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Happenings in the Keweenaw Peninsula May 24, 2005   Text © 2005 Barbara McLean and Michigan Technological University. Photo of Barbara © 2005 Joe Kirkish. Photo of Elena courtesy Barbara McLean. Reprinted with permission.

Oriental dance workshops available in June, July 

HOUGHTON -- Instruction in Oriental dance, or Near-Eastern dance, is now available in the Copper Country for both adults and youth, through upcoming workshops this summer. 

Anyone is welcome to increase flexibility, strength and grace while learning “the ancient and enduring art” of Oriental dance at a workshop with Barbara McLean from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 4, at Trinity Episcopal Church, Montezuma Ave., Houghton. Cost: $25.

Barbara McLean demonstrates Near-Eastern dance, also known as Oriental or "Belly Dance." (Photo © 2005 Joe Kirkish. Reprinted with permission.)

Oriental dance, or Near-Eastern dance, is sometimes described in the United States as Belly Dance. The instructor has performed professionally throughout New England, NYC, and Colorado in Arabic, Turkish, Greek, Moroccan, and Armenian clubs and was a performing member of the Near East Dance Theatre of Boston. 

No prior dance experience is necessary. Everyone is welcome to take the class. Wear comfortable clothing. 

For more information, call 906-523-4070 or email: 1maya@charter.net.

MTU Summer Youth Program offers July class in Oriental dance

Michigan Tech's 2005 Summer Youth Program (SYP) offers students entering grades 7-12 an opportunity to attend an Oriental Dance Workshop with Elena Lentini, New York City performing artist, choreographer and dance company director. The workshop, to be held the week of July 17-23, 2005, still has openings.

Elena Lentini, New York City performing artist, choreographer and dance company director will offer an Oriental Dance Workshop July 17-23, during Michigan Tech's Summer Youth Program. (Photo courtesy Barbara McLean)

Known as one of the leading innovators in the development of Modern Oriental Dance in America, Elena Lentini has performed at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center and in concert halls and stages throughout the world. Assisting Elena will be dancer Ahlam, who has performed extensively in the United States and has worked with Armenian, Arabic, Turkish and Greek musicians. 

According to the SYP Web site, the workshop will focus on traditional dance movement of the Near East and also explore Arabic/Spanish dance, focusing on the rumba and zambra. Participants will present a choreographed evening performance for other program participants and the community. 

Students interested in this workshop should register by the June 3, 2005, deadline. For more information please visit the SYP Web site and/or call Barbara at 523-4070 or the MTU SYP office at 487-2219.

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