Middle Eastern Dancer to Perform at Webster’s

One of Egypt’s top performers, Vanessa of Cairo, is making a few stops during her U.S. tour this summer, and State College is on her itinerary.

Vanessa will perform at Webster’s Cafe, 133 E. Beaver Ave., at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10. She will be headlining the Middle Eastern Dance Showcase, which will feature dancers from across the East Coast. The family-friendly show will highlight the classic and folkloric dances of Egypt

During her visit to State College, Vanessa also will teach a series of Egyptian dance workshops at Movement Arts Studio.

‘In today’s political and social climate, it’s easy to overlook the huge importance that the arts have for society,” said Vanessa. “The arts can bring joy and reach the hearts of many. It is a beautiful thing. It is a common ground to love, to move, to feel important and to be inspired.

‘It is such an honor for me to have been invited to teach and perform in State College. Dancing in Egypt has opened the doors for me all over the world and being here in Pennsylvania is such a blessing.’

The performance is being sponsored by Black Cat Belly Dancing, a dance company owned and operated by Shannon Bishop.

‘I am thrilled that Vanessa chose State College as part of her short summer tour of U.S. cities,’ said Bishop. ‘This is a rare opportunity for our community to see the art of Egyptian dance at its very finest. Vanessa has headlined some of the world’s largest Egyptian dance festivals and now we have the opportunity to experience her incredible live stage show right here in central PA.

According to Bishop, the Middle Eastern Dance Showcase will also feature prominent dancers from Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, New York and beyond. She said one of the dancers is a 13-year-old who has won several awards and trained with some of the world’s top instructors.

Tickets for the show are $12 in advance and $15 at the door. Advanced tickets can be purchased by calling (814) 883-1131.

IF YOU GO

What: Middle Eastern Dance Showcase

Where: Webster’s Bookstore Cafe, 133 E. Beaver Ave., State College

When: 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 10

Tickets: $12 in advance; $15 at the door