Belly Dancing by Thia on the Main Stage.

Another exciting addition to the 2010 lineup is Belly Dancing by Thia.  Thia is an amazing performer and this is going to be a performance you should not miss!

Thia, belly dancer extra-ordinaire, four time winner of the prestigious 2007 Contributions and Dedication to the Utah Belly Dance Arts, “Grand Dancer of the Year 2006″, “Headliner Belly dancer of the Year 2005 and 2000″, has emerged as on of the brightest stars in Utah. She is the owner of the ‘Egyptian Dance” studio, “The Belly Dance Boutique”, “Touch of Magic” belly gram company and has performed in Greece, Germany and Turkey. Early in her life, Thia was exposed to Middle Eastern dance in an ethnic community in New York City. Her family’s attitude instilled in her an appreciation for the varied cultures of the many faces of our world. They immersed themselves in the different neighborhoods of New York enjoying the foods, entertainment, dancing, style of dress, attitudes and language. From this background emerged the fantasy that Thia has realized for herself. From the beginning, coupled with her background in and love of dance, emerged this present day icon of belly dance. Her extensive training as a jazz and ballet dancer prepared her for the world of dance Orientale. Once she realized that there were lessons offered for this exotic form of dancing, she pursued this art form with the passion of a true convert. During those days in New York City, she idolized the wonderful dancers dresses in silks with dazzling sequins and glitter, bangles coins and bells. The vision of a barefoot dancer sensuously moving to haunting Arabic Music, hips swaying, bellies fluttering and undulation was the impetus that drove her forward in her quest to be one of them. With an enthusiasm born of this illusion, Thia has worked hard developing her expertise as a performer of Middle Eastern dance.

Wasatch Coaching Acadamy

The 9th and 9th Street Festival is proud to once again host the Wasatch Coaching Acadamy as our opening act!  The Wasatch Coaching Academy not only gives students the opportunity to learn to play music, but they also give them the opportunity to perform before live audiences.

For many years, I have believed that young musicians in training need a place to get the coaching and experience needed to be effective combo and ensemble member… to explore, play and learn to love many kinds of music, and if they desire become prepared for a great musical experience in college, and as a future professional musician. The Wasatch Music Coaching Academy provides a complete opportunity for aspiring musicians to obtain the enjoyment and fulfillment they desire from their talents in music. With combo and ensemble coaching, superior music instruction, and a variety of programs, the student will develop the confidence and skills necessary to compete successfully in college music programs, create various levels of success in the music industry, or simply develop a sense of personal satisfaction with music. Through dedication, loyalty, and hard work on behalf of both the coaching team and the students, this vision becomes a reality.

-David P. Murphy, Director

For more information on the Wasatch Coaching Academy, please contact them by clicking HERE.