Eugenia Essentials

Those who know me know that belly dance has been an interest of mine for quite a number of years now. My one regret is that I discovered it so late in life; however, it came to me at a time when I needed deep healing from a tragedy. It provided a focus, a way of transcending out of my daily life struggles and still does to this day. I’m one of those who have never felt comfortable in my body and always wrestled with image problems. Through the ancient rhythms and natural movement of this dance, I was able to reconnect with my inner self.

The group I’ve been dancing with the longest is A Magi of Orlando, FL.  Since I’ve been with A Magi, I’ve seen dancers come and go. I will never forget my very first class. A quiet young woman named Malinda started the class with warm ups. I thought she was the instructor but fifteen minutes later, Melanie the director came into the room swathed in a hooded cloak like a gypsy apparition. “Hey Habibis!” she greeted the class with huge smile and laugh.  I was a bit intimidated  at first as she took the front of the class and started isolation drills. There were a few moans from the beginner ranks as muscles tried to follow the unfamiliar movements. She responded in a loud voice over the din of drumming on the CD player, “This is no powder puff belly dancing!” I was hooked. That was eight years ago. There is now a whole new group of blossoming A Magi dancers and a few who are like alumni, others are seasoned dancers new to the area who come and join the troupe. We all come to classes for different reasons, but the one thing that emerges consistently is an energy of sisterhood. Before performances it reveals itself to me in the backstage hallways and dressing rooms as the dancers stand around anxiously waiting to go on. During last minute make-up and costume adjustments, I witness them doling out compliments, hugs, bindis and bobby pins. Friendships are formed. Some of these friendships will last a lifetime.

I would personally like to acknowledge three women who I have been lucky enough to have had as instructors in this art form. Each is as different in personality from the other as one could imagine, but they have one thing in common: the love of dance. Because of their talent, creativity and the sheer fun they have shared, they have contributed to my personal growth spiritually, emotionally and physically:

Melanie LaJoie of A Magi Temple School of Belly Dance

My very first instructor, Melanie studied and danced with some of the greats. She is deeply committed to the authenticity of this dance. I know  when I walk into her class, I can let go of all my problems and have a great time. She never fails to entertain the class with her crazy stories!

Click here to view Melanie LaJoie’s wedding reception performance

(Original choreography and video footage copy righted by Melanie LaJoie)

Suspira of Orlando Belly Dance

The lovely and talented Suspira, whose vision grew from a few classes in a cramped ballet studio into a school with over 700 students . Her very first “Evening Unveiled” show at Ali Baba’s restaurant in Longwood, FL saw patrons spilling out on the sidewalk it was so packed. I told her she would need to get a bigger venue if she did it again and boy did she ever! Her Evening Unveiled shows are now performed on a big stage.

Click here to view Suspira performing \”Aloumek\”

Amira Sa’id

Last but definitely not least, Amira Sa’id (aka Annie) my very favorite creator of the outrageously sexy belly dancing Princess Leia of Star Wars convention fame. When you first meet Amira she seems so quiet and laid back, that is until she gets on stage! A hugely talented dancer and performer.  Her classes were so much fun and I learned so much. I’ll carry you all in my heart forever. Long may you all shimmy!

Click here to watch Amira performing at Arabian Nights Dinner Theater