Rags to Riches

So like I said before, I have a lil troupe and we're called the RaqStars. "Raqs" means dance in Arabic and I don't mind explaining that to people who don't know. I just like the sound of it: RAQSTARS! The name conjures confidence, glamor, high energy, fun--just like us. I'm fortunate to have such fun, sweet, and dedicated ladies in my troupe. We work the name and own it. I just love saying at our rehearsals, "OK RaqStars let's get ready!" or "Calling all RaqStars to the dance floor!" It tickles me.

And now the good news: The RaqStars and I have the privilege of performing in Dance Mission Theater's Choreographer's Showcase on March 13 and 14! I'm putting together a piece that will showcase classic Egyptian music and dance as well as modern and punchy music and moves--all in only 10 minutes! I was going to call the piece "Classic Meets Modern" but recent unexpected events have necessitated a change...

Which leads me to the not so good news: The lovely people at Dance Mission Theater mistakenly listed my troupe as Andrea's Ragstars. Yes, Rag stars. Grrrr. Sometimes I think I'm too clever for my own good. Here I was thinking "I'll get to tell people about the play on words in Arabic and English." Now I'll have to add to that "It should be Raq but there's a typo." Real. Clever. Not. The most hilarious part is that hundreds of postcards with this typo will be distributed. (In case you couldn't tell, that was sarcasm.)

After moments of fury and my dad talking me down, I've decided to own the typo and have fun with it. So now our piece is called "Rags to Rockstars;" as in the post card says Rags but at the show we will present you with the Raqstars. No we are not going to dance with rags or do anything that has to do with rags or riches. It's just my way of trying to correct a typo and turn it into a funny story. I'm creating a memory here, for good or bad, because life's too short to be angry over something like this. Thanks to my dad for teaching me this.

So come watch us on March 13th and 14th as we transform ourselves from rags to RAQSTARS! Peace!

Still glowing

So far I've produced 3 RAQ THE HOUSE events and they just keep getting better and better! The last one on January 25th was a ginormous success. And on top of that the performers and audience were so gracious and wonderful. I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to perform with them! And my troupe members are the bomb, too. They are the most dedicated, inspired, and sweet ladies around.