Haflas:
WHAT TO EXPECT AT A HAFLA
It’s your first Hafla, you’ve heard a lot of stories from other people, so what really goes on?
It’s a time to get together socially and experience the world of bellydance. The evening usually kicks off with various performances from all walks of life. This may include soloists, troupes and double acts. The organiser will have arranged the performances so that there is an interesting variety throughout the evening. You will hear and see all types of music and dance which may include: Turkish, Oriental, Baladi, Drum Solos, Gypsy style, Ghawazee, Raqs Sharqi, Tribal, Pop and Fusion plus many other varieties – each dancer showing you their own interpretation of the music, this is what makes Bellydancing so interesting. It’s a good time to watch over a glass of wine and learn. You may pick up on a type of music or move that you really like but have never tried before - giving you inspiration for that next workshop or performance.
During the evening there is an interval where food is usually on the agenda with a bring your own dish to share with everyone. Remember not to eat too much if you are dancing. That goes for the drink as well. This is also an opportunity to browse the souk (bellydancing stalls) for your next costume or accessory. Warning: this can become addictive.
There may be time now to get up and shake those hips to some freestyle music, or this may take place at the end of the performances. This can appear quite daunting at first to some, but remember no one will really be taking any notice of you, as they will be concentrating on enjoying themselves and usually there will be all levels having a go; even dragging up the husband or the mother-in-law has been known.
The Hafla should be a relaxed, friendly and fun environment; an event to go to where you will be encouraged, and have a chance to grow in your self confidence. It’s also great for dressing up in as much sparkly stuff as possible, feeling feminine and learning to express your self through this great dance.
So no excuses now. See you there!
Lucie Kay
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Jingle Blingle, or belly dance jewellery
Belly dance is a great excuse to wear dangles and jingles and bold earring you don’t feel brave enough to wear to the office or outside the school gates. (Although it is every mother’s duty to embarrass her children regularly).
The current fashion for dangly chandelier type earrings means you can find some lovely and inexpensive examples on the high street. You can also try the internet. Some creative searching on eBay will bring up some great ethnic pieces. India is a good source of flashy sets in all the colours you can think of.
Alternatively, if you want something totally unique and a perfect match to your outfit why not make your own? Jewellery making is a fun hobby, although be warned, like belly dancing, it is rather addictive. I have a huge stock pile of makings because I can’t resist all the lovely shiny things, just my inner magpie I guess.
Locally you can buy all the basic equipment you need at hobby shops such as HobbyCraft in Swindon, or Pink and Dizzy in Wootton Basset. Try the yellow pages for shops near you. This is fine to start with because you can just buy a small quantity at a time BUT if you are going to continue making jewellery then a much cheaper option is the internet. If you have a like-minded friend you could split costs, and it’s a good excuse to get together and be creative over a glass or two.
Earrings are the easiest and quickest thing to start with. You can make a pair in a matter of minutes once you have mastered the basic techniques. To start you will need flat and round-nosed pliers and a pair of cutters, findings, (Ear wires, clasps, wire etc), beads and inspiration!
There are lots of books, and now a magazine, (called ‘Making Jewellery’, there’s imagination for you!), available on the subject. The internet has lots of ‘how to’ tips and there are uncountable bead and jewellery making suppliers to browse through. Go on, give it a try!
On the other hand, if you are not the do-it-yourself type then commission me to make something for you! Just let me know the colour and style you want and I’ll put together something for your approval.
Cathy-Jingle Blingle-Fairgrieve
I think that the running order is finalised now and have popped it below. Each track is followed by a short section of music which lasts less than a minute which allows time for dancers to accept praise, exit and make space for the next lady. However, if the praise etc. takes longer I'll have my finger on the button and will simply press pause so you can wallow in the limelight. And why not!