2007 Member Requirements

Banat Casablanca is a TRIBE of individuals committed to each other and the dance.

To be considered as potential troupe members, interested parties must uphold our troupe philosophy, complete the following requirements, and adhere to troupe ideals at all times.

Individuals interested in joining Banat Casablanca must first complete a minimum of one 6-week session of Introduction to Oriental Dance or 6 weeks of private instruction with Inanna.

After completion of this session individuals are invited to join our training troupe Bint al Banat (daughters of the women.)

Bint al Banat (Training Troupe) Requirements:

Completion of a minimum of one 6-week session of Introduction to Oriental Dance or 6 weeks of private instruction with Inanna
Willingness to invest in required costuming and wear required make-up
Sunday afternoons (February 18 & 25) 4-6pm
Tues. evenings free (for rehearsals, usually weekly 5:30pm—6:30pm) - starting in March
Little fear of performing
Good interpersonal skills
Willingness to take direction
Willingness to learn about and respect the cultures we represent
Work hard, be on time, attend the required rehearsals
Respect and consideration for your dance family

After you have demonstrated the ability to:

Perform all of the repertoire dances

Have adequate ATS skills

Have at least 2 of the required costuming ensembles (complete with jewelry and headdress)

Have performed in at least one public performance in full garb

Then you will be considered for the main troupe.

Inanna

Banat Casablanca has been dancing together for over seven years. Through our performances and networking within the community and beyond our state borders, we have developed a positive and professional image that we value.

Each member knows that he or she represents Banat, and the Middle East dance culture, whenever and wherever we are together, in or out of costume.

Individuals looking to join the troupe to “strut their stuff” and wear pretty costumes will be disappointed.

We are much more than a show troupe, or a vehicle for “starlets.”

We are a Tribe, a dance family committed to honoring the artform and supporting the talents of the collective - above and beyond ourselves.

This artform is often misunderstood and so it is imperative that each member of the troupe understands that when we are performing we are representing a culture—and in so doing you must take the dance seriously.

This troupe experience is not for everyone, but for those who understand and appreciate our troupe philosophy---we welcome you!

Banat Casablanca Women

To perform with the troupe you must have the following:

ATS (American Tribal Style)

Choli, with long, 3/4 or short sleeves

Harem pants

Full, gypsy tiered or Indian style skirt -- no straight skirts allowed!

Troupe skirt Hipscarf with coins or belt w/ tassels &/or fringeHipscarf with coins or belt w/ tassels &/or fringe

3 - 4 yard veil

Jewelry for neck, wrists, turbans, ears, etc.

Headscarves for turban

Optional coin bra

* You must wear a cover-up when you are not performing

FOLKLORIC or REN FAIRE Style

.

Ghawahzi vest or coat with peasant blouse or
Choli or blouse w/ Turkish vest

Harem pants

Hipscarf with tassels, fringe or “old coins” no shiny aluminum or beads

Headscarves and folk jewelry

3 - 4 yard veil

No skirts, sequins, buttons, zippers, or glass beaded fringe. Also, no fabrics or jewelry that would not have existed during the Middle Ages -- if you have questions ask Inanna.

* You must wear a cover-up when you are not performing

CABARET (Modern Style)

Bedla (Sequined or beaded bra w/ belt and skirt)

Sheer caftan or “beledi” dress with coin or beaded hipscarf

Modern jewelry, headbands, headdress or free flowing hair

Harem pants optional

KALEEJI (Gulf Style)

.

Sheer “Thobe” (large big sleeved caftan)

Harem pants and choli (worn underneath)

Banat Casablanca Men

To perform with the troupe you must have the following:

Loose shirts, pants

Turbans

Jewelry

Contact Inanna for costuming specific to performance.

Banat Casablanca Members:

You must have the full ATS costuming, a cover-up (caftan), and the full Ren Faire costuming before you can perform with Banat Casablanca.

Inanna has final say if member has appropriate attire and thus is able to perform with the troupe.

Bint Al Banat Members:

You must have the full ATS costuming, and be working on your Ren Faire ensemble.

If you have any questions about costuming -- contact Inanna.

If you need to add something to the website: Sabah!

Members must be in GOOD STANDING to perform:

Dues are paid by February 28th and September 30th, 2007

Dues are $30 per half year - Bints are not charged extra

You have had good attendance at practice

You have all of the necessary costuming

You’ve either rented the costume items you need, or

Have purchased and PAID IN FULL

If you have any questions about whether you are in good standing, speak with Inanna