National bellydance competition & gala June 9-11 in downtown Salem

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the beauty of bellydance as national competition shimmies its way to Salem June 9-11

Showcasing the talents of dancers from around the country, the Belly Dancer USA competition returns June 9 through 11 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. The weekend of activity includes a variety of dance workshops, competitions and a Saturday evening gala.

Dozens of dancers will take to the stage in a combination of solos and large troupe performances and including headliners Khadijah, Corina and Nefabit.

Khadijah is a teacher, dancer, choreographer and ethnologist of African in origin dances.

Originally from Bali, Indonesia, Corina is an award-winning bellydancer based in Los Angeles, California and former Belly Dancer USA.

In addition to teaching, a multi-award-winning dancer Nefabit performs regionally and internationally.  She is also the reigning Belly Dancer USA.

“We’re thrilled to bring this competition and all these talented dancers to Salem, Oregon to share this beautiful art form,” said Cassandra Rose Pangburn in a press release.

Cassandra is a former Belly Dancer USA winner and the organizer of the competition. She funs Rose Empire Dance, a local dance company and studio that teaches beginners to award-winning dancers in the art of bellydance. A professional performer, instructor and troupe director, she is known for her high energy, elegant and creative performances and choreographies, which will be on display during the troupe performances at the gala show.

The gala, weekend competition and shopping are open to the public. The competition takes place June 10 and 11. Tickets range from $15 to $60 depending on if you want a single event pass or to take in the whole weekend. The Belly Dancer USA portion of the competition begins 6 p.m. Sunday and the winner will be crowned at 8:30 p.m. Click here for tickets.

The Gala Show begins 8 p.m. Saturday, June 10. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25, free for ages 5 and younger. Click here for tickets.

All activities take place at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St NE

BONUS — The event will be livestreamed via Zoom. Here are the details: