On January 3, 2009, local belly dancers will perform to create an unprecedented dance scholarship for belly dance students. Jewels of the Triangle: Belly Dance Gala and Fundraiser will be held at Kenan Recital Hall on Peace College campus at 7:00pm. The event is being hosted by the Khâhari Belly Dance Collaborative and the Happy Hips Dance Troupe.

"With the economic uncertainty many are facing right now, it is harder to afford extras like belly dance classes," says Andalee, a member of Khâhari and a professional belly dancer. "We want belly dance to remain accessible to everyone because it is truly a restorative and affirming activity. Unfortunately class sizes are dwindling, even though belly dance grows more and more popular among women. Creating this fund will give local women the means to become the dancers they've always dreamed of being."

The Triangle Oriental Dance Scholarship will be a need-based scholarship for belly dance students in the Triangle. All proceeds from the event will go to establishing the scholarship fund. More information about the scholarship will be announced at the event.

Jewels of the Triangle is sure to entertain dancers and non-dancers alike. The show will feature local vendors, door prizes and an array of different belly dancers--from Oriental to Tribal to Children's belly dance.

Tickets are $7 for adults, $4 for children 5-13, free for ages 0-4, with a $21 family maximum. Tickets are available online at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/48296 or they may be purchased at the door. Doors open at 6:00 for shopping and refreshments. Donations are appreciated. For more information, visit http://www.khahari.com/jewels.html.