Elwarda Dance

For Her Eyes Only - a women's only event by Elwarda!

2011-03-07T19:27:00.000-08:00

"For Her Eyes Only" - a women's only event by Elwarda!

Come and enjoy a night filled with music, dance and delicious Moroccan food in the beautiful atmosphere of Min Fes Cafe.

Featuring a special performance by Huda, a tabla drumming session by Naziehah and a mini Middle Eastern Dance workshop!

Do not miss our henna painting FREE for all our guests!

There will also be a lucky draw for 3 spa treatments, courtesy of The Hammam Min Fes. Give yourself a chance to win the opportunity to indulge in some exotic pampering with this unique and relaxing body and mind experience in a natural, traditional Morrocan environment!

Dress Code: Be Creative! Think about flowing robes, layers and colours, sheer veils and freedom of movement. Anything goes as long as you feel comfortable and loosened up.

Date: 19th March, Saturday

Time: 6.30 pm - 10 pm

Venue: Min Fes Cafe
19-1n Jalan PJU 7/7A , Mutiara Damansara
(near The Curve), Petaling Jaya, 47800
Malaysia

Map to the venue:

Tickets: RM75
(Seats are limited, so get your ticket now!)
For tickets, please e-mail elwardaevent@gmail.com

Tickets can also be available as gift certificates - meaning you can give this special experience to that special woman in your life. Be it mother, daughter, sister, or even your lady boss! ;)

For more updates, please visit elwardaevent.blogspot.com!

Fun Fearless Fabulous 2010

2010-10-25T07:37:00.001-07:00

Eeeekkk. Focus ke kanan, kanan lagi...hujuuung sekali..yea, itulah saya! :D

I am truly honoured to be chosen as one of the Fun Fearless Fabulous (FFF) finalist for 2010. Terima kasih tidak terhingga kepada si manis Anida, Editor Rencana Cosmo atas peluang ini. :)

If there are 3 words I like best to describe me - it would be Fun, Fearless, Fabulous! 3 perkataan yang sungguh menggembirakan!

As this is a contest, you know what's coming ;) Sekiranya anda ingin lihat saya menang, silalah VOTE untuk saya! By voting you might also get a chance to win fabulous prizes. Below is how you can do it:

Ataaauu..if you want to read more about me you can grab Cosmopolitan magazine edisi November 2010. I wore a gorgeous (sponsored) blue dress in that article! :D You can also vote for your Selebriti Fun Fearless Fabulous.

Thank you in advance for all your votes and support. Have a great week ahead! :)

After a year!

2010-09-21T21:33:00.000-07:00

and now I am back! Thank you very much for all your well-wishes and support. I am so grateful that I have such great students, friends and blog followers that sometimes it made me think what did I do to deserve such great people in my life. You guys are the best!

Some of you had already started to ask about my classes and what and where my next event is going to be. Hang in there gorgeous ladies for I have great things lined up already!

However, since I am not formally done with my studies yet, I asked for a little bit more time for me to finish all that need to be finished. And once I am good and ready and after I go for a nice short break (gosh I really do need a nice short break!) - I will update you guys on the latest news of Elwarda Dance.

See you guys soon!

Lots of love,
Naziehah

Teaching in Manchester!

2009-09-26T13:53:00.001-07:00

Hi all,

As it turns out, I will be continuing my teaching journey in Manchester! Stay tuned for more updates on where and when I will be teaching :)

Till then, have a great weekend!

Bye bye for now and Teacher Suzi

2009-08-14T02:42:00.000-07:00

Starting Sept 2009, I will no longer be teaching classes as I will be taking a year off to further my study in the UK. I am really excited with this new phase of my life and I hope everybody who's reading this could say a little prayer and send good thoughts towards me! :D

However, if you still want to start learn belly dancing or to continue your lessons, don't be despaired. You can now learn from Teacher Suzi!

Teacher Suzi is my student of a few years before decided to start teaching. She has been taking a few Teacher Training sessions with me and I must say she is a doing very well indeed! In fact, she has successfully started conducting her own Beginner session in TTDI Community Centre.

Teacher Suzi in red top and red skirt during my photoshoot with Nur magazine

Teacher Suzi in bright pink skirt performing a trio performance during my hafla!

To contact, you can e-mail her at suzi.elwarda@gmail.com.

All the best for all of you beautiful ladies and till we meet again, take care and keep dancing ;)

Basic MED/Belly Dancing at TTDI Community Centre

2009-05-03T22:35:00.000-07:00

Starting from 9th June, there will be *NEW* Basic Class opened at TTDI Community Centre for the ladies who would love to get their hands (hips!) on Middle Eastern Dance (MED)/Belly Dancing. Details are as below:

Time and day: 10.30-11.30am every Tuesday
Venue: Recreation Room, TTDI Community Centre
Teacher: Suzi
Package: RM80 for 4 sessions
Drop In: RM25

Package is Limited to first 10 spots only!

Grab this great deal quick. To book for your spot please e-mail to elwardadance@gmail.com with your name and contact details!

NEW Basic Belly Dancing at TTDI

2009-04-21T23:04:00.000-07:00

There will be *NEW* Basic MED/Belly Dancing session in TTDI starting on June. Every Tuesday 10-11am at TTDI Community Centre.

This session is perfect for beginner who has no experience dancing before. Or for the ladies who wants to brush up their technique.

Middle Eastern Dance (MED) or belly dancing is a perfect physical exercise for women. It is a gentle exercise but yet very effective in strengthening your core muscles while developing your flexibility. Most importantly, it is a lot of fun!

More information will be coming soon!

Pop that hip baby! ;)

2009-04-18T03:39:00.000-07:00

What a super fun class I had today!

I had a morning Session with one new potential Teacher Training student ;). I am so excited to see more and more women are interested to take up the Teacher Training session. Teaching MED belly dancing is a very rewarding experience. The friendship you built along the way, the dancing skills that you will keep on upgrading and the fun will have is neverending!

Do e-mail me at elwardadance@gmail.com for more info!

And the for the Beyond Basic afternoon session, we had another Pop and Locks session, continuing with the drills! Maaaan, it was a very difficult session, but it was sooo much fun too! I am so glad my students are getting better at learning these new technical style from Sadie and Kaya.

They were so eager to learn they request for a longer session next week *gasp* - and I thought I worked them to death they don't want to come back ;)

Pops and Locks!

2009-04-10T04:11:00.000-07:00

I have been watching and learning Pops and Locks from Sadie and Kaya's cd. It was so much fun! Now I know how they do their super complicated drum solo ;)

I am looking forward to be teaching my students these excellent new techniques!

I love Training Teachers! :D

2009-04-03T20:08:00.000-07:00

I never realised that training teacher can be so rewarding! I finally have somebody that I can share all my experience and teaching techniques and tips :D

I really appreciate potential teachers who put their trust in me. I have been teaching for a few years, and I have developed a systematic approach to teaching the dance that is efficient for both teacher and students. I would love to be able to share this techniques and tips with more teachers, as I believe something good and beneficial should be shared and passed on to flourish.

If you are interested to join Teacher Training, do drop me an e-mail at elwardadance@gmail.com with Teacher Training in the subject!

The best women bonding session

2009-03-29T19:08:00.000-07:00

In my opinion, the best women bonding session I have ever had is through MED /belly dancing. Here's a few reason why:

1. When dancing, we will release an uplifting hormone, endorphin and this made us happy :D

2. When dancing, we don't need to talk. Less talking, less bitching. This is one aspect that I really like because I can't stand people who 'bond' by bitching about other people. What a sad way to live!

3. When dancing, we are nurturing our feminity as a group. In a supportive and non-threatening environment, we are allowed to be ourselves, and fully express ourself.

I am grateful that I am always blessed with great women bonding session ie. my belly dancing class. Do join our women bonding session every Saturday at 4.30pm :D

Apprentice found!

2009-03-16T20:04:00.000-07:00

I have been looking for apprentice to pass on the knowledge of teaching Middle Eastern Dance for months now and I have found myself one!

She is going to be training with me and will be teaching most of my Basic class. Welcome on board Suzi :D

I am still looking for more apprentice to teach this beautiful and rewarding skill of teaching Middle Eastern Dance to women. So, if you are already a dance enthusiasts, or somebody who always loves movements and physical activities, or somebody who loves art and music, or somebody who loves working with women, or somebody who wants to learn new skills, or somebody who wants look for a part time job, or somebody who wants to look for side-income opportunity, do drop me an e-mail as I have more slots to spare!

E-mail me at elwardadance@gmail.com with subject Teacher Training

*please note that the acceptance to Teacher Training will be completely based upon my approval.

NO Class on Saturday 28th

2009-02-24T17:28:00.000-08:00

Dear Students,

Kindly note that there will be NO class on Saturday 28th as I will be taking part in Women Entrepreneur's Carnival.

If you are free, do come and say hi to me there! Here's the details:

(ok, I can't upload the details because of the stupid internet)

First short choreography!

2009-02-22T18:57:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday I guided my Beyond Basic students to come up with their own short routines. We have been listening to this one piece of tabla solo to familiarise ourselves with the beats and last week we came up with our very own routine!

Most of them were quite apprehensive when they started, not quite sure what to do and were a bit nervous. Totally understandable. But they were so brave and they get over their initial fear and come up with great variety of movements!

I am so happy and grateful that I am able to watch them grow not only technically, but also creatively. I always believe that everybody has this essence of creativity in them. And this creativity, when encouraged and nurtured will produce so many beautiful things, not only in dance, but in your life in general too!

Sadie in Penang!

2009-02-15T20:14:00.000-08:00

For all my students and Middle Eastern Dance/Belly Dancing enthusiast - Sadie will be coming to Penang this May. Workshop with Sadie is conducted by Conny Lim from Zero Fitness Studio. Details are as below:

Workshop 1 : Pops, Locks and Shimmy
17th May 2009 Sunday
2:30pm-5:00pm (2 1/2 hours)
RM150

Workshop 2 : Drum Solo Choreography
17th May 2009 Sunday
6:30pm-9:00pm (2 1/2 hours)
RM150

Workshop 3 : Belly Dance Boot Camp
18th May 2009 Monday
7:00pm-10:00pm (3 hours)
RM150

Total :
Early Bird package RM400 for all workshops by 31st March 2009)
RM450

Venue : Zero Fitness Dance Studio, West Wing, 3rd Floor, Gembira Parade,
18, Lorong Delima Satu, 11700 Greenlane, Penang.

Descriptions of workshops:

Workshop 1 - "Pops, Locks and Shimmy"

This workshop follows the teaching format developed exclusively by Sadie & Kaya. You will be introduced to several concepts that will unleash your true potential to execute sharper, cleaner, stronger movements and isolations. Available only though "Tandem training Method"

Workshop 2 - "Drum solo Choreography"

Experience the full potential of a Drum Solo. Sadie does not skip a beat. Learn how to apply the "Drum Solo Secrets" in one of Sadie's stellar Drum Solo choreographies, several choreographies in workshop format to choose from.

Workshop 3 - "Belly Dnace Boot Camp"

The name says it all. This class allows the dancer to really delve into technique and polish their dance vocabulary through a series of intense drills and combinations. Foot patterns and exciting layers will also be incorporated. Get ready to be the best you can be! Recommended with the "Tandem Training Method"

A Certificate of Attendance will be awarded to those who have successfully completed all workshops.

Fees should be made payable to:

Zero Fitness Dance Studio, or

Hong Leong Bank, a/c no: 204-50-01066-4, a/c name: Penang World belly Dance Day (Malaysia).

Please keep the bank slip and email zerofitnessdancestudio@gmail.com to notify us when you have made payment. Outstation's cheque please top up the additional bank commision charges.

There will also be a hafla on the same weekend. For more information, kindly visit this page.

Month of Love :D

2009-02-01T20:17:00.000-08:00

It's February, month of love again! :D

I'm sure some of you are already running all around the place trying to find that special something for your loved ones that you haven't already give!

Perfumes? 2 years ago. Diamonds? 3 years ago. Handbag? (she got tonnes already!)

Now let me give you an idea. How about..

a gift of experience - BELLY DANCING LESSONS! taraaaa!

For this months only, when you purchase an Elwarda Dance Gift Certicificate for Personal 1-1 Belly Dancing Lessons, you will be given a 20% off! (because it's the month for 2 of you..get it? get it? no, nevermind.. :P )

So, for only RM80 your loved ones will experience RM100 worth of Personal 1-1 Belly Dancing lessons tailored to fit her special needs and requests! When she claimed her certificate, she will also be given a CD of Egyptian songs for her to take home so she can practise after the lesson!...(awhh, I'm feeling generous in the month of looove)

This gift of experience is perfect for ladies who's looking for alternative ways to keep fit, ladies who loves to dance (obviously ;) ), and ladies who are looking for new hobbies or activities to do. Belly dancing is a gentle and low-impact dance/exercise so it's perfect for ladies of all age and size.

For more information about Elwarda Dance Gift Certificate for Month of Love, please e-mail me at elwardadance@gmail.com with subject: month of love offer.

Thank you for reading and have a great week peeps! (oh, and don't forget to tell your loved ones that you love them today! :) ).

Happy New Year!

2009-01-26T04:32:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to all my Chinese students and readers. May this year will bring upon prosperity, greater health and happiness to all! :D

Students Rate!

2009-01-19T21:58:00.000-08:00

I have been meaning to do this for the longest time, and now the time has arrived for me to introduce..a Student's Rate scheme!

And of course, I always need to start with a story ;)

Years and years ago (ehehe), I was a (very poor) student in the land of UK where the conversion rate from Malaysian ringgit to UK pound is 7 times. However, I was very interested and keen to learn belly dancing lessons that is offered by my university. I managed to pay for a few terms in full, but as the money became tighter I found it harder to pay for the lessons. I talked to my very kind instructor, Desna, whether she can help me in anyway with this. She was so kind to speak with the organising party and I get to pay a Drop In rate. (the only available payment scheme at that time was a lump sum payment at the beginning of term which I can't just manage to fork out).

Due to her kindness and the organiser's willingness to make exemption for me, I managed to learn and teach until today.

That is why I always have a Drop In option for my lessons as I know that there are times where it is difficult to pay lump sum.

But I always love having university students in my belly dancing class at it always reminded me of my good time in the uni. In hope to make it more affordable to students, I would like to introduce a Student Rate Scheme for my Private Group sessions. If you are a student, and you get a group of your student friends together, you will get a 33% discount.

The Student Rate Scheme is RM100 per session to be divided with unlimited number of people.

For more information, e-mail me at elwardadance@gmail.com. And hope to see more of you students! ;)

A dance for all

2009-01-07T19:07:00.000-08:00

I really like this photo taken on the hafla I organised last March. I like it for many reason. But let me just write down 2.

Reason 1:

This is a free-style non-choreographed routine danced by me, Siryn and Huda. But look how in-snyc we were with each other! Even our costumes looks put-together! We did not know what each other is going to wear, we have never practised or discussed anything. We get together on the floor and dance.

Reason 2:

All of us have different styles, different personalities, and different costumes - yet we were able to come together and dance. I really like the diversity shown in this picture. I also like the unity shown in this picture.

Many beautfiul things can happen when we allow ourselves to dance as how it's meant to be.We celebrate our ability to create beautiful elegant movements. We celebrate our uniqueness by embracing our differences. We became truly present, in the moment, and we are Grateful.

Class Category

2009-01-04T20:25:00.000-08:00

For this year, my weekly class will be divided into 3 categories:

1. Basic

2. Beyond Basic

3. Elwarda Teacher Training

What is Basic Class?

Basic class in for beginner and to those who wants to review their techniques. It's all about the basic of isolation, basic of movement, and basic drillings. The purpose is to make your muscle familiar with the movement and to store it into muscle memory. Emphasis is put on the correct posture, usage of the muscle and how to do the movement safely.

What is Beyond Basic?

Beyond Basic is for those who is familiar with the Basic. This doesn't mean that they have mastered the Basic, but capable enough to execute the movement correctly and safely. The class will be a mixture of choreography and creative interpretation of music. Students will be taught variation of movements, routines, and different styles of belly dancing.

What is Elwarda Teacher Training?

Elwarda Teacher Training is for the ladies who wishes to teach Middle Eastern Dance/Belly Dancing, either as full-time, or part-time or as hobby. I will teach all I know about teaching belly dancing to women, the effective teaching technique, emphasising on safety and creativity as these 2 are very important factor in Elwarda Dance. I will also supply them with syllabus and support.

The reason I started this is beause I received many requests to teach weekly class at fitness centres/women centres/gym but I can't fulfill them due to my tight schedule. I hope by my teaching other women how to teach belly dancing, they will be able to fulfill those need for Middle Eastern Dance/Belly Dancing instructors.

I will first evaluate the suitability of potential students who wish to take Elwarda Teacher Training. Those who are not yet ready will be advised to take Beyond Basic or Basic to firm up their foundation.

As usual, any questions do e-mail me at elwardadance@gmail.com. Kindly note that my name is Naziehah, and Elwarda is my brand name. (yes, it can be confusing sometimes ;) )

2009 Schedule

2009-01-01T20:52:00.000-08:00

Firstly, Happy New Year everybody! May this new year will bring more happiness and joy in your life

For year 2009, there will be some changes in location and timing of the classes, also the start of a NEW sessions! *weeee* :D

All my classes previously held at Living Arts will be shifted to Ara Damansara. This is the new schedule:

Basic Class : Every Saturday, 10.30am-11.30am

Beyond Basic Class : Every Saturday, 4.30pm-5.40pm

The fee will remain the same: RM35 per Person for Drop In

RM120 per Package

Elwarda Teacher Training: Every Sunday 10.30am-12.30am at Ara Damansara

Fee: RM150 per Session

I will blog in more details about Basic, Beyond Basic and Elwarda Teacher Training in the coming entry!

On Middle Eastern Dance and Being Women

2008-12-02T01:55:00.000-08:00

Most women keep on learning belly dance, not just purely because of belly dance. Not just because of the movements. Not just because of the glitzy costume. Not just because of Shakira. (although this can be a motivation to start learning). It's because the feeling and the whole experience of learning and growing with other women.

We live in mainly male-dominated world, where we dressed in structured-clothes with our structured pants and our structured work schedules. (not necessarily bad, but not very good either).

In belly dance class, we are free to be totally and uninhibitedly, feminine.

We wear skirts. Flowy frilly skirts. And colourful scarves. With beads and coins.

We are back to our nature. We create. We go with the flow. We nurture each other. We support each other. We share and we care.

Aside from dancing, this is also what we do. We enjoyed ouselves, being women, together.

Fee in December

2008-12-02T01:46:00.000-08:00

So, some of you are planning to come and take advantage of the 50% off in December. That's really smart. I like smart people ;)

To those who are not quite clear how this works. The fee in December is RM17 for Drop In. It means, you Drop In once, join the class, and pay RM17 by the end of the session.

Only for this month, I do not take monthly fee. Meaning, all students, new or old, will be paying Drop In of RM17 everytime they come.

Middle Eastern Dance/Belly Dancing Workshop 2009

2008-11-09T21:19:00.000-08:00

I am planning for my workshops in 2009 now. Therefore, anybody who would love for me to come to their organisation/companies/persatuan kaum ibu/local gym and fitness centres, do drop me an e-mail at elwardadance@gmail.com

Workshop-style learning is fun and rewarding because you will be able to learn basic belly dancing techniques, simple choreography, and also work-out tips all in a span of 3 to 4 hours only!

As always, my workshop is for ladies only =)

For more info, e-mail me at elwardadance@gmail.com

Thank you =)

50% off Drop In in December!

2008-11-03T05:09:00.000-08:00

You know how you will always be rewarded for taking action quickly? Hear this!

If you plan to learn Middle Eastern Dance/Belly Dancing in 2009, I have got great news for you!

In this coming December (next month), I will give 50% off for all Drop In for my Saturday session 4.30pm-5.30pm at Living Arts Studio, Mentari Court. The normal Drop In price is RM35. Only for the month of December, it is RM17!! (I give further 50 cents discount ;) )

Drop In is pay per class scheme. It is great for those who wants to experience belly dancing session for the first time. This will give you a great start to your Belly Dancing Journey in 2009!

Ask your friends, sisters, mothers, daughters to come and join us this December. Experience for yourself the the wonderful mesmerising movements of Middle Eastern Dance!

To book your place please e-mail elwardadance@gmail.com. See you in December! :)

Change of time for Beginner Class

2008-10-19T20:27:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

Due to timing issue, I am cancelling my Thursday Beginner class 7-8pm. I have not yet decide on the new day and date. I will update it here as soon as possible.

For further question e-mail me elwardadance@gmail.com

Classes, classes!

2008-10-06T19:26:00.000-07:00

Ok now I am back from my holiday, classes will resume as usual!

Thursday class will start on the 9th Oct 7-8pm, Living Arts Studio

Saturday class will start on the 11th Oct 4.30-5.30pm, Living Arts Studio

and all Private and Personal classes will also resume as usual in Ara Damansara

E-mail me at elwardadance@gmail.comor call me for further questions!

and oh, Selamat Hari Raya and Maaf Zahir Batin to all Muslims. Go easy on the lemang and ketupat! ;)

Why don't you perform?

2008-09-18T18:00:00.000-07:00

I have been asked this question before, and what I always answer is with 'May I suggest my other dancer friends who does perform?'.

Not quite the answer I know.

Actually in Malaysia, as far as I know, there were many Middle Eastern Dance enthusiasts/students/intsructor who does not perform. Each with their own personal reason. Of course there were also a few who does. To each their own.

When I mean I don't perform is, I don't perform for mixed (male-female) audience, and of course all-male audience. But I do perform for all-ladies hafla and small all-ladies private party, private function where it's all girls having a bit of gool old fun.

Why the decision?

My philosophy towards the dance and my teaching of the dance is mainly for self-enjoyment and general well-being. Also, to nurture the feeling of connectedness among women through the dance. Well, I develop this philosophy because these are the benefits that I myself experienced while I was learning and all through my teaching years. I want to pass it on to all other women so that they too will feel they joy that I felt!

Of course whenever I perform at the hafla it was fun too, but I simply emphasise being the 'teacher' dancer rather than 'performer' dancer.

I hope it clears it up to anybody who's been wondering. After all, even if I don't perform, I will always provide you the names of my friends who does! =)

Pregnant and Belly Dancing

2008-09-10T02:44:00.000-07:00

Moms-to-be give belly dancing a whirl for fitness and fun

I found this article really interesting! I used to think that pregnant women, at least during their first trimester, are not advised to belly dance. But these articles gave me a different point of view.

A better point of view ;)

Check out the article out!

Saturday class and Body Control

2008-09-07T20:22:00.001-07:00

I had a great session last Saturday. Fasting or not, it was easy to lose myself to an hour of fulfilling dancing if you have a bunch of great students like mine. Watching them grow into beautiful confident dancer is a great feeling. Now that they are able to master most basic vocabulary of the movements, it's time to groom them into becoming their own individual dancer. I taught them how to play around with level change, free-style hip movement, and of course lot's of travelling! (a bunch of dance jargons I created :P)

I always approach my dance (and everything that I do/watch/encounter) as a reflection of life itself. Body control is very important when dancing. It's not just about executing the movement, but rather doing it in a controlled manner and also being conscious of what your body is doing. It's not just about knowing how to do it, but how to do it right.

All the movement in MED requires a high level of body control and isolation. How else one will be able to quiver only one's upper abdominal muscle, while keeping the lower abdominal muscle still - if not without proper body control? Even the snake hand, to make it look beautiful and smooth, one should really control the whole of one's hand muscle. If not one would look like a crazy flapping bird!

So whenever you feel like your movement is not 'polished' enough, perhaps you might want to work on the body control.

Happy practising!

Elwarda Accessories

2008-09-04T21:13:00.000-07:00

Presenting new blog and venture, Elwarda Accessories.

Elwarda Accessories is all about women's accessories that combines the elegance of dance, femininity, and wearability.

Accessories that is not only great as dance accessories, but also wearable for day-to-day casual look.

Accessories that not only glitters on the dance floor, but also shimmers as a formal-wear, perfectly complimenting your evening gown, kebaya and cheongsam!

Do come and visit us often =)

Fasting month update

2008-09-02T21:32:00.000-07:00

Due to Fasting Month, I will be stopping my Thursday 7pm-8pm evening class. However, all Thursday class students are welcomed to join in the Saturday 4.30-5.30pm session at Living Arts Studio.

My private class at home (Ara Damansara) will be shifted to morning time, 9.30am.

I have open 2 slots for Private class at Ara Damansara. Details as below:

Tuesday and Friday, morning, 9.30am.

Please e-mail elwardadance@gmail.com for more information.

Thank you and have a good Fasting month for all Muslims and a great September for all! =)

Workshop by Naziehah

2008-08-26T03:15:00.000-07:00

You stayed too far from PJ? Too far from Selangor? Too far from Malaysia? - but you want to learn the dance!

Not to worry, if you can't come to Naziehah, bring Naziehah to you!

Ask me about the possibility of conducting a workshop at your area. I would love to travel and see all of you fabulous ladies! Just e-mail me at elwardadance(at)gmail.com.

Coming workshop destination- Brunei!

On Men, Wives and my teaching of the dance

2008-08-25T00:37:00.000-07:00

I always love it when I am approached by men who wants me to teach belly dancing - to their wives. Either they wanted to buy my belly dance gift certificates, or inquiring on behalf of their wives - I found that this trend is really healthy!

Middle Eastern Dance/belly dancing that I am teaching is aimed for the total wellness of women. And for the husbands, to get that idea - and approached me so that I give 'total wellness' to their wives is simply amazing! I feel that I managed to give the correct message across that belly dance is indeed one of the tool to achieve total wellbeing - mind, body, and soul.

And I applaud these type of husbands. The thought that there are many and (emerging) caring husbands like this fill my heart with warmth and put my mind to ease.

May God give His unlimited love and blessings on men and husbands that are nice and caring and responsible to their wives =).

Sweet Girl and Teacher Training

2008-08-04T23:40:00.000-07:00

I recently had a new addtion to my Thursday class, a sweet 10 year old girl that came with her mommy! She's such a natural mover and quite mature for her age. Listening intently and tryingto follow all that I teach, I found her very refreshing.

Little children, they don't complain much. Due to their innocence and naivety, they approach everything with such vigour and energy. I learnt a lot just looking at how she tackles new difficult moves with such tenacity and determination. I hope to always have that little children energy in me!

On a different note, I am in a dire need of an apprentice/assistant. My schedule is getting more and more packed everyday, thus, I would love to train new teachers as quickly as possible. I have started with 1 of my own student. She's progressing very quickly and I am pleased. I am also getting more and more requests about the Teacher Training programme. I will announce shortly of how I am going to go about it. Thank you very much for all your interest, I will keep you all posted!

Private class in Bangsar Permai

2008-07-22T21:21:00.000-07:00

An international bunch of ladies requesting a private class brought me to Bangsar Permai last night.

I started a class with a few of them last week at my house in Ara Damansara, and now they got more people - with more flavour!

Iranian, Slovakian, Colombian, Malaysian, Scandinavian? There are 8 of them and all from different countries! I love it when these happened, you know - mixture of ladies coming together for one purpose - dancing ;)

I haven't got chance to really talk to most of them because yesterday's class were really rigorous I must say. When I saw a bunch of natural movers, I tend to 'over-teach' ;)

I taught them a few basic percussive, a few basic fluid and we danced it to all sorts of songs from Egyptian orchestra, basic drum beats, pop Egyptian and Shakira's and Beyonce's Beautiful Liar!. Now isn't that just so amazing!

I had a great time meeting and teaching all of them. A bunch of lovely lively ladies!

Listening to music with the eye

2008-07-22T21:03:00.000-07:00

'Listening to music with the eye', is quoted by Hossam Ramzy, on how Egyptian music is appreciated. Therefore, building on his ideology and concept, I am slowly introducing my beyond basic students on the bulding blocks of interpreting the music and turning it into a 'physical representation/translation of the music'.

It was rather challenging at first for them, since they have not been dancing for long too. However, I am so proud of them for being so receptive and dedicated to learning.

Ever since I started learning, what I found most beautiful is not the most technical dancer, or the most shiny glittering costume, of the fact that she tossed her hair around 10 times per minute - but rather the interpretation that each dancers have for the song. I used to sit around marvelling at all the different but beautiful and graceful movements dancers come out with on their own. Each unique, each completely different from one another - but just so very right. I love it!

So last few weeks, I saw my students producing the same quality of awe that I have long forgotten. To see the music moves them, and the flow of the movement that came from it - it is such a joy!

I know I am such a sucker for simple beauty, simple joy - and this got to be one of the things that I will treasure the most. Thank you all of my students for bringing such joy to me. *hugest grin ever!*

Hossam and Serena

2008-07-09T08:16:00.000-07:00

Hossam and Serena, what can I say? These past 2-3 days have been one of the most memorable in my life, simply because they were here in Malaysia!

I went to their Dance Masterclass workshop on last Sunday and I had the time of my life. It brought me back to the time I was first learning the dance in the UK. Their approach, their ideology, their application - were closer to my heart than most of other dance workshop I have ever been to before.

Hossam, being the Master, explained to us the basic of rhythm, he guided us to the correct way of dancing to the music. While Serena, beautiful and graceful as ever, helped us in showing how the movement is done. I found Hossam to be such a genuine and generous artist, sharing and explaining to us all the beauty o fhis art, the Egyptian music. He is also very funny! I can't forget his formula, and Fifi, and Hollywood hunks jokes! And Serena, beautiful Serena with her serene smile and Super Hip. I only watch those hips on Youtube on legendary dancers, to be able to see it up close, in real life - is a totally new experience all on its own.

One of the most unforgettable moment for me is when Hossam Ramzy himself invited me to dance to his drumming on the stage! His booming voice saying 'You in pistachio scarves!', and I practically swooned in delight. But of course, initially I was scared and nervous too to be dancing on the stage unprepared, but once I get into the beat, I totally enjoyed myself! Only after I finished I realised, OMG, I was dancing to Hossam Ramzy' drumming live! I mean, I have been listening and dancing to his music for years, and to be able to dance to his live drumming is just indescribable. I truly cherish the experience and it will be something that I will always remember forever.

The whole workshop day went by in a flash and there is just so much more that I want to learn from them! I hope that Petronas will bring them again - often!

Than last night, I went to Hossam's Egyptian Ensemble show at the Dewan Philharmonic. The show was so amazing I just want it to go on and on! From the first number, I was swept away to this magical egyptian musical heaven. It was a song so beautiful and so precious since it was one of the song that I listened to since my childhood. The song brought tears to my eyes. One after another, the music goes on and on, and Serena comes and goes, interpreting the music so beautifully. She's so pure and unpretentious and graceful! Seriously, I just didn't want the show to end. I just want it to go on and on and on and we'll live and eat and sleep at the Dewan.

But of course, it's real life, not some Egyptian Musical Nirvana - so the show ended. I am glad that some of my students are there too, watching and learning I hope! ;). I am also glad to be able to share this beautiful experience with my ever supportive husband, though he might not be able to understand it sometimes. I am also grateful that Petronas people brought them here. But most of all, I am thankful for Hossam and Serena and all the wonderful musicians for bringing such beautiful music and experience to us. Thank you.

p/s:
For more reviews do visit Huda's blog (because she is, of course, a much better reviewer than the sappy me :p ).

MED tips from Naziehah

2008-07-04T02:45:00.000-07:00

Well, I thought of writing one of those long philosophical entries (that I am always inclined to write), and said - OK, let's give this blog a break now!

So, I want to write about practical tips that has helped me be a better MED dancer:

1. Practise, Practise, Practise

I know, boring as toast. But there's no miracle pills. If you want to master a movement, you have to practise until the movement comes naturally to you. When you didn't even know what your muscle and body are doing anymore (while executing the movement), that's when you got it. Well, almost got it ;)

2. Bend that knee

Simple dimple. Buuuut, many of beginners forget to do that and it cause your movement to be jerky. Bend knee simply means, keeping your knee soft and not locked. (if you finding it difficult to understand this, do come and see me, I'll show it to you). Bending that knee also means unlocking your hip. It's like a mechanical thing, loosen knee, loosen hip. Tighten knee, tighten hip. That's why soldiers look like soldiers - because of their knee locked right back making them stand like a pole. And that's not the way to belly dance ;)

3. Check that shoulder

One fact, many impact. Your shoulder, could make or break you. It's also very normal for beginner's shoulder to keep rising up (due to tension or habit). Therefore, always check that shoulder when dancing. Is it rising so high like I am a dancer in the 80's? (you know, because of the shoulder pads). Roll it back down so it rest on it's neutral position.

4. Take your time

Taking your time when dancing is one of the skills that is rather advanced, but very important. Sometimes dancers tend to rush through movement (I always did this too, that's why I know). Not unless you seen yourself in a video, (or somebody telling you), that you realise you are dancing like Charlie Chaplain. Take your time, breath through the movement, pace yourself well, and listen to the music.

This is it for now, see you in another entries!

Teaching choreography and other issues

2008-06-24T19:09:00.000-07:00

I have been teaching my Saturday student a tabla solo choreography for these past few weeks. It was a fun choreography and they seems to be really enjoying themselves. Inspired by that, and also So You Think You Can Dance, I choreographed a piece myself. It's no SYTYCD standards, but I am getting there! ;)

Some women have expressed interest to me in having private classes, either at their home or my place. At the moment, I am afraid that I cannot squeeze in anymore weekly sessions on top of my existing ones. I am now only open for workshops and one-off classes. Like I mentioned to one of my student, I have only one hip ;)

Therefore, I am really hoping that I can start to train my 'apprentice' soon! For more info, do check out my Teacher Training entry. Or e-mail me at elwardadance@gmail.com.

Till then, have a great day everybody! :D

Apology :(

2008-06-12T22:57:00.001-07:00

Apology to all students who came and waited for me yesterday! I really truly hope that your hopelessly guilty Middle Eastern Dance instructor will be forgiven :(.

While it is no excuse for me to do these to you guys, I was feeling very miserable yesterday with throbbing heads and shaky limbs (not in a good shimmy kind of sense) and had to cancel the class.

Since Thursday class is new, I do not have yet a regular students that I will call/sms beforehand to inform should I am late/ not able to make it to class.

Therefore, to avoid this from happening again, anybody who wants to come to my Thursday session, please call or sms me first to confirm their attendance. I will then will keep you in my record, and will update you should there are any changes for Thursday sessions.

Thank you and may you have a very blessed Friday and a great relaxing weekend!

Weekend of Dancing and Sexy issue?

2008-06-09T18:16:00.000-07:00

I had my Saturday class in Living Arts. It's great seeing my students again after a month of non-belly dancing. I then did a demo at the launch of Maya Yoga, and met many new people that is interested in belly dancing.

I have been thinking about this issue for quite some time and now that I have formulated enough thought about it, I would love to jot a little something of this issue.

When belly dancing, sexy - to be or not to be?

After dancing and teaching for quite some time, and watching about hundred of performances - I formed an opinion that it really is up to you, how or what you want to be when belly dancing. However, for me personally, I dance from my heart and for my wellness, and if I do look sexy (I don't even know how sexy looks like) - it is a bonus.

I guess, that's the best way to define 'sexiness' in every way and time - it has to come from within, and not being put on as a show. Within every woman is an embedded 'sexiness' or 'sensuality', simply because we are created as a woman. Try as we may to deny it, it is not possible as this is the nature's rule. It can be our strength, it can also be our weaknesses.

Unhealthy cultural imposition, extremist teachings has put off a lot of that natural feel for us. Most of the time, women are afraid to be women. As is, our mere being alone can bring so much destruction and chaos. All very misguided belief.

It is natural for women to behave in womenly manner. To dance and sing and be merry. One of the way to manifests it is through belly dancing. Thus, it is not necessary for us to put on show, to agree what other people or other culture dictate as 'sexy' and to emulate what in the end that made us look like a, well, a mess.

Of course, all that 'merriness' must also be done in certain controlled situation. Therefore, belly dance class is one of the best place to be merry. Normally an all women class, situated in closed and safe surroundings, it is the best way for any women to be women, and just be themselves.

NEW Weekday class on Thursday!

2008-06-05T19:17:00.000-07:00

I had my first weekday class yesterday at Living Arts. Ahh, it feels good to be up and dancing after the long, long, traffic yesterday!

Small class as it was yesterday, we still have lots of fun! One of them is my long (not-so-lost) high school friend. Now how cool is that to be teaching your own friend ;). Thank you for being such a good sport N, it was really great meeting you again.

I introduced them to Hip Lifts and Snake Arm and they did real good! The first time is always a challenge and they managed to brave through it beautifully. From barely able to move her hip, one of them are able to do the Hip Lifts beautifully by the end of the class. :D

The weekday session is great for you office ladies out there. There's nothing like a session of belly dancing after work to boost up your energy and make you feel like a hot beautiful lady that you are!

Demonstration at the launch of Maya Yoga

2008-06-03T18:21:00.000-07:00

My good friend and student Veronica is launching her yoga studio, Maya Yoga this Sunday 8th June. I've checked out her studio and it's beautiful, huge space facing lot's of green!

I will also be doing a bit of demonstration for the ladies this Sunday. Therefore, any ladies, students or non-students alike who has spare time this Sunday come and check out this fabulous new yoga place, Maya Yoga!

The address is:
Maya Yoga
No 25-1, Block B, Bandar Teknologi 3/9,
Bestari De Kota, Kota Damansara,
47810 Petaling Jaya
Tel: 012 210 9304

Can I teach Middle Eastern Dance/Belly Dancing?

2008-06-01T20:13:00.001-07:00

Of course you can! Everybody can teach anything that they are good at. The key point here is, things that you are GOOD at.

Obviously, everybody wants to learn from people who are GOOD. Fortunately, there are ways to be so GOOD at MED that people wants to learn from you.

I have been receiving many requests from women wanting to learn how to TEACH MED for a few years now. I am now opening an Elwarda Teacher Training sessions for women who wants to teach MED. I will be teaching how to be an effective MED teacher, focusing on techniques and creativity. As both are the 2 areas that I am GOOD at ;).

Do e-mail me at elwardadance(at)gmail.com for inquiries. Looking forward to hear from all of you fellow future teachers!

NEW classes in June!

2008-06-01T18:12:00.000-07:00

I am back!! :D

I will resume my class as usual on every Saturday 4.30-5.30pm at Living Arts Studio. And, I will also be adding another session on every Thursday 7-8pm at Living Arts Studio starting 5th June.

Please e-mail elwardadance(at)gmail.com for registration or inquiries.

As for my Private Group Class inAra Damansara, all morning classes will be shifted to the evening at 6.30pm-7.30pm. Also, please call and e-mail for more information on this change.

Till then, have a great week everybody!

May Rest

2008-05-14T21:22:00.000-07:00

I am resting for a while from my Saturday class due to family engagements. Hopefully I will be able to resume class on June.

My weekdays classes will only be conducted on Monday and Wednesday in Ara Damansara.

Please e-mail or call for more information.

Personal 1-to-1 Class

2008-04-15T00:35:00.000-07:00

What's a Personal 1-to-1 Class?

Personal 1-to-1 Class is a session where I will teach you and only you! It's perfect for women/students who/are:

1) A bit shy

If you are very shy to join a group, you can always opt for 1-to-1. Also, if you are very shy to ask questions in class, you can ask all you want on the 1-to-1 session.

2) Wants to work on a certain specific technique.

For example you seems to can never get a Travelling Camel. I will guide and drill you personally until you get it!

3) Have specific goals

If you have specific goals you want to achieve by learning belly dancing, for example - to increase strength in lower back, or to improve flexibility in upper body, or to improve flexibility in general. Do talk to me, I might be able to help in 1-to-1 session.

4) Wants exclusivity.

Those who feel that they can learn better with personal attention, you can choose 1-to-1.

For more information, kindly e-mail elwardadance@gmail.com. See you in 1-to-1! =)

Sandra's workshop

2008-04-15T00:14:00.000-07:00

I went to Sandra's workshop during the weekend and learnt all sorts of wonderful new techniques, combinations and choreography! I really enjoyed myself although by the end of the workshop my body is aching all over.

Her style is a little bit more different than mine. While mine is a bit more 'minimal' in hand gestures, her's are a bit more elaborate. Which for me, it is a good thing because it means that I can learn a whole lot from her!

She infuses Persian style hand gestures in a few of her combinations. It looks really graceful and lovely but when I tried to dance it - I went all over the place!

What I notice about myself even more now than ever is, I am a slow learner. From school to college to university, I am not the type of students who can understand it all in one blink. I can never pick it all up in one go. While I see many other women are able to do and understand the movement almost immediately, I struggled with the combination and especially the hand gestures till the very end!

So what I did was I practised again and again on Monday for the whole day, and now I am able to get it all!

I guess what I am trying to say is, it doesn't matter if you are a quick learner, or a slow learner - as long as you keep on doing and persevering, you'll get there!

New Private Sessions in USJ

2008-04-15T00:05:00.000-07:00

Praise to Almighty, I have added one more private session weekday mornings. This time it is a bunch of energetic ladies from USJ. I really enjoyed meeting and teaching them. They are so full energy and enthusiasm it's difficult not to laugh being around them.

I look forward for more classes with them!

My new Singaporean private students

2008-04-02T04:05:00.000-07:00

I have many Singaporean friends. In fact, many of my very good friends hail from the island. Although me myself have never been there before!

Today I have new Singaporean private students. They came to my house early in the morning because one of them need to start her private tuitioning at 11.00 am. We went through the warm up and I taught them the basic percussive moves.

Both did very well on their first session, which shows that their body were quite flexible. I also went through with them the concept of core muscles and correct posture.

For most women I taught, the concept of core muscle is not something they are very familiar with. With regular dance training and posture-correcting - their body will slowly adjust to the natural body posture and their core muscle will slowly be strengthened.

Mediterranean/Moroccan feast at Middle Eastern Medley Hafla

2008-03-31T00:03:00.001-07:00

Delicious Mediterranean feast at Middle Eastern Medley, prepared with love by the greatest cook ever, Ahysa. Everybody can't get enough of her food!

Pictures courtesy of Fadzilla and Azlin.

Henna Art from Middle Eastern Medley hafla

2008-03-30T23:53:00.000-07:00

Henna arts by the talented Nabila. Thank you for giving everybody such a lovely souvenir!

Pictures courtesy of Huda, Melissa, and Javen. Thank you all!

Opening trio from the Middle Eastern Medley Hafla

2008-03-30T23:45:00.000-07:00

Opening Trio - Me, Nora, and Suzi

Dancing my choreography to Ya Washni, Sami Nossair's Orchestra.

Picture courtesy of Miss Azlin. Thank you very much!

Too posh or too 'kampung' to dance?

2008-03-23T22:17:00.000-07:00

You can never be too 'anybody' or too 'anything' to dance. If you feel like wanting to dance, or to learn how to dance - just do it.

If time is the issue, work it out. Find a teacher who's near to your place. If there aren't any, ask the teacher whether she will teach outside. Also, bear in mind when the teacher went out, of course, there's transportation cost to bear.

If money is the issue, also talk to the teacher. See whether there's some sort of arrangement that you can do. Do not just, sigh and say, owh..it's too expensive for me. If you really want it, there is always a way.

But do not use societal definition to say that it is only for 'certain' type of people. Nobody is too posh, or too 'kampung' for anything. It's all up to you.

I believe the ability to dance and move your body is one of the nicest most amazing gift the Creator can give you asides from many of His blessings.

Do not just sit on your butt and let your limbs to wither and shrivel before it's time. Do something, do it now.

Pictures please

2008-03-17T05:11:00.000-07:00

Due to technical error, most of the pictures in my main camera is a little blurry. Therefore, could anybody who take pictures on the hafla share theirs with me?
I would really appreciate it. Thank you.

Kindly e-mail to elwardadance@gmail.com. Thank very much, again.

Favourite Performance

2008-03-17T00:12:00.001-07:00

Picture from Huda's Facebook

My favourite performance has got to be the improvisational piece by me, Huda and Siryn to Ragheb Allama's Naseni Al-Doniya. I always love improvisation and I never failed to be amazed at how different people will dance to 1 song - differently. For example with this piece, I simply asked the 2 very talented ladies to just dance to the song in their own style and in their own interpretation. The results were 1 great performance with 3 different elements!

Me likey! =D

Thank you, thank you all!

2008-03-16T09:51:00.000-07:00

My deepest, biggest, thanks to everybody who came to my 'Middle Eastern Medley' hafla yesterday. Because of all you guys, the hafla night was a night I will always remember!

Most heartfelt thanks to my Living Arts students, Azfa, Javen, Shree, Fadzilla, Rose, and Jasica for being my extra hand and feet and mouth. I could have never done it without you guys!

My decorating team, Kasmah and her two lovely daughers, Ayu and Afie (Fara from Contessa). Thank you for making the whole venue looks like a dream, with its beautiful colourful drapings, and candles, and fresh flowers, and fresh flower petals!

My cook, Syah, for her wonderful food. She really feeds everybody well with her selections of delicious Meditarranean/Moroccan feasts. Unfortunately she was not able to attend the hafla due to family matters.

My 2 lovely sisters, Nora and Suzi for dancing our opening act together. Thank you so much for your patience and cooperation. Keep dancing sisters!

Thank you Nabila for adorning my guests with your beautiful henna art. Everybody were so happy and excited with their henna. I am so happy to be working with you and of course I will continue working with you ;).

Thank you Fara from Contessa for sponsoring the lucky draw gifts and also for opening a booth (souk-style) for everybody.

Thank you my performers, Huda, Siryn, and Al-Ain Group for sharing with us your delightful pieces.

The list of thanks is neverending as somewhere somehow, there's always more people that contributes to this hafla in one way or another. For everybody, mentioned or unmentioned here, do know that you will always be remembered in my prayer for your kindness and generosity.

For reviews of the hafla please visit:
Huda's blog
Percicilan

Notes to Hafla attendees

2008-03-13T09:56:00.000-07:00

Notes to Hafla Attendees:

1) We are going to start the function on time at 8.00 pm. Please plan your journey well and provide buffer time to avoid traffic. We are ready to accept guests as early as 7.30 pm.

2) Those who wants to do Maghrib Prayer (for Muslims) can do so at the venue. There is also an ablution (wudhu') facilities available. Please bring your own praying necessities.

3) Kindly note that we are not serving dinner, but rather a light feast of Middle Eastern origin. Apology for any misunderstanding and inconvinience.

4) Kindly note that the hafla is of informal/relaxed settings. Attendees will be seated free-style, cross-legged, Moroccan style - on the floor. Please speak to me if you need extra assistance/attention (in case of disability or severe injury).

Thank you for your kind attention. And see all of you tomorrow! =)

Contact info:
elwardadance@gmail.com
012-9250902

Warm regards,
Naziehah

The Gypsy Skirt Look

2008-03-10T23:10:00.001-07:00

With long gypsy skirts like these, you can't go wrong. Beautiful and feminine, they go 'woosh-woosh' when you dance. Lovely! This image taken from here.

Pretty girl in pretty skirt. Image taken from here.

The Caftan Look

2008-03-10T22:58:00.000-07:00

This Caftan look is also very effective. I tried to upload image here but somehow it didn't appear. So do go to this site instead.

This is what is said on that site about this look -

'The caftan style, derived from Middle Eastern cloaks, was embraced by the fashion cognoscenti of the early 20th century.'

I remembered seeing one performance where the dancers where caftan as their costume. They look great too!

I see a lot of these type of caftan sold everywhere, so I think that's one great option ;).

To wear on not to wear? and - what to wear?

2008-03-10T22:32:00.000-07:00

Ok, just to clear the air I am going to make a direct announcement. I am NOT AGAINST women wearing bedlah or normal belly dancing costume to my hafla. Although I mention, (in my other personal blog) that I personally do not wear them for teaching or performance, it doesn't mean that I didn't like them. I like them loads!

So if you have beautiful costumes that you want to wear - please by all means do wear them. I always love looking at the beautiful workmanship that goes into the beading. And I am sure many more women loves to look at pretty gilttery stuff too, so do share and spread the beauty! I am personally inviting an excellent costume-maker to show her collections and designs on the hafla. So I can't be that uptight can I? eheh.

On a side note, if you choose to wear the costume, you might also want to bring along an 'abaya' or a shawl just in case it get too chilly. You know, like in the cinema and theather where sometimes you feel like you are in the UK.

But for the rest of us, who do not have costume (that's me) and do not have any idea what to wear (that's me too - and its my own halfa!), we need to dig in our closet a little deeper and find things that we can 'fashion' with.

I am going to put on my ideas here for your inspiration, those people with wardrobe-dilemma.

Songs you want to dance to!

2008-03-10T22:21:00.000-07:00

Hi all hafla-goers,

I am compiling list of songs that will be played on the Open Floor Dance session. In short, songs that all of us going to dance after the performances. Of course, those who are dance-floor shy can sit this one out. It's not compulsory! Those who wants to let steam off (post-election tension perhaps ;) ) can dance it off during this session. Of course, be rest assured that only ladies will be present at whole sessions since this is ladies only night!

Therefore, please give suggestions as to what songs you want to dance to, or listen to. Your favourite songs perhaps? It is always fun to dance to/listen to our favourite songs right!. So do drop me an e-mail with a song title and perhaps the mp3 so that I can include it on my compilation.

My e-mail - elwardadance@gmail.com. Keep em coming!

Special thanks for special ladies

2008-03-05T19:29:00.000-08:00

I am truly blessed and thankful for the sponsors that I received from the many wonderful women. Fara from Contessa has generously sponsored her wonderful items for the lucky draw. She is an excellent buyer and entrepreneur with a discerning eyes for exquisite beauty. Now I have more lucky draw gifts to giveaway! She undeniably gotten the generous spirit from her mother, Kasmah, who is also my Chief Decorator.

My 2 Lovely Sisters also helped me by lending her yards and yards of beautiful fabric for me and the decorating team to play with. Thank you Suzi.

What would I do without you guys!

Helping hand for the Chef

2008-03-05T18:54:00.000-08:00

9 more days to the hafla. Am excited, am nervous, am tired. Am a ball of mixture of emotions!

My chief cook is ready and finalising her menus. I did some shopping for the plates and whatnots. Oh, but I need a sous-chef for my chief cook. I need 1 or 2 more person to help with the food preparation. If you are interested in cooking and learning about Middle Eastern food - this is the best time to offer your helping hand!

Tickets Selling Officially Closed

2008-02-28T22:41:00.000-08:00

I could not believe it - I officially need to stop selling tickets now!

I remembered a few weeks ago feeling jittery and nervous whether I am able to pull this off or not, and now - Praise to Almighty, I am able to dust my hands and said, that's all folks!

Thank you for all the interest and support from all the women who bought the ticket, who spread the word around, who help me promoted this event. Small an event as this is, I could not have done it without all of you.

My work is far than done, I now need to concentrate on the actual day's preparation. The decoration, the food, the performance, the games. In a nutshell, no rest for me yet!

Thinking of Desna

2008-02-25T23:45:00.000-08:00

While I was doing research on articles and items I want to share with my hafla participants, I visited Desna's website and read her 2 articles that she wrote on Bellydancing. Reading her words, I came to a greater understanding and realisation of myself as a MED enthusiast and a Teacher of the Dance.

To those who didn't know, Desna is my first belly dancing instructor. I studied under her while I was doing my degree in Lancaster. She introduced me to my first belly dance movement. She trained my inflexible hip and cajoled my impossibly stiff arms to move correctly. She opened a whole new world of music, and movement. She might not know this, but she became my favourite person that I am looking forward to see every week.

But she is not just somebody who trained to me to move, physically. She also trained me mentally by developing my creative instinct while dancing. She does not teach a step-by-step choreography, but rather allow me to find my own way of interpreting the music.

She also instilled in me deep sense of respect for the dance that extended larger to myself. She carried herself well, spoke so intelligently, she portrayed such strong character it made me think; surely - there must be much more to the dance than flimsy harem pants and jingling coin belts!

She developed a higher sense of awareness in my body. She treated all her students with kindness and respect. She looked beyond my headscarf and see me for myself. And I am forever grateful for that.

I can now only hope that I can be half as good as an instructor as she is!

Lessons back-to-back

2008-02-20T18:41:00.000-08:00

Saturday

Usual session at Living Arts Studio. Students are getting better every week. Their fluid movements were done with more control now. I also introduced 1 tribal step that is almost cardio-like when danced continuously! They sure burnt some calories that day!

Sunday

Workshop at Saujana Utama Club, VIP Room. A bunch of ladies from Sungai Buluh requested me to come and teach them a little something. I taught a few basic steps of percussive and fluid movements. They were quite shy and conscious at first, but quickly pick up the pace and were dancing and enjoying themselves with Shakira's Hip Don't Lie' by the end of the workshop! We had a little snack of delicious curry puffs and sandwiches with a pitcher of refreshing orange juice after the workshop while I wait for my trusted cab driver, En. Omar to pick me up.

Monday

Morning session with the 2 lovely sisters. We went over the choreography again and both of them were dancing ever so graceful now. I am so proud of them 2. They were both very hardworking and dedicated, they made my life easy! I introduced to them new move that I learnt in Youtube! An Egyptian twist, which is quite cool, and we were happily
dancing to it in no time at all!

Tuesday

Evening session with the working girls at Maybank. I taught them the dreaded 'lower body camel'/or lower body undulation, only to found that it was not all dreaded with them! Rather than breaking it down to 4 parts like I normally did, I tried to break it down to 2 parts first, and voila! They were able to do it like they've been doing it forever! I probably should consider using this technique more.

Come Wednesday, I was ready to get back on the hafla preparation again. I am still receiving many inquiries for tickets, Praise to Almighty. I am now towards the end of everything, heading towards the decoration phase and the food preparation phase. A few changes need to be done as a result of the change in date. I am learning that unexpected things do happen, and it is up to us to make the best out of it.

NEW Hafla Date

2008-02-17T23:14:00.000-08:00

The NEW hafla date would be:

15th March 2008

Venue: Living Arts Studio, No 1-3, Jalan PJS 8/11, Dataran Mentari, Bandar Sunway, 46150 PJ., Malaysia
Direction: We are opposite Sunway Pyramid. After Caltex Station, turn Left. Go straight and turn right immediately after Shell station. We are above Perodua showroom.
Time: 8.00pm-11.00pm

Tickets are for: RM65
Early bird price (extended to 24th Feb): RM45

After detailed consideration, the hafla is rescheduled to a week after it's initial date. The reason being; some participants need to leave KL for voting purposes. To respect the wish and to provide convenience for women to vote, hence, the decision is made as such. Please e-mail any concerns to elwardadance@gmail.com or directly call me to my mobile.

I apologise for any inconvenience that might arise. Thank you for your understanding.

Announcement: Possible Re-scheduling of Hafla

2008-02-14T04:18:00.000-08:00

Due to the unforeseen circumstances - sudden, last minute and totally-wrecking-my-plan announcement of the election day that falls on the same day as the hafla; 8th March, I might have to re-schedule the hafla.

I have been debating with this since I found out about it this afternoon, and I decided to consider the option of re-scheduling the hafla. For those who already bought the ticket, I apologise beforehand and I will approach you personally to ask about this matter. For those who wants to go, but was 'distracted' by the election, please give me your opinion as well. I know some of you who are really excited about this hafla, however, I need to consider the majority and the overall suitability of the date.

Also please do note that I have been planning this hafla for months, and I have checked and re-checked the suitability of the 8th March date. This election announcement was obviously something that is out of my control.

I am still in consideration stage though, so please, speak to me.

Kindly e-mail your opinion to elwardadance@gmail.com. Tell me whether you wants me to continue the hafla on 8th March, or to reschedule it to some other date. If to reschedule, please suggest the date.

Every little opinion helps, thank you very much for your kind cooperation.

Dazed and Distraughted,
Naziehah

Great Cook, Great Food!

2008-02-13T20:13:00.001-08:00

I finally secured the greatest cook I know in Klang Valley. She is a woman of many talent and one of that is her fabulous cooking. The first time I met her, she prepared a Moroccan-style dinner, and it was so fabulous I kept thinking about it for days!

I can't cook for peanuts, so I was shaking hand and feet thinking about how am I going to deal with the food for the hafla. I thought of her, and wondering perhaps maybe she can help me be my Chief Cook. So I asked her, and she agreed and I am so thankful!

She e-mailed me her list of very impressive menu and my mouth waters just reading about them. The thing that differentiates between a good cook (her) and a hopeless in the kitchen (me) is the former imagination and attention to details. She paid attention to every last ingredients and combinations - something that I can never do. It's also the passion and love for cooking. She just loves to cook so much and you can taste it through the food. That's why, there is no one better to cook, than a person who loves to cook!

However, to get good food, we also need good budget. Thus, do keep buying those tickets so everybody can enjoy great delicious food! ;).

Tickets are selling fast!

2008-02-12T21:51:00.000-08:00

Wow..tickets are selling real fast! Thank you for all kind souls who has been spreading the word, inviting friends and families. I am really thankful for all your support and encouragement and may all of you be blessed with kindness and good fortune always.

For those who are really keen, I urge you to act fast because I might need to put a cap on the number of attendance. Since this is a closed event, the space is rather limited to make sure that people are comfortable and not crammed like sardines.

So come and get your tickets now!

For ticket purchasing, please e-mail elwardadance@gmail.com with name, contact details and number of tickets. Payment can be done via Maybank2U or direct bank-in to my Maybank acc. Kindly e-mail or sms for account no.

Tickets can either be collected at the front door on the hafla day itself or be picked up during my Saturday sessions in Living Arts Studio.

Till then, see all of you there!

What to wear to the Hafla?

2008-02-10T02:15:00.000-08:00

What to wear to the hafla? Or the dress code please?

Ah..the more famous questions that I received from women regarding the hafla.

My answer to that is:

No dress code. You can wear anything. Anything that is comfortable to you and makes you feel and look good. That's all.

You can wear jeans, a long skirt, a baju kurung, a sari - as long as you feel you can sit around for nearly 1 hour (watching the performance) and to dance (totally optional) on our open floor dance session, then - anything goes.

The theme of 'Middle Eastern Medley' still applies for those who want to have some fun accessorising with their outfit. Here a few suggestions:

1) Come wearing a simple scarf tied around your hips. If you have the one with the coins, go ahead wear those! If you don't, no worries - any simple scarf will do. In fact, these is the most aunthentic belly dancing costume ever! ;)

2)For glittery feel, for those who love glitters. Wear those glittery eye-makeup or shimmer dust on your face and your hand for that simple glam. So that, you don't have to wear or (buy) any glittery clothes. If you don't have glittery make-ups ( I don't!) check out the art and craft centre for some glittery stuffs and paste it with mild glue and you are good to go!

3) You know those tribal-looking dangly earrings? That would be good too. It's a very effective look, even for girls with headscarves!

4)For those who loves to come in feminine-looking clothes, opt for a long flowy skirt. You can get really good quality ones at ehemm..The Reject Shop! You know..the extra size ones? This is the trick, buy a larger size, because it is always at a better price - then wear it on your hip! This is what I always do. If it's still too big, then that's what the hipscarves are for! Secure them with your hipscraves tied over them! Ta- daaa -- my secret revealed! ;)

5)Besides The Reject Shop, I also suggests flea-market for great options, those Indian-inspired clothes booth, Colours has some great skirt collections.

6)Shoes - no need to worry about them. We dance barefoot!

Most importantly, just have fun with your outfit. Mix and match things. Dig up old clothes and pair them up with those more recent ones. No rules, no restrictions. Just have fun! For more questions, please e-mail elwardadance@gmail.com

Gong Xi Fa Cai

2008-02-10T02:05:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to All my Chinese friends, and for those who celebrated the New Year! May the new year will bring with it greater happiness and abundance. :D

As a side, I really like the decoration that my neighbour put up on the front of his house. He hangs 2 beautiful red lanterns and he also puts up glittering lights all around his front door. It's light poured into my porch and lightens up the whole house! Now my front porch is also shining with bright glittering red lights! Thank you Mr. and Mrs. Ong! :)

Henna Artist - Nabila

2008-02-07T23:50:00.000-08:00

I have also confirmed the Henna Artist for the Hafla. Her name is Nabila, and guess what? She is also the same Henna Artist for Ning Baizura (the local celebrity), on her recent wedding!

I talked to Nabila on the phone a few days before Ning's wedding, asking her about the arrangements and things like that. I have never met her in person and I have no idea how she looks like.

A few days after, I saw a picture of Ning showing off her henna with the Henna Artist by the side, captioned - 'Nabila'. I wondered to myself, is this the same Nabila that I talked to a few days ago? The 'Nabila' I wanted to hire for my Hafla? Surprise, surprise - as it turned out, she is the same Nabila!

I have a good feeling talking to her on the phone. She seems warm and nice and have good phone manners! It is a double bonus now knowing that she also does celebrity's henna!

Check out the pics of Ning's Henna Night pictures for glimpses of Nabila and her art. Also, do check out Nona this Sunday for the coverage of Ning's Wedding and of course, for Nabila :)

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For tickets please e-mail elwardadance@gmail.com. Grab your Early Bird ticket deals now!

Narmi Jewellery at the Hafla

2008-02-05T01:52:00.000-08:00

It is my aim to also incorporate women artists at my hafla and I am grateful that I manage to gather quite a few!

I will be inviting Mrs. Imran, owner of Narmi Jewellery to showcase her unique hand-made creations at the hafla. Mrs. Imran operates her hand-made jewellery business online with the help of her husband, Mr. Imran. Specialisng in Wire-Wrapped style, her pieces are one of a kind with many interesting twists ( pun intended! ;) ).

I knew her only from her blog. But I was captivated by her beautiful jewellery and thought that wouldn't it be great if she can come and showcase her jewelleries at the hafla? I am so glad that she agreed! She also agreed to sponsor one of her piece as gift for the Lucky Draw!

I just adore this one! And too bad this is already sold!

For more information about this artist. Please visit her website Narmi Jewellery. Bring some extra cash ladies, because these - you don't want to miss!

I am always excited getting to know Women Artist that is also an Entrepreneur. I believe women have immense talent and capability to do more and be more. You just have to trust your gut and do it!

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Hafla - Middle Eastern Medley

Date: 8th March 2008
Venue: Living Arts, Studio, No 1-3, Jalan PJS 8/11, Dataran Mentari, Bandar Sunway, 46150 PJ., Malaysia
Direction: We are opposite Sunway Pyramid. After Caltex Station, turn Left. Go straight and turn right immediately after Shell station. We are above Perodua showroom.
Time: 8.00pm-11.00pm
Tickets are for: RM65
Early bird price (before 15th Feb): RM45
For tickets, please e-mail elwardadance@gmail.com

Hafla - Middle Eastern Medley

2008-01-28T01:59:00.000-08:00

Hafla - Middle Eastern Medley

Date: 8th March 2008
Venue: Living Arts, Studio, No 1-3, Jalan PJS 8/11, Dataran Mentari, Bandar Sunway, 46150 PJ., Malaysia
Direction: We are opposite Sunway Pyramid. After Caltex Station, turn Left. Go straight and turn right immediately after Shell station. We are above Perodua showroom.
Time: 8.00pm-11.00pm

Tickets are for: RM65
Early bird price (before 15th Feb): RM45

A hafla in celebration of women – ‘Middle Eastern Medley’ will feature performances from instructors Naziehah, Huda, guest artists and students. Various Middle Eastern delicacies will be served buffet-style. There will be bazaars lining up choices of eclectic and genuine hand-made and home-made goodies. Henna art and make-over by make-up artist to indulge all your feminine desires! Besides dance performances, we will also have:

Other special treats:
1. FREE Henna art
2. Goodie bags
3. Lucky draws
4. ‘Hip’ Games!

And many more..

Get your tickets now by e-mailing elwardadance@gmail.com with your name, contact details and no. of tickets. Payment methods are via direct bank-in, Maybank2U, or cash directly to Naziehah.

For more information e-mail elwardadance@gmail.com or call Naziehah at 012-9250902

See all of you there!

Love,
Naziehah

Performances ready!

2008-01-28T00:57:00.000-08:00

I am so excited! My trio performance practise with 2 lovely sisters is going on nicely. We have been able to memorise all the formation and sequence. Now is the time to perfect the technical stuff.

Huda has also confirmed that she is going to perform at my hafla. She is one very talented dancer that need no introduction! I am very honoured and pleased she agreed to share with us her delightful piece of tabla solo.

I also am getting another troupe from Subang to perform. Not confirmed on this yet.

I am also going to do another group dance with all my students new and old! It's going to be a really exciting show, gathering them all together.

I have possible singers to sing Arabic songs now!

Performance wise - looking good! ;)

Middle Eastern Medley

2008-01-22T22:26:00.000-08:00

It's a pleasure to annouce that I will be hosting a hafla on the 8th March 2008 at Living Arts Studio, Sunway. The time is 8.00pm-11.00pm. I am calling it a - 'Middle Eastern Medley'!

It's going to be an all-ladies only event (I have nothing against guys, but, us women do need sometime to only be with 'just us' ;) ). It's going to be a rather informal and relaxed event. Therefore, please come in your most comfortable yet creative clothing! The reason I call it 'medley' also is to encourage women to 'mix-it-up'! Do not worry about renting costumes or things like that, remember, comfortable and creative! I'll update tricks and tips to 'mix-it-up' in coming entries to make your mundane everyday clothes into something fabulous!

There will be performances, but not all, dance performances! I am also inviting women artists to come and share their little something with us. So stay tuned for updates! If you knew anybody worth mentioning - please email me at elwardadance@gmail.com.

There will be a delicious mouth-watering feast consisting of various Middle Eastern delicacies. Any of you who loves to cook and would love to share your food with us are most welcomed too.
Also e-mail me at elwardadance@gmail.com.

I will also be needing extra help from any kind souls out there. If you like me and think I am a nice person, please come and work with me. If you don't really like me but think this is something fun that you might want to do, also do come forward. If you are just so bored out of your mind with the routine-ness of your everyday life - now this is the perfect opportunity to spice up your life!. Do e-mail me at elwardadance@gmail.com

I am also looking for sponsorships of any kind. Do talk to me if you feel like you want to contribute. Again, you know how to reach me - elwardadance@gmail.com

Till next entry, thank you very much!

Done with choreography!

2008-01-22T01:04:00.000-08:00

I am done with the choreography and we were practising it all morning. It turns out to be great, and my 2 lovely sisters are geniuses! They picked it up so quick and made it all more the easier. I am grateful!

I am now looking for a female singer who can sing in Arabic. Know anyone?

Choreographing mode

2008-01-17T21:37:00.000-08:00

Choreographing is challenging! Since I am normally always improvising when dancing, choreographing a routine is something that I really need to work on. Even when I was done with one routine, I will always naturally change a bit here and there when I dance. Grrr..
Now I need to choreograph for my first trio piece with the 2 lovely sisters. I am using this song ”Ya Washni’ from ’Cairo Classics’ - Sami Nossair Orchestra. I love all of the tracks they have in the CD, but because this routine I am choreographing is supposed to be an opening act, I need to use a shorter song. The song is 3.08 minutes. So, perfect for opening and also, a perfect warm up for me to get into the choreographing mode.

*putting on the choreographing cap on*

Tarian Timur Tengah. (bukan Tarian 'Gelek', Harap Maklum.)

2008-01-15T04:37:00.000-08:00

Gambar daripada website ini

(entry dalam BM kerana isu ini isu Bahasa Melayu)

Tarian Gelek. Saya memang tak gemar dengan istilah ni. Siapa yea cipta istilah ni. Terima kasih banyak-banyak kerana menjadikan saya rasa sepangkat dengan ayam golek dan ayam tandoori.

Istilah ni memberi maksud dan gambaran yang sangat murah dan selekeh. Sebagaimana kita tak suka diberi gelaran yang murah dan selekeh, begitulah juga saya tak gemar hobi saya diberi gelaran yang berbunyi begini. Kalau ramai juga penggemar Tarian Timur Tengah di barat yang tak suka dengan gelaran 'belly dancing', teruk lagi penangannya dengan pengamal tarian ini yang berbahasa melayu!

Apa ada pada nama? Mungkin ada yang mempersoalkan sedemikian. Pada pendapat saya, segala-galanya! Kita digalakkan untuk memberi nama yangbaik kepada anak, kucing kesayangan, kereta, perniagaan. Jadi kenapa kita kena menerima saja istilah yang sangat kurang enak didengar ini?

Tarian Timur Tengah, adalah tafsiran kepada 'Middle Eastern Dance', yang juga adalah nama yang lebih sesuai bagi 'belly dancing', dalam Bahasa Inggeris. Bukankan istilah ini lebih sedap didengar, lebih senang hati nak disebut, dan tidak memberikan sebarang gambaran yang kurang elok? Hakikatnya, seni tarian ini bukan seperti yang sering digambarkan oleh media. Bukan hanya tentang 'menggelek' (pada hakikatnya saya sendiri tak tahu bagaimanakah rupanya 'menggelek' itu). Ada banyak gerakan yang memerlukan kemahiran dan latihan yang tinggi. Bukan main senang-senang goyang pinggul je. Tak mencabar langsung!

Tarian Timur Tengah adalah satu cabang seni, yang sebagaimana seperti semua cabang seni lain, ada caranya. Ada tertibnya. Ada kemahiran yang harus dipupuk. Dan ada jiwanya. Bukan main suka-suka.

Jadi saya amat geram dan tidak puas hati dengan ada satu iklan di radio yang dengan riang dan gembira menyatakan 'Seronoknya bergelek!'. Rasa macam nak ketuk-ketuk je radio dalam kereta setiap kali iklan tu keluar. Nasib baik itu bukan siaran radio yang selalu saya dengar. Hanya kalau tiba-tiba si Z nak dengar siaran radio tu saja.

Jadi, kalau kita tidak gembira dengan sesuatu. Silalah tukar. Namanya bukan Tarian Gelek. Namanya - Tarian Timur Tengah. Terima kasih.

Private Session at Menara Maybank

2008-01-10T00:06:00.000-08:00

Last Tuesday I went to Menara Maybank to teach a private class to a group of beautiful young lady executives! I have never been to that place before and I am quite excited going to a new place ( and what a very high new place! )

One of the girls has been asking about having a class with me, but due to transportation and location problems, it was delayed until the beginning of this year. They managed to find a place that is convinient for both party. And there I was, teaching them the basic of belly dancing overlooking the KL city.

They all managed to follow the basics pretty well. Despite a few challenging moments with coordination (which is a very, very common challenge for beginner dancer), they seems to be doing excellent. The first class, more often than not, is a time for students to slowly get to know their body, their muscle, and their capability. The most important thing is to work with your body and not against it. To allow the movement to flow naturally and to not force your body to do what it cannot do - just yet! Human body, like all other human ability, grows and change. This process need time and patience. And I am glad these bunch of girls that I taught do understand that principle!

What I really like about these girls is their pro-activeness. They take action in realising what they want. They want to learn belly dancing from me, but cannot come to studio. So what else can I do? Perhaps invite her to come to our place? Get what I mean. Taking action. And not just sitting down weeping over transportation problem. This is the quality that I really like and I really hope to be able to embody everyday in my life.

See, while teaching them, I also 'learn' from them! That's what we sisters do!

Pictures taken from here . This picture made me think of sisterhood and friends. And don't you just love their colourful costume!

Great New Session@LA

2008-01-06T20:15:00.000-08:00

Ooops before I start babbling away, a little announcement - Thursday 7.30-8.30pm session in Living Arts Studio is not starting, yet. I will inform here and those who's personally asked when that session is going to start. Most probably after the Chinese New Year.

Back to the entry. I had my first Satuday session on the 5th of Jan in Living Arts Studio. I was expecting new faces and new students since this is the first session here. Which is correctly expected because I do get many new fresh faces that is very eager to learn. But I was so pleasantly surprised meeting so many of my old students from various places I have taught before! There is no word to describe how thankful and touched I am for all your support all these while.

I started off with the Basic Percussive, the Hip Flicks and the Hip Lifts. Most of the students struggled with the Hip Flicks. Which is not so-surprising because it is one of the movements that need some getting used to. However, most of them did a great Hip Lifts!

I introduced Basic Fluid, the Horizontal 8. Most of them were able to do this nicely. I also introduced them a bit of Snake Arm. Which proved to be quite a challenging movement for most of them.

I then demonstrated a bit of the dance, so that they can see what else that they would be able to learn and do in the future sessions.

I look forward to really teach this batch of students on the proper technique and skills of the dance. To not only be able to dance by counting, but also to dance by feeling. My aim is to make them happy and comfortable dancing on their own, in their own unique way. Most importantly, I wish that they will be happier, healthier and becomes a better person as a whole through the dance.

New Classes at Living Arts Studio 2008

2007-12-17T00:35:00.000-08:00

New Classes at Living Arts Studio

Date: Every Saturday, starting Jan 5th 2008

Time: 4.15-5.15pm

Package Fee: RM120 for 4 sessions.

Drop in Fee: RM35 per session.

Venue: No 1-3, Jalan PJS 8/11, Dataran Mentari, Bandar Sunway, 46150 PJ., Malaysia

Direction: We are opposite Sunway Pyramid. After Caltex Station, turn Left. Go straight and turn right immediately after Shell station. We are above Perodua showroom.

Attire: Work-out attire/ Close-fitting shirt/ Long ankle length skirt

Extra: Small towel (if you sweats easily), hipscarves, or any simple scarf to tie around your hips.

Extra extra!: Most importantly, bring along lots of positive energy and ethusiasm to learn!

What's a Package Fee?:

Package fee is the fee you pay upfront when you want to sign up for a whole 4 consecutive sessions. It will give you savings compared to Drop In fee.

What's a Drop In Fee?:

A Drop In fee is a fee that you pay per session as you come. You can opt for this method if you just want to check out the class for the first time and do not want to commit paying for a whole 4 sessions. Also, you can choose this method if you feel like you cannot commit to coming for 4 whole consecutive session every week.

Will I get refunded if I miss a class after paying Package Fee?:

I am afraid there will be no refund for missing a class. However, you will be given extra 1 class when you sign up for the next Package, to replace your missed class.

For further inquiry kindly email elwardadance@gmail.com. Or book your place by calling 012-925902 Naziehah or Teresa 017 330 7244.

First Workshop in Living Arts Studio, Sunway

2007-12-16T23:48:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday (15th Dec), I did my first belly dancing workshop at the Living Arts Studio, Sunway. It was a 3 hours workshop that span from 6 to 9pm.

Considering it was the end of the year, where most people are not in the most enthusiastic mood to workout/dance, or already off to a holiday, or 'balik kampung' - the turn out was quite good. Not too big, not too small, just the right number to make everybody able to learn comfortably.

I started with the basic, did a few basic choreo, did a few of my goofy belly-dancing jokes (which I don't really mean it as a joke, but people always laugh - so I guess maybe it is a joke!). And that I made them rest while they feasted on the delicious snacks of dates, dried apricots, raisins and pita bread and hommous! Quite a feast I must say ;).

Teresa, the Art Director of Living Arts Studio is a very understanding and tolerant person, accomodating my request for a short break for my prayer since the timing of the workshop is in between 2 prayers time. I started back again fresh with a beyond basic movements, moving on to beyond basic choreo, and more goofy jokes!. I managed to cover all of my workshop plans and to even dance a few short dances showing them different styles of belly dancing! I am quite impressed with my time management this workshop! ;)

The participants were all very keen to learn and pro-active. I love lively participants that asks questions and really engage themselves during workshops. There's nothing more dreadful than a bunch of people staring straight at you like a zombie while you were trying to teach them dance movements! I ironed a few misconceptions they might have heard somewhere about belly dancing - mainly being 'Is it a dance for seduction?'. To which I answer, No, originally. It was meant as a social dance for women. Although of course, it is nothing wrong and in fact a rather healthy thing, to dance for your husband or for your significant other with whom you have a committed relationship with.

I hope they learnt a few new things about belly dancing, had a lot of fun, and continues on enjoying themselves dancing for their own physical and emotional well-being. :)

Tribal Duet with Huda

2007-12-16T23:01:00.000-08:00

This is me and Huda in our own-styled Tribal-ish costume, complete with colourful flowers in our hair and headscarfs, sea-shells studded belts, ethnic insipired jewelleries from Island Shop and Indian Bazaar - posing in front of the very beautiful backdrop at The Dance Space, Ampang after our Tribal Duet performance at the Gala Exotica event/hafla conducted by Paola.

It was a fine and colourful night. I can't really remember the events and the flows of the events anymore mainly because I am not good at recollecting details). If you want a more detailed accounts, you can always go here. She wrote excellent review about the show.

What I remember now though, the overall feel of the night. The dancer's colourful costumes, the beautiful midnight blue and violet drapes that stretch from once corner of the ceiling to the other, the glittering lights, the soft aroma of hommous.

And of course, our performance. I was quite nervous, but am glad to be able to share that nervousness with her. Like people said, shared nervousness lessens the nervousness ( err it's just me who said this ). We danced through our reduced nerves, enjoyed ourselves, hopefully entertained the audience, and ended the performance with hearty claps from the audience.

I then eagerly wait for the open floor dance session and quickly jumped to secure myself a corner and dance myself to the beat of the drums. This is my favourite part of any haflas. To just dance in my own little world of me and the drum beats. As the result, my whole body was drenched in sweat and my make up all ruined and runny - that resulted in less than desirable image in the close-up photos of me.

I have to thank Huda for inviting me to do a duet with her. It was one of the highlights of the year for me, working together with her and ultimately performing my first tribal duet dance.
I am looking forward to more collaborations with Huda for the next year.

I am healthy and am busy

2007-12-11T06:09:00.000-08:00

I am already up and running now. But I also have been quite busy. Hence, the lack of update. I need to update on the Tribal duet, the 'Tarian Timur Tengah' issue (although that you can read it here ).

But most importantly, of this coming workshop! Those who are still considering, want to go, don't want to go, want to go, dont want to go, I say - JUST GO!

But of course I would say that, wouldn't I.

Now here's the real reason. I think this workshop is a great opportunity for women who's looking for something new and interesting to learn for next year. Maybe learning belly-dancing something you want to do/achieve in 2008. Therefore do come and join the workshop on this Saturday 15th Dec at Living Arts Studio.

For more info, email me at elwardadance@gmail.com

What a night!

2007-12-02T21:50:00.000-08:00

I had a lot of fun performing and dancing last night I am now coming down with a runny nose and fever. My body so manja, that's why I am not a party girl ;).

I'll update more on the event later when I got my pics from Huda.

Until then, I am going to nurse this flu away..

The Huda Experience

2007-11-29T02:15:00.000-08:00

I have been working with this wonderful girl, Huda, for the past few weeks for our Tribal Duet performance on the Gala Concert 2nd Dec.

What started off for me as something to fill my time in between things have turned out into something really great! I had a lot of fun practising and dancing with her. We did a looot of talking too. In fact I think we did more talking than dancing!

We had fun coming up with our own version of tribal look. After short brain-storming session, we managed to come up with something pretty convincing without bruising our purse too much. Now that's what we call dancing economically ;).

Our collaboration gelled marvellously. Coming from pretty similar belly dancing background, we were able to work well together. Huda is the master choreographer of the routine and what a master she is! Having a very sharp sense of rythm, she was able to come up with pretty impressive material in just one day. It's something I know I would struggle to do!

What's great working with is that she inspired me to push over my comfort zone and started working on a more complex choreography. All my choreography, or non-choreography was pretty simple. Mainly because I normally dance by improvisation or what I call as 'dance-by-ear' (if there's such thing! :P). Choreographing skills is something that I need to work on. Thanks to Huda, I am now able to step out of my too-comfortable zone and work harder.

For dancers or would-be dancers who has never done any lessons with her, I recommend you to contact her for lessons. Skilfull and original, you can never get anyone better than that!

A very tiny Huda pose!

Great article

2007-11-26T21:45:00.000-08:00

Great article about belly dancing and Middle Eastern values and Islam. Do take your time and read this marvellous piece.

Featured in Racialicious and Muslimah Media Watch. Article by Fatemeh Fakhraie.

"It’s time to set the record straight, everyone. So here it is: belly dancing is not a significant facet of Middle Eastern culture. It’s a dance, not a lifestyle (not according to most Middle Eastern people, anyway).

I’ve had one too many people ask me if I belly dance when they hear about my religion or ethnicity. Belly dancing is something that is present in some form of another in most Middle Eastern cultures, but is not really a part of our identity. And I assure you, nowhere in the Holy Qur’an does it say, “Thou shalt belly dance.” But because of Hollywood’s old Orientalist glamour, images of belly dancing have become almost synonymous with the Middle East.

I can’t help but get irritated when someone assumes that s/he and I automatically have something in common because s/he belly dances. The truth of a real-live Middle Eastern woman belly dancing seems to validate all those silly images that come into one’s head about spangly costumes and the Dance of the Seven Veils. Belly dancing has a host of sexualized and savage images attached to it, and if Middle Eastern/Muslim women confess to belly dancing (for exercise, as a career, for fun, or whatever), those images get attached to us, and we no longer have individual thoughts or lifestyles. We don’t take care of our parents or our children, we don’t have jobs or have opinions about health care reform, we just belly dance. Like it’s all we do, all day. This is why it’s insulting when someone thinks s/he knows what it’s like to be a Middle Eastern/Muslim woman because s/he’s taken a belly dancing class or read a book about it. The image of a Middle Eastern woman belly dancing seems to take away from our identity: it erases who we really are, our different nationalities and ethnicities, our emotions, our day-to-day existence.

Now, let me assure you: my problem isn’t with the dance itself. Belly dancing is a great way to connect with one’s sensuality, to exercise, and to appreciate the body that God gave you. Nor is my problem with non-Middle Eastern women (or men) belly dancing (or with Middle Eastern people dancing).

What bothers me is the adoption of a caricatured Middle Eastern identity through coin-bedazzled bras and Middle Eastern stage names like “Amina” or “Vashti.” If you’re a non-Middle Eastern performer, why give yourself a Middle Eastern stage name? What’s wrong with a name that reflects your own ethnicity or interests? Is it not “ethnic” or “exotic” enough? Besides, how would you feel if someone else used the name your parents gave you (that perhaps also belonged to your grandmother or aunt) as a stage name for an act that most people in your culture consider shameful if done publicly? (Cultural lesson: in most parts of the Middle East, belly dancing is often a cover for illicit activities.)

Similarly, dance troupe names like “Desert Queens” or “Daughters of Scheherazade” serve the same exoticizing purpose when these troupes are full of non-Middle Eastern women set in a non-Middle Eastern setting (like Austin, Texas, for example, which hosted a Belly Dancing Convention last July).

I take offense at the presentation of Middle Eastern “culture” through things like transparent veils, coin necklaces, and henna tattoos because reducing the Middle Eastern experience to some jingly coins and a scimitar takes the humanity right out of us. Elements of Middle Eastern/Muslim stereotypes are irreparably attached to the use of swords, snakes, and veils. These props serve to reinforce the idea of Muslim/Middle Eastern women as dangerous, sexually arousing, sexually submissive, and just plain different from women in the West.
Performers (Middle Eastern or non-Middle Eastern) highlight these images when they (Middle Eastern or non-Middle Eastern) balance swords on their heads and give themselves henna tattoos. The inclusion of these props is often used to authenticate a Middle Eastern experience, making the performance or venue more like the “Mysterious Orient,” in which Middle Eastern women are acquiescing sexual props and Middle Eastern men are brutal and dangerous.

Why is this acceptable? These practices (other than henna for holidays and weddings) aren’t even Middle Eastern: Egyptian performers borrowed the ideas for these spangly suits from Hollywood in the early twentieth century. And no Middle Easterner just walks around all day with a sword perched atop her head. Belly dancing doesn’t even traditionally show off the stomach: a scarf is tied around one’s hips (over regular, concealing clothing) to emphasize the movements. So how did we get to sparkly bras and coin jewelry?!

Because sex sells! Early colonial performers knew what their (often Western or male) audiences wanted to see: sexuality. A pretty girl dancing sensually for the male gaze. Using veils in performances reiterates this: sashaying a veil under one’s heavily-painted eyes is done to entice and enchant, and is associated with the traditional face veils that upper-class (and thus inaccessible) Turkish, Egyptian, and Iranian women used to wear before (or during) colonization.

The problem is that belly dancing is permeated with all of these negative Orientalist dancing harem girl images. Can one belly dance without the coins, the henna, and/or swords? I think so. A long time ago, it was all about the scarf tied around the hips. It’s not flashy, but it’s sincere."

NEW Workshop in Living Arts Studio, Sunway

2007-11-13T17:59:00.000-08:00

NEW Workshop in Living Arts Studio, Sunway!

Date: Dec 15, 2007
Venue: Living Arts ,No 1-3, Jalan PJS 8/11, Dataran Mentari, Bandar Sunway, 46150 PJ., Malaysia
Time: 6pm-9pm
Fee: RM99

What? :
I will be teaching the basic belly dancing moves and techniques. How to relax your body and let go of your stress through the graceful movements of belly dancing. Expect to learn great new things about yourself and be amazed at all wonderful movements that you can do with your body!

Who? :
1. Suitable for people with no dancing background and has never done belly dancing before to dancers who's done a few classes (beginners).
2. People who wants to learn new ways of exercising.
3. Dancers who wants to add basic belly dancing moves to their portfolios.

Do book your place now by e-mailing me at elwardadance@gmail.com!

Love,
Naziehah

The 2 sisters

2007-11-05T20:29:00.000-08:00

I am happy watching the 2 sisters grow and bloom with their dancing. From zero background, they progressed quickly and effortlessly into these 2 beautiful dancers.

They came to me a few months ago, naive and wide-eyed, but full of optimism and drive to learn. They faced many challenges along the way, with movements that they think might be too difficult to master. Although at times they seemed defeated, they never once gave up and they keep coming back with new enthusiasm to conquer things that they found difficult initially. They always succeed, time and time again.

I hope they will take that into their everyday life as well. To learn and to know that nothing is too impossible for them. No matter how difficult things may be at times, if they persevere, they will always rise higher. Everytime.

Thank you 2 beautiful sisters for allowing me to grow with both of you. They have become more than students. They have become my friends, my confidantes, my teachers.

New sessions at new places

2007-11-04T23:07:00.000-08:00

I am pretty excited because I will be starting 2 new sessions at 2 new places soon!

Yesterday's meeting went well with this very passionate studio owner. She's so dedicated and hardworking it makes me reflect on myself too. I should be more hardworking!

In pursuing the road to hard-workingness, I am going to put all my energy into promoting and spreading awareness on these 2 sessions I am working on.

At the moment, I'll keep it hush-hush first. But watch out for new things to come!

Why we dance: Personally

2007-10-28T22:54:00.000-07:00

Why do our feet taps when we listen to jazzy music? Why do our head bops when we listen to that hip hop number? Why do our hips can't help but sway to the rhythm of the Nile?

Why do we move our body to the music..and dance?

Most people says that women loves dancing. It's just natural for women to pick up a tempo and sway their body to the music. While men on the other hand, were the stiffer sex ( no pun intended ;) ). Thus it's common for people to believe that dancing is a bit more 'feminine' activities. I am not sure how much of this is true. Because we obviously have Justine Timberlake and Usher to prove that there are men who were great dancers. ( I am obviously picking icons from my generation! ). Also, with the emergence of reality TV shows like Malaysia's Akademi Fantasia and of course, So You Think You Can Dance that is also now made available to Malaysian dancers - we were seeing more and more male dancers proudly dancing. For me personally, it's completely natural for both women and men to dance. There were many types of dance that appealed to both sex hence there were no reason why men should shy away and claimed dancing as 'feminine'. Ultimately, dancing is a form of appreciating your body abililty to move and create a movement.

So it the personality type? Maybe the more extroverts are the one who dance? The more 'artsy' type? The more sensitive, romantic type? I guess looking at the personality description, these are the ones who most likely be dancing on the dance floor. Shy people do not like dancing because they do not like to attact attention to themselves. But we came across many time, over and over again, the quiet type who dance like an angel. ( Danny from Season 3 of SYTYCD is one of the example ). I also known for a fact that there were many professionals such as laywers and accountants that were also a dancer. Surely we associate professionals with a seriousness and of course, with being brainy. I also know a lot of jocks and jerks ( non-sensitive guys ) who can dance very well. Thus, there were no clear definition when it comes to personality type.

Geeks can't dance! Well, this is statement is somewhat true ( just because I have personal experience with this! ;)). But I guess it's not fair to generalise that geeks can't dance or in fact to even categorise certain people as geeky just because they like computers and information. So, I would try and be as non-generalising as possible. Maybe more often than not, people who are inclined to computers are also less co-ordinated in their movement. Maybe it's due to the substantial hours they spent sitting in one spot. People who tends to analyse a lot ( more than average people ), have less natural rythm in their body. Hence, making them a not-so-good-dancer. Maybe it's because too much of their energy and attention were focused on the brain region, hence making them a bit challenged in physical and body movement department.

People dance for many different reasons. Some dance because they love listening to the music. Some because to them, moving their body to sounds of music makes them feel better. Soothes them. Others because it's good workout for them. Some others because that's the way they express themselves. Another some because it's an excellent way to channel their energy. Many reasons, same results. Dancing.

Most common, and expected reason is - because it makes them happy. Although some people were unfortunate to have to dance because it was imposed on them, most people that sticks to dancing their whole life do it because it's what the like to do and it makes them happy.

( from Goddess BellyDance )

For me, the more I dance and I learn about dancing, I found that I am able to appreciate it in many different levels. I love that I can create something from dancing. I love that peaceful feeling I got when moving myself to music. I am able to be in the present and just concentrate on the flow of the movement and nothing else. I also get to learn a lot about my body and how my muscle moves. The other day, the hubby got me this vcd "Anatomy for beginners", where this German doctor disect a deceased human body ( an organ donor for purpose of education ) in front of a live audience. He was explaining about how the hand was moved by a muscle before that part. For example, the fingers were moved by muscles on the hand, the hand was moved by the muscle in the lower arm, the lower arm is moved by the muscle in the upper arm and the upper arm is moved by the muscle in the shoulder and upper back! He even shows an experiment of the mechanism via the body's hand which is so cool! It made me think of the snake-arm movement that I do when dancing. Because I have been doing that movements so many time before, I can really understand and appreciate the explanation of the German's doctor. It is exactl like that! It made me feel so grateful that I have a healthy functioning body and that I am able to move my body gracefully. It humbled me how brilliant Our Creator is in creating such complex and wonderful us! How funny that by dancing, I am much more interested and am able to relate better with science of the human anatomy!

So, in a way I am kinda geeky dancer ;).

Bukit Jelutong classes - NOT YET!

2007-10-25T20:22:00.000-07:00

Hi people,

Due to 'Raya fever' I am still not going to start the class in Bukit Jelutong tomorrow 27th Oct. I will announce as soon as possible.

Till then, Selamat Ber-Open House ( grrr :P )

Workshop in a Bookstore!

2007-10-22T03:48:00.000-07:00

I had my first workshop in a bookstore a few weeks ago. When I was approached with the opportunity I just couldn't resist. The combination of my 2 favourite things -Bellydancing and Books!

Me: Bla bla..history..bla bla..benefit..bla bla..it's fun too!..bla bla..self-esteem..bla bla..NOT SLEAZY AT ALL!
( I got the chance to chatter a bit more than usual - since it's a bookstore..and to use that nifty headphone thingy! )

Everybody seems to be concentrating hard despite the usual 'malu-malu' first-timer reaction. I use my power of persuasion to the max to convert side-lookers to join. Malaysians are rreeeaaally2 a shy bunch!

Now who says we need to bare our belly to dance?

and..

Who says we don't read?

Belly Dancing Workshop at Times Bookstore, Pavillion KL

2007-10-04T22:14:00.000-07:00

I'll be doing a Belly Dancing Workshop at Times Bookstore, Pavillion KL on 7th October 2007 at 3.30pm-5.30pm. I am an avid reader and most of my free time is spent at bookstores so, the opportunity to do a workshop in a bookstore is something I just wouldn't pass!

Do come and join me for an afternoon of shimmies at Times Bookstore, Pavillion KL!

Love,
Naziehah

Belly Dancing Class at Seri Badan Centre, Bukit Jelutong

2007-10-03T22:44:00.001-07:00

I am going to have my first regular Belly Dancing Class at Seri Badan Centre, Bukit Jelutong starting 27th October 2007.

I have been there twice before doing workshops and I am so excited to be doing regular classes there now.

The fees and class structures are still under 'construction' but what I can reveal is that there is going to be a treat for everybody! ;)

A Full Sunday!

2007-09-30T20:08:00.000-07:00

I had a rather productive and a full Sunday yesterday!

I started they day with a personal session with this sweet Miss Jaja from Shah Alam. We covered the whole basic percussive and fluid moves in one session because she is just so talented! She picks up the movement quick and is very keen to learn. There's nothing a teacher like best than a student who's keen to learn! We had a lot of fun and I hope that I have recruited a new belly dance enthusiasts ;)

After my breaking fast, I had another session of belly dancing. It's a group session with 4 gorgeous ladies. 1 of them has done belly dancing before but the 3 of them were complete beginners. It is a sort of 'farewell-get-together-class' because one of the girls is leaving to East Malaysia for work . I am honestly touched at this lady's sweet gestures for her friend. This is what I like most about girls, they are very thoughtful and sweet. Make peace, not war is our motto ;).Anyway...we managed to go through the basic percussive and horizontal 8. It's always great to have a group of ladies learning together because it will always be a jovial noisy event! It is also interesting looking at how differently each ladies interpret the music and executing the movement.

Although by the end of the day I am so knackered I am practically crawling to bed, I am always happy knowing that I am able to do my best in what I really like. I am also thankful for a healthy body, an able mind, and a competent social skill that enables me to connect and make friends with all the ladies that comes and learn with me.