Contact

THIS MONTH (APRIL)
---------------------
* Ammala at the Hopkins Center for the Arts--May 7
* Spotlight: Guild of Oriental Dance
* Belly Dance & Weight Loss--Featured Articles
* On the Beaded Fringe II--Dates and Other News!
* Open Stage: Re-cap and Thank Yous
* Where to See Ammala performers: April
* Dance Classes--Spring and Summer Sessions
* Subscribing and Unsubscribing

-----------------------------------------
AMMALA AT THE HOPKINS CENTER FOR THE ARTS
-----------------------------------------
Join Ammala Dance & Music and other performers for a special Evening of Dance,
presented as part of the Hopkins Center for the Arts Edge Coffee House Performance
Series.

WHEN:
Friday, May 7, 2004
Doors open at 7, show begins at 7:30

TICKETS: $8 general admission, $6 students, senior and HCA members. Tickets are
available at the door only, so arrive early for good seats.

Hopkins Center for the Arts
1111 Main Street, Hopkins
952-979-1100

Ammala will perform popular fusion, comedic and folkloric pieces from it's 2003
summer show, and will preview work from its upcoming 2004 show, "On the Beaded
Fringe II: Traveling in Hip Circles.

The Hopkins Center for the Arts Edge Coffee House series features talented, emerging
artists in an intimate theater setting. The Center's black box theater is transformed
into a hip bistro, complete with coffee bar, a three-act floor show and open mic
following the show.

Also featured in the May 7 Evening of Dance: April Sellers Dance Company, and Ray
Terrill and Dancers.

-------------------------------------
SPOTLIGHT: GUILD OF ORIENTAL DANCE
-------------------------------------
Ammala Dance & Music members are proud to support the Guild of Oriental Dance.
This organization seeks to promote the Middle Eastern dance arts and build community
in the Twin Cities area.

The Guild is a great resource for students, amateurs and professionals. In addition
to helping build camaraderie among dancers, the Guild provides a bi-monthly newsletter,
performance opportunities, information about classes, events and activities in the
Twin Cities Middle Eastern dance and music communities, and special events throughout
the year. Though their main focus is dance, the Guild also has a growing musician
membership. Membership dues are extremely reasonable. To learn more, visit the Guild
at www.guildoforientaldance.org.

In April, the Guild produces its Annual Show, featuring member performers of all
levels and backgrounds. This year's show, "An Arabian Odyssey", runs for
three shows. Each of the three shows is completely different, featuring a unique
line-up of performers.

THE GUILD OF ORIENTAL DANCE 16th ANNUAL SHOW, 2004
AN ARABIAN ODYSSEY
Friday, April 23, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, April 24, 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, April 25, 2:30 p.m.

Tickets are $6, available by advance sales through April 16. (Note: these shows
sell out, so reserve your tickets soon!)
http://www.guildoforientaldance.org/ticketsales.htm

(To see what shows Ammala performers are scheduled, see the section of this newsletter
titled "Where to See Ammala Performers this Month".)

--------------------------------------------
BELLY DANCE & WEIGHT LOSS--FEATURED ARTICLES
--------------------------------------------
Though belly dance is a wonderful, beautiful form for all body types, one of the
most common questions instructors hear is "will the dance help me lose weight?"
In this article, Shira discusses belly dance and its role in weight loss.

http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/6072/41923

---------------------------------------------
ON THE BEADED FRINGE II â?� DATES & OTHER NEWS!
---------------------------------------------
Ammala returns to the Minnesota Fringe Festival for its 2004 summer show:

ON THE BEADED FRINGE II: TRAVELING IN HIP CIRCLES

Show Times:
* Saturday, August 7, 7 p.m.
* Monday, August 9, 5:30 p.m.
* Tuesday, August 10, 8:30 p.m.
* Friday, August 13, 8:30 p.m.
* Saturday, August 14, 7 p.m.

In the Heart of the Beast Theatre
1500 Lake Street, Minneapolis

Tickets: $12 general admission (Check out www.fringefestival.org for information
about discounts.)

Experience an urban ethnofusion dance and music extravaganza. Creative, original
works that traditional Middle Eastern dance and music themes with jazz, pop, modern
dance, latin dance, experimental theater and more. It's a fresh take on the art
of "belly dance", delivered with dramatic flair and a healthy dose of
humor.

GET INVOLVED!
Putting on a production this size takes a lot of work, and every little bit of help
makes a huge difference. Think you might like to help? Email leslie@ammala.com or
call us at 612-703-7002 to learn more. Some places we can use help:

* Costume/prop design and construction
* Stage and load in crew
* Box office staff
* Mailing preparation
* Sponsorship assistance

-------------------------------
OPEN STAGE: RECAP & THANK YOUS
-------------------------------
On March 21, Ammala held its second open stage and Betsy's Back Porch. The evening
was a success--13 acts performed, and the house was packed! Response was so strong
that we're currently looking for a bigger venue for our next Open Stage event.

The March 21 line-up included:
Amara (Ammala member)
Mirah's Level II Class (Burnsville)
Zuza (Valerie)
Angela and Shuyen with Nadia
Mahira (Staci)
Greg Herriges (bouzouki)
Sahira (Rose)
Afrita (Ammala member)
Dave & Hung (drum solo--Ammala members)
Kristina (Ammala member)
Aliye (Ammala member)
Mirah (Ammala member)
Khalila (Jawaahir member)

The Ancient Sonic Libido percussion ensemble then played for open dancing.

We want to extend a special thanks to everyone who helped make the event possible--all
the performers, people who helped with set-up and clean up, those who attended,
and, of course, the wonderful staff at Betsy's. Thank you!

----------------------------------------
WHERE TO SEE AMMALA PERFORMERS: APRIL
----------------------------------------
FRIDAY APRIL 2
--------------
MIRAH performs
Beirut Restaurant
1385 S. Robert St., West St. Paul
651-457-4886
Show time: 8 p.m.

ALIYE performs
Mediterranean Cruise Restaurant
3945 Sibley Memorial Highway, Eagan
651-452-5991
Alternating shows with Melanie, 7-10 p.m.

SATURDAY, APRIL 3
-----------------
ZAREEN performs
El Bustan Restaurant
4755 Central Ave. NE, Columbia Heights
763-502-8888
Alternating shows with Amina, 9-11 p.m.

MIRAH performs
Jerusalem Restaurant
1518 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis
612-871-8883
Show times: 7:30 and 9:00 p.m.

KRISTINA and ALIYE perform
Mediterranean Cruise Restaurant
Alternating shows, 7-10 p.m.

SUNDAY, APRIL 4
---------------
ALIYE performs
Santorini Restaurant
9920 Wayzata Blvd., St. Louis Park
763-546-6722
Show time: 7 p.m.

THURSDAY, APRIL 8
-----------------
ALIYE performs
Mediterranean Cruise Restaurant
Show times: 7:00 and 8:30 p.m.

FRIDAY, APRIL 9
---------------
KRISTINA performs
Mediterranean Cruise Restaurant
Alternating shows with Cheryl, 7-10 p.m.

SATURDAY, APRIL 10
------------------
MIRAH performs
Beirut Restaurant
Show time: 8 p.m.

ZAREEN performs
El Bustan Restaurant
Alternating shows with Qetesh, 9-11 p.m.

APRIL 10 & 12
-------------
Open Dancer Auditions for Ammala's 2004 Summer Show.
Ammala is looking for male and female dancers for roles in our 2004 summer show,
"On the Beaded Fringe II". We seek people with great attitudes who know
how to move and share our love of the dance!

DATES & LOCATIONS:
Saturday, April 10, 2 p.m.,
Intermedia Arts Theater
2822 Lyndale Avenue S., Minneapolis

Monday, April 12, 8 p.m.
Jawaahir Dance Company Studio
East room (Studio Big Room)
1940 Hennepin Ave. S., Minneapolis

(By appointment--please call ahead)

Call 612-703-7002 or e-mail auditions@ammala.com to schedule an audition appointment.

FRIDAY, APRIL 16
----------------
MIRAH performs
Mediterranean Cruise Restaurant
Alternating shows with Cheryl, 7-10 p.m.

APRIL 16 & 17
-------------
Ammala Middle Eastern Dance performs
with Amaya, Margo and other regional artists in Margo Abdo O'Dell's Tapestry of
Dance III.
Old Arizona Theatre
2821 Nicollet Ave. S., Minneapolis
8 p.m.

SUNDAY, APRIL 18
----------------
Kristina, Aliye, Amara & Mirah perform with other dancers in an open stage party
at Mediterranean Cruise restaurant.
6:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, APRIL 22
------------------
KRISTINA performs
Mediterranean Cruise Restaurant
Show times: 7:00 and 8:30 p.m.

FRIDAY, APRIL 23
----------------
ZAREEN performs
El Bustan Restaurant
Shows begin at 8 p.m.

APRIL 23-25
-----------
GUILD OF ORIENTAL DANCE ANNUAL SHOW
Three shows, three different line-ups featuring Guild of Oriental Dance members
and member groups.
JDC Studio Theater
1940 Hennepin Ave. S., Minneapolis
Tickets: $6
Visit www.guildoforientaldance.org/april.htm for ticket sales information.

WHEN AMMALA PERFORMERS ARE SCHEDULED:
Friday, April 23, 7:30 p.m. show
*   Amara's Solo
*   Aliye's Solo

Saturday, April 24, 7:30 p.m. show
*   Kristina's Solo
*   Melinda's Solo

Sunday, April 25, 2:30 p.m. show
*   Ancient Sonic Libido performs "Dancing Drums for Doumbechestra"
*   Ammala Dancers perform "Rumble", the hit finale from Ammala's 2003
summer show.
*   Mirah's Solo

(PLEASE NOTE--these shows sell out quickly. The Sunday show is expected to sell
out particularly fast, as several popular acts are performing, including master
dancer, Cassandra. Reserve your tickets right away!)

SATURDAY, APRIL 24
------------------
ALIYE performs
Beirut Restaurant
Show time: 8 p.m.

THURSDAY, APRIL 29
------------------
KRISTINA performs
Mediterranean Cruise Restaurant
Show times: 7 and 8:30 p.m.

FRIDAY, APRIL 30
----------------
ALIYE performs
Mediterranean Cruise Restaurant
Noon lunch show
Alternating shows with Tara, 7-10 p.m.

SATURDAY, MAY 1
---------------
ALIYE performs
Beirut Restaurant
Show time: 8 p.m.

MIRAH performs
Mediterranean Cruise Restaurant
Alternating shows with Amina, 7-10 p.m.

-------------------------------------
DANCE CLASSES
-------------------------------------
Ammala dancers Mirah, Aliye, Zareen, Melinda, Amara and Afrita offer belly dancing
classes at various locations around the Twin Cities. Spring session classes begin
in March and April, but session dates, length and pricing may vary by location.
A summer mini-session is available at Burnsville-Eagan-Savage as well. Check full
session postings at www.ammala.com.

SPRING LOCATIONS:
-----------------
* Minneapolis-Downtown/Uptown (Mixed Level)
* Minneapolis-SW/Washburn (Level I)
* Anoka (Level I)
* Burnsville-Eagan-Savage (Levels I & II)
* Eden Prairie (Levels I & II)
* Minnetonka Beach (Mixed Level)
* West St. Paul-Mendota-Inver Grove (Level I)
* White Bear Lake2 Locations (Level I)

MINNEAPOLIS DOWNTOWN/UPTOWN
Minneapolis Community and Technical College (MCTC)
1501 Hennepin Ave. S.
http://db.mctc.mnscu.edu/cect/arts_enrichment.cfm
or call 612-659-6500

Spring Session: 4/8 - 5/13 (6 weeks, Thursdays 6:30-8:00)
     Mixed Level with Mirah & Maya (CANCELLED)

MINNEAPOLIS SW/WASHBURN
Washburn Community Education
201 W. 49th St., Minneapolis
www.mpls.k12.mn.us/commed/
612-668-3450

Spring Session: Begins in April (7 weeks, Tuesdays 6:00-7:30)
      Level I with Afrita

ANOKA
Anoka Community Education
2727 Ferry street North,
www.anoka.k12.mn.us under Community Ed.

Spring Session: 4/22 - 5/27 (6 weeks, Thursdays 6:45-8:00)
     Level I with Amara

BURNSVILLE-EAGAN-SAVAGE
Burnsville-Eagan-Savage Community Ed.
308 W. Burnsville Pkwy. Burnsville
http://www.communityed191.org/
952-707-4141 (registration hotline)
952-707-4100 (information)

Spring Session: 3/31 - 5/19 (8 weeks, Wednesdays, Level I: 6:15-7:45, Level II:
8:00-9:30)
     Levels I & II with Mirah

SUMMER MINI SESSION: Middle Eastern Dance Topics Class, June 2 - 23. Four classes,
each covering a different topic or technique area. (Topics below--more details coming
in May "Shaken Not Stirred.)
* June 2: Veil Work
* June 9: Appreciating and Interpreting the Music
* June 16: Dances Of the Middle East
* June 23: Performance Skills

EDEN PRAIRIE
Eden Prairie Community Education
8040 Mitchell Rd., Eden Prairie
http://www.edenpr.org/comed/adult/fitness.html
952-975-6940

Spring Session: 4/15 - 6/3 (8 weeks, Thursdays, Level I: 6:15-7:45, Level II: 8:00-9:30)
     Levels I & II with Zareen

LAKEVILLE
Lakeville Community Ed.
8670 210th St. W., Lakeville
http://www.ce.isd194.k12.mn.us/resource1.htm
Nancy Skaro, 952-469-7115

No Spring Session class

MINNETONKA BEACH
St. Martins-by-the-Lake Episcopal Church
County Rd. 15 & Westwood Rd.
Melinda, 952-471-8429

Continuous, ongoing session; open enrollment. Call for information.
     Mixed Level with Melinda

WEST ST. PAUL--MENDOTA
West St. Paul-Mendota-Eagan Community Ed.
121 West Butler Ave., West. St. Paul
http://www.comed.isd197.org
651-681-2389

Spring Session:4/22 - 5/27 (6 weeks, Thursdays, 6:30-8:00, 8:00-9:30)
     Level I with Aliye

WHITE BEAR LAKE
White Bear Lake Racquet and Swim club
4800 White Bear Parkway
http://www.wbfit.com
651-426-1308

Spring Session: 3/10 - 4/14 (6 weeks, Wednesdays)
     Level I with Aliye

2nd location in White Bear Lake!
White Bear Area Schools Community Services & Recreation
Sports Center, 1328 Highway 96, White Bear Lake
http://www.whitebear.k12.mn.us/community
651-407-7507

Spring Session: 4/21 - 5/26 (6 weeks, Wednesdays)
      Level I with Aliye

-------------------------
SUBSCRIBING/UNSUBSCRIBING
-------------------------
If you would like to subscribe to "Shaken Not Stirred", please send a
message to news@ammala.com. We send approximately one mailing a month, and we do
not share our mailing list with other people or organizations.

If you wish to stop receiving Ammala's "Shaken Not Stirred" monthly message,
just send a message with the subject line "Unsubscribe" to news@ammala.com
and we will remove you from our mailing.

-------------------------------
To contact Ammala Dance and Music or the "Shaken, Not Stirred" editors:
E-mail: mirah@ammala.com
Phone: 612-703-7002

March 2004

THIS MONTH (MARCH)

---------------------

* A Message from the Editor

* Open Stage Dance and Music March 21

* Auditions: Ammala Seeks Dancers for Upcoming Show

* Pregnancy and Belly Dance--Featured Articles

* Where to See Ammala performers: March

* Other Upcoming Performances and Events

* Dance Classes--Spring Session Starts Soon

* Subscribing and Unsubscribing

-------------------------

A MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR

-------------------------

Hello!

I hope you are all enjoying the slow warming trend (with typical Mid-western setbacks...) that heralds the upcoming arrival of spring in our land of frozen tundra!

With the new spring season comes a whole host of exciting feelings and opportunities. This excitement and sense new life extends to Ammala and the work we're doing as well. It's been a winter of hard work, and we've got a very exciting spring through fall season ahead--we can't wait to share it with all of you!

So what kind of the excitement is yet to come? Well, first, spring classes start in just a few weeks. We love the start of a new session--it's a great time for us to meet new faces and admire how our current students have grown in the dance. For the students, spring is a great time to get out, meet new friends and prepare for the upcoming summer season (with all it's physical activity and leg-baring fashions!) Also, our own dancers are seeking new learning opportunities; over the next two months, many of our dancers will attend special intensive workshops with Cassandra, Sohaila, Bozenka and the Egyptian star, Dina.

Second, this April we're auditioning dancers for our upcoming summer show. We're really looking forward to this show and to the opportunity to meet and work with new artists. Think you might be interested (or know someone who would be)? Be sure to check out the audition information below.

Third, we've scheduled several exciting performances this spring and summer. From Margo's Tapestry of Dance III, through the Hopkins Center for the Arts Edge Series, "On the Beaded Fringe II", Open Stage parties and other performances, we have a fun and busy schedule in the months ahead.

Finally, Ammala is pleased to announce we are sponsoring our first full-weekend

workshop with guest artist, Tamalyn Dallal, this October 2 & 3. Tamalyn's workshop will span the Saturday and Sunday. A Saturday evening performance will feature Tamalyn, Ammala and other guest performers. Be sure to watch for updates in upcoming issues of "Shaken Not Stirred" or on our web site at www.ammala.com.

On behalf of the Ammala directors and members, thank you for your ongoing support. We couldn't do it without you!

Best wishes for a happy spring season!

-----------------------------------------

OPEN STAGE MIDDLE EASTERN NIGHT: MARCH 21

-----------------------------------------

Ammala Dance & Music and Betsy's Back Porch Present

MIDDLE EASTERN NIGHT AT THE BACK PORCH

OPEN STAGE DANCE AND MUSIC PARTY

Sunday, March 21

7-9 p.m.

Back by popular demand, Ammala and Betsy's Back Porch Cafe once again sponsor an evening of Middle Eastern dance, music and fun featuring student, hobbyist and professional performers. Come watch and participate at this warm, homey South Minneapolis cafe. Live drumming and open dancing to follow the show. All welcome.

Betsy's Back Porch Cafe

5447 Nicollet Avenue (Just off 35W at the Diamond Lake Road exit)

Minneapolis, MN

612-827-8283

Interested in performing? E-mail Mirah at mirah@ammala.com or call 612-703-7002

to sign up.

There is no fee for admission but donations are gladly accepted. Proceeds go to

sponsor future events like these, as well as other future programs and performances.

--------------------------------------------

AUDITIONS: DANCERS FOR AMMALA'S SUMMER SHOW!

--------------------------------------------

April 10 & 12

Open Dancer Auditions for Ammala's 2004 Summer Show.

Ammala is looking for dancers (one male, several female) to fill dancer roles and alternate positions in our 2004 summer show, "On the Beaded Fringe II".

We seek dancers with good moves, great attitudes and a love of the dance!

Dates: Saturday, April 10, 2 p.m.,

Monday, April 12, 8 p.m.

(By appointment--please call ahead)

Location: Jawaahir Dance Company Studio

East room (2nd floor Pilates room)

1940 Hennepin Ave. S., Minneapolis

Bring a short (3 minute maximum) solo piece to perform. You will also learn short bits of choreography from the Ammala repertoire and dance them with a group.

(Last year, Ammala's "On the Beaded Fringe" show ranked in the top 10% of more than 160 shows in the Minnesota Fringe Festival, and met with both critical and audience praise. What's more, the show proved an enjoyable experience for cast and crew--they shared excellent chemistry, on-stage and behind the scenes.)

Sound interesting? Call 612-703-7002 or e-mail auditions@ammala.com to get more information or to schedule an audition appointment.

--------------------------------------------

PREGNANCY AND BELLY DANCE--”FEATURED ARTICLES

--------------------------------------------

What are the potential benefits and risks of belly dance with respect to pregnancy/childbirth? This has been a hot topic in recent years, (just ask Ammala's two new mommies or our cluster of pregnant dancing friends and students! Want to learn more? Check out the link below for a recent "Pregnancy Today" article on the topic. We've also included a link to a website that features other articles on dance and childbirth, and reviews of videos on the topic.

http://pregnancytoday.com/reference/articles/bellydancing.htm)

http://www.visionarydance.com/BDPregnPage.html

----------------------------------------

WHERE TO SEE AMMALA PERFORMERS: MARCH

----------------------------------------

Saturday, March 6

-----------------

ZAREEN performs

El Bustan Restaurant

4755 Central Ave. NE, Columbia Heights

763-502-8888

Alternating shows with Amira, 9-11 p.m.

MIRAH and ALIYE perform

Mediterranean Cruise Restaurant

3945 Sibley Memorial Highway, Eagan

651-452-5991

Alternating shows, 7-10 p.m.

Friday, March 12

----------------

MIRAH performs

Mediterranean Cruise Restaurant

Alternating shows with Cheryl, 7-10 p.m.

Saturday, March 13

------------------

MIRAH performs

Beirut Restaurant

1385 S. Robert St., West St. Paul

651-457-4886

Show time: 8 p.m.

MAYA performs

Mediterranean Cruise Restaurant

Alternating shows with Tara, 7-10 p.m.

Wednesday, March 17

-------------------

MIRAH & ZAREEN perform in

Cassandra's Weeklong Workshop Participant Performance Night

With other local and regional dancers.

Beirut Restaurant

Show time: 8 p.m.

Thursday, March 18

------------------

AFRITA, AMARA, MELINDA, ALIYE, & MAYA in a

Student appreciation performance for Anoka dance students, family and friends.

Friday, March 19

----------------

ALIYE performs

Beirut Restaurant

Show time: 8 p.m.

MIRAH performs

Jerusalem Restaurant

1518 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis

612-871-8883

Show times: 7:30 and 9:00 p.m.

MAYA performs

Mediterranean Cruise Restaurant

Alternating shows with Melanie, 7-10 p.m.

Saturday, March 20

------------------

ALIYE performs

Mediterranean Cruise Restaurant

Alternating shows with Tara, 7-10 p.m.

Sunday, March 21

-----------------

Middle Eastern Night Open Stage

Ammala Dancers and The Ancient Sonic Libido along with other local performers in

a special, open stage show sponsored by Ammala and Betsy's Back Porch Coffee.

Friday, March 26

----------------

ALIYE performs

Beirut Restaurant

Show time: 8 p.m.

Saturday, March 27

------------------

MIRAH performs

Beirut Restaurant

Show time: 8 p.m.

ZAREEN performs

El Bustan Restaurant

Alternating shows with Tina, 9-11 p.m.

ALIYE performs

Mediterranean Cruise Restaurant

Alternating shows with Tara, 7-10 p.m.

------------------------------------

OTHER UPCOMING PERFORMANCES & EVENTS

------------------------------------

April 16 & 17

--------------

Ammala Dance performs with Amaya, Margo and other regional artists in Margo Abdo O'Dell's Tapestry of Dance III.

Old Arizona Theatre

2821 Nicollet Ave. S., Minneapolis

8 p.m.

April 23-25

-----------

Ammala Dance and Music performs solo and group pieces in the Guild of Oriental Dance 2004 Annual Show. Show times and prices TBA.

May 7

-----

Ammala Dance and Music performs pieces from their 2003 show and previews new works from their 2004 show as part of the Hopkins Center for the Arts Edge Coffee House Series.

Show time: 7 p.m.

Admission: $6-8, available on-site

1111 Main Street, Hopkins

August 6-15

-----------

Ammala Dance and Music presents On the Beaded Fringe II in the Minnesota Fringe

Festival. Show times and location TBA in April.

-------------------------------------

DANCE CLASSES

-------------------------------------

Ammala dancers Mirah, Aliye, Zareen, Melinda, Amara and Afrita offer belly dancing classes at various locations around the Twin Cities. Spring session classes begin in March and April, but session dates, length and pricing may vary by location. Some classes fill quickly, so register in advance. Check full spring session postings at www.ammala.com

SPRING LOCATIONS:

-----------------

* Minneapolis-Downtown/Uptown (Mixed Level)

* Minneapolis-SW/Washburn (Level I)

* Anoka (Level I)

* Burnsville-Eagan-Savage (Levels I & II)

* Eden Prairie (Levels I & II)

* Minnetonka Beach (Mixed Level)

* West St. Paul-Mendota-Inver Grove (Level I)

* White Bear Lakeâ?”2 Locations (Level I)

MINNEAPOLIS DOWNTOWN/UPTOWN

Minneapolis Community and Technical College (MCTC)

1501 Hennepin Ave. S.

http://db.mctc.mnscu.edu/cect/arts_enrichment.cfm

or call 612-659-6500

Spring Session: 4/8 - 5/13 (6 weeks, Thursdays 6:30-8:00)

Mixed Level with Mirah & Maya

MINNEAPOLIS SW/WASHBURN

Washburn Community Education

201 W. 49th St., Minneapolis

www.mpls.k12.mn.us/commed/

612-668-3450

Spring Session: Begins in April (7 weeks, Tuesdays 6:00-7:30)

Level I with Afrita

ANOKA

Anoka Community Education

2727 Ferry street North,

www.anoka.k12.mn.us under Community Ed.

Spring Session: 4/22 - 5/27 (6 weeks, Thursdays 6:45-8:00)

Level I with Amara

BURNSVILLE-EAGAN-SAVAGE

Burnsville-Eagan-Savage Community Ed.

308 W. Burnsville Pkwy. Burnsville

http://www.communityed191.org/

952-707-4141 (registration hotline)

952-707-4100 (information)

Spring Session: 3/31 - 5/19 (8 weeks, Wednesdays, Level I: 6:15-7:45, Level II:

8:00-9:30)

Levels I & II with Mirah

* Early Summer Session Middle Eastern Dance Topics Class, June 2 - 23.

Four classes, each covering a different topic or technique area.

More information coming in April.

EDEN PRAIRIE

Eden Prairie Community Education

8040 Mitchell Rd., Eden Prairie

http://www.edenpr.org/comed/adult/fitness.html

952-975-6940

Spring Session: 4/15 - 6/3 (8 weeks, Thursdays, Level I: 6:15-7:45, Level II: 8:00-9:30)

Levels I & II with Zareen

LAKEVILLE

Lakeville Community Ed.

8670 210th St. W., Lakeville

http://www.ce.isd194.k12.mn.us/resource1.htm

Nancy Skaro, 952-469-7115

No Spring Session class

MINNETONKA BEACH

St. Martins-by-the-Lake Episcopal Church

County Rd. 15 & Westwood Rd.

Melinda, 952-471-8429

Continuous, ongoing session; open enrollment. Call for information.

Mixed Level with Melinda

WEST ST. PAUL--MENDOTA

West St. Paul-Mendota-Eagan Community Ed.

121 West Butler Ave., West. St. Paul

http://www.comed.isd197.org

651-681-2389

Spring Session:4/22 - 5/27 (6 weeks, Thursdays, 6:30-8:00, 8:00-9:30)

Level I with Aliye

WHITE BEAR LAKE

White Bear Lake Racquet and Swim club

4800 White Bear Parkway

http://www.wbfit.com

651-426-1308

Spring Session: 3/10 - 4/14 (6 weeks, Wednesdays)

Level I with Aliye

2nd location in White Bear Lake!

White Bear Area Schools Community Services & Recreation

Sports Center, 1328 Highway 96, White Bear Lake

http://www.whitebear.k12.mn.us/community

651-407-7507

Spring Session: 4/21 - 5/26 (6 weeks, Wednesdays)

Level I with Aliye

-------------------------

SUBSCRIBING/UNSUBSCRIBING

-------------------------

If you would like to subscribe to "Shaken Not Stirred", please send a message

to news@ammala.com. We send approximately one mailing a month, and we do not share our mailing list with other people or organizations.

If you wish to stop receiving Ammala's "Shaken Not Stirred" monthly message, just send a message with the subject line "Unsubscribe" to news@ammala.com and we will remove you from our mailing.

-------------------------------

To contact Ammala Dance and Music or the "Shaken, Not Stirred" editors:

E-mail: mirah@ammala.com

Phone: 612-703-7002

-------------------------------

February 2004

THIS MONTH (FEBRUARY)

---------------------

* Special February Events: Cabaret, Sights and Sounds of Beirut and ASL meets Trombone Choir

* Ammala Adds Members

* Do Men Belly Dance?—Featured Article

* Where to See Ammala performers: February

* Other Upcoming Performances and Events

* Dance Classes

* A Message from the Editor

* Subscribing and Unsubscribing

---------------------------

SPECIAL EVENTS IN FEBRUARY

---------------------------

CASSANDRA’s CABARET

*******************

Featuring Cassandra, Mona N’Wal, Elena (of Jawaahir) and Mirah (of Ammala).

Saturday, February 21

8 p.m.

JDC Studio Theatre

1940 Hennepin Ave. S., Minneapolis

Tickets: $20
Reservations call 612-872-6050

(Note: this event sells out, so call soon!)

Cabaret-style seating, champagne, snacks and an evening of fabulous dance performances. Guests are encouraged to have fun dressing up for this special evening. Doors will open at 7:30. Seating at 7:45 PM. Please arrive promptly as doors will lock at 8:10 PM. Paid reservations required for entry.

SIGHTS AND SOUNDS OF BEIRUT

****************************

Featuring the Layalli Sharque Band with Dancers Melanie, Monique, Mirah (Ammala) and Aliye (Ammala)

LIVE MUSIC AND OPEN DANCING following the show.

Saturday, February 28

9 p.m.

Beirut Restaurant

1385 S. Robert Street, West St. Paul

Tickets: $25

Reservations call 651-457-4886

(Note: This event is expected to sell out—call for reservations.)

Experience the dynamic interplay of live music and dance as the Beirut transforms into an intimate, classic night club setting. The Layalli Sharque band performs Arabic music favorites for four professional soloists. Open dancing follows the show.

Seating begins at 9 p.m., floor show begins at 9:30. Beer, wine and appetizers available for purchase.

MINNEAPOLIS TROMBONE CHOIR 30^th ANNUAL CONCERT

**********************************************

Featuring the Ancient Sonic Libido percussion ensemble.

Sunday, February 29

7 p.m.

Judson Memorial Church

4101 Harriet Ave. S., Minneapolis

The Trombone Choir and Ancient Sonic Libido perform an original work by musician and composer, James Holdman.

--------------------

AMMALA ADDS MEMBERS

--------------------

Ammala Dance & Music partners with a range of dancers, musicians and artists for our performances. Every now and then, however, we ask individuals we've worked with--people who've demonstrated an ongoing interest and contribution to the troupe--to join us on an ongoing basis. We are pleased to announce that in December and January, we officially expanded Ammala's Affiliate Membership to include a total of eight dancers and five musicians:

Ammala Member Roster (* indicates new member)

- Aliye (Leslie Kennedy, co-director)

- Mirah (Tonia Miller Lake, co-director)

- Afrita (Kristin Hawbaker, co-director)

- Eric Breece

- Dave Lake

- Keith Spears

- Melinda* (Melinda Bobo)

- Amara* (Barb Fulton)

- Zareen* (Theresa Kane)

- Dan Kujawski*

- Guinevere* (Guin Lazarchic)

- Maya* (Kristine Paul)

- Hung Russell*

To learn more about the members, visit the member biography page at http://www.ammala.com/ammala_performers.htm.

------------------------------------

DO MEN BELLY DANCE? FEATURED ARTICLE

------------------------------------

Middle Eastern Dance is not strictly a women's dance. In addition to a wide variety of Middle Easter folk dances, some men do perform Raqs Sharqi ("Oriental Dance"--solo improvisational dance.) However, the stylization and movements are somewhat different for men. To learn more, read these articles:

"Oriental Dance: It Isn't Just for Women" http://www.casbahdance.org/notwoman_trk.html

"Masculine Belly Dance" (About stylizing the dance for men.)

http://www.bdancer.com/Masculine.html.

----------------------------------------

WHERE TO SEE AMMALA PERFORMERS: FEBRUARY

----------------------------------------

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1

------------------

HUNG and DAVE perform with the Hijazzers Arabic Music Ensemble.

Betsy's Back Porch Cafe

5447 Nicollet Ave. S., Minneapolis

612-827-8283

Show time: 7 p.m.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARAY 6

-------------------

MIRAH performs

Beirut Restaurant

1385 S. Robert St., West St. Paul

651-457-4886

Show time: 8 p.m.

ALIYE performs

Mediterranean Cruise Restaurant

3945 Sibley Memorial Highway, Eagan

651-452-5991

Alternating shows with Julie, 7-10 p.m.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7

--------------------

ALIYE performs

Beirut Restaurant

Show time: 8 p.m.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8

------------------

MAYA performs

Margo's Student Party

Patrick's Cabaret

Show time: 8 p.m.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13

-------------------

ALIYE performs

Mediterranean Cruise Restaurant

Alternating shows with Cheryl, 7-10 p.m.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 14

--------------------

ZAREEN performs

El Bustan Restaurant

4755 Central Ave. NE, Columbia Heights

763-502-8888

Alternating shows with Amina, 9-11 p.m.

MIRAH performs

Mediterranean Cruise Restaurant

Alternating shows with Julie, 7-10 p.m.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15

-------------------

ALIYE performs

Santorini Restaurant

9920 Wayzata Blvd., St. Louis Park

763-546-6722

Show time: 7 p.m

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19

---------------------

MAYA performs

Mediterranean Cruise Restaurant

Show times: 7 and 8:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21

---------------------

MIRAH performs in

Cassandra's Cabaret

With Cassandra, Mona N'Wal and Elena

8 p.m. Show

(See information in February events)

612-872-6050

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28

---------------------

MIRAH and ALIYE perform in

Sights and Sounds of Beirut

Live Music and Dance Showcase

Hosted at the Beirut Restaurant

651-457-4886

(See February events for more details. Aliye will perform the regular 8 p.m. dinner show th