Studio 23 Dance & Fitness Centre

NEW BELLY DANCE CLASS

2012-01-29T03:56:00.000+08:00

Ladies, it's time to shimmy off those CNY cookies - we're starting our newest Belly Dance class this February!

Classes will be every Thursday from 7:15 - 8:15 p.m. and no experience is necessary. This is a class for absolute beginners so if you've been thinking about trying out Belly Dance, it's a perfect time!

The first class is this coming Thursday, February 2nd. To register and book your spot, call Eileen at 012 805 3005, or email us at studio23kuching@gmail.com

Thanks and see you there!

2011: YEAR IN REVIEW

2011-12-31T10:29:00.003+08:00

Another year is just about done, and we’re amazed at how full it was! After our inaugural year, we had some great leaps in 2010 - but 2011 was by far the biggest year yet for Studio 23, and to finish it up we’re having a look back at the past 12 months.

JANUARY

We had a nice and easy start to year 3. Our Crazy Monkey Defense and Flamenco programs were featured in newspaper articles, but mostly we spent January laying the groundwork for the following months.

FEBRUARY

By the time February rolled around, Albert and Serina were already in Sydney, Australia, taking some training courses.

Albert’s February was a slice of BJJ heaven: at the start of the month he trained with Nicolas Gregoriades (Roger Gracie’s first Black Belt) in Sydney, and at the end of the month he got to train with the man himself, Roger Gracie when he put on a seminar at Evolve MMA in Singapore!

Albert with Professor Nicolas Gregoriades in Sydney, Australia.

Albert with Professor Roger Gracie at Evolve MMA, Singapore.

MARCH

March was a taste of things to come, as things were slowly but surely piling on. We began Season 2 of our Core Strength Bootcamp with 15 participants, and we were really excited to see how this was going to go! Studio 23 was featured twice more, in the Borneo Post and (thanks to Tabitha) in Just Dance magazine, in an article about Kuching dance culture. Finally, we played host to a special guest as BJJ Brown Belt Christian Graugart stopped by as part of his world tour!

APRIL

We introduced Belly Dance Tribal Fusion for the first time, and opened our first new BJJ class on Friday evenings. The end of April featured our Martial Arts Open Week, where anyone could walk in and join any of our Jiu-Jitsu or Crazy Monkey classes for free.

MAY

April’s Martial Arts Open Week led straight into our May martial arts promo, in which we offered big discounts to anyone joining the BJJ or CMD programs in May. The promotion received a lot of great feedback and results, and we’ll probably be bringing it back soon! May was also a month of milestones for Studio 23:

1. Albert was promoted to Purple Belt in BJJ during training with Professor Adam Kayoom in Thailand.

2. Ivan was promoted to Blue Belt, officially ending the saga of South East Asia’s most notorious sandbagger.

3. The fourth World Belly Dance Day was held in Kuala Lumpur, and Serina performed a new choreography. That’s not new, but this was the first time that a group of students travelled with her for a performance and workshops!

4. More CMD classes were added to the schedule. These classes were focused on fundamental techniques that were just as useful to absolute beginners and seasoned veterans.

Serina and Studio 23 dancers at the 2011 World Belly Dance Day performance in KL.

Promoted to Purple Belt: Albert with Professor Adam Kayoom in Bangkok, Thailand.

The Studio 23 / ATT Borneo Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu team.

JUNE

In June, the Studio 23 Jiu-Jitsu team flew over to Manila for the 2011 Pan Asian BJJ International and came back with 7 medals! Not only was it a fantastic result for us, it was also the biggest team we have brought to a competition, at a modest 5!

The BJJ team with Professor Adam at the 2011 Pan Asians, in Manila, Philippines. 5 competitors, 7 medals.

JULY

July saw the first audition for Dance Me A Story. For round 1, we had an incredible turnout of more than 100 dancers in Belly Dance, Jazz, Flamenco and Tango! It was also our first round of casting, and for this our production team flew in from KL. From July onwards, they would be flying over at least once a month!

Our first cast meeting where producer, Serina, and production manager, Christina,
reveal the general storyboard for Dance Me A Story.

AUGUST

Round 2 of auditions for Dance Me A Story kicked off our August, and intensive rehearsals started on the 3^rd!

The rehearsals were not all just about dance! The Flamenco dancers also had to record their footwork to be used as background music. And just as they thought that it's a wrap, Albert flushes the toilet...

Also, Albert and Reuben flew over to KL for the annual CMD meet-and-greet at CMD Malaysia's headquarters.

Participants at the 2011 CMD Seminar in KL.

SEPTEMBER

For Dance Me A Story, our focus now shifted from dance to drama, and our acting lessons began in earnest! Our production team worked with us, and special thanks go out to our drama coaches: Alison Nicholas and Sarah Lasung.

Prince Shakil and his guard, Zabran,
finding it a challenge to take themselves seriously in the beginning.

Our first full-cast rehearsals began in September, and the first round of photoshoots for the event took place as well!

Behind the scenes at the main cast photoshoot for "Stronger".

OCTOBER

In October, the Dance Me A Story performers had their first full-dress rehearsals. It was a great chance for our performers – some of whom having never even been part of a play in school – to get a picture of how everything would look when everyone was all made up.

Full-dress rehearsals are always an exciting time as everyone gets to see what everyone else is going to wear!

This month also saw the fourth Thailand BJJ Open, and even though most of the BJJ team was unable to attend, Albert made the trip out to compete and came home with a couple of medals and a lot of experience!

Albert won a silver medal in his No-Gi division at the 2011 Thailand Open.
It's the best result he's earned so far in No-Gi, and next year he'll be planning on doing better!

Finally, San Fransisco-based Sandra came back to KL for some more Belly Dance workshops and Serina took the chance to sneak away from rehearsals to go and learn from one of her favorite Belly Dance instructors!

Serina at Sandra's workshop in KL. The workshop participants lining up for a good shot of Sandra's demo.

NOVEMBER

It goes without saying that in November our focus was completely on Dance Me A Story. With over 100 performers in both dancing and non-dancing roles, and an audience of about 1400 people, it was a massive effort and by far our most ambitious project. Pre-production work took 2 years, and if you were wondering why we haven’t made a blog post about it, it’s because we’re still doing the post-production work! From post-mortems to editing footage, we’ve still got our hands full with the show two months after it finished. We’ll have some more about it up soon, not to worry!

The event hall for Dance Me A Story. It looks even bigger when it's filled up.

Dance Me A Story, Full Cast. Fortunately the stage held our weight and the show could proceed.

Warming up before the show. Pirates and princesses, zombies and street gangs united.

Last-minute full-dress rehearsal. Even zombies get nervous too!

The end of November saw Serina travel to KL for another Belly Dance workshop put on by Hungarian performer Mercedes Nieto, where she learnt even more ways to shimmy!

Shimmy, shimmy, shimmy!

DECEMBER

The last month of 2011 began with our annual Belly Dance Hafla. Like our 2010 Hafla, this year’s party featured not only Belly Dance, but also Jazz and Flamenco performances as dancers from all our programs got together for a ladies’ only dance-off! It was the most informal event we've organized, and it was really fun being able to just relax, let our hair down and dance.

The Belly Dance and Modern Jazz Level 1 students blew everyone away with their confidence and poise! And a trio of Belly Dance Level 2 dancers caught Serina completely off-guard when they had a surprise dance for her. Instead of taking a break after Dance Me A Story, they met up and trained in secret! Thank you so much :)

A full routine learnt in less than 3 weeks; not easy to pull off at all!

The Studio 23 dance troupe was also in action a couple of times, first at the Unimas Christmas show, “Christmas Is Coming To You”, and again during the Christmas Eve show at the Spring.

At the 2011 Unimas Christmas charity production, "Christmas Is Coming To You".

It is now the last day of 2011. As we post this, we are in London, England, where we arrived for a “holiday” of sorts 2 weeks ago. No later than 18 hours after we landed in the country, we were both training – Serina at Pineapple Dance Studios, and Albert at Roger Gracie Academy!

A jet-lagged but nonetheless gung ho Serina attended her first Commercial Jazz class at Pineapple Dance Studios– only to realize halfway through that she was in a Zumba class :p ...fortunately the Pineapple store was on hand to help out with some retail therapy after!

Just reading that over, we can’t believe that 2011 was such a packed year for us. As we reflect back on this year and get ready for the next one, we are profoundly grateful for everything that has happened to and for us over these 12 months. We had so many great experiences and learned an incredible amount that will surely help us in 2012 – year 4 for Studio 23!

BELLY DANCE HIGH TEA HAFLA

2011-11-19T12:18:00.000+08:00

Ladies! Come and join us at our STUDIO 23 BELLY DANCE HIGH TEA HAFLA!

Date: 4th December 2011 (Sunday)
Time: 3:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Venue: Harbour View Hotel
Theme: Divalicious!

Bring your sisters, girlfriends, mothers and most importantly, your inner diva along for a time of girl power!

Belly Dancers from levels 1-3 will be performing, our Jazz dancers will be showcasing a couple of broadway jazz numbers, and our Flamenco dancers will be there to join in the fun too.

Adventurous guests will get to have a taste of all the different genres along with our dancers!

Tickets are on sale NOW, and places for this hafla are limited! RM35 each, available at the studio.

Don't forget your killer heels and feather boas, and see you there!

JUST AROUND THE CORNER! - PART 2

2011-11-03T18:02:00.000+08:00

It's been another two tiring days, and we are almost there! Here is a bunch of photos from Wednesday's run to BCCK.

The floor view from the back of the room.

The gallery will be located behind the floor seats, but the top-down view more than makes up for the distance.

A view of the lights that are being set up as you read this.

We know what SOME of you are thinking, and no, you don't get to swing around on the chains.

The BCCK crew is hard at work doing up barriers to hide all the magic being done backstage.

There will also be big screens set up for those of you who prefer a close-up shot of the action on stage!

JUST AROUND THE CORNER!

2011-11-02T14:38:00.000+08:00

We didn't think we could get any busier with our upcoming show, 'Dance Me A Story'. Well, we were obviously wrong. Yesterday alone was a tremendously packed affair. We were at red.fm for an interview with Rosalind Tan, for a really fun chat in a freezing studio!

Rosalind, Serina and Albert at red.fm studios

Following that, we had to head back to Studio 23 for our official press conference! We put on a mini-showcase and answered some questions for the reporters. Thank you very much to all the papers who were there, we really appreciate it!

Article from Borneo Post

Article from Sin Chiew Jit Poh

Article from United Daily News

Article from New Sarawak Tribune

Article from See Hua Daily

Our performers, maintaining the long Studio 23 tradition of dancing well and posing well!

And if that wasn't enough, we also had to rush to BCCK for a meeting with our events coordinator, AND a rehearsal! We are working really hard to put forth the best experience that we can, and we are really excited to share it with everyone on Sunday!

The BCCK crew is working hard to set up, and Serina is also working hard to check the height of the stage!

Remember, tickets are still available! You can get them from the studio, or at our booth in MPH The Spring! Our booth is open from 12 noon - 2 pm and again from 6 pm - 8 pm.

For more information, you can email us at studio23kuching@gmail.com or call Eileen at 012 805 3005.

Thanks everyone, and see you Sunday!

DANCE ME A STORY - SPECIAL PROMOTION!

2011-10-21T13:09:00.000+08:00

No updates in a while, as we have been super busy with preparations for 'Dance Me A Story' - look for a whole bunch of cool stuff coming soon! In the meantime, here is a special promotion for the event!

If you haven't picked up YOUR tickets for 'Dance Me A Story' yet, now's the perfect time! From Saturday 22nd October to Sunday 30th October, when you buy 10 tickets you will get 1 ticket FREE!

What's more, the tickets don't all have to be the same price (e.g. if you buy 2 RM100 tickets, 2 RM80 tickets, 3 RM50 tickets and 3 RM30 tickets, you will still qualify - we will just take the average price and give you a ticket from that range)!

So, if you're waiting for your friends to get back to you, tell them to hurry before this promotion ends!

DANCE ME A STORY FEATURED IN THE STAR

2011-09-12T14:15:00.000+08:00

Our studio production has been featured in the Star newspaper! Have a read here, and when you're done you can book your tickets to Dance Me A Story (NOW AVAILABLE!) through any of the following ways:

1. Come in person to Studio 23
2. Call Eileen at 012 805 3005
3. Email us at studio23kuching@gmail.com

DANCE ME A STORY!

2011-08-27T14:18:00.000+08:00

We've been SUPER busy lately, preparing for our upcoming dance production: Dance Me A Story!

Featuring two stories:

"An Arabian Fairy Tale", in which you'll travel around the world with our Belly Dance divas!

"Stronger", where our Modern Jazz and Flamenco dancers will battle it out on the dancefloor!

One of our goals with this show is to support the Sarawak Women for Women Society, and raise awareness of domestic violence.

We're aiming for at least 1500 people for this show, so share, share share this with your friends and family! And then share some more :)

Join us on November 6th for what's set to be a night of incredible performances!

Tickets available NOW!

***

For more information or to book tickets, you can:

Call Eileen at 012 805 3005,

Email us at studio23kuching@gmail.com, or

Drop by the studio! We are located at 152 Lorong 8, Jalan Tun Ahmad Zaidi Adruce. It's right on top of Little Hainan, and very close to 3rd Mile.

Rehearsals: August - October

2011-08-02T16:43:00.002+08:00

WEDNESDAY (starting 3rd August)

6:00 - 6:30 p.m. : The Storm Princesses
6:30 - 7:15 p.m. : The Water Princesses
8:15 - 9:00 p.m. : Flamenco
9:15 - 10:15 p.m.: Argentine Tango (rehearsals start Sept)

THURSDAY (starting 4th August)

6:30 - 7:10 p.m.: Flamenco (own practice)
8:15 - 9:00 p.m.: The Tribal Princesses

FRIDAY (starting 5th August)

5:00 - 6:00 p.m. : Happy
7:30 - 8:00 p.m. : The Air Princesses
8:00 - 8:30 p.m. : The Savannah Princesses
8:00 - 8:30 p.m. : Smooth Criminal (3rd Fl)
8:30 - 9:00 p.m. : I Believe
9:00 - 9:30 p.m. : Make You Feel My Love
9:30 - 10:00 p.m.: Tore My Heart

SATURDAY (starting 6th August)

5:00 - 5:30 p.m.: Bust Your Windows*
5:30 - 6:00 p.m.: Apologize
6:00 - 6:30 p.m.: Sweet Disposition*
6:30 - 7:00 p.m.: Hush Hush*
7:00 - 8:00 p.m.: Fame & Thriller*

*The audition for these songs are at 8 p.m. on Sunday 21st August. Please come for practice this Saturday onwards if you have already learnt the dances, and would like to audition for them.

TUESDAY (starting 9th August)

8:30 - 9:30 p.m.: Breakin' Dishes/ Beggin'/ Imma Shine

STUDIO 23 AT THE WORLD BELLY DANCE DAY 2011

2011-05-19T22:48:00.000+08:00

Over the past weekend a group of the Studio 23 dancers were in the house for the annual World Belly Dance Day, held this year in Bandar Sunway. Check out this write up about the event!

***

WORLD BELLY DANCE DAY MAGNET FOR THE NEWLY CHARITABLE

by THOMAS TAN on 16 May, 2011

The guests that packed Euphoria by Ministry of Sound in Bandar Sunway last Saturday enjoyed an eye-opening experience as professional belly dancers from all over the world, including renowned French dancer, Yael Zarca, showcased their talent at the fourth Malaysia World Belly Dance Day.

It was a really great event for a worthwhile cause, as the proceeds from the sale of tickets at RM85 each will go to the Handicapped and Mentally Retarded Children’s Centre Selangor.

The evening saw top-class entertainment that amply displayed the grace and sophistication of authentic belly dancing.

Local and international belly dancers from Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, China, Ukraine, France, and more, showed a previously unimaginable range of expression that the just pelvis and hips can convey to applause and cheers from the audience excited to see the dancers performing in different styles, techniques and combinations.

“The charity belly dance is part of our commuity service and continuous corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme; we’re doing our part to reach out to the needy and contribute to the community,” said Celebrity Fitness managing director, Choi Kwangho, who co-organised the event with Belly Fusion.

Co-organiser Brancy Nekvapil, who is the director of Belly Fusion, added that, “We want to do our bit for charity and donating to the welfare home is a wonderful thing to do for the community and I think everyone should come forward and help the less fortunate.”

Brancy took up belly dancing in 2005 and is active in performing and choreographing belly dance routines for annual dinners and private functions.

Spotted among the celebrities were actor Kelvin Liew, 8TV host Baki Zainal, DJ Max of One FM, 8TV Quickie host Megan Tan, model Wilson Tan and many more only too eager to join in the cause.

“It was for a good cause,” said
Charles Chow, 30, who attended the show with his friends, adding that, “We enjoyed the entertainment and contributing to the less privileged. Giving to charity is a wonderful thing.”

Belly dancer, Serena, from Studio 23 Kuching enchanted the audience with her solo performance, “Istanbul Groove”. Serena and her husband, Albert, who was here to watch her perform, are co-owners of Studio 23, a popular dance and fitness centre in Kuching.
World Belly Dance Day is held concurrently in several other countries in the month of May, with the objective of promoting authentic forms of belly dance.
The Handicapped and Mentally Retarded Children’s Centre Selangor is a home for children and elderly people who are orphaned, mentally retarded, blind, handicapped in some other way.

BOOTCAMP POOL PARTY

2011-05-10T13:33:00.000+08:00

As part of the Core Strength Bootcamp, we had planned an outing for everyone to get a workout and dinner in a new location. We settled on a pool party and pot luck dinner, followed by games! Here are some highlights from the evening! We were unfortunately unable to get everything (such as some hedge jumping) but maybe next time we'll just get some hidden cameras :)

It sounds funny calling this a warm-up, but anyway...

Using the pool is a great way to work out your arms -
you'll never need the ladder to get out again!

Jeremy kindly demonstrates how you don't need your hands to wave when you're in a pool.

It wasn't all hard work - we just had to get some action shots in as well!

A delicious, healthy dinner prepared by everyone!
Salads, roast chicken, bruschetta, hummus and butterless apple crumble -
it all went down very well after a great workout!

Getting ready for games!

Penguin maneuvering is serious business.

Taboo, the bomb game (we can't remember the actual name but it's really fun!) and
Hey, That's My Fish! were the games on deck for the evening. Great family fun!

B-BOY AND ARGENTINE TANGO CLASSES STARTING SOON!

2011-05-05T12:49:00.000+08:00

Reminder: Our first B-BOY CLASS starts tomorrow (Friday, May 6th) at 3:00 - 4:30 p.m.

The B-BOY KIDS CLASS starts on Saturday (May 7th) at 4:30 - 5: 30 p.m. Catch Daus and the Soul Higher team with their last demo this week at 8:15 tonight!

We've had a lot of requests for more B-Boy classes, and we'll open up a Sunday 4:00 p.m. class in June if we have enough people signed up for it - so if you're interested, let us know and tell your friends about it!

ARGENTINE TANGO: It's time to ocho and gancho! Our 3-month beginner course starts Wednesday 18th May, 9:15 - 10:15 p.m.

More info is coming soon, so stay tuned!

GO BALD 3 AT THE SPRING: MAY 15

2011-05-04T13:27:00.001+08:00

We would like to highlight two important individuals this month who will be going bald this May 15th:

Silas Michael from Truevents

It was Silas who first introduced SCCS to us, and even before Studio 23 was launched in 2009, Serina and her dance troupe performed for the SCCS Golden Child Camp at Santubong in 2008. For the first two Go Bald events, Studio 23 performed at the Spring to help promote awareness and to support the cause of SCCS.

We told them, "look, you can dance or you can get shaved"... the rest was easy!

We are also very proud of two ladies who got shaved; our very own Georgette Tan and Joanna Yap. Albert also went onboard as copywriter for the Go Bald team last year.

Bald Crazy Monkeys at the Spring

This year, we won’t be around during the Shave off on May 13 – May 15 at the spring, as a group of us will be attending the World Belly Dance Day Charity Event in KL the same weekend. We want to show our continuous support by helping Silas to raise money for his pledge card. Let’s help him reach his target of RM20k for the children!

Even the guys got into the Belly Dancing action!

Jeremy Rose (our youngest Brazilian Jiu Jitsu student!)

We would also like to help 10-year-old Jeremy raise money on his pledge card. One of the most traumatic experiences for children who are already suffering from the burden of cancer is the loss of their hair.

We want to applaud Jeremy for stepping up and helping to spread the word. This is the 2^nd year in a row that he is getting shaved. Because of him, children with cancer will know that it’s okay to be bald. Way to go, Jeremy!

***

We'd also like to highlight a recent post written by Silas. It's a great reminder on why the SCCS is such a worthy cause that deserves our support:

Go Bald 3: Let’s Help Kids Fight Cancer!

By: Silas Michael

Silas and his son, Matthew, both got shaved during the inaugural Go Bald event in 2009!

Three years ago, a friend of mine, Rodney Wong, an exco and Publicity Chairman of the Sarawak Children's Cancer Society (SCCS), approached me and several young entrepreneurs to come up with a happening approach for youths and the current generation to be involved in charity, specifically in aid of the SCCS, which supports children and families suffering from the trauma of childhood cancer.

Inspired by a similar event in Singapore, we decided to create GoBald. It is a campaign that aims to:

1) Raise awareness on childhood cancer in Sarawak

2) Garner support from the public for the SCCS and her projects

3) Raise funds for the SCCS

Apparently, a new childhood cancer case is diagnosed every 5 days in Sarawak (based on the last few year's report by the SGH) and the most well-equipped hospital in Sabah & Sarawak that provides the necessary treatment for childhood cancer is the Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) that is located in Kuching, Sarawak. Even children from Sabah are sent there for bone cancer treatment. Even the famous major private hospital, Normah Medical Centre, only has facilities for leukemia treatment.

The SCCS provides many forms of support for the children diagnosed with cancer and their families. You can find out more at www.sccs.org.my but some of these include:

1) Providing counselling

2) Providing accommodation and transportation for those from out of town especially the less well-to-do families

3) Running programs and activities such as the Golden Child Camp (at resorts, incl family members) and children's ward visitations

4) Provide financial support for treatment

5) Helps purchase cancer treatment medicine when the hospital stock runs out (hospital has a pretty lengthy process in the procurement of new medicine stock, at times)

On an annual basis, the State Government allocates RM5k for every recognized state welfare organization, including the SCCS. However, the SCCS has a annual operations overhead of some RM500k.

Recently (last year), they were asked to relocate to a new location as the current place they're at now (just 4 min walk from the SGH) has been gazetted for urban development. The State Govt has provided a nice 1.7 acre land for the new SCCS centre but:

1) It's much further from the SGH (so the SCCS need a bigger van)

2) The new centre is well-equipped and more hospitable and bigger with more rooms but will cost some RM2.5million

While there are already some corporate sponsors supporting the SCCS, the sum that they provide is far too little and hence we need to raise a call-to-action by the general public via GoBald (The SCCS has other events including an annual food fair that raises some RM250-300k) especially among the youth and current generation (17-40yrs).

In the first year, GoBald was participated by some 100 shavees and 2 were ladies, raising about RM215k. Last year, over 400 people shaved, including more than 20 ladies, raising some RM400k++

This year, we are running GoBald in two cities. Miri and Kuching:

1st May - Bintang Megamall, Miri

15th May - The Spring Shopping Mall, Kuching

This year, we hope to garner more shavees and raise even more funds. The target is RM1.5million but we'll leave that as the annual target and not just on GoBald's campaign alone. Nonetheless, nothing wrong with trying to achieve that amount. If not this year, maybe next year. But that's a whole new story init?

So, just how do we raise funds as a shavee?

In the first year, Kenny Sia, a renown blogger and celebrity in his own right came to the fore to help champion the cause among his blog readers and friends. He pledged to raise RM50k before he would go onstage to GoBald. Kenny raised of RM60k for the SCCS. In total, over 100 heads were shaved in front of a watching audience at the Spring, Kuching and RM215k was raised.

Last year, several prominent individuals came to the fore and one of them, a gospel artiste and church pastor, GT Lim, raised over RM90k from his sponsors. In total, over 400 heads were shaved and about RM400k++ was raised.

This year, there are no celebs. No prominent VIPs. But there's still you and I. We can make a difference too. I'm pledging to raise RM20k from my friends and business associates. You could raise RM100 or RM100k. The amount does not matter. It's the action and desire to show your support for children with cancer. So, join me in this quest, and let's Shave to Save. Let's help kids fight cancer!

Find out more at www.gobald.my and see how you too, can participate and support the campaign and the SCCS.

REPLACEMENT CLASSES

2011-04-30T14:46:00.000+08:00

DANCE REPLACEMENT CLASSES:

This May 13th-16th, the Dance Instructor Team is in KL for the World Belly Dance Day Charity Event. The following classes will have replacements:

Sun 3 p.m. BD 1d: May 15th class is replaced TOMORROW, May 1st.

Mon 6.10 p.m. BD 2a: May 16th class is replaced on MONDAY, May 2nd.

Other classes go on as usual or will be extended. Please check with your instructor.

**

FITNESS REPLACEMENT CLASSES:

This Monday, May 2nd, there is a special schedule:

7-8 p.m. Core Strength
8-9.30 p.m. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

This is to replace Thursday, May 26th as the Fitness classes will be closed on that day.

Note: Studio 23 is normally closed on public holidays. All classes normally held on Monday are not on, except those listed.

NEXT MONTH: B-BOY CLASSES FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS!

2011-04-26T15:54:00.001+08:00

The title says it all: we’re opening up B-Boy classes starting in May – and it’s the first group dance class at Studio 23 open to guys and girls! This is a 3-Month Course and is meant for beginners (no dance experience necessary).

B-Boy Kids (Saturday 4.30 - 5.30 p.m.):

Pick up some basic B-Boy dance moves and keep fit through play! Learn to feel and interpret music and develop balance, confidence and coordination. It’s a great way to learn independence, and also how to express yourself through music and movement! There will be a regular mini-showcase to show off your skills to your parents!

Kids aged 5-8 will be able to join our kids’ class. Kids below 5 and above 10 will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

B-Boy Adults (Friday 3.00 - 4.30 p.m.):

Learn classic B-Boy moves like top-rocking and freezes, along with dance fundamentals. You won’t learn choreographies, but you’ll learn how to chain different techniques together to make your own style!

It’s a great cardio workout, but you won’t have to worry about doing anything crazy – we won’t be teaching power-moves just yet!

Our Instructor:

The B-Boy classes at Studio 23 will be led by none other than Kuching’s own Daus! At just 20 years old, he is one of the leading influences in the local B-Boy scene, as well as one of its best dancers and most prolific competitors! He has won first place in several competitions, such as Swinburne’s Got Talent, the Floor Mania 1 on 1 and the Saberkas Dance Championship; and performed for Pullman, Celcom, Maybank, Petronas and Swinburne, among others.

A natural performer, Daus is known for his great stage presence and his imaginative and innovative style!

Check out one of his performances from 2009:

For more info, email us at studio23kuching@gmail.com or call Eileen at 012 805 3005.

JIU-JITSU AND CRAZY MONKEY: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

2011-04-25T11:28:00.003+08:00

These are a few questions we are often asked, so we thought we'd put them up, along with our answers.

If you have any more questions, you can email us at studio23kuching@gmail.com or just drop by in person - and as long as you're here, try a class out! Our Martial Arts Open Week starts TODAY and you can go to all the classes for FREE! More information is in the post directly under this one.

***

1. “When are your classes?”

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu:
Tuesday & Thursday 8.00 - 9:30 p.m.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Technique (drilling only):
Friday 7.00 - 8.00 p.m.

Crazy Monkey Defense Fundamentals:
Monday 8.00 - 9.00 p.m. & Wednesday 7.00 - 8.00 p.m.

Crazy Monkey Defense Intermediate:
Wednesday 8.00 - 9.00 p.m.

2. “What should I bring or wear? Do I need shoes?”

For CMD, you don't need to bring anything, but boxing gloves are strongly recommended. We have public gloves you can use, but depending on the number of people in a class, you may have to share them with others. We sell gloves, but if you have your own that's fantastic!

For BJJ, you will need a gi (a martial arts kimono). If you have your own gi from other martial arts training you are welcome to use it. Just be warned that in Jiu-Jitsu there is a lot of gripping and pulling, so if the material is thin, it may rip. If you don't have one, we have a limited number of gis in stock for sale, and you can also rent one for RM10 per class.

Note: depending on the number of people in class, there may not be enough gis to go around if everyone rents. Please bring along a spare t-shirt and shorts in case.

You don't have to wear shoes, as all our training is barefoot.

3. “You offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? Is that where you are doing handstand and flips, and there is a lot of cool music?”

No, that’s actually a totally different thing: it’s called Capoeira. We don’t offer it, but who knows – maybe one day we will; we think it looks really cool! Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is more like a mix of Judo and Wrestling.

You can find more information here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_Jiu-Jitsu

4. “Wrestling? Do you mean like WWE-style?”

Nope! WWE is entertainment, we mean Wrestling as in the martial art. What you see in the Olympics is closer to BJJ.

5. “I’d like to try out your Crazy Monkey Dance / Boxing Dance / etc. What kind of dance is it?”

It’s the kind that’s not a dance at all! Crazy Monkey Defense is a martial arts program, so we’re mainly concerned with self-defense.

6. “Why did you call it Crazy Monkey Defense?”

We didn’t name the style, and we didn’t invent it. It’s an international program and the head of the program, Rodney King, is based in South Africa. There are trainers in South Africa, North America, Europe, Australia and all over South East Asia!

For more info you can check out: http://www.crazymonkeyuniverse.com/

7. “So you have Crazy Monkey Defense, but do you have Kickboxing?”

Yes we do, as a part of the CMD program, but we mainly use punches. We teach kicks and knee strikes, but for the most part you will be using your legs for moving around and keeping balance, rather than striking.

8. “Can women join these classes? Or are they just for men?”

Women are always welcome in either BJJ or CMD. We would just recommend that for BJJ, that women bring a partner or friend.

9. “Can I just watch a class? I don’t know if I want to try it out.”

We strongly recommend you try the classes out rather than watch. The reason is: you will probably not really understand what is happening unless you experience it for yourself. Much more is happening than you may be able to see, and it is hard to catch unless you are actually doing it.

10. “Which is better for me, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or Crazy Monkey Defense?”

Well, that’s really up to you. They are both martial arts, and the only difference is the emphasis. In the BJJ program, we train mainly for sport competition (which means there is no striking), and in the CMD program the focus is on self-defense (which means everything is based on striking).

We recommend you come and try out both classes and see if you like the training. If you want to do both, that’s great too!

The first class is always free, so you can come and see if you like the training environment and atmosphere.

BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU / CRAZY MONKEY UPDATES & PROMOTION

2011-04-12T10:48:00.004+08:00

1. Crazy Monkey Fundamentals class (no experience necessary!)

There will be a new Crazy Monkey Fundamentals class starting next month! The Fundamentals class is meant to give you the most essential core of the CMD program, and is open to men and women of all skill levels.

It doesn't matter if you've got no experience or if you have been training martial arts your whole life - there's something for you to learn in the CMD Fundamentals class!

The Fundamentals classes will be held on:

Monday 8 - 9 p.m., and
Wednesday 7 - 8 p.m.

The first class is on Wednesday, May 4th. However, you'll be able to preview the class starting April 25th during our Open Week!

2. Jiu-Jitsu / CMD Promotion & Open Week

If you've ever wanted to try Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or Crazy Monkey Defense, it's a great time to do just that!

From Monday, April 25th to Saturday, April 30th, we'll be having a martial arts Open Week! Come and check out the gym, see if you like the training atmosphere, and attend ALL our martial arts classes
- for FREE!

From May 1st - 31st, when you join either program, you'll be able to attend all the classes for just RM100 a month each! What's more, you will be able to attend the next two months for the same price if you sign up by May 31st.

That's 3 months of unlimited training for only RM300 per program!

Come and check us out, and see you on the mats!

Note: During the promotion, beginners to the Crazy Monkey Defense program will be able to join both Fundamentals classes. After getting a good grasp on the material there, they will be invited to take part in the Wednesday 8 - 9 p.m. CMD Advanced class. During the Open Week, all CMD classes will be open to the public. Finally, to join the CMD program you must be 18 or older.

Questions? Email us at: studio23kuching@gmail.com

Click for more information on Crazy Monkey Defense

Click for more information on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

DANCE CLASSES IN APRIL (CURRENT AND NEW STUDENTS)

2011-04-01T18:34:00.001+08:00

For those of you who have been taking a break from the Dance classes, and are planning to join again, April is a great time to do just that! These are the classes that will be starting new choreographies in April:

Belly Dance 2A: Monday, 6.10 p.m.

Belly Dance 2B: Saturday 9.00 a.m. / Wednesday 7.15 p.m.

Belly Dance 1C: Friday 6.30 p.m.

And for those of you who have no dance experience, don't feel left out - we've got classes for you too!

Belly Dance 1D (Beginners): Monday, 8.15 p.m. - Starts April 4th

Modern Jazz (Beginners): Monday, 7.15 p.m. - Starts April 4th

Flamenco (Beginners): Wednesday, 7.15 p.m. - Starts April 6th

NEW JIU-JITSU CLASS IN APRIL

2011-03-28T15:03:00.001+08:00

We're opening up a new Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class in April! Every Friday from 7-8 p.m. we will be drilling techniques, as well as movements for better body mechanics. Drilling is a key, though underappreciated and often neglected part of Jiu-Jitsu, so this will be a great way to improve your ability to move and grapple!

This is an add-on to the program, so there's no increase in price. The first class is this Friday, April 1st (not the 4th!).

This is the first of many changes we have planned for the Jiu-Jitsu program, and we're really excited about them - watch this space for more updates and info soon!

If you have any questions about the Jiu-Jitsu program, email us at studio23kuching@gmail.com or contact Albert at 017 613 9311.

CORE STRENGTH BOOTCAMP UPDATES

2011-03-18T19:15:00.000+08:00

The response to Season 2 of our Core Strength Bootcamp has been awesome, and we are officially closing it off for this round! Any new applicants will be placed on a waiting list for Season 3.

Week 1 is just ending now. We're really happy with the effort put in by the Bootcampers, and we're also really impressed by their commitment!

One of our Bootcampers is Sharon, a journalist with the Star. Check out her take on the Bootcamp, published in today's issue of the Star (Sarawak Edition)!

***

Friday March 18, 2011

Keeping fit is no walk in the park

THIS week I’m starting a fitness boot camp programme which will last three months. I’m doing this not because I want to lose weight — in fact, if I shed several kilogrammes there wouldn’t be much left of me! Rather, I signed up because I really want to improve my fitness, strength and stamina.

I was impressed by some spectacular results I saw among the first group of participants who joined a pilot boot camp at the end of last year. One of my friends achieved her goal of having a flat tummy without having to suck it in. I immediately thought, “That’s what I want, too!”

Another friend lost about 5kg and looks considerably leaner and fitter.

Throughout the boot camp, I’ll have to attend at least two core-strength fitness classes a week. I’ve already been going to this class once a week, which got me into some shape, but I’m still quite unfit.

For instance, I can’t do a cardio (aerobic) warm-up of running, skipping and hopping several times around the gym without huffing and puffing and wanting to collapse in a heap.

So that’s one of my goals for the boot camp - to build up my stamina until the cardio warm-up becomes comfortable. This should come in useful for running around after politicians in the state election!

Cardio exercises aren’t the only things we do in core-strength classes. We do all kinds of things with funky names like Atomic Crunch, Tigerman and Mountain Runner, but believe me, they can be pretty tough on the legs, arms, shoulders and abdominal muscles.

The good thing is that you do a complete workout, exercising every part of your body, so you don’t just bulk up in the shoulders or upper arms.

What’s great about this boot camp, though, is that it isn’t just about putting yourself through a gruelling exercise regime. There’s also an emphasis on a good diet - eating healthy food in the right amounts and changing unhealthy eating habits. Getting fit is about having a healthy lifestyle, so it makes sense to watch our food intake while exercising regularly.

So we’re encouraged to keep track of what we’re eating as well as how we feel before and after each meal. This is because, according to the programme facilitators, some people eat more when they’re stressed, unhappy or plain bored.

Others might find themselves consuming more food than usual when they’re with friends or when they’re alone. By taking note of this, we’ll be able to see whether our eating habits are associated with certain moods or emotions, and make the necessary adjustments.

We’re also encouraged to make conscious decisions to eat healthy meals with plenty of vegetables and fruit. At the same time, we’ll be cutting down or eliminating junk food, which includes chocolate, alas. Perhaps I can treat myself to a bit of chocolate after a particularly tough workout or an exceptionally healthy meal.

In addition, the boot camp participants act as a support group for one another. It’s a lot harder to keep up an exercise routine or maintain a healthy diet if you had to do it on your own. I know I wouldn’t last very long, especially when it comes to exercise. Jogging or doing push-ups by myself? I’d give up after 10 minutes.

Exercising together with other people will definitely motivate me to keep going till the end. The kiasu factor also comes in useful in exercise classes - if this kid or that person’s mother can do it, I can do it too!

Having a support group is important when you want to achieve personal goals towards self-improvement. It becomes easier when you have friends and family members who will cheer you on, encourage you, believe in you and give you moral support.

Imagine if your friends tease you every time you reach for vegetables or a piece of fruit, or snicker when you say you want a slim waist. How discouraging would that be!

So to the nay-sayers, don’t laugh if someone you know wants to break bad habits and change to a healthier way of living. Support them instead, or better yet, join them!

Finally, the plan is to have fun in this boot camp. This isn’t like The Biggest Loser reality show, where the contestants often end up suffering and crying. We may ache after a core-strength class, but it’s fun all the same because there’s variety in the exercises and plenty of encouragement from one another.

So I’m looking forward to the rest of the boot camp and having positive results to show at the end of it.

DANCE UPDATES

2011-03-16T12:46:00.001+08:00

Our first Tribal Fusion Belly Dance class starts tonight at 6:15 p.m. and features a choreography by Hilary Cinis, from Sydney!

Also, we have a few NEW DANCE CLASSES, STARTING in APRIL:

Modern Jazz: Monday 7:15 p.m.

Belly Dance: Monday 8:15 p.m.

Flamenco: Wednesday 7:15 p.m.

Call Eileen at 012 805 3005, or email us at studio23kuching@gmail.com to book your spot!

BOOTCAMP SEASON 2, FIRST MEETING TONIGHT!

2011-03-13T14:51:00.000+08:00

We've had a great response to our Bootcamp, and thanks to everyone who has expressed interest in joining! Tonight's meeting will be at 7 p.m., at the Studio and it is an introduction to the Bootcamp.

We'll be discussing goals and expectations for the program (both yours and ours). Also, you only have to decide about signing up after the meeting. So if you are still thinking about it, you are welcome to join us tonight.

Remember to bring a notebook, and see you tonight!

3-MONTH CORE STRENGTH BOOTCAMP

2011-03-10T22:11:00.000+08:00

One of the projects we have been working on for the past half-year or so is a 3-month Bootcamp program aimed at helping people enjoy a healthier overall lifestyle. It combines our Core Strength program with a healthy eating plan, as well as a support group that meets regularly to discuss and monitor your goals.

We have already finished our first round of the Bootcamp, and we're really happy with the results - and we have a new season starting this weekend! We have a few spots available, so there is still a chance for you to join us.

This season of the Bootcamp will run from March 13th, 2011 to June 18th, 2011.

To find out more, call Albert at +60176139311 or email us at studio23kuching@gmail.com

We'll leave you with some of the feedback our first Bootcampers gave us!

***

It’s much easier to watch my diet and exercise with a group to support me.

-Diana M.

It really helped me open up to new lifestyle ideas that actually work.

-Darren A.

Just being slimmer is not the answer … it’s important to be healthy from the inside out. I’m an emotional eater, so with the help of the food journal, I got that sorted out.

-Diana H.

Being in better shape allowed me to do many things I didn’t have the confidence or the physical condition to do before… and many friends and acquaintances want to know how I suddenly look good.

-Georgette T.

It works! I now have flat abs without sucking in my tummy!

Oh, and better stamina too!

-Serina L.

The Bootcamp really helped me to be more aware of things like how my body responds to stress, and how to make conscious decisions to not let stress get the upper hand.

-Joanna Y.

There is nothing to lose. Why not just make a difference in your life?

-Isla L.

Join and you will discover you are stronger than you thought.

-Sze Leng T.

CRAZY MONKEY DEFENSE IN THE NEWS! - Part 1

2011-03-01T11:39:00.001+08:00

A little while ago, our good friend Sharon Ling (reporter extraordinaire with the Star) interviewed the Studio 23 CMD team about the program. This short writeup appeared in yesterday's issue of the Star (Sarawak Edition, sports section page SA15, for those of you who still have a copy!).

It highlights the positive changes that the CMD program is able to bring about in peoples' lives, and offers a little more insight into the workings and mindset of our training.

There is also a longer feature article that will be out soon, so stay tuned!

Edit: The CMD article is out TODAY (March 2, 2011), in the Sarawak Edition of the Star! Sports section, page SA14. Check it out!

***

From virtual to real-life sparring

Kuching: Reuben Yap, 28, used to be a computer game addict, playing for hours without stopping.

That was until he discovered the Crazy Monkey Defense (CMD) programme at Studio 23.

"I've been doing CMD for more than two years. Before that I used to play computer games all the time.

But when I started CMD, I didn't feel the urge to play games any more. Now I get the same rush from CMD. It's like playing a real-life fighting game but in a safe environment," Reuben said.

For Owen Tan, 25, CMD was a good way of staying fit.

"I had quit rugby and was looking for something to keep up my fitness levels. CMD is not too extreme but it does require some fitness which you can build up over time," he said.

"In classes we do drills, go through the basics and do some sparring. We also meet new friends and learn new techniques. It's a great way to keep fit."

It isn't just the men who enjoy CMD. Joanna Yap and Georgette Tan have been taking the classes since last year and both say they have benefited from it.

"I was quite intrigued by CMD because it's something different. It's practical and emphasizes economy of movement, so that attracted me to it.

"It's also emphasized during class that CMD is not based on aggression. Instead there's mutual respect. It gives opportunities to people to learn from each other when sparring," Joanna said.

For instance, she said she was less experienced compared to the men, so they would bring their sparring to a level she could learn from.

"Everyone learns at their own pace so there's no pressure to be able to do certain things by a certain time. This gives me the opportunity for self-improvement. Also, what I learn in CMD class, such as reacting calmly, can be applied to other situations," she said.

Georgette agreed that CMD classes were conducted in a friendly atmosphere.

"In fact, you hear us apologizing to each other a lot. No one is out to get you, although you have to expect physical contact such as getting your face and body punched."

QUICK UPDATE

2011-02-18T00:10:00.000+08:00

1. NEW BELLY DANCE class: starts this Sunday, Feb 20th! Remember to come early to register and pay.

2. Since we are traveling so much this month, we may not be able to reply to messages and emails in a timely fashion. If you have a question about the Studio and/or our programs, please call our manager Eileen at 0128053005.

3. Open Mats for the next two Saturdays is still on as normal, with Ivan in charge.

Thanks all!

ADVENTURES IN DANCE AND JIU-JITSU

2011-02-08T18:03:00.001+08:00

Exciting times are in store for Studio 23!

Serina is in Sydney, Australia for the month of February for intensive dance training with some incredible performers, like Hilary Cinis and Sahara! She will be back by March, and is already bursting with awesome belly dance moves to blow your mind and knock the coins right off your belts! Special thanks to our wonderful team of capable instructors, who will be holding the fort in her absence.

Albert just got back from Sydney, where he got some Jiu-Jitsu time with Professor Nicolas Gregoriades, over at Roger Gracie Academy (Sydney). In just 2 weeks he's off to Bangkok for training with Professor Adam Kayoom at Bangkok BJJ, and finally a week after that, Roger Gracie himself will be in Singapore to do a seminar - and guess who's going for that, too! It's safe to say that the BJJ team at Studio 23 is in for some good, good knowledge!

What's more, in March Studio 23 will be hosting Christian Graugart, a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, as he stops over for a few days on his world tour!

It's going to be awesome!

CNY ANNOUNCEMENTS

2011-01-27T10:39:00.000+08:00

Hard to believe January is almost over, it feels like the year just got started! And here we are at our first holiday break already...

1. New Belly Dance Class!

We're opening a new Belly Dance beginner class, SUNDAY 3 p.m. starting on Feb 20. For more information please call Eileen at 0128053005.

2. Holiday Closure (Dance)

We will be closed from Jan 31 (Monday) until Sunday, Feb 6. Normal classes resume on Monday, Feb 7.

3. Holiday Closure (Fitness)

We will be closed from Jan 27 (today) until Sunday, Feb 6. Normal classes resume on Monday, Feb 7.

That's it for now. Have a safe and fun CNY break, everyone!

CURRENT DANCES

2011-01-04T00:55:00.003+08:00

For dancers who are currently away on holiday, or would like to confirm which dance your class is doing, or would like to revise any dances you already know, here is a list of all the dances we're currently offering. Remember to check your level and timeslot. Thanks!

Edit: corrected a typo, Tues 7.45p.m. Belly Dance is doing the Drum Intro, not Veil Dance.

BELLY DANCE

Belly Dance 3 (Tues 6.30p.m.): Karen's Drum Solo - Starting Jan 4th, 2011

Belly Dance 2A (Mon 6.10p.m. & Sat 3p.m.): Princess of Cairo - Just started

Belly Dance 2B (Wed 7.15p.m.): Tamr Henna - Starting Jan 19th, 2011

Belly Dance 2B (Sat 9a.m.): Tabla Solo - Halfway through

Belly Dance 1A (Thurs 6p.m.): Drum Intro - Starting Jan 13th, 2011

Belly Dance 1B (Tues 7.45p.m.): Drum Intro - Starting Jan 4th, 2011

Belly Dance 1C (Wed 6.15p.m.): Veil Dance - Starting Jan 5th, 2011

Belly Dance 1C (Thurs 7.15p.m.): Habibi - Halfway through

Belly Dance 1C (Fri 6.30p.m.): Habibi - Just started

JAZZ

Jazz 1 (Mon 7.15p.m.): Step Up - Starting Jan 3rd, 2011

Jazz 1 (Wed 8.15p.m.): Smooth Criminal - Halfway through

Jazz 1 (Sat 10a.m.): Beggin' - Halfway through

Jazz 2 (Tues 7.30p.m.): I Believe - Starting Jan 4th, 2011

Jazz 2 (Sat 4.15p.m.): I Believe - Starting Jan 8th, 2011

FLAMENCO

Both Flamenco classes (levels 1 & 2) will be starting new routines this week!

YEAR IN REVIEW: 2010

2010-12-31T16:25:00.000+08:00

SO. What have we learnt this year?

Mainly: the importance of REST! Based on our experiences in 2009, we decided to close the studio on public holidays. We also merged some classes, and closed the Sunday classes mid-2010. In 2009, we found out the hard way that:

(i) We may score high on enthusiasm, but we’re really not as resilient as we thought (boo!) and we were falling sick a lot.

(ii) During public holidays, most people can’t make it to classes, as they have plans with their families and friends…so we’ve decided to spend time with our own families and friends too!

And we’ve found that this arrangement works! We’re much healthier, less grumpy, and spending less on coffee – yay!

So before we move into the brand new year of 2011, let’s take a look at what we’ve done over the year 2010:

JANUARY

Highlights of the month include an outing to the Spring for the launch of My Privilege Book 2010, and a show for SHEDA where we got to see Phua Chu Kang and Phua Chu Beng in action.

We also introduced our new modern jazz choreography ‘Nobody, Nobody’ by the Wonder Girls; it went completely viral! We didn’t expect the response we received for it; we had to open special classes just to teach that one dance!

And yes, that was the number one request whenever the dance troupe performed. Here are the various generations of Studio 23 Wonder Girls (not in chronological order, in case you were wondering)!

FEBRUARY

For our first holiday break of the year, Albert took the chance to go train Jiu-Jitsu in Bangkok with then-UK-based Nicolas Gregoriades, a black belt under the greatest BJJ competitor of all time, Roger Gracie. Professor Nic is definitely world class, and dropped some serious knowledge for us. It was an eye-opening experience, and it was not to be the last time we headed to Thailand this year! Professor Nic is now teaching BJJ in Sydney, Australia so hopefully we’ll be seeing more of him.

MARCH

We normally just leave the dancing to Serina, but Albert also had to get in on the action! We had a lot of requests to teach a couple dance, and we started a semi-private, 3-Month Waltz class for our friends Alex and Carol, who wanted to dance the Waltz for their wedding. It was the first time we’ve done something like this, and the response was excellent!

APRIL

This was a whole month of saying farewell to our first fulltime instructor, Emmelina; not because we couldn’t wait for her to go, but because it was so hard to let her go. We had to have a farewell party with her students and another with her classmates. And, thanks to our newest instructor who joined our team in April, there was also a party with the instructors.

Thanks, Lydia, for taking over our classes so the rest of us could go out and play...

And yes, we were thinking of you. We took this photo for you :)

Emm, we STILL miss you and we’re still waiting for you to come back to Kuching!

MAY

This was a month of huge firsts and still-really-good seconds! Serina traveled to Penang for the 2^nd World Belly Dance Festival, where she took workshops with international star, Aziza – and that’s not all! Serina also performed a solo at the Festival Concert. It was her first time performing in front of Belly Dance professionals and it was really scary…fortunately everything went smoothly! But she re-learnt a valuable lesson: breathing is also important when dancing… as she is fond of telling her students. “Breathe, breathe! Don’t hold your breath!” (sounds familiar?)

Last year Albert queued up with a hundred other people to get his head shaved for charity. This year, to benefit the Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society, he joined the Go Bald team as a writer and was in the first batch to get shaved on stage. It was a really great experience to go behind the scenes and see how it was done. This year there were more than 300 people to be shaved, which included whole families, and more women!

Hunchbacked monkeys at the Spring

JUNE

We started June by heading to Korea! Albert was there to take part in a Jiu-Jitsu competition. He came back with a gold medal – and a swollen toe.

It was also Serina’s first time being interviewed on television! She was on RTM’s Kuppa Kopi show to talk about dance in Sarawak (and was also very shy about it, conveniently forgetting to tell anybody when it would be airing). We got to have a look around the RTM studio, and Serina got to have the full TV makeup treatment!

Finally, we started our first Adult Ballet Class! It was a special 3-month course, taught by Elaine Lee. We learnt many important skills – how to stretch, have proper poise, and cling to walls!

JULY

*deep breath between the crazy busy months of June and August*

AUGUST

Our 60s-themed Belly Dance Hafla! Serina thought she worked really hard getting every one trained for the Hafla. Unbeknownst to her, the Level 3 belly dance class was working even harder behind her back. On top of the rigorous training Serina had in store for them, they were also meeting up secretly for a special surprise for her. And congratulations, ladies, you were completely successful! When they performed their drum solo they entitled ‘To Serina with Love’, she was blown away. That was the nicest thing any one has ever done for her, and the best (and biggest!) surprise she’s ever had, so thank you.

Dancers: you completely made her year,
and she still tears up when she thinks about it J

SEPTEMBER

After the great response we had for the Waltz class, we decided to have another 3-month course, this time for the Argentine Tango! We had such fun doing this, we have plans for more Argentine Tango classes next year!

The graduating class

Our designated stuntpeople

We also started extra BJJ sessions this month, to get ready for the competition in Bangkok. Albert, Ivan and Tony would be competing, and the team got together an additional 2 to 3 times a week, at 7.30 a.m. to start the day with some good training! We spent the mornings working hard to lose weight for the competition, and on Thursday evenings we put it all back on! After classes we all headed downstairs to the mamak restaurant to watch Ivan and Hilda on the Amazing Race Asia and indulge in roti canai and mee mamak.

OCTOBER

The big Jiu-Jitsu competition in Bangkok, and we got some great rewards for our preparation! Ivan and Tony got gold AND silver in their weight division, and Ivan also took home the gold in the open weight category! Albert spent the weekend feeling like a proud mother hen. It was a great experience and Studio 23 BJJ Team will definitely be back for more competitions in 2011!

On the podium

Also, a big shout out to Casey, who did not compete but still went to support the team, and act as manager/cameraman/toilet paper supplier!

Back home with the rest of the team

NOVEMBER

It was a month-plus of intensive rehearsals and performances – 8 performances in 7 weeks; training new members of our dance troupe, and producing our 3^rd generation of Wonder Girls. We also opened a bunch of special dance classes for the school holidays, and a new Saturday Fizfit class!

DECEMBER

Serina and Diana both danced as angels in their church Christmas production when they were much younger, not knowing that 17 years later, they would be back as veteran angels amongst primary and secondary school students! 17 years later, Serina still has OCD-tendencies, but is less bossy (yes, she used to be much worse!), and Diana has sharpened her skills as a super stylist. (They’re both extremely relieved that there was no Facebook or YouTube during their first stint as angels). This is the last time they are dancing as angels; they are passing on the mantle to the young dancers who did an excellent job, especially as it was the first dance performance for most of them!

It was very fitting that our very last performance for 2010 was on Christmas Day in the church we grew up in. Everything we have comes from God, and it was a privilege and honour to be able to give a little bit back to Him.

Happy New Year, every one, and God bless you!

HOLIDAY DANCE CLASSES

2010-11-19T14:50:00.001+08:00

School holidays are here again! If you're feeling bored or want something to do, come check us out! We'll be holding some special holiday dance classes!

Challenge yourself in an express dance bootcamp, by learning a

full dance choreography in just 5 weeks!

Beggin’ Tues 10.00am – 11.30am

Smooth Criminal Tues 3:00pm – 4:30pm

Nobody Thurs 10.00am – 11.30am

Beggin’ Thurs 3:00pm – 4:30pm

Don't just stay at home and watch dancers on

TV or YouTube... come and do it yourself!

Each dance runs for 5 weeks, and costs RM80. Each class is 90 minutes each (7.5 hours in total). There is a RM10 registration fee for first-time students.

Classes go from 23 November to 23 December, 2010.

Pre-registration is required, as we won't be opening the class unless there are enough people signed up.

For more information, please email studio23kuching@gmail.com or call Eileen at +6012 805 3005.

Oh, and please note that our dance classes are for females only.

Thanks!

NEW BELLY DANCE CLASS THIS NOV

2010-10-17T17:29:00.001+08:00

UPDATED!

Hi all,

Due to the awesome response to our latest Belly Dance beginner class (Thursday 7.15-8.15 p.m.) we've had to declare it full. We can't accept any more new students for this class.

The good news is, we're opening up a NEW Belly Dance beginner class on Fridays at 6.30-7.30 p.m. with the first class to be held this November 5th! Please email studio23kuching@gmail.com, or call Eileen at +6012 805 3005 to book your spot. Also, remember to come early to register!

Thanks everyone!

NEW FIZFIT CLASS

2010-10-14T23:02:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

Now you'll be able to start your weekend with a great Saturday morning workout!

This November 6th, we're opening up a new Fizfit Core Strength class on Saturdays at 10.00 to 11.00 a.m., perfect for early risers, people who aren't free weeknights, or those who just want another excuse to sweat!

We're planning to open more classes, so watch out for more info!

FLASHBACK: PRE-HAFLA PREPARATIONS

2010-10-12T23:36:00.001+08:00

We started getting ready for the Hafla in earnest a week or two before. A lot of the decorations used at the Hafla were designed by our artistic director for the event, Abigail!

Our dancers were more than happy to get into the action (while waiting for rehearsals), doing a great deal of painting, cutting and sticking!

In fact, they were working so hard...

...they started to see stars! *ba dum pssh!*

The unglamorous but necessary part of showbiz...

The night before the Hafla was jam packed with all kinds of activity. It took a lot of work to set up the room!

There was tons of stuff to do to make sure that we were all set for the hafla.

"I don't think we get paid enough for this."
"...You get paid?"

Meanwhile, back at the studio we had more sla- err... willing labour to do up some more decorations!

We had a lot of awesome help with these decorations and they really helped with the atmosphere! This mobile was made by Abigail.

At first it looks like we caused quite a mess...

But then it turns out Lydia's been staying up late watching movies again.

"So I was thinking that the colour composition is interesting because of the contrast in the..."
"I was watching a funny video on YouTube, this guy can make his cats sing!"
"No-boh-dee, no-boh-dee but youuu..."
"Have you guys watched Twilight yet?"
"Um, can I have the staples please?"

Q: How many dancers does it take to staple decorations to a wall?

This scenario was oddly reminiscent of our first Hafla. Maybe it's our newest studio trademark!

Studio 23: great dancers, and expert supervisors!

When hippies let their hair down.

We brought in some special wigs to help get in the proper 60's mood!

"I think it looks good there."
"Yes, ma'am!" *sticks sign to wall*
"No, wait. No, over there."
*starts weeping*

Serina ably lends assistance in her usual expert supervisory capacity.

It was really late when we finally wrapped up and called it a night. We were having trouble staying up...

...and even telling which way was up.

COMING UP NEXT: It's TIME! Are you READY... TO... SHIMMY!?!

WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT

2010-10-12T13:38:00.000+08:00

When I first started training, nobody would have guessed that I'd amount to anything as far as BJJ competition. I know I wouldn't have given myself great odds. Nobody would have guessed that out of all the potential and talent in the gym, I'd turn out to be the only one regularly competing.

I certainly wasn't the biggest, strongest, fastest or most gifted guy, or even halfway flexible. I was just hard to submit and that's about it.

Having a reasonably tough chin helped me out a little.

Nobody would have imagined that one day I'd be running a studio of my own, let alone bringing students to compete with me, but that's what's happening now.

The FBT Thailand BJJ Open is just over a week away and the butterflies have again returned to settle in my stomach. They're quite comfortable, but every now and then they have a little dance battle or something.

A lot has changed from even the last competition in June and it's like everything old is new again. It looks like this year will be huge, and there are a whole lot of good guys attending. I'm really excited to see what's going to happen. I'm really excited to see how my guys do. I'm really excited to meet old friends and make new ones.

I think it's going to be a completely awesome time and I'm looking forward to it.

-Albert

EXTRA JIU-JITSU TRAINING

2010-09-26T13:07:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

In preparation for the upcoming Bangkok competition, there will be extra BJJ training during weekday mornings.

Monday 7.30 a.m. - 8.20 a.m. : Gi

Wednesday 7.30 a.m. - 8.20 a.m. : No-Gi

Friday 7.30 a.m. - 8.20 a.m. : Gi

All BJJ and CMD members are welcome to attend.

STUDIO UPDATES

2010-09-23T18:07:00.000+08:00

Hi all, not many updates lately but more are on the way!

Here are some announcements for the meantime:

1. We've got a Fizfit in the Park workout this Sunday, Sept 26th at the usual time and location (5.15 p.m. at Friendship Park). Come join us for a free workout! Dinner to follow, but if it rains then the workout will be called off and we go right to dinner. Remember to wear proper shoes!

2. We've just started a new Belly Dance Beginner class! If you're looking to learn the art of Belly Dance, it's a great time to jump on. Thursdays at 7.15 p.m. For more information, email studio23kuching@gmail.com or call Eileen at 0128053005.

3. BJJ classes on Thursdays will be temporarily condensed to 1 hour (8 - 9pm). This is so we can close early to go watch Ivan and his Mrs on the Amazing Race Asia! All are welcome to join us.

HAFLA UPDATE

2010-08-17T14:27:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

Well, we were hoping for a good response, but we didn't know it would be THIS good! Thanks very much, we really appreciate it, this is awesome! We're officially sold out, and we aren't opening any new tables, as the venue can't support any more.

If you've already paid for your tickets, thank you very much!

If you've booked tickets but have yet to pay, please make sure you pay by this Saturday 21st August, or your ticket will be released to the waiting list.

If you have not managed to book your ticket, but would still like to go, please contact Eileen at +60128053005 to be placed on the waiting list.

Again, just a few important points to note:

1. This is a LADIES-ONLY event. The only men that will be there are the official photographer, videographer, and some of the servers (the male servers will not be there during the performances).
No other men will be allowed to enter the room.

2. No recording of the performances is allowed. You can take photos before and after, but not during.

3. Have fun at the Hafla! Yes this is an actual rule, Serina says so :p

Thanks again for the support everyone, we'll do our best to make sure we can accommodate everyone next year!

STUDIO 23 HAFLA 2010!

2010-08-14T11:00:00.006+08:00

IMPORTANT UPDATE: WE HAVE OFFICIALLY SOLD OUT! However, due to a spike in demand, we are opening up new tables.

So if you are interested in going, please contact us ASAP to book tickets. We will NOT confirm tickets until payment is received. WE WILL NOT BE OPENING UP MORE TABLES AFTER THESE ARE SOLD OUT.

Thanks for the awesome support, we're working hard to make this the rockingest 60's-themed Hafla EVER!

The unofficial mascotperson for the 2010 Studio 23 Hafla.

Come to the Sarawak Club and enjoy a great evening, complete with a full sit-down dinner and all the best of this year’s Belly Dance! Dancers from all our Belly Dance classes will be showcasing what they’ve been learning, so you don’t want to miss it!

We’re really excited to hear that in keeping with our 1960’s theme, some of you are already planning your costumes: from beehives and bobs, to groovy hippies, to all-out flower power! In fact, we’ve decided to hold a special best-dressed contest, so start looking for your old tye-dyed outfits!

But that’s not all! On top of all this, there’s more:

Performances from the Modern Jazz and Flamenco classes – if you haven’t been able to catch them in action, now’s a great time! The Modern Jazz dancers will be performing Nobody, and (first time ever) These Boots Are Made for Walking! From the Flamenco class, you’ll see another first-ever group performance of Habanera, from the opera Carmen!

Special Guest Belly Dancers from KL! Serina’s Belly Dance friends have heard so much about you, they’re coming here specially to celebrate the evening with you – they’re planning a performance, along with some other surprises!

One night only: a special Ballet performance from Swan Lake, by our Guest Ballet Instructor, Elaine!

Have you got YOUR tickets yet? They're selling FAST so get them now! For more information, call Eileen at +60128053005 or email us at studio23kuching@gmail.com

7:00 p.m. 28^th August 2010

(Ladies ONLY, please!)

EMAIL HICCUPS

2010-07-26T17:42:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

We've got some minor problems with some of our email addresses. If you need to get in touch with us, please make sure to direct all correspondence to:

studio23kuching@gmail.com

Thanks!

NEW BELLY DANCE TECHNIQUE CLASS!

2010-07-06T13:25:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

A reminder that for dancers interested in learning Belly Dance, we've got a new technique class starting tomorrow! Please do come early to make sure you are registered. It's an excellent opportunity to start learning Belly Dance, so don't miss it!

Wednesdays 6:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.

ALBERT'S COMPETITION: BEHIND THE SCENES

2010-06-17T13:04:00.021+08:00

On the day of the competition, we woke up to some light rain. It rained for the whole of the previous day and contrary to our weather forecast *coughIslacough* we were freezing! Fortunately, it was only lightly drizzling.

By the time we got to the competition venue, it was already starting to fill up with people.

We were all supposed to be lining up to get weighed and registered, but half of the people there didn't have waivers. Not a big problem, it was quickly solved. But then...

Uh oh.

These two upstanding gents were good enough to help with translation.

This time it went more smoothly, and now came the reward for 2 weeks of dieting:

A slice of cheese in my sandwich! HUZZAH!

This sandwich is one of many, many food items we bought from Paris Baguette, one of our FAVOURITE things about Seoul. Yay for Isla, thanks for the recommendation!

Our competition picnic.

Banana: for the potassium.

Sandwich: for the carbs and to sop up the overflow of stomach acid.

Snickers: for a quick energy hit.

Cherries: because we only have the preserved kind in Kuching.

Jerky: A great way to pass the time.

Cookies: Just because they make us happy. What, we keep fit for a living :p

The field upon which battle (and much bowing) would be done.

My weight division. There would be a last-minute entry, however

(which in retrospect I'm pretty thankful for!).

The seedings for the absolute (open weight) division. There was a tiny mix-up with my registration and I was not listed here, but a ball-point pen came to the rescue!

This is totally unrelated to the competition but we were just so intrigued by those blue things. We thought they were cranks of some sort but then realised that it's soap...

when Serina bravely grabbed the "handle".

On the podium!

What's really cool about this photo is that the referee who presented us our medals is Alvaro Mansor, a 5th-degree black belt, an official with the IBJJF, and the head of Soul Fighters academy in Brazil!

Finally, this is me with Marc Lee, a cool guy and a great organiser and host!

WELCOME BACK, CHAMP!

2010-06-16T12:50:00.003+08:00

note: This post was written by Serina.

We're back from Korea, where Albert did Studio 23 proud by getting gold in his weight division at the Korean National BJJ Open! Coming soon will be a more detailed post with photos. In the meantime, watch our homecoming champion at Incheon International Airport in all his glory.

ADULT BALLET CLASS: UPDATE 1

2010-06-10T00:44:00.015+08:00

Well, we started the first week of adult ballet classes last Friday, where some students reactivated long lost muscles, while the rest discovered new ones. Here's just a taste of the fun to be had imagining you were a 9-year old girl in pink tights.

We took part in intense Matrix-style training.

"There is no longkang, there is no longkang...JUMP!"

If you see any grown adults walking around Kuching like this,

you know where they came from.

The long-lost key to eliminating chicken wing arms, rediscovered at last!

The Monday class saw the introduction of guys to the wonderful world of ballet. But only after we found them loitering at the stairs outside, too shy to come in.

We stretched like there was no tomorrow (or camera-woman)...

We learnt to cross the road just like the Beatles...

...not as stylish as John, but we can't all be.

Finally, what does Spider-Man have in common with Studio 23?

...you know, apart from the fancy costumes?

...give up?

The poses! Here we see our Spider-Women in training.

Group 3 of the Ballet class meets tomorrow for their first class, 7 p.m.

Remember to come early to register, and have a blast, guys!

Studio 23 on Kuppa Kopi

2010-05-30T19:46:00.026+08:00

In November 2009, we were interviewed on our local radio station Red FM. I say 'we' but it was actually Emmelina and my mom who did all the talking while I was just trying not to breathe too heavily into my microphone. Radio interviews are alright because you get to slouch in your chair, swivel it all about and gesture wildly at your interview partner. AND you can write notes to each other.

However, being interviewed for a TV programme is totally different. First of all, there are so many people in the room and they're all looking at you. Apart from the cameramen, there are the producer, the director and other technical crew. And really, there's nothing that induces a blank mind faster than the knowledge that you're being recorded and that if you mess up, everyone has to wait while they reset and do a retake. And trust me, the wait is agonizingly long when you're the cause!

But let's start from the very beginning, a very good place to start...

Memorising important facts.

"Si! My name is Herina...D'oh!...Hi! My name is Serina."

Yes, I actually did fall asleep and even had a minor leg twitch,

which I quickly covered up by gracefully recrossing my legs.

Thank God I didn't kick her.

Saodah, miracle worker.

My request was, 'Please make me look fresh and awake'.

I spent the whole time staring at Sharnaz because I didn't

know which camera to look at!

Sharnaz (presenter), Regina (producer), Ms. Iris (Ballet teacher),

Mr Chester (Sarawak Dancesport Association),

En. Sharkawi (Caperena Dance Academy)

dan Puan Serina (Studio 23).

The chat during the coffee (and curry puff yay!) session we had after the recording was actually more interesting as we were all more relaxed, and it was fun and inspiring to meet people who are passionate about dance as well.

It was really scary being on TV but it was also a really interesting and eye-opening experience. (In one instance, 'eye-opening' became literal as the dilating of my pupils syncronised with my mind going blank). But now, I can forever regale my great-grandchildren about the time I was on TV. Thanks, Regina, for inviting us to the show, and to Sharnaz who has such a warm personality and who was able to make us laugh and feel more-at-ease in front of the cameras.

I was actually really really shy about being on TV and had refrained from telling anyone about it, despite Lydia's intense interrogation and Wilfred's sneaky casual interrogation. But when I was in Penang, very busy training hard during Aziza's workshop, I got an sms:

Lydia : Ahahaha it's Kuppa Kopi! I'm gonna watch you space out on TV!

Serina: Nooooooooooo!!! How did you find out?!!

Lydia : Albert mentioned it on the blog!!

Traitor!!!

Next up...Kuppa Kopi comes to Studio 23....

P/S: If any of you took photos of the RTM crew in the studio that day, please email it to studio23kuching@gmail.com thanks!

SO YOU THINK YOU CAN PIROUETTE?

2010-05-26T17:36:00.006+08:00

BREAKING NEWS: Our 3rd Adult Ballet Class will be on Friday 7:00 p.m. and we will start on 11th June as some of you are still travelling. Again, we will only open this class if we have enough people pre-registered. We already have 4 names, so come and register quick!

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

UPDATE: Registration for the Monday 8:15 p.m. and Friday 6:00 p.m. class is officially closed. Thank you for the enthusiasm! HOWEVER, because of the great response, we are considering opening up a 3rd class. Please watch this space; we'll update once we confirm a time slot!

We're offering a special 3-month Adult Ballet course! If you ever wanted to learn Ballet when you were younger, then this is the class for you.

This class is open to everyone from ages 13 to 55, and no prior dance experience is necessary.

What it is:

*An introduction to the basic Ballet positions, dance steps, techniques and skills.

*A great way to work on your posture.

*A healthy workout which can help to tone and stretch your muscles.

This 3-month course runs from June to August, and will be led by Elaine Lee. Elaine is a Royal Academy of Dance (England) qualified and registered Ballet teacher. She was trained as a professional dancer and teacher in Kuala Lumpur. She has won Silver and Bronze medals in Ballet competitions at the national level in 2002 and 2003. After completing the highest level Ballet examination and teacher's course offered by the Royal Academy of Dance, she moved to Singapore to teach Ballet.

Elaine then received a scholarship from Ballet Magnificat, located in the United States, where she was a trainee for two years. After this time, she joined the Dramatic Truth Ballet Company as a full-time dancer for another year. In addition to Ballet, Elaine is trained in the Martha Graham technique of contemporary dance, Jazz, Hip Hop, and Chinese dance.

So come on, ladies and gentlemen (yes, men are welcome to join the class as well!), here's the chance you've been waiting for: now you can finally learn to fondu and chasse with the best of them - even if you don't know a barre from your derriere!

The class will ONLY begin when we have enough people pre-registered. Please contact us at the studio, call +60128053005 (Eileen) or by email at studio23kuching@gmail.com and specify which time slot/s you would prefer.

Friday 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. (starts June 4th)

Monday 8:15 p.m. - 9:15 p.m. (starts June 7th)

EDIT: The Monday class is filling up fast! Make sure to sign up quickly to reserve your spot!

FIZFIT IN THE PARK THIS SUNDAY

2010-05-19T00:00:00.002+08:00

It's back once again, this Sunday May 23rd at 5:15 p.m., Friendship Park. We had a really awesome turnout last time and are looking forward to another fun outing! We've got some new stuff to play with, and Serina's made me promise to be nicer this time *whistles innocently*...

We'll be going for dinner after the session so come on over for a good workout and remember: you don't eat if you don't sweat! Unless of course, it rains, in which case the workout is cancelled but feel free to join us anyway for dinner!

BRING: water, towel, extra t-shirt.

REMEMBER: wear shoes! Unless you have Hobbit feet.

See you there!

THIS WEEKEND: GO BALD AT THE SPRING

2010-05-12T17:07:00.004+08:00

This Saturday May 15th at 8pm, we'll be going back to the Spring, to support this year's edition of the Sarawak Children's Cancer Society's Go Bald campaign. Last year, our dancers were showing off their shimmy skills, with a 4-minute, non-stop shimmy session! This year we're back with a lot more stuff, some classic and some brand new:

Nobody, Nobody (Wonder Girls) - one of our most popular dances!

Let's Dance (Vanessa Hudgens) - our latest Modern Jazz dance!

Drum Intro - our first ever drum intro!

Salome's Seven Veils - Serina will be performing a brand-new veil dance* choreographed by the international Belly Dance Star, Aziza! If you've never seen Aziza dance, check this video out and you'll know why we're such fans!

*if it's ready! We reserve the right to chicken out if the dance isn't ready!

But that's not all, just like last year's shimmies, we're bringing a new Belly Dance Challenge!

Among the many instruments used in Belly Dance are the Zills:

They're also called "finger cymbals" and are used by dancers to accentuate rhythms and beats. Come and try them out for yourself! For every person who comes up on stage to take on the Belly Dance challenge, Studio 23 will donate RM100 to the SCCS - so come on and give it a go!

See you there!

COMING UP: LOTS OF STUFF!

2010-05-08T12:07:00.003+08:00

IMPORTANT EDIT: DANCERS, PLEASE READ!

It's going to be a packed week for Studio 23, we've got a lot of big things on the go for the coming week!

1. Kettlebell Demo / Workshop at the Sarawak Health and Wellness Expo 2010!

Albert will be at Permata Exhibition Hall tomorrow, May 9th, at 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. Whether you're looking to find out what kettlebells are all about, or just want an extra workout, come by!

2. TV Filming at Studio 23!

Serina was very recently interviewed for RTM's Kuppa Kopi show, and they'll be coming to the studio to film some of the classes on Tuesday, May 11th. All Tuesday dancers in the Belly Dance Level 3 and Modern Jazz Level 2 classes, please dress decently (remember this is national TV, so no plunging necklines, no exposed tummies!) and use light, natural makeup - here's your chance to shine on TV! Flamenco Level 2 dancers, there will be a staged "class" so bring your skirt and shoes. Contact us for more details!

REMEMBER: Nothing over the top please, we want to show what our regular classes look like, so we don't want them thinking every day is like a fairy tale here. So Lydia, put that ball gown away please!

3. GO BALD!

On Sunday, May 16th, The Sarawak Children's Cancer Society is holding their second Go Bald event at the Spring. From Studio 23, Albert and Georgette will be shaving their heads again (as well as collecting donations to do so, hint hint!!), and they'll be joined this year by Joanna! Come out and show your support for kids fighting cancer!

END OF APRIL SCHEDULE CHANGES & MAY UPDATES

2010-04-22T12:33:00.002+08:00

On April 28 (Wednesday) and April 29 (Thursday) we are on a one-off, special schedule.

April 28
Fizfit (Bodyweight): 6:00 p.m. - 6:45 p.m.
Fizfit (Kettlebells): 6:45 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
CMD: 7:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

April 29
Fizfit (morning session): on as normal.
Evening Fizfit & BJJ: cancelled.

Also note that Saturday May 1 is a public holiday and as such we're closed. Have a restful and fun holiday weekend and see you back on the mats!

Also, the following changes will take effect on May 1, 2010:

1. Fizfit level 2 classes are starting! We'll be changing up the existing schedule: on Tuesday and Thursday evenings the Fizfit workouts will be set at a slightly higher level. Sessions will be geared to more experienced Fizfitters, but they are still open to everyone. Monday and Wednesday evenings are recommended for beginners.

2. The Monday 6:00 p.m. Fizfit class will be closed temporarily.

3. New Dance Class! We're opening a new Modern Jazz class for beginners (no experience necessary). Wednesday evenings at 8:15 p.m.

4. More bang for your Fizfit buck! You can now attend as many Fizfit workouts as you like in a week for RM120/month.

BIGGER AND BALDER!

2010-04-06T23:47:00.003+08:00

Benefits of signing up early: you get to pick your number!

The Sarawak Children's Cancer Society (SCCS) is back with their second Go Bald campaign, and it's going to be held this MAY 16, 2010 at the Spring.

They're trying to make this year's event much bigger than the last, and they're really setting their sights a lot higher. Last year they shaved 113 heads (including 2 women, one of whom was our very own Georgette!), and this year they want to get 300 people some free haircuts.

Albert's representing Studio 23 again this year, and is looking to raise pledges to have his head shaved. Yes, his head already IS shaved, but he's growing it out! We promise!

To donate, please see Albert at the Studio or get in touch with us through this blog, our Facebook page (what? You mean you're not already a fan? You can become one with the Facebook box at the right of the screen!), or send us an email at studio23kuching@gmail.com

Oh, and if you want to donate more than RM500 at a go, please bring a cheque instead of cash, payable to the Sarawak Children's Cancer Society.

But in all honesty, the money is not the most important thing here. It does help lots, though.

Hair loss is one of the least physically harmful side effects of cancer treatment. But it's also potentially one of the most traumatic, especially for a child. A great way to help them in their fight against cancer, besides donating money, is to shave your head bald.

It's an awesome show of solidarity, and helps them to understand that losing their hair isn't so bad after all.

If you don't do anything else, come and get your head shaved. It's free, and it's for a good cause.

COMING THIS SUNDAY: FIZFIT IN THE PARK

2010-04-06T01:22:00.003+08:00

Fresh air, good fun and a hard workout - what better way to spend a Sunday evening? Come out and join us for a Fizfit workout this Sunday!

WHEN: 5:15 p.m. Sunday, April 11, 2010.

WHERE: Friendship Park (Taman Sahabat), Kuching

WHO: Anybody - it's free, and open to all!

BRING: Water, a towel, and a spare t-shirt. Also, don't forget it's outdoors, so you'll need the appropriate footwear.

We're going to have dinner after the workout, most likely at the nearby Tabuan Heights Commercial Centre, so come join us for that as well.

If you need directions to the park, or transport, let us know! Oh, and if you are driving, don't forget to get there early, as it may be hard to get a spot.

Note: If it rains at the park, then the workout will be cancelled, but we're still going to be in the area for dinner.

See you there!

APRIL ANNOUNCEMENTS!

2010-04-02T00:08:00.002+08:00

Hi all, we'd like to wish everyone celebrating this Easter a safe, fun and blessed weekend. We have some announcements to make to kick the month off:

1. A reminder that we're closed on Good Friday (April 2nd) and Easter Sunday (April 4th). Since Easter Sunday isn't a public holiday, dancers in the Sunday class can replace this class with any other 1.1 class.

2. We're doing another Fizfit in the Park session this month, to be held on Sunday, April 11 (venue to be decided). We're going to make this a regular outing, so we hope to see you there in the fresh air!

That's it for now!

PULLMAN HOTEL'S GRAND LAUNCH IS THIS FRIDAY...

2010-03-22T23:18:00.003+08:00

...and our dancers will be there to take part in the fun! Come and watch them in action from 3:00 p.m.! Serina will be premiering her first Flamenco solo: Carmen!

We'll be in the lobby for the performance. See you there!

Edit: Bit of a mix-up with the timing of the performance, fixed now!

NEW DANCE CLASSES!

2010-03-15T21:56:00.002+08:00

Smoothen your shimmies, heighten your hip lifts, and...um... overhaul your omis! We've got new Belly Dance technique classes starting:

TOMORROW, TUESDAY 16th MARCH!

They will be held every Tuesday 8:30-9:30 p.m. (Level 1), and every Thursday 8:15-9:15 p.m. (Level 2).

ALSO!

Registration is now open for our newest Flamenco class, which will start on Wednesday, April 1st at 7:15-8:15 p.m.

FRONT PAGE NEWS!

2010-03-09T14:48:00.004+08:00

Well, technically, anyway!

The Studio 23 dancers: fresh from a great performance, but still not too tired to pose for the cameras!

We're in the Star for our bit at their launch on Sunday evening. You can check it out at this link!

Now we don't need this one anymore:

Moral of the picture: Don't try and talk while the cameras are flashing.

FRIENDLY REMINDER

2010-03-07T11:56:00.001+08:00

If you're going to the Spring tonight for our show, remember to get there early to mitigate the traffic stress. It's going to be jam packed tonight, Hafiz from Akademi Fantasia and Deja Moss are also performing right before us.

We're due to be on at 7.30pm. See you there!

SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW, SOMETHING BORROWED, SOMETHING BLUE.

2010-03-02T16:05:00.004+08:00

Nope, we're not planning a wedding.

We'll be heading back to the Spring this Sunday, 7th March, this time for the launch of the Sarawak edition of the Star newspaper.

We'll be doing a repertoire of Belly Dance, Flamenco and Modern Jazz:

Something Old = Serina will be performing one of her earliest belly dance solos, Harem, which she hasn't done in a while.

Something New = The dance troupe will be performing a modern jazz number that they just finished learning yesterday! And Serina will be performing a new drum solo if she doesn't chicken out on Sunday.

Something Borrowed = As usual, during a show, the dancers will be borrowing each other's flowers/ earrings/ shoes/ skirt etc.

Something Blue = Um, Albert will be wearing a blue shirt. EDIT: Not anymore! After a last-minute shopping trip, we now have something blue to wear on Sunday! Thanks to Emmelina and Amy for the excursion today. EDIT 2: Just to clarify - Albert will still be wearing clothes.

We're also going to introduce our new hobby, Palmas, which is great for killing time in a traffic jam. Come and find out more!

7:00 p.m. Sunday 7th at the Spring.

FIZFIT / COMBAT SPORTS FEES CHANGING

2010-02-28T13:48:00.003+08:00

No, not the actual amount you pay, that stays the same.

What we are doing is moving to a system where you pay your monthly dues at the beginning of every month. It's a change that will make things much easier for everyone's accounting and it will take effect on 1 April, 2010.

And no, it's not an April Fool's joke.

The Dance classes have already been doing this since January and we're just getting everything on the same page. For anyone who still has prepaid classes left, you have the whole of March to use them up.

We're also going to be closed on all public holidays, unless otherwise stated. So if you don't hear from us before, just have a rest and go enjoy yourselves!

Thanks, and see you back on the mats!

Retro Mojo

2010-02-06T21:28:00.027+08:00

Hello Everyone !!

A couple of weeks ago we were invited to be the opening act for a dinner by SHEDA (the Sarawak Housing Estate Development Association) The theme of the night was "Retro Spectacular", and we had loads of fun planning our attire ...

Our only shot of the performance.

(Photo credit: Julio Jeremy Roy)

... but oh, we had a new Star dancer in the form of our very fit, very macho, and very manly fitness coach - none other than Albert Lim!

Oh yeah, Albert was the Star Attraction that night...

He could not stop checking himself out in the mirror!

You bet we had so much fun with this performance...

And me thinks Albert found his groovy side too!

Albert just could not stop posing for the cameras....

What a diva!!!

And Carl is wondering what got into his fitness Guru....

The couples of the night... presenting Olivia & Warren!

Lydia and Wilfred....

Finally, Albert and Serina!

Of course I'm biased and will say my bosses looks the best out of the three couples :-)

As usual, after any performances we had our makan-makan ritual.....

No funny shots here cos we did all the goofy poses much earlier.

If this was the 70's where disco fashion was in, flower power influence everywhere, and being the king or queen of the dance floor was the ultimate dream...

Unfortunately, some dreams don't work out the way we want them to be.

However, one seems happy enough to be King of BCCK!

Yeah, baby!!!

P/S : I'm the girl in the floral dress, if you were wondering :-)

***

Albert: It was a lot of fun getting in touch with my inner soul brother, but the spotlight also has to be shared with our co-MC for the night: Silas from TruEvents!

Bob and Jimi, out on the town with the wives.

(Photo credit: Julio Jeremy Roy)

THE SPRING: RELOADED

2010-02-04T23:34:00.003+08:00

Just over 2 weeks ago, we went back for more fun at the Spring shopping mall, this time for the launch of the 201o My Privilege Book. First up: a Saturday Night Fever's worth of dancing goodness!

Many of the crew from our Dinner & Dance event were on hand to - what else - look good and pose for the public.

Usually, Studio 23 dancers are highly excitable, but once in a while we get a dancer who is a bit more shy than the rest...

...Silvia is not only one of our favourite dancers, it's a little known fact that she is also a world-class hide-and-seek player.

Team Studio 23 shows off their impressive Flamenco game faces. Garang!

Styling and profiling.

We took a break from the performing, and put on a mini-class where Serina taught the Modern Jazz dancers the next step to their current choreography: the very popular "Nobody, Nobody" by the Wonder Girls!

We were supposed to pick a winner from the bunch to get some nice prizes. But they were all so good, we didn't want to choose. So we didn't! We got Jodie from My Privilege Book to help us select the winner...

Way to go, Lydia!

We capped the night off with another performance of our Dinner & Dance finale: September / Saturday Night Fever! Unfortunately all of our photographers were also performing, so we don't have pictures of that dance :(

The next afternoon we were back to brave some categorically horrific traffic on our way to the mall. It was packed! Fortunately Darren was there to save the day! He was our one-man valet rescue squad, tasked with braving the gridlock and parking our cars. Thanks man!

The CMD team (the ones who weren't still looking for parking, anyway) get ready for action...

...But first, Serina took the stage to get the party started.

Reuben is still camera-shy. We tried to get shots of his face but he was just too quick for us.

Jeremiah craftily stalks Owen, safe in the knowledge that his Crocs are proving an adequate distraction.

We had a good turnout for our Fizfit class: some of our most experienced members came, and some brand new people!

The Crab Walks were very popular. What? They were!

Wilfred demonstrates the mark of an experienced Fizfitter: always know where the cameras are.

We were close to the end now, and the spotlight was on Ivan and Dennis, who rocked up with a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu demonstration!

"So... read any good books lately?"

In a spirited discussion, Ivan argues the literary skills of Diana Wynne Jones, as well as the flexibility of it being a title and not an actual person, make the Chrestomanci a much better character than Harry Potter.

Dennis counters, by stating that the Chrestomanci wizards had neither a really cool scar, nor an owl. Furthermore, Harry was a champion Quidditch player, making him even cooler.

Ivan offers a calculated rebuttal, pointing out Hedwig's tragic demise, the scar acting as a liability to Harry and the general decline in quality of the series after the first few books. Plus Quidditch is a ridiculous game. Brooms? They ride around on brooms?

Dennis reveals his "Team Griffindor" tattoo and the conversation goes downhill from there.

We'll end with a bit of Serina's closing dance...where she gets upstaged! We may have to save a couple of spots in our dance troupe soon...

BACK TO THE SPRING

2010-01-12T09:10:00.003+08:00

Hi all, we'll be back at the Spring shopping mall this weekend, January 16th and 17th. Here's a rundown of what we've got planned:

Saturday 16th, beginning at 8:00 p.m.:

Dance Performances

Serina and her dancers will take the stage and showcase Belly Dance, Modern Jazz and Flamenco!

Come check it out and join our Modern Jazz mini-workshop - show off your moves, and the best dancer gets a prize!

Sunday 17th, beginning at 3:00 p.m.:

Belly Dance

Serina's back to start the party with more Belly Dance goodness!

Crazy Monkey Defense demonstration

"What is it? What do you guys do? So do you act like monkeys?" Come get those answers you've been looking for!

The Fizfit Challenge

Fancy yourself fit? Come test yourself in the Fizfit Challenge and win a prize!

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu demonstration

Guys in white pyjamas playing Jiu-Jitsu in public? What's not to love?

Kettlebell demonstration

Ever wondered why Russian farmhands are so freakishly strong? Come and find out!

HEADS UP: NEW BELLY DANCE CLASS REMINDER

2010-01-07T10:45:00.003+08:00

Hi guys, just a reminder to all those who have signed up for our newest Belly Dance class - it's starting tonight (Thursday) at 6:00 p.m.

Also if you're interested to join, this would be the perfect opportunity to try Belly Dance out!

Questions? Email studio23kuching@gmail.com or call Eileen at +6012 805 3005. Thanks!

2009 AT STUDIO 23

2009-12-31T22:00:00.002+08:00

10:00 p.m. 31^stDecember 2008

We were at the studio; scrubbing the floors, assembling the fans, praying that the temporary door would turn up before the launch. (The temporary door came two hours before the launch. The real door came a month later.)

We were worried, excited and terrified.

10:00 p.m. 31^st December 2009

We are in K.L. planning for 2010. We are training with our respective instructors, and are full of ideas to bully, I mean, inspire our students.

We are contented, relieved, and most of all, grateful. It has been a brilliant year.

JANUARY: Open for Business!

What if nobody shows up? What if the door doesn't fit properly? What if the ceiling fans don't come on time? What if the food isn't good? What if we trip over our own feet?

The place was packed. In fact, there were even some real volunteers for the workshops! The door didn't fit, so our carpenters made the doorframe bigger. The fans didn't come, but no one noticed. The food was good enough that there was none left by the time we got to the buffet table! We didn't trip. What more could we ask for? Yay for a great launch!

We then spent the whole month pinching ourselves every time we saw the studio signboard, and squealing excitedly in our heads every time a new student registered.

FEBRUARY: Shimmies and Shavings for a Good Cause!

On February 14th, Studio 23 celebrated Valentine's Day at the "Give Hope, Go Bald" event organized by the Sarawak Children's Cancer Society. Not only did Serina and her dance troupe perform, her "volunteers" took part in a special show of solidarity with the families of children dealing with cancer: a non-stop 4-minute shimmy session!

The next day, Albert and Georgette were among those who stepped up and had their heads shaved to raise money for the SCCS. Between the two of them, more than RM8,000 was collected – a big, big thanks to everyone who contributed!

MARCH: Belly Dance For Charity, Revisited

Serina and her dancers once again tied on their belly dance belts, this time for World Vision's 30-Hour Famine event, held on March 21st at the Association of Christian Churches Sarawak building. It was the first time the 30-Hour Famine camp was brought to Kuching. All we can say is, the next time it's organised here, go and join them!

APRIL: New Dance Classes!

We started April by opening up a bunch of new dance classes. Maybe we were doing something right J

Although, some didn't take the announcement seriously as it was dated April 1st.

MAY: Albert Strikes Gold!

On May 2nd, Albert made the trip to Manila to take part in the 2009 Pan-Asian Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu International. He competed in the Blue Belt Under-70kg division and – after a fun day of BJJ and reunions with friends - walked away with a gold medal.

This marked the first occasion in which Studio 23 (no, not the Filipino TV station...oh, the stories Albert could tell you...) was represented in a Jiu-Jitsu competition, with more to come!

JUNE: Studio 23’s American Adventure

The first two weeks of June saw Albert and Serina travel to America for two reasons: it was a celebration of a year of marriage, and Albert also took part in the 2009 Mundials (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu World Championships).

He lost a very close match, but forgot about it as soon as the Black Belts took to the mats. Albert was completely star-struck by the BJJ superstars that he stalks on YouTube. On more than one occasion, he had to stop himself from squealing like a schoolgirl. Yes. A manly schoolgirl.

JULY: Our First Belly Dance Hafla!

While we were away, our Belly Dance students kept themselves busy by preparing for Studio 23’s first official Belly Dance Hafla (party) on July 4th.

We're very proud of our multi-talented dancers: check out Emmelina's hand-made signage for our curtains!

Q: How many dancers does it take to pin up a drape?

A: Seven! 1 to do the work, 6 to choreograph.

And...ta-daa!

AUGUST: An Event-Packed 31 Days!

With the exception of our November Dinner & Dance, there was no time in 2009 when we were busier than in August. We kicked it off with an outdoor Fizfit workout at Reservoir Park on August 2nd, following that up with a dance performance in front of a massive crowd at the Kuching Festival on August 8th. Yay for applause, Boo for Serina being asked onstage how many children she's had.

We wrapped up the month with a week at the Spring – finishing with a Belly Dance mini-concert, a Fizfit workout and a CMD demonstration. All told, there wasn’t a single weekend when we didn’t have something on the go. It was really fun, but really exhausting!

SEPTEMBER: Welcome, Emmelina!

The first addition to the Studio 23 coaching roster, Emmelina joined us as an assistant instructor for six months. One of Serina’s most experienced dancers and a natural performer, we’re very happy to have her on board!

OCTOBER: 5-6-7-8!

Rehearsals, rehearsals, rehearsals. For what, you ask? Well...

NOVEMBER: Dinner & Dance!

The climax of our first year, our Dinner and Dance event was held on November 14th, at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching. It was a fantastic night; nothing further need be said!

Watch out though, when we get back from our vacation we'll be posting the very best pictures (of which there are a great many - we had to sort through well over a thousand images from several photographers!) from the night.

DECEMBER: Time to Celebrate!

At the end of a great year, there's nothing left to do but observe its passing and get ready to welcome the new one.

A huge thanks to everyone who gave us support, encouragement and advice. We look forward to seeing you back on the mats, or dance floor, as the case may be, in 2010!

We hope you've enjoyed a safe and blessed Christmas - and here's to an excellent New Year!

-Albert & Serina

DINNER & DANCE DVD AND CHRISTMAS BREAK 2009

2009-12-22T18:12:00.004+08:00

Well, after a lot of hard work and sleepless nights we've finally gone and finished the DVD of our dinner & dance event.

Here are some of the highlights you can find on the DVD:

1. All 19 performances showcased at the dinner & dance.

2. All the video presentations.

3. Bonus material featuring behind-the-scenes footage!

Get your copy at the studio!

***

CHRISTMAS BREAK ANNOUNCEMENT:

The Studio will be closed from Thursday, December 24, 2009 to Sunday, January 3, 2010. We're back in action on the first Monday of the new year: January 4.

Have a safe and merry Christmas and New Year! Rest up, have fun and see you back at the studio next year!

COMING SOON: DINNER & DANCE DVD!

2009-12-11T17:24:00.003+08:00

Here's the trailer for our soon-to-be-released DVD. We don't have a set date yet but it's coming!

To reserve your copy, see us at the studio, or email us at studio23kuching@gmail.com

COMBAT SPORTS UPDATES FOR 2010

2009-12-04T14:47:00.002+08:00

Hi everyone, here's a few announcements about changes we're putting in, which will take effect at the beginning of next year!

1. Ladies'-Only CMD Class!

Finally, it's here! We'll be kicking off the new year with our ladies'-only Crazy Monkey Defense class! Classes will be every Monday, 9 p.m. and the first class will be on January 4th, 2009.

Please note that you will need to pre-register for the program before beginning your training. You can do this by coming to the studio in person, or contacting Albert at studio23kuching@gmail.com +6017 613 9311. There is a limited number of spaces available in the program, so if you're interested, register quick!

Walk-ins are not permitted.

For more information on our program, click on over to our Facebook page, where there is a discussion on this topic.

2. Combat Sports Cross-Training Fees

If you are enrolled in either Combat Sports program at Studio 23 (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or Crazy Monkey Defense), then enrollment in the second program - or the program you attend less - will be at 50% off.

Flirting With Flamenco

2009-11-19T23:22:00.017+08:00

It's time for another post by a guest blogger: welcome, Diana!

***

Ola!

As readers of this blog know, this is my first posting for Studio23. And just a little info on me, I am a dance student at Studio23, and I learn a little of everything. Bellydance, Modern Jazz, Salsa and Flamenco...

Every dance is different and difficult in its own way, but personally for me Flamenco is the hardest of all. The percussive footwork, and intricate hand, arm and body movements are a little too much on a softie dancer like me! Well, blame that on traditional dance training I had since small :(

Anyway, after months of training under Serina, I think we've managed to look presentable enough on stage at the Dinner & Dance last Saturday. Considering the fact that we are only babies at Flamenco! Take a look at the following photos courtesy of Calvin Sim.

Looking good with Kayla :)

Okay I'm showing off here... cos I always get scolded for having the wrong posture!

And immediately the next day was our workshop with Kayla which was interesting and fun. Firstly, it's because Kayla has so much energy and her passion for Flamenco is AMAZING!! It's inspiring to meet someone who loves the art of Flamenco dance so much, and I found it quite a joy to watch her personal expressions and emotions change many times during her performances. Which of course I've yet to master because I normally have one expression on my face when I'm dancing ~ standard traditional dancer smile!

Workshop participants

So after a hectic weekend with the Dinner & Dance and Kayla's workshop, we decided to have a little celebration of our own. Did you think we Flamenco dancers wont know how to have a good time? Of course we had celebration in mind, especially after all those fierce stomping and emotion building in class! So Jambu it was for a nice Flamenco party with Tapas and Sangria's.....

Cheers !!

This is what happens to dancers who has had a little too much of Sangria's !!

All in all, we had a good night in Jambu. New friendships were forged amongst Level 1 and Level 2 students, we had a chance to perform to a small crowd of frequent patrons of Jambu but most of all, we had some good womenly bonding time and some good memories for you know, the memory bag :)

TAPAS & FLAMENCO NIGHT!

2009-11-17T13:49:00.003+08:00

Kayla and Diana performing at the 2009 Studio 23 Dinner and Dance!

It's been a super hectic week leading up to our Dinner and Dance on the 14th. It was a lot of fun - when we had time to sit down and breathe! We'll be doing up a post about that soon, but we're still sorting through all the backstage video and waiting on the official footage from BCCK.

We've heard a lot of positive feedback about the night and would like to thank everyone who either attended or supported the event!

In the meantime, though, we've also been organising a series of Flamenco workshops featuring Kayla, Malaysia's top Flamenco dancer! For the last 2 nights she's been at the Studio, and tonight there will be a final workshop, followed by a Flamenco party! Don't miss this chance to hang out and dance with Kayla and the Studio 23 Flamenco dancers - there's no cover charge, so come one, come all!

See you there!

Location: Jambu restaurant

Time: 9.00 p.m. onwards

STUDIO 23 DINNER & DANCE

2009-11-05T17:30:00.001+08:00

IT'S OVER! THANKS, PERFORMERS - AWESOME JOB! WE'RE SO VERY PROUD OF EVERY ONE OF YOU!

Click on the pictures to view them in more detail.

SO, we're capping our first year of operations off with a dinner and dance party! Here's just a bit of what you can expect:

An 8-course Chinese set dinner. We've heard nothing but really good things about the food at BCCK, so we're really looking forward to this! (but of course, the dinner isn't the only reason you're going though, right?)

A full-on concert, showcasing Belly Dance, Jazz and Flamenco performances, and featuring the Studio 23 dancers and a one-night-only chance to watch Kayla, Serina's own Flamenco instructor from KL. It's an excellent chance to watch an experienced Flamenco dancer in action - and take advantage of the opportunity while it's here! It's been decided that we will not be doing something on this scale next year, so the next chance for you to watch a Studio 23 concert event will be in 2011.

If you're in Kuching and at all interested in dance, you won't want to miss out on this event!

DATE: Saturday, Nov 14, 2009.

TIME: 6:30 p.m.

VENUE: Borneo Convention Centre Kuching

RM70 per person. Tickets are available only at Studio 23.

For more information, please email studio23kuching@gmail.com or see Eileen at the studio.