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“Hathor Unveiled”
A Review by Nizana
(Photos by Chris Yetter Photography)
Aleili
Two dancers in Seattle, Suzanna and Malia, came up with an outstandlingly fabulous idea to honor the “Mothers of Belly Dance in the Puget Sound.” It was nice that they acknowledged that there were other regional dancers who could have graced the stage with the eight women who danced on March 20, 2010. The University of Washington Ethnic Cultural Theater in Seattle, an intimate and simple theater, was the stage for the performances. Aside from a late start and an oversold theater, (people were seated in the aisles) it was an entertaining show and I enjoyed the format of how it was set up, and again must give accolades for the concept. I heard many dancers expressing appreciation for the event.
Sabura
Hasani
First off, the emcee was Elisabeth Squires, author of “Boobs: A Guide to your Girls.” She has appeared on national television shows such as “Good Morning America.” Elisabeth announced each dancer before they performed. She also announced the lovely tribute to Jaleh that preceded the show. A screen came down where pictures of Jaleh were projected highlighting her dance career. The screen and pictures were also used for each dancer along with the introductions read by Elisabeth. A program was handed out on the way in to the theater that contained the performers’ bios.
Saqra
The show consisted of two acts and an intermission. All of the dancers were over the age of 45 and have been performing, producing, instructing, troupe directing or a combination of some or all of the above for many, many years and have made a big impact in the region and beyond. Aleili was the first dancer, wearing an elaborate costume (great headpieces!!) fusing cabaret and Indian in turquoise and gold. A nice expressive set and a wonderful way to start the show. Next, Sabura performed a fiery set wearing gold bedlah with a leopard print skirt, and danced with a veil and then a cane. High energy, sharp crisp movements, and one with the veil. Hasani came out and danced in gold bedlah and skirt and two different veils at different times. Elegant and graceful, with a lovely smile.
Rishi
Closing out Act 1 was the bubbly and “alive” personality of Saqra, coming up from the audience to the stage. She performed veil and double veil as well as a section with zils and wore a vibrant orange and silver cabaret costume, and was as enjoyable to watch as always.
Elizabeth Dennis
Act 2 opened with Rishi, accompanied by her son on doumbek. She wore gold bedlah with a pink skirt and her technique and musicality was right on with his drumming. I wish she would have danced a little longer as the mother-son duet was very “together” and live music is always nice! Elizabeth Dennis then danced a fusion set wearing a red and black fusion cabaret costume decorated with shells using her veil, golden orb and red fan as props. Controlled, powerfully feminine, and beautiful.
Besma
Besma danced next, and came out playing a riq, which was cool and a nice flavor to add to the show. She started with a layered folkloric look (with what appeared to be a lovely piece of assuit) before moving into a more cabaret style set that included a veil section and zils. Delilah and her two attendants closed out the show with her special tribute piece honoring the Goddess Hathor. It was Delilah wearing this special costume that is the picture which graced the cover of the program and the show poster. This costume and routine is very special to her.
Delilah
This sold-out show was worth the long drive across the state and in my opinion should be followed up with a fine-tuned sequel in a larger venue.
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