We use props in many of the dances including

• veils, swords, canes
• tambourines, fans
• and zils (finger cymbals)

The Director, Louise Sims, often includes a brief explanation and history of each dance, informing and enlightening appreciative audiences.

Shows can be any length from 15 minutes to one hour long.

Video tapes are available for review.

The Dancers of the Desert won trophies at the Belly Dancer of the Year competition 6 years in a row, winning the coveted 1st place award in 1991.

We have been performing together for over 15 years and have members ranging in age from 17 to 50+ from Novato, Larkspur, Fairfax, Petaluma, Rohnert Park, and Santa Rosa. We average about 12 members in the troupe.

Also, members of the troupe (several of whom have won individual dance awards) are available for solo and duet performances as well as any number needed for specific shows.

Locations and events where the Dancers of the Desert have performed include Rakkasah (annual International Middle Eastern Dance Festival held in the Bay Area), Rakkasah Summer Caravan, The Belly Dancer of the Year Competition, Desert Dance Festival, Festival Fantasia in Sebastapol, Papas Taverna Christmas Show, Marin County Fair, Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, Solono County Fair, Contra Costa County Fair, Alameda County Fair, California State Fair in Sacramento, Napa County Fair in Calistoga, Napa Art & Wine Festival, Novato Art & Wine Festival, Sausalito Art Festival, Sebastopol Apple Festival, Bodega Bay Fisherman's Festival, The 50th Celebration of the Golden Gate Bridge, City Celebration in Golden Gate Park, Bay to Breakers, Marin Society of Artists, retirement homes, weddings, restaurants, and special functions.