Belly Dancer, Marrakesh Restaurant
2234 Second Ave, 956-0500.
So how did you come to belly dance at this popular Moroccan
restaurant?
I’m actually a violinist. I have my masters in music from Yale, and
before I started belly dancing I played in the New Haven Symphony. One
evening, I went to a restaurant and I saw a belly dancer and I just
thought, “That’s what I want to do!” I was attracted to belly dancing
because of the freedom of the movements, the impromptu nature of the
dance, and how delightfully feminine it is.
What goes through your head when you’re dancing?
I’m just fascinated by how my attitude about myself can set the vibe
in the room. I really notice the women, and I really want them to enjoy
themselves. The dance is just a link to a common femininity. I can also
spot a first date from a mile away.
How does the audience usually respond?
Most people want to watch the dancing, but they’re not sure whether
they should be watching the dancing, and they’re not sure whether
they’re comfortable with the dancer seeing them watching. Dancing with
my back to people allows them to watch without there being a spotlight
on them, and it lessens everyone’s internal conflict about eye
contact/no eye contact. You don’t want to take people away from the
pleasure of their company or their food. But I think the dancer can
make everyone’s evening.
Do you ever get hungry while rolling your stomach all night
long?
Oh yes! All the time. The smell is overwhelming, which is why I
literally come to this restaurant more than any other.