The troupe competition was next. Four troupes entered: Ayesha’s Oasis Dance Company, Sirens In Sanity, Desert Divas and Troupe Oasis. They finished in that order. As a former member of AODC (when it was known as Troupe Mandala) I felt the hard work paid off and it was a win justly deserved. They performed in purple and black costumes and showed versatility in both zill playing and sword balancing. Sirens in Sanity placed second, wearing orange and gold with black harm pants. The 5 member and very colorful Desert Divas placed third.

Eleven very talented dancers competed for the title, Belly Dancer USA 2005. I’m glad I wasn’t the judge for that category! I’m sure it was a tough one... But, there is always a winner and this year it went to Alimah, shown here in brown/maroon. Second was Elisa Gamal in the turquoise costume who had a hard time containing her joy. Third was zill-playing Michelle Joyce in the reddish-pink outfit.

As I said, all were very talented. I am including pictures of some of the others, including Aleta (in black/red/white costume), Leila in white (with the longest hair braid I think I’ve ever seen!), Mielle in Pink and Natasha in Blue Green. Natasha also danced with Sirens In Sanity and was one of the “People’s Choice” awards in the pro category.

Mezdulene and her supporting staff need to be commended for their hard work and effort. It was a smooth running event that was well organized and a joy to attend. I’ll be back next year!