Belly dancers from California and Nevada will be competing Sept. 26 in the inaugural “Jewel of the Sierra Belly Dancing Competition and Gala Show.” The competition and show will be at Lake Tahoe Community College’s Duke Theatre on Sept. 26 beginning at 10:30am.

Entrants may compete in four categories: Sapphire (Non-Professional), Ruby (Troupe), Emerald (Diva, over 45), and Diamond (Professional). Awards for each event will be presented by event producer Susie “Namira” Reese.

Twelve judges will be scoring each competitor based on appearance, musical interpretation, technique, use of stage, presentation, entertainment value, and personality. The entrance fee for competitors is $10 per event.

The Gala Show starts at 8pm, and will include live music by special guests Flowers of the Nile. This band plays acoustic Middle Eastern music, using Egyptian instruments and Arabic vocals.

Several vendors will be in the theater’s lobby selling costumes, music, baubles, hula hoops, and commemorative Jewel of the Sierra T-shirts and pants. For more information, go to www.namiproductions.com.