Tuesday, March 12, 2013

Claudette Colbert as Cleopatra

In 1934 Claudette Colbert played starred in the title role of Cleopatra. I thought you would enjoy this stunning photo of her. Ms Colbert had an amazing face. 

Claudette Colbert as Cleopatra

Monday, March 4, 2013

The 2 Speed Belly Dancer

Yes, I know you've seen it too. Too many times. Generally it's a symptom of an inexperienced dancer. What are the 2 speeds?  Fast and faster. 

So you're sitting in the audience at a belly dance event and you're watching one dancer after another. A belly dancer comes out on stage and frantically runs through the first part of her routine. Then the slow music comes up and what's supposed to be the slow sensuous part of the dance, the dancer instead moves faster than the music. Sometimes she whips out her veil and almost uses it as a weapon on the audience. Then the drum solo music comes up and she seems to be doing double time even on the fast music.  She ends her routine and runs off stage.  I often wonder if she falls over from exhaustion then drinks a gallon of water. Then you realize that you're exhausted from watching her too.

Well, there's a simple cure for the 2 speed dancer. 

1. Practice the routine a lot before performing it in public. This will give you confidence in the dance and slow you down. 

2. Breathe. Be sure you are breathing properly through out the routine. Don't be afraid to take a slow deep breath during the performance. 

I hope this cures all future 2 speed dancers. 

Suzy Evans

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