The date, 29 Aug, 2009 will be a day that I will remember and keep it close to my heart, as this is the day that my troupe, Dance99 won the first place in the Malaysia Open Dance Fest '09 in Kuala Lumpur! It is my first dance medal and I would really have to thank my troupe members for their hard work and dedication.

Karen Madrid is back in Sg Petani, Kedah to conduct another 2 workshops on the 1st November at Praise Dance & Fitness Studio. This energetic dancer will conduct another 2 series of workshops targeting both Beginner and Intermediate to Advance level on the Sunday after the Charity Hafla, Queen of the Desert Night on the 31st October. For Karen Madrid fans, do not miss this opportunity to learn from her up close.

Sahara, a mentor to our energetic and one of Malaysia's current local favourite, Karen Madrid is coming to Malaysia to conduct a 2 days workshops in Kuala Lumpur for the first time. Time to get your hip scarves ready in November for this not to miss event.

About Sahara

Sahara of Lebanese origin has been a professional dancer since the year 2000. With a career that has spanned over 8 years her career has taken her to Mexico, New Zealand, Australia and most recently Malaysia.
An aspect of Sahara is her ability to interpret and improvisational skills. Sahara has been featured on many TV programs through Australia and Mexico and has gained her a reputation for being one of Sydney’s most popular dancers and teacher. Sahara has a unique and energetic style which would leave audiences in awe.
Sahara's father Jamil was one of the most prominent musicians in the Arabic scene in Australia. Growing up with her father Sahara has a very keen ear and can interpret any Arabic rhythm or music brought to her especially with live musicians. One of Sahara's trademarks is her challenging and wow techniques which would enthrall any audience. Sahara is an advocate of Middle Eastern dance and is always teaching respect for the culture in which the dance represents.

Last Sunday, I got a chance to learn double veils from Samra Lara Kendricks from Virgnia, USA. I woke up early in the morning and drove down to Ipoh with CK. CK wasn't feeling very well that day, but because, of me, he persevered and accompanied me down. I felt so touched and wished that I could do the same for him, somewhere in the future. I did think about cancelling the trip, but then, I have to deliver the silk veils that I've helped Wendy (the organizer) to purchase and they will need them for the workshops, so, I had no choice but to go.

There will be a new belly dance charity event coming to town this October. This time it is held up North of Malaysia in Sungai Petani, Kedah. I noticed that there are many charity events being organized, this year. Bravo to all!

I have not been youtube-ing for awhile. But today, I decided to take a break from projects and do my "Watch and Learn" session at youtube and I saw this! It's a video on a workshop given by Shahdana in Korea, February this year. It's a Tango Oriental and it looks like so much fun!! I love the energy of the dance. I would really really love to learn this choreography!!

Take a look at the video to know what I mean.

Today, a friend reminded me of the time when I received my first bunny gift from my dad. I was still in primary school. It was after school and I went to my grandpa's house near the school to have lunch and attended my tuition class at a nearby housing area. When I came back from my tuition, I found out that the neighbour behind grandpa's house reared some rabbits in the cage. I was so thrilled! Dad saw the excitement on my face, but did not say anything.

This year, I've finally muster the courage to join a belly dance competition in KL, end of August. It is a competition organized by World Dance Academy called the Malaysian Open Dance Fest 09. I'm hoping to join the Intermediate Solo division and the Troupe division. I am still choreographing for my solo. I know! I know! It's so near already. Sigh, there're simply a lot of things to do recently, that I do not have time to really sit down and choreograph. Luckily, I've finished my choreography for the troupe and we will be starting our practice this Sunday.

The main purpose of joining the competition, is for me to set a goal and deadline for my belly dance. It's a belly dance project that gives me an aim and target, both to create new choreographies and push myself to practise. The ultimate goal is to compete with myself and improve myself in the process. Winning is not at all that important. Well, it would be a nice reward and encouragement though, hehehe. Besides, the winning prize is even not worth mentioning, can't even cover the cost of costumes, travel, accommodation and entry fee.

Wish me good luck!