HÀ NỘI — Performances by famous Vietnamese and international belly dancers are on show at the Ahlan International Belly Dance Festival held on October 19-23 in the northern province of Ninh Bình.

The event is a great chance for lovers of belly dancing to share their experiences through workshops and enjoy performances by a number of well-known belly dancers, including Aleksei Riaboshapka from Ukraine, Nari Heo from South Korea, Nana Nazakawa from Japan, Gulden Fatkulla from Kazakhstan and Summer Deng from China

They are regarded as belly dance masters, capable of spreading knowledge about their performance skills and inspiring their trainees.

Riaboshapka is a well-known performer and a recognised choreographer of belly dance and oriental folkloric styles. Belly dance communities and festivals of almost thirty countries welcomed his art and passion for oriental dance. He is a leading teacher and judge of the League of Belly Dance Masters in Russia. In his home country, he created his own unique dance company RA-Studio whose students are taught by professionals. Many of them are winners of prestigious contests worldwide. Alekei’s workshops are known to be interesting, creative and fun. His talent, choreographic originality and bright personality have touched many dancers.

“I am very happy to share my skills and soul to help dancers and see the belly dance community grow,” he said.

“This is the second time we have organised an international belly dance festival,” said dancer Hà Vân, head of the organising board.

“We have tried to bring world masters to introduce them to Vietnamese belly dancing as well as create the chance for domestic artists to exchange and find inspiration.” — VNS