AmCab Legend’s NM Roots
Prior to COVID, I was fortunate to discover one of the jewels of AmCab, Kamala Almanzar, as part of the Floralia International Music and Dance Festival, organized by Selena Kareena. Not only did her amazing dance adventure through the dance nightclub scene of the 1970s and 80s intrigue me, I also found that she has deep New Mexico roots.
Kamala’s Almanzar grandparents- Las Vegas, NM.
“Like many of my fellow New Mexicans, I trace my family back centuries. My dad was from the Las Vegas, NM area, and came to Los Angeles in the 1950s to become an actor, which he did.”
Kamala came from a family of artists, but belly dance came into her life in the 1970s when she first saw a dancer in a local popular Armenian restaurant. Like many of us New Mexicans, Kamala said she had that “ambiguous” ethnic look that made her a welcomed dancer with people from the Middle East at that time.
Kamala went on to perform in night clubs across the world and in the huge dance community in California. She is currently an instructor, coach and choreographer at Dance Garden LA. I could write all day about her dance journey, but I encourage you to check out her Youtube channel to explore her performances, film and TV appearances. (Her floor work in this video is one of my personal favorites.)
Despite her experience on the world stage, Kamala shared that she has seen some of the best dancing in small communities like many of ours here in NM.
“I’m always amazed at how many excellent dancers rise from areas outside the usual big cities to national prominence. I’m sure that is a testament to one or more good teachers in a community, and of course the access we now have to see dance on video and train with traveling teachers.”
Classic Vintage 1970s photo of Kamala Almanzar.
When asked what we can do to strengthen our dance community to keep the art alive, Kamala emphasized good teachers.
“A good teacher can create a safe, enjoyable place for people to make friends, be creative and create a welcoming community. It’s important to have events like festivals and haflas to keep students, and others engaged.
“Friendships are very important, and there should be a strong feeling of inclusiveness. Personally, I strive for cooperation between teachers, as I like for my students to try different styles and influences. We are usually a small group of people who become passionate about this dance, whether in small towns or big cities.”
“For the dance to thrive we need to cultivate warm welcoming communities that are an oasis to escape the world. Then for all of us to continue to educate ourselves, and dance dance dance!”
“I feel so fortunate to have taught and performed at The Floralia Festival in Truth or Consequences for several years, invited by Selena Kareena.”
“It was wonderful to know there is a strong belly dance presence in the state, and coming to NM feels like coming home, even though I was born and raised in LA. Our roots run deep!”
