Thank you very much for supporting our programs and shows, and this scholarship fund. 

All funds raised from sliding-scale ticket donations for this show will go towards the Ginger City Equity Scholarship Fund, which supports dancers from marginalized communities in joining my coaching programs. 

Your contribution, in whatever amount feels comfortable to you, is matched 1:1 by me, to provide financial aid to dancers passionate about Arabic music, culture, and dance traditions, in joining this year's coaching programs. Our goal is to address systemic inequities in access to dance education to help create a community where dancers feel welcome to grow and learn. 

The equity fund prioritizes dancers on a teaching path who are from groups marginalized in the commercial bellydance scene - that is, who are often passed over for commercial dance opportunities, and who may be unable to participate in deeper coaching programs due to financial contraints. Over my nearly 35-year involvement with this dance, I have witnessed many talented dancers not being given opportunities simply because of their skin color or body type, and then missing out on related educational and networking opportunities supported by that dance work. I would wish for nall dancers to be able to have the kind of opportunities I had, if they want them, and if they are committed to the dance art and to sharing it through teaching.

Applicants are selected based on commitment to the dance art and a commitment to teaching and serving the community. To apply or learn more, visit gingercity.com or email support@gingercity.com. 

Thank you for supporting this important work.  -Ranya