Joanna Bradshaw’s Spring Hafla 19th March 2010.

By Karen



Joanna kindly invited me to take my Souk over to Nottingham for her Spring Hafla in Beeston.  Well am I glad I went!  The room was absolutely packed and there must have been nigh on 200 supporters there, clapping and cheering away.  The venue was great (Beeston Youth community centre) light, spacious and had a stage.  There were even 2 bar areas, which were regularly in use all evening.  A great souk area with several purveyors present; Egyptiandancer, the Egyptian bazaar from Bakewell, the Magik Thread and even a palmist doing readings.  Made for an interesting shopping experience…



And then there was the dancing...



A really good range of dance styles and lots of class members taking part that just demonstrated everyone’s enthusiasm for this dance.  Personally I enjoyed Daxina’s interpretation of her ATS inspired piece and I thought Rose al Lea’s funky gypsy tribal fusion was great.  But for me the highlight of the evening was the lovely Guy Schalom who just blew me away.  It was a real treat to spend some time with this naturally gifted dancer who embodies the true spirit of the male dance form, in all its earthy richness.  I am so glad Joanna persuaded Guy to travel north and I sincerely hope we get to see more of him in the regions.



Karen