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Colleena’s
passion for dance was sparked by Belly dance and all the freedom
it allowed within Arabic music. She preformed with Troupe Muraja
in the Northwest and eventually became a solo dancer, studying
specific regional styles of the Middle East with teachers such
as Suzie Tekbilek. Today she performs regularly in India with
her troupe of Khalbelia ‘Gypsy’ musicians. This has
added yet another layer to her Belly Dance style; Indian-Arabic
fusion.
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Arabic
Indian Fusion:
Colleena has developed her own unique style of Oriental dance
through her strong influence of Indian classical and folk dance.
The grace and precision of Odissi Classical dance poses, rhythmic
whirling movements of Rajasthani dance mixed with the inward undulations
and fluidity of Arabic dance movements create a timeless expression
of the divine feminine mystic.
Learn more about Colleena's
group Kala Nag: Serpentine
Talwar (Sword) Dance:
Balancing a sharp sword on the head demonstrates
the dancer’s skills of concentration and isolation of movements.
The sword dance is a common image found in the harem
paintings of Oriental era.
The arch of the Turkish Saber (sword) accents the curvatatious
and snake like movements of Belly Dance, creating a dramatic and
unforgettable image of strength and beauty. |

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Fire
Belly Dance:
For dramatic and dreamscape performance settings, fire props such
as ‘Fire Fans’, ‘Fire Rope’ and ‘Lamps’
are added to a performance set to take the climax to a higher
aesthetic. Using this powerful element of nature creates an ambiance
that draws the audience on an inward journey.
Traditional Egyptian
and Turkish Belly Dance:
Using the beautiful traditional music, costuming and movements
from Egypt /Turkey the classical images of the Orient come to
life. Belly Dance is a celebration of femininity and grace.
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Arabic
Indian Fusion Belly Dance (Series 1):
With the goal of becoming a more grounded dancer, Colleena introduces
her methodology and approach to dance. Strength and flexibility
are essential for dancers who wish to take dance to a higher level,
this is achieved through yoga and classical Indian dance techniques.
Colleena instructs students on a set of daily exercises that develop
the body for dance and healthier living. Defining movements and
stylizations, which create this dance form, will be introduced
such as: Subtle eye and head movements, new hand positions (mudra),
gaze/focus, spins, powerful transition steps and beautiful temple
dance poses which melt into fluid Arabic movements. |
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Choreography
in Indian Arabic Fusion Belly Dance style (Series 2):
These workshops work more specifically on transitions
expressed in choreography. Techniques of each movement and pose
are explained thoroughly, though it is recommended to begin with
Series 1. The classes begin with methodology and exercises, then
move into drills on timing and rhythm. |
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Cultivating
Shakti in your Dance:
Techniques to improve dynamic energy in your dance
and feel more vibrant in your performance. We will explore Vedic
(Yoga) techniques for dancers in India from ancient times including
breath techniques, stretches and strengthening exercises as well
as meditation techniques and more. This is a fascinating look
inside of ourselves; work that every performer must do to deepen
their art. I use many techniques from Odissi classical dance and
from intensive yoga practice. |
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