Bennington Beledi Tribal Bellydance is a sisterhood of
tribal dancers in Vermont, the land of verdant green mountains, fiery autumn
colors and sparkling white winters. Our
colorful costumes and world music reflect the panorama of seasons in this
beautiful part of the country. BBTB is proud to be a FatChanceBellyDance Sister
Studio.
Bennington Beledi Tribal Bellydance currently
encompasses the locally acclaimed Sahidi Sisters, who perform at a professional
level, and Sisters of the Shawl, a troupe comprised of professional dancers and
aspiring students.
Bennington Beledi’s goal is to bring American
Tribal Style® bellydance to Bennington and the surrounding area through
classes, workshops, outreach programs, and performances. ATS® is a group improvisational style of
dance that brings together steps, music, and costuming elements reminiscent of
tribal cultures of India, North Africa, and the Middle East. Dancers learn a “language” of cues and
movements, and choreograph dances on the spot, interpreting the music in the
moment. Costuming often features
turbans, tassels, and ethnic jewelry.
Sahidi Sisters and Sisters of the Shawl have
performed widely, including Green Mountain College, Dancing Darkly in Rutland,
VT, the Walloomsac Farmer’s Market, the Bennington Museum, local marathons, and
The Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute.
We are “Tribal by Name, Tribal by
Nature!” Each member of the tribe brings
her own special talents to the tribal mix: dance experience and knowledge, an
ear for music, superlative sewing skills, an artistic eye, marketing knowledge,
and organizational ability. Together we
have created a troupe that respects and appreciates the individual strengths of
each dancer while fostering a collaborative atmosphere and supporting its
members in being fully engaged with their families and other interests.
We believe ATS is an evocative dance form that
can be practiced and enjoyed by every woman—no matter her size, age or ability.
Please browse our site to
learn more about us, our classes or to schedule an event.