Featured Articles - Marliza Pons * A Celebration of Life

There are times we are invited to share in life's beauty, not only in it's living, but in it's passing.  As we experience it, it will leave a forever impression in our hearts, minds and our souls.  This was one such time. 



My very first Middle Eastern dance (1989), Chiribim,  was taught at a local college.  I was later to find out that it was choreographed by Marliza Pons. Little did I know the impact this woman had on our dance and the Las Vegas Belly dance Community.  A few years later I was to meet another amazing woman, Serene, who had moved from Vegas to Kingman, Arizona.  She was to become, and remains, my dearest friend.  I showed her my special dance and to my surprise, she knew it too.  Serene then told me all about Marliza's Magic Carpet Dancers.  She began taking classes from Marliza because her 7 year-old daughter insisted that she wanted to learn.  We now know that little girl as the amazing Aradia of Las Vegas.  They had been a core members of Marliza's dancers who performed many concerts and shows in numerous venues around the Vegas area.   I proceeded to learn many of Marliza's choreographies and loved every one.  I met her once when she sponsored a dinner show starring the lovely Fahtiem.  Marliza was warm and gracious with a smile that would light up Las Vegas Boulevard.  She spoke to me as if she had known me all her life.  I remember wishing that I had some time to just talk with her but that was never to be. 

In August an email was sent out to dancers, especially in the Las Vegas area, to gather together and celebrate the life of our beloved Vegas “dancestor”.  It was to be held Friday, August 12 at the Henderson Convention Center. 


                                          Troupe D'aliH


I had worked all that day and wasn't sure I really wanted to make the drive from Arizona to Las Vegas.  The chance to see Serene and Aradia dance together as well as spending time with many of my dance sisters spurred me on.  I arrived just in time and entered the ballroom where the event was to take place.  Gathered there were so many who loved and admired this special lady.  Marliza was with us that night, her urn displayed in the front of the room alongside photo books, memorabilia and costumes.  There were magazines whose cover was graced by her lovely face.  A podium was placed in the center with a microphone for all who wished to speak of what Marliza meant to them, a screen displayed photos and videos of her life. Reverend Sheila Z. Stirling offered the opening prayer.  Emily Tyree, a talented poet, read a poem, In the Manner of Marliza followed by a slide show.  Tanya Lemani-George, star of stage and screen, gave a touching talk about her dear friend.  Rochelle Hornsby, Marliza's business partner and friend, made us laugh with convention highlights.  Marliza's son Dean, as well as many other friends offered their words of tribute. The night ended with performances by Amira, Aradia and Serene, Saida, and the Magic Carpet Dancers-Troupe D'aliah with music by the James Yousif Ensemble.  There was a table of snacks with Marliza's image displayed on a large sheet cake.  It was truly a magical night and I am so thankful I was able to share in the celebration.


Tribute Cake "Marliza"

As a final thought...we never know how many lives we touch on our  journey or how we will be remembered and by whom.  There is one special sister I wish to give unending credit to, Rossah Bendahman.  Rossah spoke of her friend, the laughter and fun that they enjoyed.  It was clear to all present the love she has for Marliza.  This wonderful celebration would not have happened if it weren't for the outstanding efforts of the gracious woman who also made sure that her friend had a final resting place befitting someone of her importance.  She collected donations from friends and the community and added a great deal of personal money as well.  Rossah is the friend we would all like to be blessed with sometime during our life. 

Gone but never forgotten, they are dancing with the angels...Bert, Oberon, Marliza, you are missed and loved. . . . .Namaste. . . . .Masala

In the Manner of Marliza
by Emmalee Tyree

the swell of the hips
the curve of the breast
the kohl of the eye
hands and feet do the rest

the flowering skirt
the jingling coin
no woman it hurts
when she and earth join

the hard beat of the drum
the rhythms that chance
to grace the measures
of that ancient earth dance