A Visalia native, Gutierrez teaches dance at the Dancer's Edge just a few steps away from the theater. The troupe includes a computer programmer, college students, an attorney, two massage therapists and a labor union representative. The troupe has performed at the Tulare County Fair and festivals in Northern and Southern California. Unfortunately, many people have an incorrect concept of what we do. In fact, the term 'belly dance' has been incorrectly linked to many types of performances.
Cabaret style is also a more American term that indicates a little more glitz and use of veils.
Usually it's an upbeat performance with many rhythm changes and use of finger cymbals or zils. Gutierrez will perform in group numbers and have a short solo. Ketenjian will play the oud, a stringed instrument and forerunner of the lute, Gutierrez says. It is used in Armenian, Arabic and almost all Middle Eastern music. It differs from guitar in size, shape and sound, plus difficulty of playing.