In the News

Middle East hosts belly dance benefit for domestic violence victims
Cambridge Chronicle
August 6, 2008

Local belly dancing teacher and performer, Zehara Nachash, has put together yet another distinctive day of performances for Jane Doe Inc., a coalition committed to ending domestic violence and sexual assault. The 3rd annual belly dance benefit to support Jane Doe Inc., entitled “A Celebration in Rhythm,” is held in memory of Melissa L. Namey, and all of those whose lives have been affected by domestic violence and sexual assault. “A Celebration in Rhythm” will take place on Sunday, Aug. 17 starting at 1 p.m., and ending at 5:00 pm, at The Middle East Club Upstairs, in Cambridge (doors open at 12:30 p.m.).

Belly dancers, a circus troupe, and a healing drum circle are just a few of those to take the stage at this celebration of life that also serves as a memorial to those no longer with us. Mary Lauby, executive director of Jane Doe Inc., notes the dual impact. Lauby says, “Bringing people together for a day of incredible performances is great; but teaching people about the severity of domestic and sexual violence makes this benefit even more meaningful, since these issues touch all of us.”

“A Celebration in Rhythm” was created in 2005 by Melissa St. Andrews as a memorial for her friend Melissa L. Namey, who had been in an abusive relationship, and whose life was sadly cut short. St. Andrews (whose stage name is Zehara Nachash) has been a dancer all of her life, and took up belly dancing right before the event was created. St. Andrews states, “The fusion of movement, music, and environment has always made belly dancing a powerful art form. However, using dance as a ‘form of expression’ took on new meaning when I lost my friend, Melissa. Only too late did I understand the gravity of the abuse she had been experiencing in her relationship.”

While no charges were ever brought in Melissa Namey’s case, the history of domestic violence was present. Knowing it could have been prevented has strengthened St. Andrew’s desire to teach and empower those whose lives have been impacted in any way by sexual and domestic violence. Now a huge success, “A Celebration in Rhythm” is both inspiring and exciting.

St. Andrews has designed a show with a little something for everyone on a Sunday afternoon in August. Whether you are an adult, child, a belly dancing enthusiast, or want to see this special dance style for the first time; all will enjoy the variety of acts from some of New England’s most talented entertainers. Adults will pay $15 at the door, and children 12 and under can enjoy the performances for free. All of the proceeds support Jane Doe Inc.’s effort to end domestic violence and sexual assault. The event is T-accessible and there is plenty of parking. For more information, please contact zehara@aol.com or visit www.zehara.com/janedoe. For directions, or more information about the Middle East, please visit www.mideastclub.com.