The art of belly dance traditionally celebrates the beauty and mystique of being a woman. Local dancers strive to share that message through their benefit performances while giving back to their community.
International Shimmy Mob teams will celebrate World Belly Dance Day on Saturday, May 8, to help raise awareness for domestic violence programs globally and locally. The goal is to focus on prevention and lowering the statistics of abuse. For the past 10 years since its inception, there have been 56 participating countries with 1441 teams and 15,453 team members.
The Durango Shimmy Mob team will support Alternative Horizons again this year. All of the 2021 Shimmy Mob performances are free and open to the public. Donations will be gratefully accepted and all proceeds will benefit Alternative Horizons.
Kim Zook, executive director of Alternative Horizons said: “With the help, dedication and hard work of the Shimmy Mob team, Alternative Horizons has continued to provide much-needed advocacy, therapy, educational and support services to victim/survivors of domestic violence in our community.”
This year, the Durango Shimmy Mob team has over 35 registered dancers ranging from novices to professional level. On May 8, Shimmy Mob dance teams from all around the world will be performing the same choreography. In Durango, the Shimmy Mob will be performing a 15-minute show at the following places and times:
10:00, 10:30, 11:00, & 11:30 - Durango Farmers Market
12:00 - D&SNGR Train Station
1:00 - Durango Rug Company
2:00 - Main Mall
3:00 - Durango Craft Spirits
4:00 - Primi Pasta & Wine Bar
“There are truly no words to adequately express Alternative Horizon’s gratitude for the Shimmy Mob’s exceptionally generous support of its domestic violence services and ongoing commitment to our mission of making our community a safer place,” said Zook.
Alternative Horizons is a grassroots organization that began in 1978. Services include a 24-hour hotline, support groups, court advocacy, and education/outreach. All services are free and confidential.