Theatrical reviews

I never knew the history of belly dancing could be so interesting. Part presentation, part demonstration, this show reminded me of a 60 Minutes episode: they can take a topic you’d think you’d have no interest in and hold your attention for the whole segment. The historical slides are a real marvel.

~ Fringe Festival attendee, 2016 Minnesota Fringe Festival

Lecture & workshop reviews

Kalila brings a holistic perspective to dance, starting with the influence of the times, including visual aids, and finishing with an interactive opportunity to explore the moves of our dance ancestors. I thoroughly enjoyed feeling dance lineage come to life!

~ Workshop producer Dana Dachel, Director of Lasa Anahata Tribal

Kalila provided a no-nonsense, fact-based, eye-opening overview of belly dance in the United States to an audience with little to some knowledge of its true history. By intersecting popular culture with the development of the dance form, she thoroughly engaged her listeners. Kalila offered rarely seen vintage clips and photos, movie references, and historic and contemporary performance video to breathe life into her subject matter. Attendees were treated to an exciting romp through 100+ years of history, misconceptions and transformations. All of this was delivered with a clear love and enthusiasm for her subject. She left her audience members wanting more.

~ Lecture sponsor Suzanne Szucs, co-founder of Antares Tribal and co-organizer of La Mese Delle Donna VI exhibition and performance

Kalila not only expanded my knowledge of belly dance, but of women’s dance in general and how it grew up alongside a changing political and social environment. The way Kalila highlighted the interplay of women’s rights and expected social roles, the hierarchical view of society and nationality, politics, marketing, and art was absolutely fascinating. I could tell that she was well-prepared and extremely well-versed in the topic and in history in general. I just wish this were a university course – I want more!

~ Workshop attendee Krista Spaeth, Instructor at Lasa Anahata Tribal