The human torso is the middle of the body, and also the centre of creative art.
The students of Zahirah Dance Studio-North circle the stage for the 24th straight year, in a presentation that showcases their longevity and influence in the B.C. belly dancing industry.
Not only will the Zahirah students get to pop with performance skills, but an array of special performers will also join them.
"We have some significant guests coming to our event, it is very exciting, because it gives our audience so much extra value at the show but it also gives our students so much leadership, with these great dancers right here with us," said Irina Doering, Zahirah's lead instructor.
Headlining the guest performers is Nath Keo and a contingent from his troupe based in Victoria. He had Zahirah open for him at a past performance of his own in Prince George, and he has stayed in contact ever since.
A Dawson Creek-based contingent is also coming. Troupe Shalize is led by Donna Anderson.
From Penticton will come Keisha Mclean and others from her Boundless Belly Dance group.
Kelly Ware is a soloist travelling from Edmonton to dance at this event.
About 20 local students, some new and some well experienced at belly dancing, will form the body of the evening's entertainment.
"We have a Zahirah troupe that does public performances, but this event is open to all members of Zahirah, not just our troupe members, so it's an opportunity for all to take part together, and that also includes our juniors. We have four performers who are between the ages of nine and 12, so that's an exciting part of the showcase," said Doering.
Zahirah focuses on the cabaret and folkloric styles of this ancient Middle Eastern performing art. Doering said there is also a focus applied to the strong body image it instills and the overall physical health benefits.
She was once afflicted by a degenerative spine ailment related to arthritis, but the core strength boost offered by steady belly dancing became part of her ongoing recovery.
Her doctor recommended yoga and belly dance when first designing her rehabilitation program, and the art form became a personal passion as well as a specific fitness technique.
"It was low-impact, high-strength for the core muscles, and it was aerobic," she explained. "It was a full-body workout, you feel the effects everywhere, and it also happened to be a lot of fun and really interesting."
She transitioned to being a teacher a few years ago and as much as she loves to see her students make quality art, "it also transforms people's self esteem. I watch people with self doubt become filled with confidence, become self-assured, proud, and I get a front row seat for that."
The event is entitled Taala Noqos, which translates to Let's Dance. It could also be called Let's Eat, said Doering, because homemade Middle Eastern delicacies will also be for sale, helping a local entrepreneur while also setting the stage with some flavour that matches the artistry.
The Saturday event happens at Theatre Northwest. Doors open at 6 p.m. with performances underway at 7 p.m.
Tickets are on sale now for $30 each or two for $50 in advance.
Order by email at zahirahdancestudio@gmail.com or call Doering at 250-563-5300. Tickets will also be available at the door while supplies last.
