few hours is much appreciated. It has definitely been a sad day. Everyone's been asking what they can do to help. Here are a few ways:

Be patient. We promise to work as hard as we can to get classes up and going soon.

Support our performances. All performances are still on. Come out and show your support every Wednesday at Silver Coin in Hoover. We will also be performing at the Dog Daze festival in Trussville on Saturday May 9th. We'd love to see you. It would be a great way to lift dancers' spirits!

Buy some merchandise. To make a long story short, the flash flooding happened during a workshop so there were actually several students there that helped save all the merchandise. It's currently sitting in dancer's homes. If you had been eying a Gwahazee coat, skirt, cds, dvds, etc now is the time to buy. Just email devyani@bellsouth.net or ishimmy4me@gmail.com and we will get the merchandise to you.
All unsold merchandise will be up for ebay auction sometime next weekend. Merchandise sales will hopefully help to offset some of the extensive cost of this cleanup. For this reason, auction discounts may not be substantial if any. We sincerely appreciate your support. Please spread the word.

Arbonne – As many of you know, our studio owner Megha Gavin is an independent Arbonne representative. If you've ever thought of hosting a party or trying these products, there is no time like the present. For more information visit www.meghadevi.myarbonne.com

As always, we appreciate your business and support and we look forward to turning this tragedy into something we can all celebrate as an opportunity for growth and future happiness.

Namaste

posted in ATS - 8 replies

FCBD ATS GS &/or TT grads possible cross/duplicate post

2009-05-08T00:23:18Z

Hello Lovelies!

Forgive me please, if I have already posted this here. I searched and can't find my original post. At Carolena's request, a database of all GS and/or TT grads is being developed.

If you have not already done so, please forward your name, addy, phone, email/ url & whether you are a GS or TT grad to:

North America: to Traci @ magick_hands@hotmail.com
or
Europe & Australia to Ulla (PM her unless she offers her email) (or send to me and I will forward)

Thank you so much. Again, sorry if I already posted here.

posted in ATS - 13 replies

Too good to be true

2009-05-07T22:36:46Z

Oh, the double edged sword of good improving. Just been listening to a bellydance teacher say how well she thought Black Diamond (my troupe) performed at a dinner recently. She did not believe it was fully improvised ATS and went on to say that she had heard we had done a lot of rehearsing so it couldn't be improv!!! The really worrying thing is this is a small town with a lot of schools competing for students. Am just annoyed that her opinion about our improv performance will be brought into question. Bummer.

Oh man!!!! They just don't get it do they!!!

Cheers, Susan

posted in ATS - 16 replies

Hipwork on Chico Four Corners

2009-05-07T20:29:23Z

Hi all

I'm wondering whether the double hip bump out to the corners in this move is driven with

-the glutes
-the obliques
-something else entirely.

When I do it it feels like a slight gluteal contraction accentuating the weight shift into the actioning side. Anyone else?

posted in ATS - 16 replies

Arabic with horizontal arms to cue the group to move backwards

2009-05-04T00:39:56Z

I am sure that at Pura last year we were shown how to arabic moving backwards with horizontal arms to cue the group to move back. Can anyone confirm this for me or otherwise as I am now hearing conflicting views on this and am wondering if I got it wrong.

Many thanks

posted in ATS - 19 replies

DIY drop shoulder choli...

2009-05-03T01:45:17Z

Anybody have an easy tutorial? I see lots of girls with pretty cholis that they made themselves. I have lots of tops that I can convert into cholis but don't know how. I've already ruined a shirt :( I needz help!

posted in ATS - 12 replies

The first touch of magic

2009-05-01T10:56:38Z

I went to my first ATS workshop last weekend, having been learning at home up until now, and I had the most amazing time. We learned for 3 hours straight and then went in to a mega group dance at the end with everything we'd learnt. I was nervous as hell because I ended up leading first and my mind just went blank but once I'd managed to safely manoeuvre myself back into the chorus and actually watched I suddenly came over all emotional. It was just so beautiful watching all these women that had never met before working together in perfect harmony and the atmosphere in the room was just magical.

It was one of those moments that will stay with me forever.

So, I was just wondering if any of you have favourite stories about that first time and when it all suddenly connected for you?

posted in ATS - 8 replies

the beauty of ats improv...

2009-04-30T02:09:25Z

nefer tem had a gig at people's park this last sunday. we showed up in costume, a carpet to put on the tan bark and our cd. leigh anne handed the cd to the sound guy and he says, uh we only have an ipod hook up, no cd player. a little put out, because she had made all the sound arrangements with their organizer, she returned to the group and told us about the situation. tiana pulled out her ipod, put some songs into "on the go," and we started discussing who was dancing what, when and with whom. but with true hippie ingenuity, the sound man rigged up something to play the cd on.
we were ready to dance the new unplanned set, and no one was very nervous about it, not even the newer dancers.

the moral of the story is, if you've got your improv chops down, you can dance anytime, anywhere, with anyone.

posted in ATS - 18 replies