Virginia‘s love affair with belly dancing began as a young girl when she was captivated by the grace and allure of the dance. Her journey into this mystical world started with dedicated practice, unyielding determination, and the guidance of several esteemed mentors. Over the years, Virginia honed her skills, embracing various styles of belly dance and fusing them with her unique expression, ultimately establishing her own distinctive style that earned her immense recognition. In 2005, Virginia laid the foundation for Rakstar, a groundbreaking event that would forever change the belly dance landscape. Rakstar aimed to unite dancers from diverse backgrounds, celebrate their individuality, and create a vibrant community of artists. This annual festival became a melting pot of creativity, inspiring dancers to push their boundaries and delve into the true essence of belly dance as an art form.
As a performer and instructor, Virginia’s impact on modern belly dance has been profound. She masterfully weaves together tradition and innovation, blending classical techniques with contemporary elements. Her fluidity, musicality, and emotive storytelling set her apart as an artist and have influenced countless dancers around the world. Virginia’s dedication to preserving the authenticity of belly dance while encouraging experimentation has reshaped the way this art form is perceived and practiced today.
About the World Touring Guest Workshops
The opportunity to learn directly from Virginia is an experience like no other. Her workshops on Friday September 15 and Saturday September 16 promise to be enriching and empowering.
“Q’uariat Alfinjan” (Kareaht Alfinjen) Classic Choreography, Sep 15, 6:30-9:30 pm
A stunning classic song from the legend Abdel Halim Hafiz. “Beautiful orchestrations lend themselves to stunning combinations!” This music is so varied and so rich in melody, texture, and composition that I was compelled to choreograph it to share with all of you! In this class I will break down this epic choreography & its inspired combinations. We will delve into its musicality, lyric translations, & emotional expression all while broadening your vocabulary & combination repertoire. This class delves deep into this expansive classic.
Recommended for intermediate / advanced dancers through professional. Limited hybrid spots available. [REGISTER]
Balady “Ana Wenta Fe Shweya Balady”, Sep 16, 1:30-3:30 pm
Balady “Ana Wenta Fe Shweya Balady” from Virginia’s new CD Virginia Gamilet Algamilaat. An earthy, fun, flirty, traditional Egyptian Balady with a drum solo! Learn to dance Balady as it should be danced. Virginia will share all the ins and outs of a balady as well as traditional steps done with her signature style. She will share knowledge of how it is composed, traditional musical arrangement, and how to interpret it while keeping that Egyptian feeling. Virginia will teach you how to hear, see, and feel this music in a whole new way incorporating juicy and down to earth Egyptian Balady steps along with some contemporary interpretations and useful hints for the takasim section and build up. Many tricks of the trade will be shared with choreography and improvisation, that will give you all the tools you need to dance a Balady to Cd or improvising with a live band.
Recommended for dancers with a minimum of 1 year belly dance experience, through professional. Limited hybrid spots available. [REGISTER]