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(A.K.A. "NIKKIPEDIA")
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I value and embody the pursuit of excellence in the dance -- the practice of good scholarship, focus, plenty of hard work, self-discipline, and independent learning.
"I have been blessed to have been taught by a number of very talented dancers, who have been generous with their advice, information and resources. I have also put my curious analytical brain to work by pursuing independant research and learning. I am very happy to pass on what I have learned, and consider it a dancer's duty to "pay it forward" by sharing knowledge and experiences." ~Nicola
NOTE:All articles and FAQs are intended for informational purposes by individual site users. All articles are copyrighted and may not be duplicated, published, or distributed without the expressed written consent of Nicola. I will generally consent to other dancers using these articles with my permission and proper credit.
I also welcome contributions from other teachers and performers. Please email your articles, reviews, op-eds , and resource lists to <belydans@mts.net> as Word or Macintosh Office Works documents.
Articles
For Students
What to Expect from a Bellydance Class
Choosing a Teacher
How to Practice Bellydance from the Comfort of your Chair
Ready to Perform?
Protocols and Expectations of Performing as a Professional Dancer, or, How To Avoid Stepping on Toes
Looking the Part: General Costuming Guidelines for Performance of Middle Eastern Dance
Dance Costume Checklist for Performers
For Clients
What you Need To Know Prior to Booking
Reviews & Recommendations
Video review: Belly Dance with Suzy: A Prenatal Exercise
Workshop review: Suzy in Winnipeg, March 13 and 14, 2004
Video review: Nourhan Sharif: An Introduction to Bellydance Technique
Review: Advanced Workshop and Shows with Dina of Cairo
Recent Article in VOXAIR, CFB 17th Wing Base's Newspaper
Reflections on the Dance MB Provincial Dance Festival, May 15-2, 2005 (and Beyond)
Recommended Books, Music and Videos
Ask Nicola (Q & A About Bellydance)
Classes
Q - How long will it take me to "get good"?
Q - I am pregnant. I heard that bellydance will be good for me. Is this true?
Pregnancy & Bellydance
Q - Will I have to dance in a recital or learn a choregraphy?
Q - I am changing to a new teacher. What level should I take?
Q - I have a beginner video. Can I take intermediate class?
Q - There are so many classes advertised. How do I know who is a good teacher?
Q - Why do I need to learn finger cymbals right away?
Q - I have no rhythm. Will bellydance classes help?
Costuming
Q - Do I have to buy a costume right away?
Q - Do I have to show my navel?
Q - There is so much on eBay and the Internet in general! What do I buy?
Q - Is fancy lingerie acceptable as bedlah? ... has a beautiful sequined bra.
Performance
Events
General questions about Belly Dance
Q - Where does bellydance come from?
Q - What are the veils all about?
“While I dance I cannot judge, I cannot hate, I cannot separate myself from life. I can only be joyful and whole. That is why I dance.” Hans Bos