MARY BALDASANO / PVT Sharifa and the Desert Roses entertain the crowd with their Middle Eastern belly dance moves. Advertisement

Barbara Koss is the first to admit that her group consists of amateur dancers, but they aren't afraid to show off their skills in public, as they did at the Fall Festival.

Koss has been teaching belly dancing for two years and performing on her own for a year. The performance in the park was the first as a group. Koss said, "The girls were very nervous but also excited."

Koss and husband Rolf came to Pahrump nine years ago, having traveled from Germany to Las Vegas first. Koss started taking the class in 2005 and took over as instructor a year later. The class is held every Wednesday at 10 a.m at the First Move Fitness gym.

"I was surprised at myself for being able to learn the moves," Koss said. "It takes rhythm, mobility and flexibility. You know if you have 'it' within a short time."

The classes vary in size depending on time of year. To date, Koss has taught over 50 students.

Last year Koss performed on her own, but this year she was joined by Heather Gibeson (wore red), Susan Kingsbury (wore yellow), Paula Cooper (wore lavender), Iliana Garcia (wore pink), and Elizabeth Soto (wore blue). Koss, of course, took front position in dark blue.

The performance kept the audience involved as the dancers took individuals from the sidelines and got them involved in the dance. "Performing depends on size and location of the stage, as every move has to be properly choreographed in advance," said Koss.

Koss added, "Even if you are not sure, try it once, as it is good exercise. You don't have to dance [until you're ready], just exercise."

Soto said, "It is really good exercise in a fun way. Try it."

Soto is a true local, having been born and raised in Pahrump. She is a local real estate agent.

"Come on in and try it," she said. "Barb is great, and with practice you can do it as well."

Koss became interested in belly dancing by watching the women from Turkey and other countries while growing up in Germany. It wasn't until coming to Pahrump that she decided to learn and teach. If you have any questions, you can stop by the gym on Wednesdays and she will be happy to help you.