In your own Back Yard: Red Dragon (North) Spokane
Written by Nizana
An unlikely place, you would think, to host a
monthly belly dance show, but it works. Namva, Red Dragon and Baharat! host an
evening show in north Spokane on (typically) the first or second Saturday of
the month (you will want to check ahead.) All styles are welcome to
perform here in this family friendly venue. While there are a couple of
restaurants in town with “house dancers,” this is the only venue of its type
providing an opportunity for many dancers. Whether I’ve come just to watch, or
to perform, I have had a good time. I have been assisting Namva with scheduling
of dancers starting this fall, and there’s always a full
list.
The menu has a variety of yummy Chinese food
including combos and rice bowls. It also has a senior citizen menu as well as a
kids menu. There is a full bar and the place is decorated with red paper
dragons overhead and other aesthetic touches like really cool pictures along
one wall and a curio cabinet with figurines. The waitresses are friendly. The
"stage" is tiny, but it’s a real stage area with lights. Seating is
limited and a little on the awkward side when it comes to seeing the stage, so
get there a little early. Sometimes the place gets packed out.
Most of the dancers are local; however, sometimes regional dancers grace
the stage. Mohana and I have performed a duet twice and Malidoma tightly fit
four on there. Even Mystic Rhythms I think had 6 troupe members and spread out
in the aisle, but typically what you see are soloists of all different styles.
There are several dancers who perform there pretty regularly, and others
occasionally. There is a nice dressing room with mirrors, chairs, and water.
The lineup has dancers back to back, with Namva paying attention to the styles
as she collects music in advance. She has it lined up on the sound system and
ready to go and everyone always seems to be ready for their turn. The show
lasts around an hour and a half, allowing for several dancers to perform. Come
support your local dance artists and restaurant at the same time and if you
want to sign up to dance, contact me at nizana@att.net. The Red Dragon is
located at 3011 East Diamond in North Spokane. Their website is http://www.reddragondelivery.com/
and the phone number is 509-483-6700.
