Flamenco Artist and Dancer Javier Heredia coming to Pera Dance August 2011

Flamenco Dance originated in India believe it or not. What we see today is a mix of a long trail of history as the warriors of Rajasthan fought off their would be permanent invaders into modern day Iran. As they began to roam and encounter trouble they found themselves in Egypt. While there life was not easy. Why they did not go back to Rajasthan is unknown. But some say this was the turning point in early Rroma history. These great warriors and now roaming global citizens split into two paths. Some going north toward modern day Romania, Hungary, Croatia and others heading west through North Africa (Libya, Sudan, Tunisia, Algeria and Morocco...and eventually to Spain). What they developped along the way was a strong, vibrant history that gave us Flamenco as we know it today.

Looking at Kathak dance in its original form you will find the ground work for Flamenco. The touching of the skirts, flowers in one's hair and more are not all documented on the early path of the Rroma but their culture and customs have been preserved within their own societies. Great dancers such as Carmen Amaya and her family have kept this going. Movies like Latcho Drum show the blessings that Rroma (Gypsy) culture has given us...and inspire us as dancers to drop that harmful term "Gypsy" which was used in a derogatory way toward this strong group to call them as they want to be...Man, Rrom, The Rroma.

This summer Pera Dance is proud to have the wonderful and talented Javier Heredia in a Flamenco dance workshop. He accompanies Atlanta Flamenco dancer Rebecca Lutz (seen often with the renowned Aire Flamenco at Fanoos Persian Restaurant) for a spectacular afternoon of learning the essence and artistry of Flamenco. Its a cultural dance that has been passed down from generation to generation. Learn from this 3rd generation Rroma artist and dancer direct from Spain.
*picture from Javier featured with Aire Flamenco at Fanoos -spectacular show, see review on Raqs Atlanta Website

Flamenco Puro and Flamenco Roots
with Javier Heredia
August 2011, contact Rebecca Lutz to get specific date
2pm-4pm
Location: Pera Dance Studio Atlanta
1015 Collier Rd Atlanta GA 30318
send $60 paypal to amorylutz@gmail.com
For more information: 404.514.8401

Bellydance Summer Session begins 5 July!

Come workout, dance and get in shape with us every week at Pera Dance! Our next Beginner and Intermediate Bellydance Class Summer Session featuring choreography, performance opportunities and more will be 5-29 July 2011. You must pre-register in advance for this class to participate. Class Cards for this 8 week course are only $25. You get two classes a week! Tuesday and Thursday at 7pm at our home studio.

Buy your class card today! Use the paypal button below!:)

Bellydance Summer Session (2 classes a week) $15 ($25 after the 26th)
Pera Dance Studio Atlanta
1015 B Collier Rd Atlanta 30318
404.355.0807

Bellydance Prop Focus Series: Candle Dance/Fire Tray Dance/Tea Candles

This Saturday!! Enjoy Bellydance Workshop for Fire Dance using Candles! This is an excellent class for those who want to work in restaurants, learn the tips and tricks used by bellydancers worldwide and add extra pizazz to their shows.

This is a prop focus workshop for Fire Dance using Candles. Learn how to dance with two candles, three candles, tray balancing, fire safety, and MORE! We will also spend some time discussing safety and use of other fire toys such as Fire Fans and Fire Scimitar.

Pre-Registration is now available online: http://www.zainaraqs.com/Home_Page.html#Isis_Workshop

Please bring your own candles and trays! If you need information on where to purchase your supplies email zainaraqs@yahoo.com 

*Candles will remain unlit in studio but will be lit outside for final demonstration.

Enjoy this video of candle dancing! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLO1H_SVWw8