Enchanted Darkness: The Masquerade

Q: “Why did you decide to do Enchanted Darkness?”

A: When I was 6 years old my sister and I were victims of child abuse by my step-mother. I unfortunately lost my sister to the abuse inflicted upon us. I knew as I grew older that I would never continue the cycle of abuse. As a teenager I began to speak to my peers about abuse and where to turn for help. This then led me down the path of helping victims and being an advocate for them in the court systems. When I became a parent myself I learned very quickly how easy it is to turn anger and frustration into physical and mental abuse against the children. I thankfully never have lashed out in anger towards my children. In my search for help as a parent I found there weren't many resources out there to help prevent abuse without finger pointing. So I continued to be an advocate.

I knew that I wanted to bring attention to a wonderful safe haven called the Child Crisis Center of El Paso. I am only one person with very few connections, so I started to look at what and where I am within the specific community I associate myself more with. That thinking pointed me towards the dance and arts community. I also know how hard it is for dancers to connect with the biggest names out today. So I decided (as a gothic dancer myself) to bring in the most influential names I know to our humble town and bring awareness to the Child Crisis Center.

It is a way for me to give to an organization that I believe wholeheartedly in. They don't judge, finger point or view parents in a negative way that reach out for help, and give a warm, comforting, loving place for those who have already been victims.

I know I am not the only one with a soft spot for children, and I know I am not the only one that appreciates good performance art. So I bridge the two together and came up with Enchanted Darkness.

Q: “I heard that Enchanted Darkness gala show is a charity show. Is this really true?”

A: Yes it is true. All proceeds from ticket sales (after expenses) will be donated to the Child Crisis Center of El Paso. They are a non-profit organization that provides temporary shelter and a safe haven for children ages 0-12 years that are victims of child abuse and/or neglect. They also provide services for families in need to help prevent child abuse. To find out more about this wonderful organization please visit their web site at http://www.childcrisiselp.org

Q: “Why isn't’t there a price difference if I only can/want to take one of the workshops?”

A: The opportunity to learn from such extraordinary artists such as Ariellah and Sashi is a great opportunity for everyone. And to choose which is the better is an impossible choice. But life does happen and we aren't always available for everything that comes along. But, on the same note, it is a fantastic deal to take both workshops for only $75! And because it is such a great deal we are unable to drop the price any more. We really hope that you can participate in both workshops, it is an opportunity to learn from 2 of the greats. Don't forget you get a free show ticket when you purchase the workshops in advance.

Q: "Is there a group discount on the workshops?"

A: There is a group discount for 7 or more dancers from the same instructor/troupe. Please contact Saz'hrah at scimitarbellydance@yahoo.com for more information.

Q: “What all does the weekend entail?”

A: We of course are having 2 days of workshops, a tour of the Child Crisis Center of El Paso, a gala show (masquerade themed) with a full dinner provided at no extra cost (once you buy a ticket or two), vendors, an after party, door prizes and hopefully more if we can organize it. If you are interested in vending, please visit the vending section of this web site.

Q: “How much does it cost for vending?”

A: All information about vending is on the vending section of this web site.

Q: “Can we take pictures/video?”

A: Video cameras are strictly prohibited during the whole event. Pictures can be taken during the workshops so long as they aren't intrusive or disruptive to the class. During the gala show no cameras will be allowed. This includes but is not limited to cell phones, digital recorders, digital cameras, 35mm, etc. There will be pictures provided to all performers of their performance. Weekend pictures will be posted on the web site after the event. If you are caught taking video during the festival you will be asked to put it away. Second time you will be asked to leave with no refund of ticket.

Q: “Are performers allowed to pass out their cards/flyers?”

A: This year we are providing the opportunity for every performer to promote themselves. We will have a beautiful program this year that every performer can take advantage of. For a business card size b/w ad it is only $10! We are not providing a space for cards/flyers to be handed out.

Q: “What exactly is gothic, industrial, dark fusion and experimental belly dance?”

A: The best way for me to answer that is to direct you to the Gothic Belly dance Resource at www.gothicbellydance.com. That should be able to answer all of your questions regarding that.

Q: “Is gothic belly dance appropriate for children?”

A: Yes it is. Reading a little more about gothic belly dance at www.gothicbellydance.com you will find that it is appropriate for every viewer. And if you are still a bit unsure about what gothic belly dance is then come to the show and you will be quite enlightened. Please do keep in mind what you may or may not want your children or yourself to see. Some pieces performed are of an alternative nature. So please make your decisions accordingly. If you think there might be something you wish your young ones not to see then please refrain from bringing them. Please also keep an open mind and remind your self that this is "experimental performance art" and should be viewed as such.

Q: “How long are we allotted to perform?”

A: 5 min for group and solo performers.

Q: “When do you need the music by?”

A: All music must be received in cd format by 7-25-08.

Q: “Is there going to be an MC?”

A: There will not be an MC this year. Please submit all information about yourself and/or your troupe in 100 words or less with your performance application via email or snail mail to be printed in the program.