Promoters tout The Bellydance Superstars as the next big dance phenomenon following in the footsteps of Riverdance, but there will be none of that stiff hopping around that charmed fans of the Emerald Isle.

This dance troupe delivers ancient Middle Eastern traditions to mainstream U.S. and European audiences. Promoters describe it as “feminine and sensual dance art that celebrates all women.”
They will be at Britt at 8 p.m. Thursday, July 26.

Brought to the stage by impresario Miles Copeland, ex-manager of Sting and the Police, the shows feature elaborate costumes and high production values.

The group got its start as part of the 2003 Lollapalooza 45-city tour, performing to over half a million people then. They have since performed around the world and sold a slew of DVDs of their performances.

You can buy those DVDs and dance gear, as well as track the superstars’ tour, read Copelands rants about culture, art and politics and even join discussion forums at the official Bellydance Superstars Web site.

Reserved seats cost $35; lawn seats are $22, and children 12 and younger get in for $10.