Raks Baraka

Baraka means "blessed" or "blessing", the implication being that certain things places and people in the world have blessed energy that can be passed on. Raks means "dance". Raks Baraka is a small belly dance troupe in Santa Cruz, California. We practice a fusion of traditional, tribal, and folkloric styles inspired and influenced by the dance of North Africa, India and the Middle East. We are Julie Holm (not pictured), Marisa Herzog, Hendy Lund Appleton and Helen Hudson at the moment. Our other interests are wide spread, eclectic, and keep us on our toes. We teach a little, play a little and appreciate our small but loyal following of thugs, sherpas, and fans! Take a little of our blessing, and our joy in what we do with you! We can be contacted at ladybrid(at)sbcglobal.net and you can find out a little more about us at pages.sbcglobal.net/ladybrid/_wsn/page3.html I hope you enjoy these designs as much as I enjoy making them up- Marisa