Performing styles of Raks Al Sharqui (Arabic for Dance of the Orient, commonly known here as Belly Dance) from Ethnic Folk to Egyptian Cabaret to Russian Gypsy, we are well known for excellent and imaginative choreography, precision dancing and fabulous costumes.
Our performances usually consist of a mix of styles with costume changes to create variety and interest.
We use props in many of the dances including
- veils, swords, canes
- tambourines, fans
- and zils (finger cymbal
The Director, Aneena, often includes a brief explanation and history of each dance, informing and enlightening appreciative audiences.
Shows can be any length from 15 minutes to one hour long.
The Dancers of the Desert won trophies at the Belly Dancer of the Year competition 6 years in a row, winning the coveted 1st place award in 1991.
We have been performing together for over 20 years and have members ranging in age from 13 to 60+ from Novato, San Rafael, Fairfax, Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Santa Rosa, Vallejo, and Cobb Mtn. We also include a dance that we do with our children and grandchildren. We average about 12 members in the troupe.
- Marin County Fair
- Sonoma-Marin Fair
- Solono County Fair
- Alameda County Fair
- Napa County Fair
- Sausalito Art Festival
- Bay to Breakers
- California State Fair
- Contra Costa County Fair
- Desert Dance Festival
- Festival Fantasia in Sebastapol
- Papas Taverna Christmas Show
- Napa Art & Wine Festival
- Novato Art & Wine Festival
- Sebastopol Apple Festival
- Marin Society of Artists
- Bodega By Fisherman's Festival
- City Celebration in Golden Gate Park
- 50th Celebration of the Golden Gate Bridge