In Point Reyes, we are reviewing and dancing Hassapiko (sometimes spelled hasapiko). Hassapiko is a Greek and Thracian dance done in short lines with shoulder hold. The word means "butcher" and the dance originated among members of the Arvanites Butcher's Guild in Constantinople during Byzantine times. The slow version of the dance is in 4/4; the faster version (also known as hassaposerpico or hasaposerviko) is in 2/4 and displays Balkan influences. When the fast and slow versions are combined, it is called sirtaki. This is the dance that many people are familiar with as "Zorba's dance" from the movie Zorba the Greek, with the wonderful music by Mikis Theodorakis.

In Petaluma, it's summer dancing time - no regular teaching, though now and then I will quickly talk through a dance. We'll just be dancing throughout the evening, to old and new favorites. So come with your request list ; we'll try anything, and we always have a good time. Folks are welcome to drop-in anytime during the summer on Mondays 7-9:15 p.m. through August 10.

New dance class sessions start this week:

Summer Dancing in Petaluma, Mondays 7-9:15 p.m.

Ballroom Dance in Point Reyes, Tuesdays 7:15-8:15 p.m.

International Folk Dance in Point Reyes, Wednesdays 7-8:15 p.m.

Newcomers are always welcome!

Please note that the first Monday in Petaluma will be dedicated to the memory of our dear friend and fellow dancer John Hagopian who passed away last month. Bring photographs and stories to share.

The wonderful San Francisco Free Festival is happening this Saturday and Sunday, June 13 and 14, at the Presidio Middle School in San Francisco. I will be teaching a Balkan dance class at 2 p.m. on Saturday, and there will be many other dance (and music) classes to choose from throughout the weekend. For a full schedule, 

go to: http://www.sffolkfest.org/2009/index.html