Rakkasah East 2008 :: tanna
It's already a week past, but last Friday found me sitting in my usual chair at Lina Jang's photography booth for the annual Rakkasah East festival. And, as usual, it was great to catch with my friends and colleagues who make the pilgrimage to this mecca of bellydance shopping.
One particularly special visit was with Alyra who brought her very new sword maiden/daughter for inspection. Note to vendors at female-oriented events: If you want every woman in eyeball range to make a beeline for your booth just display an adorably dressed eight-week old baby. I was privileged to actually hold said child for 10 minutes without tears (mine or hers). My success can be attributed to applying my sister's patented "hood ornament hold" in which the baby faces outward and thus seems more entertained and less likely to fuss. That is the sum total of my small baby knowledge, but it is a powerful tool.
For some reason I found myself not as engaged with this Rakkasah as compared to prior years. I attributed my malaise to job stress and lack of sleep, but other friends also shared my reaction. My restlessness led me to get out my camera and work on my project of getting pictures of myself with friends and teachers. While she does not fall into either category, I also importuned the fabulous Fahtiem of California to take a picture with me. The first time I saw her dance was many years ago at one of the late Ibrahim Farrah's galas and she made a huge impression on me. Fahtiem is one of my all-time favorite dancers. She is the total package - strong stage presence and fluid musicality, super technical skills, distinctive costuming and smart musical choices. I eagerly await her performance every year, and she was very sweet and gracious while I pestered her.
Another dancer captured by my camera was the perpetually gorgeous Amira Mor . If she ever writes a book revealing her beauty secrets I will be the first person on line to buy it.
On the whole, I had a pleasant weekend. Lots of french fries and chocolate cake were consumed. Two more pairs of fanveils found their way into my collection (yes, I am an addict and Faye is my dealer) along with a couple of canes and some local music (Zikrayat and Pete List/Rob Mastrianni). On Friday evening Lina, Blanca and myself enjoyed a relaxing glass of wine before taking to the floor at Carmine Guida's famous afterparty.
But the most welcome sight of all at the end of the day?
That's right - a big soft fluffy bed!
hello beautiful dancers--i purchased "Temple of Jehan Ultimate Bellydance Fitness Workout" and i can't tell you how much i am enjoying this DVD. it has everything! the warmup is so beautiful that i will do this even when not doing the rest of the DVD. everyone of you brings such joy and fun--never again can i put off working out when your DVD is so inspiring.....keep up the good work.
Posted by: Loretta (Fatima) | February 26, 2009 at 07:17 PM