who lose the “It factor” can be seen at the Belly Dancer
of the Universe Competition in Long Beach, CA. In the
competition finals for the “Universal Category” and the
“Drum Solo Category” – one can clearly see the difference
between a well-rehearsed, choreographed performance set
to recorded music in the semi-finals, and an improvised
performance to live music in the finals. This competition is
unique because the four finalists compete with live music
dancing side-by-side on the stage. Judges and the audience
can readily see the professional difference of whether or not
the dancer has the knowledge, expertise, and performance
ability to dance extemporaneously. Those who win this
competition have truly displayed their ability, expertise, and
unique dance styling in effective and beautiful perf