I was happy to have the opportunity to perform at the Hafla in the Square last night. I woke up this morning to an email from a fellow belly dancer who had video taped the evening’s performances and was kind enough to share my performance video with me. So, I’m sharing it with you!
As a soloist, I am improvisational. My style is Interpretive Fusion. This means that I do not pre-plan anything that I am doing in the dance and that I combine moves from various dance styles to create my own interpretation of whatever song I am performing to. My normal MO would be to listen to the song as much as possible prior to dancing to it, but without actually dancing. Anyway, here’s a sample…my first video that I have EVER posted online, so please be kind and supportive with your comments so I’m not shy to post more.
The venue hosts an audience in the round, but with the bulk of the audience on one side of the room. This video was shot from slightly behind and to the right of where the front of the audience is. Hope you enjoy!
I am performing to Aerosmith’s “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing”.
Popularity: 89% [?]
It’s good to see you dance again Mari. You’re really good.
July 27, 2008 @ 3:13 pmHi Mari,
Beautiful performance… I understand that spinning like that is not common in all dancers. that 2 or 3 turns is most normal. You are a great artist. keep it up.
Best Regards
July 27, 2008 @ 3:20 pmRandy Wood
Nice Mari, it’s great to see you doing something you enjoy. What a great way to stay in shape and express yourself at the same time. It looks like belly dancing is a great way for someone of any age to enjoy themselves while activating their mind body awareness.
John
July 27, 2008 @ 4:28 pmA beautiful and captivating performance. The way you interpreted the song and expressed yourself with your moves was very sensual. The costume, your spinning and Belly shaking moves were just great!
My family and I will try and make one of your performances in person soon.
Keep having fun and sharing your positive energy.
George.
July 28, 2008 @ 4:06 amDeannie, It is great to finally see what you do. I have always thought you were beautiful so that’s nothing new. Amber was so glad to be at your performance the other night. I can’t wait to see you in person, soon I hope. I love you!
July 28, 2008 @ 8:52 amWhat a beautiful performance, my darling sister!!! I only wish that I could’ve been there too! Love you lots! Peace.;)
July 28, 2008 @ 2:44 pmBravo Mari!
Very expressive style; I love the creative use of the veil. I’m so happy that you’re involved in a blissful occupation.
I would really like to swing by Chicago and catch a live performance sometime during one of my Illinois family visits!
Incidently, you easily pass for a twenty-five year old!
July 29, 2008 @ 3:31 pmExotic Mari!
I really enjoyed your performance… your slow, concealed start during the introduction to a fabulous piece of music was very effective in creating anticipation of what was to come.
And those spins and wiggles… you have a very lucky shawl.
Aerosmith’s “I don’t want to miss a thing” is a wonderfully inspiring track to dance to… and looking at your audience…they were enraptured watching your performance and clearly did not want to miss a thing.
Looking forward to watching your next video.
Best,
Dave
July 30, 2008 @ 2:03 amI didn’t realize it was being video taped! That’s awesome. It was so great to be there. I really enjoyed the whole thing. You made me proud! oxoxo
July 30, 2008 @ 1:21 pm