Assistant Executive Director of Seashore Gardens Living Center, Janice Cambron and resident Naomi Taplar learn the art of Mid-Eastern dance by instructor, Victoria Papale during the program at Seashore Gardens Living Center. A rather unique event took place on October 20th at Seashore Gardens Living Center. A special performance on the "Art of Mid-Eastern Dancing" was held on the Boardwalk area for residents, family members and the local community. The Mid-Eastern dancer, Victoria Papale, came fully dressed in her Bedlah, which is the costume most associated with this style of dance. Ms. Papale began the program with a brief history on the art of Belly Dancing and how it dates back to the early Egyptians.

After the history, Victoria handed out Bindis to guests, which is a selfadhesive body decoration traditionally worn on the forehead of Indian women. Several residents and guests joyfully accepted the gift of a Bindi and wore them during the demonstration. Victoria showed guests basic Mid-Eastern dance moves and encouraged residents, guests and staff to participate. Assistant Executive Director, Janice Cambron, resident Naomi Taplar, and one of our resident's family members went to the front of the room and learned several dance movements. Ms. Papale even brought extra scarves for them to wear, while they practiced the various moves. Other residents and guests participated by practicing the belly dancing moves while seated in their chair. Victoria commented that she should start a "Chair Belly Dancing Class", since most of the basic moves can be done while seated. She also indicated the various health benefits associated with this type of slow movement, including increased upper body and back strength. The demonstration lasted approximately one hour and refreshments were served immediately following the program. "It was wonderful to see residents, staff and guests participate in the art of Belly Dancing. I think residents were somewhat surprised by the elegance of this type of dance and enjoyed the program" stated Missy Rundio, Director of Recreation and Volunteers.

For more information on the various programs that are open to the community, please contact Missy Rundio at 609-748-4407 or email rundiom@seashoregardens.org.