LIHUE — The 8th annual “Raqs Tiki” Kauai Belly Dance Intensive event is ready to open its cultural doors with workshops on Wednesday and continuing through March 30 at the Princeville Community Center.
On Saturday, Raqs Tiki Glittering Belly Dance Gala will take the stage at the Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall where doors will open at 5:30 for the 6:30 p.m. show. The early door opening will allow time for shopping, mingling and dining with Shakti Indian Cuisine.
Proceeds from the Saturday show will benefit the Kauai Humane Society.
Registration for the individual workshops, or a “Total Tiki” package, can be made online at www.raqstiki.com through Wednesday. After that, call 925-766-1478.
“Our goal for this intensive is to give dancers of all levels the opportunity to grow your dance in a relaxed and friendly environment,” said Talis Soleil, a dancer from Kauai.
Soleil said the vibrant festival will feature internationally acclaimed artists, including drummer Issam Houshan, and dancer DaVid of Scandinavia. The lineup includes DeVilla of Los Angeles; Surreyya Hada-Strong of Santa Cruz, Calif.; Kamala Almanzar of Los Angeles; Maharet Christina Huges who will be doing the photo shoots for the workshops; and producer and host Talia Soleil along with a number of local favorites.
“This extraordinary weekend of dance workshops will focus on Middle Eastern dance, aiming to challenge and inspire dancers across various skill levels,” Soleil said. “Additionally, a dance showcase will provide locals with a rare opportunity to witness this diverse array of talent.”
Houshan is recognized as the ultimate master of drumming for belly dance. He was born in Syria and emigrated to the United States more than two decades ago. With formal training from the Damascus Academy of Music, he has performed with numerous Arab music stars and famous belly dancers. Houshan has also toured extensively, performing more than 879 shows in 20 countries with the belly dancers.
DaVid is an international performing artist, instructor and choreographer who is renowned for his expertise in Middle Eastern dance. He brings a unique blend of traditional and contemporary styles, offering workshops designed to enhance dancers’ fluidity and expression.
Soleil is a producer, performer and a Princeville resident who seeks to connect communities through the universal language of dance.
She emphasizes the importance of dance in communication and cultural understanding.
“Hawaiians understand the importance of dance to communication and connection to the human condition,” Soleil said.
Soleil is a solo artist, and a principal dancer in Dangerous Beauties. A lifelong animal lover, she is proud to have the show’s proceeds benefit the Kauai Humane Society.
