Today we’d like to introduce you to Ana Laura Torres.
So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My interesti in music and dance started at an early age, by five years old I began my education in jazz, ballet, and Mexican folklore at school and private lessons.My interest in Raq Sharqi (which is how Belly dance is called in the Middle East or Arab Countries) started in 2006 when I started my instruction in my hometown, Juarez, Mexico. Once I “discovered” belly dance and middle eastern dances, I fell in love with it.I started dancing Bellydance around 12 years ago, although never pursued (dance) it professionally.Since I discovered it in Mexico, I have taken many workshops during these 12 years, here in the States and Internationally. My most important accomplishment had been traveling to Egypt, which is the motherland of this art. I love learning every day about this dance and art.After some consideration, I decided 5 years ago to pursuit Bellydance professionally in Houston. People were expressing interest in having me at their events and parties, and I realized that all that effort I had put so far into this art had given me the tools to build an on-the-side-career that I could rely on for personal growth and money (sometimes). So far it has taken me through an amazing journey of learning and discovery that I never imagined. I believe RaqsSharqi is an art that requires cultural knowledge to be performed in the best authentic way possible. Promoting authentic belly dance around the city is my goal and passion.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been mostly a smooth and very enlightening road.You need to have confidence in your art and in what you do and don’t be discouraged when things don’t come out as planned.The big challenge is to find a niche, either inside the community or in the entertainment industry in general. I intend to keep my shows and dances as authentic as possible. (Culturally/musically/costumes etc.), therefore I may need to let go of many opportunities when they want to portrait Belly-dance (or Middle Eastern dances) as something different from what it is. (i.e., Represent us as “Arabian fantasy”, culture appropriation, etc.),It’s a constant fight for a space of my own but the reward is worth it.
Please tell us about Sahara Bellydancer.
I perform mostly Oriental Style Belly dance and have also knowledge of Lebanese folklore and dabkeh. Lebanese folklore (and Dabkeh) has a very specific niche. You will only see it at certain Middle Eastern Holidays, social gatherings, and Middle Eastern weddings. Usually, at weddings, the family hires a dance group to dance at the even; the dancers usually open the dance floor and introduce the couple to their guests.I am part of a dance troupe that performs this style at weddings (“zaffa” ceremonies). What sets us apart from the rest is the authenticity of our dances, style, costumes, etc. We are the only theatrical zaffa group in the Houston area.In regards of-of Belly Dance, although people in this industry can be very technical and specific when defining the style, I can describe mine as Traditional Oriental (which is a style most suited for restaurant and wedding entertainment).I prefer to perform to classical Arab songs, although I also use pop songs in my show as it is the way belly dance shows are done in countries such as Egypt, Lebanon, and the United Emirates at weddings and nightclubs.When preparing a show, I always take inspiration from dancers who perform in the Middle East and try to adjust it to my audience.I have found that the Arab community here is very much on top of the trends as far as shows, music, and costumes that happen in that part of the world, therefore, it makes sense to create a show according to their taste.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
Spending time with my family during vacation time, family holidays, etc.
Pricing:
- Private Bellydance shows start at $200.00 please contact me for more info.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://sahararaks.com/
- Phone: 9158205513
- Email: ana.laura193@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sahara_bellydancer_houston/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaharaBellydancer/
Image Credit:
Le Vieux Loup Photography, Ammar Selo photography, Rob August Photography
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