Troupes
Belly dance troupes are groups of more advanced dancers, they often focus in one area of dance and can be hired for performances and events. Being a part of a troupe gains you access to troupe-only classes, workshops, and events held by Merrybellies Belly Dance and Moon Haven Studio. Membership in troupes is by invitation only, please contact Jillanna for more information.
Gems of the oasis
Gems of the Oasis include brand new beginner students as well as students of all levels, many who are members of the other Merrybellies troupes. We are sometimes referred to (informally) as The Merrybellies Dancers.
Gems of the Oasis dancers are based in the Chattanooga & Northwest Georgia region. We perform a range of dance styles, from Egyptian classical raks sharki and beledi to more modern fusions. Instructor/choreographer Jillanna Babb formed the troupe for her students in 2005; since that time the troupe has performed several times per year at diverse events, including haflas (parties); cultural events & large public benefit shows; conventions; and more. Our annual show is a fun highlight to the year.
Sisters of Seduction, photographed by Mark Kocher.
Desert Sirens
Jillanna and members of Desert Sirens perform monthly at Greek Night at Portofino’s (Chattanooga). Reservations recommended! Live music by Grecian Echoes, delicious Greek food, wines and beer, belly dancers, and Greek dancing make this a lively and worthwhile experience! Advanced & Professional Level Belly Dance Experience Required
Sisters of Seduction (orion Dancers)
Sisters of Seduction are Alien Mercenaries in Service to the Klingon Empire by way of the Klingon Assault Group’s Imperial Xeno Legion.
Corpsewax Dollies (underground oasis)
Underground Oasis Morbid Cabaret shows feature dancing and performance art with science fiction and horror themes. These shows are fusion, creative, and for adults. They feature alternative music and props, and stray into the shadowy, bizarre realm of dreams. The shows are organized like a movie or play, as a total entity from start to finish, complete with characters who may be otherworldly or wholly animal… The shows feature vampires, zombies, werewolves, aliens… played by the lovely and dark Corpsewax Dollies, and often featuring special guests. Corpsewax Dollies practice a form of dance called The Morbid Cabaret which is based upon belly dance, but includes the fusion of many other dance styles and veers far from traditional belly dance.
other Troupes
Merrybellies Mermaids
For children ages 6 and up. Gives children the opportunity to be a leader, to follow someone else’s lead, to create freely and within guidelines. The girls become friends, make up their own dance names, and get to wear pretty sparkly costumes. They also learn cultural context, Oriental dance styles, rhythms, props, and more. Jillanna’s teaching style is supportive, fun, and creative.
Luminous Web
Fusion Belly Dance
Cheeky Nefertitis
Burlesque Fusion