If you're interested in watching or learning bellydancing, here is a quick list of performers/instructors in Tokyo.
Mishaal
Style: traditional and fusion, emphasis on the deep and mystical aspects.
Career: Has been performing for over 15 years in Turkey, India, Las Vegas and Tokyo. First DVD, "Sacred Earth," on sale now. Heads two dance troupes: Samanyolu and Yildiz Tribe
Lessons: Devadasi Studio, Omotesando, www.mishaal.com
Next event: Bellydance Superstar Kaeshi Chai at Museum, Ogikubo.
Workshops: Sept. 3-4.
For reservations or more info, e-mail [email protected]
Miho
Style: Turkish, Arab classical and fusion.
Career: Has been performing for 13 years, including in Istanbul restaurants. Organizer of the Magic Carpet shows that feature live Middle Eastern music and dance.
Lessons: Studio An'-B, Gaienmae; www.raksmiho.com
Next event: Jewel of India & Rose's Morocco Music & Dance Festival; Aug. 13, 3-8:30 p.m.; blog.livedoor.jp/roses_of_harem
Shala
Style: Spiritual, Oriental.
Career: Modern dance and butoh, former with Mishaal's troupe
Samanyolu, experience in Lebanon and other overseas locations.
Lessons: Shibuya and Ogikubo; see www.yogastudiotokyo.com
Next event: see blog.livedoor.jp/shaladina/
Akiko
Style: Tribal, Oriental, with hints of exotic dancing.
Career: Former teacher/soloist with Tokyo's Al Camarani troupe. Has performed with Rachid Taha. Currently fronting the ethno-jazz-punk-cabaret bellydance band Caravan Tent.
Lessons: See www5.ocn.ne.jp/~yosuke/akiko/
Next event: Aug. 3, on the beach in Zushi, at Umigoya. See www.umigoya.net
Milla & E-chan
Style: Neo-tribal, Oriental, gypsy, with touches of hip-hop and jazz dance.
Career: Dancers/instructors with Al Camarani.
Lessons: Yotsuya, Roppongi, Shibuya, Ginza, Yokohama, elsewhere; see www.alcamarani.com
Next event: Fridays and Saturdays at Turkish restaurant Gelik; see www.members.aol.com/turkishgelik/
