DVD Review:Treasure’s Skirtwork for Fusion Belly Dance
I have been performing skirtwork with bellydance for over 5 years. My training was all in person so I jumped on the chance when I was given the opportunity to review a DVD on skirtwork.
I really appreciated the time Treasure put into the sections on skirt length, fabrics, accessories and tips. This type of information is normally rushed during workshops, or not discussed at all, in order to get to the combinations. The material discussed, which may not have crossed the minds of those unfamiliar with using skirts, can have a big impact on a performance. I have seen some of the warnings she discussed in action at festivals and on YouTube. It is better to learn how to avoid them rather than finding out for yourself on stage.
The step work and combinations are really suited for beginners/intermediate but advance skirtwork dancers can get some inspiration from the movement as well. I loved her presentation style, showing the move without a skirt and then with a circle skirt. Seeing the legs unhindered by yards of fabric makes it much easier to process the move.
She warns those who travel the tribal path that they might want to use another lighter skirt while learning. I learned skirtwork as a newbie with a 25 yard tribal skirt and did have any trouble, so tribal girls you do not need to run out and buy another skirt.
Another thing, when Treasure links the moves together in a demonstration she does so outside in crazy winds. As she dances she talks about troubleshooting and reviews some of the material she went through in her tips section. Most bellydancers have had to battle the elements at one point or another during a performance so seeing it in action was nice change from the perfect staged performance on most DVDs
Treasure Marshall 