Belly dance hasn’t had an explicitly sordid past, but connotations of the exotic and the erotic follow it around. Though that may be part of the broader appeal, producers Amanda Borba and Kelsey Covington are hoping their Black Box Belly Dance Affair will elevate the form into the realm of fine arts.
“Utah has a very tightly knit belly-dance community,” says Borba. “Generally, our performances are for and with each other—which is great, but we feel that we have something more to share with the general public. We want to showcase the artistry, talent and professional level of dance that is often overlooked due to the reputation that has followed belly dance for years.” The aim is that by performing in a legitimate theater—as opposed to the fairs, restaurants and private events that typically make up the its sphere—belly dancing will be seen on par with the likes of ballet, modern and ballroom dance. (Jacob Stringer)
Black Box Belly Dance Affair @ Rose Wagner Center, 138 W. Broadway, 801-355-2787, Oct. 8, 7 p.m., $14. ArtTix.org, BlackBoxAffair.com
Date: Oct 8, 2011
Time: 7 pm
Phone: 801-355-2787
Address: 138 W. Broadway, Salt Lake City, 84101
Where: Rose Wagner Center
