The Belly Dance Chronicles July/August/September 2016 Volume 14, Issue 3 | Page 4

Letter . . . from the Editor: Sometimes pictures ARE the story … our heartfelt thanks to Carl F. Sermon and other photographers for their ongoing support of dancers at events by telling their performance story with photos. This issue showcases a large amount of pictures, but just a small number of the massive amounts of photos that we are fortunate to receive and share with our readers. Beautiful Cover Girl Vanessa of Cairo shares with us, in this July issue, the first part of her journey into belly dance in America and in Egypt, and the October issue will include her advice for those of you pursuing work in Egypt, her typical night in Cairo, and more … a fascinating article by Lisa Price. Amaya’s Dancing on the Edge, Princess Farhana’s Abdominal Work, Fahtiem’s Doing What We LOVE, Tess Haranda’s What Do You Own, and the Fearlessly Authentic article by Jasmin Jahal, all have terrific insights for you and your dance. PLUS Tips for Selecting a Venue by Nizana, and The Care of Assuit by Ghaleana Jamra, are great for sponsors and costumers. Spring’s festivals were so prolific and we hear they were very busy. With our studio – monthly haflas, workshops and a Restaurant show honoring Madame Raqia Hassan, two months of booking 75 dancers and drummers for two stages at Scarborough Faire Renaissance Festival, and my son’s personal crisis, has kept us blessed and more than busy. Our deepest appreciation to those of you who have offered us your prayers, support and understanding – we love you. With some well-loved Belly Dance Festival/Conventions closing due to their Sponsors retiring from their events (we’ll miss you), it’s exciting to see NEW events opening and filling those missed dance and vendor opportunities. And seeing so many of you on Facebook with photos and videos of your personal dances and events tells us you are happy, thriving, and proud to share your successes. Go you! And on to something I don’t usually do, since this magazine is all about YOU, your photos and your passions shared in articles, is to actually write an article on one of the things that spoke to MY heart – Drama. Don’t be surprised if you hear from me again someday. With love, and Like us on Facebook at The Belly Dance Chronicles Find us online at www.TheBellyDanceChronicles.com 4 The Belly Dance Chronicles  July 2016 Del