Ashnah Tribal & Bellydance

Volume 9 - Anatomy of a Step

2012-01-17T16:26:00.000-08:00

Yay it's arrived!!! Our long awaited new FCBD® Volume 9 DVD - Anatomy of a Step. Loads of exciting new steps and combo's to keep us busy for a long while yet. Rehearsals, rehearsals ..... and yet more rehearsals girls!!!

Thanks FCBD® - fabulous DVD!

Here it is - in our hands, in our dance studio..... and us, posing with our valuable DVD

Everybody wants a look in!!!!

Get your hands off

Noooooo .... it's mine, all mine!!

Right ladies - I'll have to go solo - then I'll keep it all to myself hehehe!

Shoulder of Mutton, Wantage - January 2012

2012-01-15T10:51:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness gracious me!! We were on a high days after a most exhilarating evening at our dear Mr Fowler's 'place of drink and delicious food and soon to be bed & breakfast' - the Shoulder of Mutton in Wantage. The event was supposedly by way of a thank you to staff and friends and this most gracious host actually thought he'd get away with not mentioning his birthday!! Well, as you can imagine, everyone and his family were aware and all turned out in force, and the place was heaving - forget 'room to swing a cat', the evening was totally given over to sardines!!

We met up again with the wonderfully marvellous Monty's Maggots who were also our musicians for our 2nd dance slot, and the collaboration was flawless! The Quintessence Barbershop singers entertained us all with their lovely harmonies - their adaptation of 'When I'm 64' which they dedicated to Peter, deserves a special mention as it was so 'spot on' and had everyone in stitches.

Food and drink were free-flowing ('serve yourself behind the bar' was fun), but were it not a Thursday night (alas, work for the some the next day), we'd have stayed until the very end to further enjoy the celebrations. Absolutely, delightfully brilliant!!

Happy Birthday Peter x

We wish you a Merry Christmas

2011-12-16T09:59:00.000-08:00

Wishing anybody who reads our blog, a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Christmas Ceilidh, Grove - 3rd December

2011-12-16T08:23:00.001-08:00

Ashnah had a fabulous night of dancing at the Christmas Ceilidh at Grove, and were delighted to be joined by some of our friends and the brilliant Oxford Drum Troupe (ODT) who played for us. Thank you guys, it was wonderful working with you and thought the combination of groups went down a treat!!

After our performance we joined in with the ceilidh dancing which left us all in hysterics as we got it completely wrong!!! Think I for one will stick to what I know best ..... ATS.

Check out our Video page for our 3 tracks and as a bonus .... our attempt at ceilidh dancing!! Enjoy!!

WWF Hafla, Abingdon

2011-12-16T08:22:00.000-08:00

This years fundraiser took place at the lovely Guildhall in Abingdon, and let me start by commenting that we should all be so lucky to have such ample changing room facilities - with mirrors no less!!

The guest groups at this show included Rosehips who showed up with live musicians in toe, Helen Sleiman's group who were beautifully framed by colourful and vibrant silk veils, and firm favourites Hathor .... to name but a few. A special mention has to go to the Cairo Kittens who set pulses racing so much it affected and short circuited the sound system twice!! The Cairo Kitten ladies, minus their prima cat, Jo Saunders, scorched the floor in hats and hot pants and made their teacher proud. Another shout out must go to Kay O'Regan of Rosehips who performed her first ever solo, dancing to the very dramatic Roxanne - congrats - it was beautiful.

Welcome back to Claire who tread the board for the first time since the birth of her twins. She not only regained her figure but has improved her dance immeasurably - I hate her ha!!! We love you really Claire x

As for Ashnah, we performed twice and were very happy to be joined by our beloved Esme on the second number ... may it be the first of many.

See our 2 performances on our Video page.

Pauline Selleck

2011-11-27T16:48:00.000-08:00

Goodness, there was an almighty gathering on 3 November 2011 which assembled all sorts of dancers and teachers. The venue was the beautiful St. Michael’s Church in Abingdon and we were all there to pay our respects and witness the final exit of the local grande dame of ballroom, the much beloved Mrs Pauline Selleck (known affectionaly as 'old trout'). Let me tell you this wonderful lady had the foresight to make provisions for that day and it paid off - what a day it turned out to be, and what a service!

On arrival, the church was filled to capacity, had lovely flower displays throughout, and was enveloped in comforting organ music. The officiant was Father Paul Smith who whizzed about in his electric chair at great speed drawing a smile from our little group – I’m sure he wouldn’t mind me saying but his wheels were so 21st century, he also had the facility of raising his chair when he was behind the altar which reminded me of some character from The Transformers! My resolve to keep it together quickly went out of the window with the first prayer on the programme, the Lord of the Dance (which by the way I’m nicking for my own funeral!) – dancers have their own prayer, who knew? I didn’t!! The sombreness of the occasion was lifted when Liz eulogized her mother and regaled us all with old stories and anecdotes.

My favourite part came at the end with Pauline’s exit from the church to the wonderfully festive sounds of the Radetzky March (something else I’m pinching for myself) which had everyone promptly starting to clap.. brilliant! The service was followed by the wake which took place at the Abingdon Dance Studio which was decorated with many of Pauline's photographs and the famous singing 'trout'. Going back there was wonderful and as it turned out, so life-affirming. Liz and John laid out a lovely spread and joined us later on in the afternoon and we all had time to sit down and catch up – it was a fitting occasion..... we should all be so lucky! What a wonderful lady ........ Pauline.

Sahara Sisters hafla, Chippenham

2011-10-23T08:23:00.000-07:00

Having had the pleasure of working with the Sahara Sisters’, we were invited to perform at their annual hafla, an offer which we were delighted to accept. On arrival there, it took us a minute to take in the location and less than that to sigh in relief - the hall was a beautiful large room full of little period architectural gems, there was a yummy food corner and rather nice bar, a solid looking sound along an elaborate lighting system. The Chippenham ladies had set everyone up and this group for one was really appreciative! As it turned out, I personally think this event was the largest indoor event I danced at. The evening’s programme was eclectic and the Sahara Sisters’ showcase was bright, and colourful, and vibrant and went down a treat. Visiting performers included amongst others the lovely Helen Sleiman, the mesmerising Malmsbury girls and the ravishing Raheesha with her Desert Divas. We had a wonderful evening, had some outstanding professional photos taken (see our website), scorched the floor, and drove home wonderfully spent!!

See our video page or YouTube

Malmesbury Tribal hafla

2011-10-23T08:05:00.000-07:00

September - Firstly, what I remember of my first venture into this town is how absolutely enchanting it struck me.. full of rather large churches.. until I found out that it’s England’s oldest borough and with 1000-year-old history, it really is hardly surprising!!

Our evening was quite novel as it was hosted by a raconteur come comedian come magician, Ashton Carter who made for smooth transitions and distinctive announcements, and his amazing magical 'saw the lady in half' act with willing (or was that unwilling) volunteer from the audience! The event looked completely sold out and we met up amongst others with fellow dancing groups such as Sundara, Brutal Belly Dance, Sahara Sisters, the Swindon Shimmyers and Zanoba. Ashnah premiered their masks which were bought specifically for this event and which went across a treat. I must give a mention to the absolutely gorgeous Xenia who enthralled us all with a creative choreography involving a veil and rocked it out to a dramatic piece of music.. Back to the light!

Hathor, June 2011

2011-10-23T07:54:00.000-07:00

Catching up on our blog articles, I now come to Hathor, June 2011.

Ashnah attended Hathor’s annual shindig at Exeter Hall in Kidlington back in June and as usual, the hafla didn’t disappoint and neither did the laid on and much appreciated sustenance!! This event is one of the larger local ones to Oxford and a very popular rendezvous - this year, the gathering was in aid of Oxford’s Food Bank. Groups and soloists covered a whole range of styles and the programme included traditional Egyptian, folkloric, modern fusion, and ATS bellydancing. The wonderfully organised evening was rounded off by our Hathor hosts bumping and shimmying to Flo-Rida’s infectious and most aptly titled Club Can’t Handle me rhythm – roll on 2012!!

The Shoulder of Muton, Wantage

2011-10-23T07:02:00.000-07:00

D day (- 1 hour). We set off to Wantage making our way to the Shoulder of Mutton pub; this was going to be our first pub gig and we were all very excited! The agreed upon strategy (and yes we were approaching it like an operation) was to ring our host, Peter Fowler, on arrival in order to access the venue through a side entrance thereby maximising our impact - and what an impact it was! We were even asked to perform a fourth slot but decided to “leave them begging for more”. We’d made provision to get everybody up and dancing and that proved a very popular idea.

D day (+1 hour) We had a truly memorable evening at what we discovered to be an enchanting pub we would recommend to everyone. Venimus, vedimus, vicimus!!!

Make sure you pay a visit to this wonderful establishment for fine beer, wines and most delicious food - The Shoulder of Mutton, Wantage

report by Rita

Wallingford Bunkfest 2011

2011-09-10T11:45:00.000-07:00

Ashnah dancers with partners, buggy and baby plus 1 dog in toe made their way to this fabulous event. We were all naturally very excited as we were looking forward to a live music collaboration with the wonderful Oxford Drum Troupe (ODT), an Oxford based group who specialise in African music. I personally can’t say enough about the day we had, the collaboration with the drummers, and of course the festival which brings together all the differing and colourful strains of Morris dancers who so effortlessly and colourfully mingle with us Middle Eastern dancers – even Jo and Josephine Public play dress-up with the opportunity for face-painting available to young and old alike.. I will naturally always maintain that such festivals stand and fall with the sustenance provided. The catering at Bunkfest this year was again faultless with Chinese, Spanish, Indian, French and Vegetarian a la carte.. not forgetting the beer tent of course.. and the delicious ice cream and oh.. crepes.. and I almost forget the lovely gentleman who kept my thirst at bay with the most delicious and freshly squeezed lemonade.. If you’re reading this and you happen to be around the area at the beginning of September then why not take the family for a glorious day out - I can’t recommend this event highly enough!!
report by Rita

Oxford Carnival, South Park

2011-07-05T09:18:00.000-07:00

Make the decision to throw a big community event and put the call out to musicians, group dancers, singers and any and all relevant artistes, add the absolutely necessary presence of food and drink, garnish with all manner of stalls such as jewellery and local crafts, not forgetting good causes, sprinkle it with 20,000 people - and VOILA - you have yourself the potential for what turned out to be a most eclectic, colourful, and wonderfully musical Cowley Carnival!!! The sun joined the party and ensured a great turn out and a fabulous bash on Sunday afternoon in Oxford.

Ashnah had been looking forward to taking part again this year, and although only 3 of us could make it, I can happily report that we gave out plenty of good energy, caused a most positive stir, acquitted ourselves very well, and had plenty of time to relax and enjoy ourselves.

Sore from the sun and exhausted, we headed for home at sundown.......

Roll on next years carnival woo hoo!!

report by Rita

Summer Mauj-Mela, Sandhills, Oxford

2011-07-05T08:55:00.001-07:00

We were once again invited to perform at the Indian Mela at Sandhills, Oxford, by the wonderful Kanta Gopal on behalf on the OHTCCP (Oxford Hindu Temple & Community Centre Project).

What a glorious event this is - full of colour, music and dancing - styles this year were Hawiian, Bhangra, Classical Indian dance and ourselves performing American Tribal Style Bellydance. There was delicious Indian food (oh it was so good), henna (mehndi), singing by the Afropean Choir, drumming workshop by our dear friend Paul Eagles (great fun), whilst families danced, ate, joined in the workshops, chatted and thoroughly had a great time.

The weather held out, though a little windy perhaps, and the sun came out in the afternoon.

Ashnah had a fabulous time again this year and we take great delight in meeting such warm, friendly people and joining in with the celebrations.

What a wonderful day we had!!

Dragon Boats

2011-05-21T05:48:00.000-07:00

For the 2nd year running, Ashnah danced at the Abingdon Dragon Boat event, and in all the 3 years we've been together this was the first time we were confronted with chilly damp weather - what a shock to the system brrrrr!!

For 30 minutes we danced a variety of our numbers - a lively one with zills, next a slow and senuous one, a solo from Rita, a stick dance and the finale ended an improvised piece. It's very difficult to dance along by the riverbank as the curse of the long grass dragged at our long skirts causing us to trip as well as the unsure footing in ruts and over bumps making spinning hazardous. Nonetheless, beer, burgers and ice-cream went down well and we all thoroughly had a brilliant time at this fabulous event.

......... wonder if I can fit my lawn mower in the car for next year ..... ?

OMEDS Spring Hafla 2011

2011-05-19T08:10:00.000-07:00

The wonderful OMEDS hafla delighted us yet again - such wonderful dancing by many fabulous dancers - what a vast variety to keep many a spectator entertained!! Ashnah dancers Jen, Hannah, Agne and myself (minus Rita and Pips who were attending a wedding) donned our new uniform of striped skirts and headed on into Oxford to perform an ATS improvised number. It's very difficult hiding a tribal costume until appearing on stage - 4 or 5 layers of clothing consisting of pantaloons, two 17 yard full skirts, tribal belt and/or shawl too with flowers and tassles complete with tucking the 2 skirts up into the waistband - all topped off with a tribal coat over the top, we often resemble something out of a Dickens novel with hooped skirts!!!

The talented photographer Agata Lucka-Ahmed was again on hand snapping away at all the dancers, creating stunning photo's. Check out her website!!

The rain washed down that evening, but it didn't dampen anyone's spirits at the fabulous hafla.

Variety Show, St Helen & St Katherine School

2011-05-08T16:57:00.001-07:00

Ashnah were invited to take part in a most worthy cause - a show in aid of Against Breast Cancer and Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals Charitable Funds. The wonderful Variety Show took part in St Helen & St Katherine school theatre on a most humid, sultry evening, which proved extremely difficult for those wearing layers of costume!!! The show consisted of wonderful acts - a singer, comedy, magician, pianist, flute player whilst we opened the show and also our 2nd number closed the show at the end.

In between acts, we waited behind the scenes, nibbling on snacks, drinking plenty of fluids on this hot evening and amused ourselves trying different accessories we stumbled upon in the prop box - numerous styled hats, face masks with various hilarious expressions, ghosts, a coffin (mmm), rabbit's ears and even the pantomime horse complete with 'human legs' got a look in too. We did draw the line when someone came across a blow up sumo wrestler though .........

Enjoy the pictures!!

Planet Egypt, London

2011-05-08T02:33:00.000-07:00

Ashnah's most major and anticipated bellydance event came upon us on the 28th April, and after setting off to London by coach we checked into our hotel, re-boosted our flagging energies with the most delicious pizzas at a local Italian, then proceeded to pamper and preen ourselves in preparation for the night. With much amusement to the taxi driver having 4 costumed ladies in his cab we duly arrived at our venue, Darbuka. By the time Ashnah's performance was up, our costumes had generated so much interest that they got a mention in our announcement!! Our 'sassy chicks' dance performance went across beautifully and left us all buzzing!! A few numbers later (and after what was for me a quick change), my solo was up. As usual, good vibrant music had the audience on side cheering and clapping. It all went well and was certainly an experience not to be missed, culminating in our hostess paying us the best compliment by inviting us back.

report by Rita

Video from the evening

The day after our performance, still in London, we took in the wonderful atmosphere of the Royal Wedding celebrations with many other like minded people, cheering at a huge TV screen we happened upon in a bar in Victoria. People were sitting on the floor, bar stools, standing in doorways, craning to see 'that kiss' on the balcony, and rushing outside to the fly past on the planes.

Truly a wonderful 2 days!!

International Day of Dance 2011

2011-05-08T02:17:00.000-07:00

Abingdon Town Council hosted the local International Day of Dance and showcased a rather varied and eclectic programme. On show this year were Indian, Thai, Swing, Scottish, Irish and Balkan dancing, and of course Abingdon's own Ashnah performers. The event was compered by the inimitable Town Crier John, and none of it would have been possible without the sun coming out to play and bringing along a nice big crowd.

picture courtesy of This Abingdon blog

FatChanceBellyDance training

2011-04-30T11:13:00.000-07:00

March - I travelled to Rochford, Essex for a 4 day intensive dance training course with the wonderful Carolena Nericcio (pictured presenting me with my certificate yay!), founder and Director of FatChanceBellyDance, and hosted by Morai and Tribal Unity for my General Skills. After watching the spectacular show Tribally Inspired featuring 7 of the UK FatChanceBellyDance Sister Studios and seeing Carolena perform (magical), the next 4 days were incredibly hard, not only on the body but also the mind, remembering all the FCBD moves, floor work, formations, cues, hand placements (how many floreos went with what??) ....... In between dancing, I met old friends, made new friends, dined, socialised, and gained my General Skills certificate at the end. Brilliant time!!

Report by Kay

Swindon Shimmyers, 19th March 2011

2011-03-25T10:34:00.000-07:00

Ashnah video link

Sue Bickell and her ladies hosted their second hafla in Swindon in aid of Prospect Hospice which raised a whopping £476.50 woo hoo!!! Well done ladies. The programme was pretty eclectic and the likes of Tracy Jones and Helen Sleiman who came with their students, flew the flag for traditional Egyptian and before you ask, yes they strutted their own stuff beautifully! I couldn’t possibly name everyone who performed, but the lovely Luisa Taylor also took to the floor and unashamedly worked it, the Malmsbury girls showed us how fusion should be performed whilst us Ashnah gals danced our Sassy Chicks number once again followed by an American Tribal Style number in which we incorporated pairs, trios, chorus and anything else that seemed to just form in this unchoreographed number J The evening ended with everyone taking to the dance floor to the tunes of Abba and Saturday Night Fever, so overall a tremendous success!!!

Majma, Glastonbury March 2011

2011-03-25T10:23:00.000-07:00

I’m back from Majma 2011. The Lady Raheesha beckoned and I went as along our gracious hostess, Hossam & Serena Ramzy were heading the cast of top notch teachers. I also signed up to Katie Holland’s Samba-belly (and what a workshop to kick off the day after the night before!). I followed that class with a Rumba Flamenca one headed by the grande dame herself, the lovely Valerie Romanin and what an absolute joy that turned out to be! Having rubbed shoulders with the great and the good and witnessing such first rate performances where the dancer became an instrument reflecting the music, came the time for the amateurs to showcase and tread the light fantastic. I suppose you reap what you sow and I have a way to go!! I had such a wonderful and fulfilling weekend and oh yes – I bought a dress, Courtesy of the lovely Meena – yippee!

Report by Rita

Nikki Livermore’s Winter Wonderland hafla - Saturday 29 January 2011

2011-03-25T10:10:00.000-07:00

Ashnah video link

Langdale Hall was once again the venue for Nikki’s Winter Wonderland and this year’s programme provided a nice variety.. Our hostess, the glamorous Nikki was as usual light of foot and cheeky and wonderfully supported by John Sleiman – she even had the opportunity to showcase her earlier Samba workshop with some of her pupils; ever effacing, she hit the floor in gold lame hot pants and bra, crowning her outfit with green and yellow feathers! Other exponents of traditional Egyptian were Dodo Pratt, Helen Sleiman and after a spell, yours truly! The cheeky Louisa strutted her melaya dance with a decided, dare I say, almost natural abundance of “get up and go” and well.. bagged and left with Gary!!!! Group-wise, Isisters and Hazzaz’s invasion was as colourful and as enthusiastic as ever infusing the hall at large with much enthusiasm and joyful mayhem. The Ashnah girls took the opportunity of wearing our much loved corsets and feathers along other Victoriana paraphernalia to perform our sassy chicks’ dance. Of note of course was our gorgeous Hannah (with brand new hair style) making her debut – yippee! Loreley Rice’s Ngoum el Leyl rounded off a most enjoyable evening with the multi-prop production of Pharaonic Odyssey.

report by Rita

OMEDS

2010-12-29T05:01:00.000-08:00

Oxford Middle Eastern Dance Society (OMEDS) hafla was the highlight of December for many dancers who gathered together in their finest attire to showcase their dancing. Once again OMEDS put on a well organised show with some fabulous dancing by all who took part. Sadly the bad weather claimed some victims with sickness and some being stranded.

We were delighted to be able to do our sassy Bulgarian number followed by improvised ATS, and were joined by Ashnah's newest member Esme .. yay!!

The lovely photographer Agata Lucka-Ahmed took the these photo's and many more of the dancers. Check out Agata's pictures at Exumbra and don't forget to book her for your special event!!

Ashnah welcomes........

2010-12-07T17:15:00.000-08:00

Ashnah is pleased to have 2 new members on board - Hannah Godfrey and Esme Gregory!!! Hannah also attends lessons with Loreley Rice, and Esme danced and taught at OMEDS in Oxford. Welcome, welcome, welcome..........................

Photo's and bio's to follow.

Christmas is coming...... the cat is getting fat!

2010-11-07T05:48:00.000-08:00

A little shopping trip enjoying a bit of retail therapy went nicely, starting off with luncheon at Noodle Nation and then heading off to the shops followed by a relaxing break in Costa coffee shop. Purchases were a sumptious teal wool and mohair long jacket with a tantilizing little frill along the edge for Kay (moi), a soft satin panelled skirt in hues of taupe for Philippa whilst Rita plumped for ................. cat food. Seriously woman!!!!

Pips & Rita enjoying a coffee break - let's hope that's not Rita's purchase on her plate................

Hafla - Zanoba October 30th

2010-10-31T11:54:00.003-07:00

October - and we travelled to Faringdon to perform at Zanoba's winter hafla organised by Ann Clarke. What a fabulous atmosphere it was - the room was decorated with drapes, various low cushions to sit on with tables (though I couldn't get down to the cushion with my layers of costume ha), a souk to shop at, an array of various foods laid out and plenty of performers and onlookers. There was such a wide range of different dances - Egyptian, Steam Punk (oh those shoes), Tribal Fusion, umbrella's, Tango, Gothic Tribal complete with mask (woo hoo) solo's and absolute fun pieces. We performed our sassy chicks number followed by our improvised ATS tribal style with zills.

Hafla - Wantage Civic Hall

2010-10-31T11:54:00.001-07:00

Oooh la la Ashnah performed at this annual fundraiser organised by Loreley Rice, which is certainly becoming a firm fixture on the local and not so local calendar. The successful evening raised a whopping £764 for vital conservation work across the globe. Ashnah, minus our very pregnant Agne, premiered its sassy chicks dance and costumes consisting of bodices, feathers and Victoriana booties – oh the joy of it.

Splash of Pink - October 9th

2010-10-31T11:53:00.001-07:00

Ashnah was again invited to join in this worthy cause and although the weather person predicted sunshine, we had clouds! Regardless, as normal nothing could have stopped us, so minus our much missed and expectant Agne, we strutted our stuff.

Rita and Philippa 'Rock-ing the Casbah'

Bunkfest 2010

2010-09-14T14:41:00.000-07:00

Our beautiful Agne with expecting baby leads the dancers

Our favourite festival arrived, and again so did the sunshine! This year we were delighted to be joined by drummer Karl Greenow who plays for The Keeling Curve, and also Peter who played for us last year. A huge big thank you guys, it was so very much appreciated. Hope we can do it again!! This year at Bunkfest we again met up with Isisters, met new Morris dancers and watched the wonderful Zulu, all the way from South Africa - watch their VIDEO HERE - fabulous. We performed in various places and had a wonderful time, some of us staying on into the night to watch some of the bands.

Watch the Youtube Videos under the Video Link and Vimeo HERE.

Alzheimers Show (see Video here)

2010-09-05T05:16:00.000-07:00

AfroFusion

Saturday 24th April 2010 couldn't come fast enough! Jo Saunders of Arabian Fire & Cairo Kittens put together a brilliant show in aid of the Abingdon Alzheimer Hospice at the Amey Theatre, Abingdon School. Despite all being tucked away in the ladies changing room, we were able to watch all the performances on a big screen. Oxford Drum Troupe opened she show with their infectious drumming and were later joined by the amazing African dancing sisters Grace and Sarah of 1AfroFusion Rhythm. The Middle Eastern section was made up of soloists Niki Livermore, who strutted her stuff with everyone's favourite tabla 'artiste' John Sleiman, my teacher Loreley Rice who weaved her magic with her mesmerising Isis wings, professional Indian Bhangra dancers from London, fantastic Capoeira dancers with flamenco dancers Camino del Flamenco with teacher Rosie adding a much exciting exotic touch alongside the Argentine Tango couple, whilst Ashnah represented the tribal fusion style and performed our much loved stick dance and our improvised tribal ATS style dancing with Oxford Drum Troupe too. Check out our new Ghawazee coat/dresses made by Kay White woo hoo!

AfroFusion

It was a great evening and we managed to raise approximately £2,000 - indeed the show was so successful that there's talk of making if a permanent fixture - roll on 2011!!! A big thank you must go to the entire supporting team made up of Jo Trafford, Sonia Black, Janet Avison, Kay O'Reagan and not forgetting the lovely Sorcha who looked drop dead gorgeous in her wowing brown dress.

Bellydance Bonanza - Saturday 22nd May 2010

2010-09-05T04:18:00.000-07:00

Yet again, this year the programme was well-balanced (Loreley Rice, Afra El Kahira, Dodo Pratt, John Sleiman to name but a few) and this year's prima guests were the diving Maria D'Silva (whom I'm completely bowled over with) and the utterly glamourous Anne White who only has to stand there to hold attention (total hussy and she won't mind me saying so either!!). My apologies for beingunable to mention everyone, but a shout out must go to Helen Sleiman who's turning into such an accomplished dancer blessed with great choreography and imagination.

The day was beautifully rounded off when 35 students and teachers descended on our favourite Lebanese restaurant, The Riviera, and shimmied the night away. Thank you Nikki and Neil!

report by Rita

New Design...... mmm

2010-07-23T04:56:00.001-07:00

Just trying out a new design for our blog........ mmm not sure.....

Against Breast Cancer

2010-07-20T16:54:00.000-07:00

April came and we were once again invited to dance in the Market Place for this fabulous cause 'Against Breast Cancer'. Here we are posing with a one of the lovely organisers in the fabulous warm sunshine. What an array of hues of pink again!

Gypsy Caravan Collective Soul Level 2

2010-06-25T16:36:00.000-07:00

March - I travelled down to Lewes near Brighton for a 3 day Collective Soul 2 course again with the lovely Paulette Rees-Denis founder and Director of Gypsy Caravan Dance Company and hosted by Louisa Thomsen. I stayed at the delightful Dubois B&B (an absolute must stay at place!) which was about a 10 minute walk from the town.

photo - Angela & Paulette in 'Bills'

Lewes is fabulous and bursting with interesting independent shops (check out Bills, mmmm) and only a short drive to Brighton.

Anyway........ the first day we all met in Laporte's cafe - Paulette, Louisa, Angela from Tribe Zuza and Chris from Four Hundred Roses (who I met on the Level 1 course), and after hot chocolate and coffees we all trouped off and got down to the dancing. After the first day I didn't think I cope for another 2 days......where had my fitness gone??? Well, we worked hard, studied hard, ate at fabulous restaurants, laughed and chatted and on the 3rd day Angela, Chris and I were awared with our Level 2 certificates! Yay! So, I am definately 'certifiable' again!!

Paulette takes our photo whilst we huddle in

Celebrating with a glass of wine, and chilling on the chaise lounge

Hipnotic, Jazz Cafe in Reading

2010-02-09T16:16:00.000-08:00

February saw us all travelling to Reading to perform at Hipnotic at the Jazz Cafe (check out the link, but better still pay them a visit for a brilliant evening)!

We cheered on the other dancers, took part in a few of the classes there we then performed our improvised tribal style dancing. A great evening was had by all. Check out the pictures.

Seeing the New Year in

2010-02-09T15:59:00.000-08:00

Woo hoo, catching up on what's been happening this year starts with Kay, Philippa, Rita and Jen (belly Jen, we have 2 Jens, the other being tribal Jen), saw the New Year in celebrating it in the Dil Raj Indian Restaurant in Abingdon, eating sumptuous food, slurping superb wine, watching our belly dancer friend Jo performing yay, pulling crackers (paper ones of course), wearing hats, blowing them tooting blowey things, dancing - oh yes .. much dancing, singing Auld Lang Syne (or was it old Langs eye I sang ... mmm ....), you know, the usual kind of New Years stuff we all do.

Well according to the few pictures here, you can tell we had a blast! Enjoy the pics..................

Don't forget to go try the Dil Raj too!

Report by Kay

First Drum Performance

2010-02-07T17:36:00.000-08:00

Our djembe drum class was asked to do a 'piece' for the Lake Street Community Centre Christmas do, as this is where we practice every week. It was a great open afternoon, with many families milling around eating mince pies, various cakes, mulled wine etc, whilst being entertained by various acts. Great community atmosphere! When the brass band stopped, it was our turn yikes! The Oxford Drum Troupe professionals drummed various fabulous African rhythms, whilst the people who thronged the room clapped and swayed and the children danced and jigged up and down. We were then invited on by the Drum Troupe for the last piece where we played 3 short rhythms with a drum call to swap from to the other. It went down well and we got a warm round of applause at the end. A big thank you to our drum circle teachers yay!! Afterwards we called into the Four Pillars hotel for a hot cup of coffee, tea and beer to celebrate.

Photo above - the professionals showing us how it's done

Photo right - Kay, Philippa and Rita getting ready

Another Birthday........

2010-02-07T17:11:00.000-08:00

December loomed and with Christmas shopping done and presents wrapped, tree up, last card written, fairy lights turned on (yea, but not by me)..... Pippy's birthday jumped out at us suddenly, so at her request we all trouped over to her house each with a dish of food to pool into a birthday supper, with presents to swap and plenty of giggles to share. After sitting down to our feast of an array of English, Turkish, Polish, Indian food with salads and puddings, plenty of wine etc etc, (with Philippa wearing her new fairy wings heading the table) we exchanged presents and then 'hung out' and watched a dance DVD. Much laughter was had by all. Alas no pictures were taken on the big day, so I found this in our archives. Pippy modelling a piece of costuming in our dance studio....... great leg warmers! You go girl! Report by Kay

Christmas Celebration Performance Platform

2010-02-07T17:03:00.000-08:00

November 2009 and 3 of Ashnah dancers, Kay, Jen & Rita, travelled to Swindon to take part in the Christmas Celebration Performance Platform organised by MADN (Mosaic Arabic Dance Network) held at the Phoenix Theatre at New College. Performers were plentiful and to name a few were Loreley Rice, Soraya with John Sleiman, Isisters, Helen Sleiman dancing to her fathers drumming (John Sleiman), Hazzaz, Negoum el Leyl, Afra al Kahira, Tracey Jones, guest dancers the fabulous Zehara Dancers led by Nikki Franklin performing their own Zehara tribal style and our very own delightful Ashnah dancer, Rita Maria who performed her new solo. There was a mix of various dances - Turkish pop, veil dances, isis wings dances, solo's, group dances, Egyptian pop, drum solo's and many more, whilst we performed our tribal dance to Harem with zills. After all dancers posed for professional photo's (which will appear in the next issue of the Mosaic magazine), we headed off back to Abingdon for an evening in the Thai Orchid which was simply heaven!!! Report by Rita

Halloween - or maybe not in our case

2010-02-07T15:44:00.001-08:00

Hubble Bubble, Toil and Trouble - Philippa suggested we have an evening at hers, a trip down the pub followed by a takeaway. Last minute suggestion from me was 'let's dress up at it's Halloween'. On collection of Rita I was greeted by this ....... thing ..... bright red hair, pointy hat and a painted star over her eye ha! After much cackling all the way to Pippy's, and more shrieks of delight when she clapped eyes on Rita, we trotted off down a narrow lane in what seemed like the darkest depths of Peru, in the pitch black to the local pub. No torches and my mobile phone light wasn't bright enough eek!!!. Gingerly we held on to each other, me trailing at the back keeping an eye out for ghouls and goblins, Pippy leading the way with Rita in the middle cackling all the way. The locals eyed us with suspicion when we entered (though I think they stared at our wicked witch from the West actually), and we supped our tipple with quiet cackles (wondering who was for our cauldron). Another trek back up the darket depths of Peru back to Pippy's house, ordered our takeaway and flew there on Rita's broom, oh sorry I mean drove in my car. Again we were viewed with caution (bewilderment I think was more like it), and we drove back with our catch of Chinese food to gorge over.

Strange thing was, it wasn't Haloween! I'd got the date wrong doh!!!!!!

Tribal Vibe 2009

2009-11-13T04:05:00.000-08:00

Following on from the Collective Soul course, I indulged in a weekend of dance workshops at Tribal Vibe held at Aylesbury, organised by Steffi Colbert of Barefoot Bellydance. I took part in Paulette Rees-Denis's Trance workshop which was wow and a must to experience, and her Shimmy Queen, Solo's in Tribal and her Formation workshop too which has given me plenty of 'food for thought'. Friday night there was a welcome party with food, wine, shopping followed by group dancing, individual troupe dancing, solo's and just get up and join in with whoever was leading, and continued on into the 'chill out' room until the early hours.

Philippa joined me on the Saturday evening and watched the show which I danced in. Afterwards Paulette got everbody up and dancing, Barefoot band played long and hard with Paulette lending a hand at drumming too, followed by more chilling in the chill out room with pizza's, wine, chatter, people being 'henna'ed' with various designs and collapsing into bed about 2am again.

Sunday loomed only too quickly and Philippa left ...... along with my hotel room key (yep, and with my luggage still in the room)!! Doh!! ;-)'

Report and artwork by Kay

Gypsy Caravan Collective Soul

2009-10-23T16:47:00.001-07:00

I’ve just spent a fabulous 3 days on the Collective Soul Level 1 course with the amazing Paulette Rees-Denis founder of Gypsy Caravan, and hosted by Steffi Colbert of Barefoot Bellydance in Aylesbury, where I met 5 other ladies on the course too - Sharon and Kay (Kalitribe), Sandra (Tribal Hussy), Chris (Four Hundred Roses), and Sarah (Phoenix) where we talked about our backgrounds and individual paths which led us to this dance style, the history of tribal bellydance, the community spirit, the connection we felt within our own troupes, and where we see ourselves in the future with dance. We then danced, learnt new steps, zilled different patterns, and listened to drum rhythms and learnt to identify them all with Paulette’s instruction, corrections, praise, encouragement, energy and humour. We lunched together, laughed, wined, dined and studied together for the final days testing. We all passed and not only did I gain my prized certificate, I also gained a better understanding, an even bigger passion for this dance, a great feeling of well-being, a connection and a feeling of belonging, and a deep caring for my fellow dancers whom I felt I’d been dancing with for a very long time.

report by Kay White

Picture L-R Sharon, Kay W, Paulette, Kay I, Sandra and Sarah with Chris taking the picture

Against Breast Cancer

2009-10-11T08:56:00.000-07:00

Oh the sun does shine yet again!!! What another glorious, sunny autum day it was when we were invited by Against Breast Cancer to participate in the Abingdon Splash of Pink Day which took place on the Market Place, with many shops supporting this wonderful cause by dressing their windows with shades of pink decorations and balloons. Along with the Abingdon Traditional Morris Dancers and Janice Day singing and reading from her book, we danced a variety of our choreographed dances and also our completely improvised tribal style too, along with Piotr playing djembe and Jen on the shakers. Then ... a first for Ashnah - oh my goodness, did someone dropped her stick!!!!! Oooh, but we pretended we hadn't noticed and carried on (in giggles).

Donations for Against Breast Cancer

Ashnah video

Bellydance Congress

2009-10-11T08:53:00.000-07:00

Congress 09 … It’s over and I’m back to my reality .. but how sweet it was while it lasted!!! Back to back workshops for the duration, the opportunity for endless shopping, shows galore and of course burning the floor (Abdel Kader Saadoun & Band were absolutely sizzling). This 2 yearly gathering of top bellydancers, teachers and rising stars from all 4 corners of the world was this time round graced and lead by the legendary (drum rolls please) the one, the only, the inimitable Madame Fifi Abdou - this woman God bless her could teach us westerners a thing or two or three about Diva-esque behaviour but who cares? She’s earned her stripes, has written the book so I’m certainly not going to argue - long may she reign. For the first time, I had the opportunity to see Sadie dance, and on that particular night, she was just ahead of Randa Kamel. The differing styles triggered a whole discussion on the range and direction of bellydancing, from the American locking to the more fluid, original and emotive Arabic style. Khaled Mahmoud was on form and performed the best I’d seen him dance in a long time, Anasma (pictured right) took my breath away - I hadn’t had the pleasure before and she was simply mesmerising. So many headlining dancers, so many groups and a greater tribal presence as well - I cannot possibly name them all, but every single solitary one contributed in such a unique way to an absolutely memorable event......

Report by Rita

Wallingford Bunkfest 2009 (video)

2009-09-24T10:31:00.000-07:00

Well, the weather yet again turned out to be another gorgeous day for us when we danced at Wallingford Bunkfest. After many weeks of extra rehearsing, dragging 2 unsuspecting friends along to get them to drum for us with the promise of fame and fortune (ahem), and by the time we packed all our equipment (CD player, amp, leads, sticks, zills, shakers, drums, dancers, entourage etc etc and grandads red shopping trolley to carry it all in) into 4 cars, we looked like we were off on tour!!!

Today was a 'first' for our newest member Jennifer Boyd (Jen), all the way from sunny Oxford, as she joined us for her first performance with Ashnah, as well the first time we'd danced to our live drummers too!!!! A really big thanks to Fiona and Piotr for their superb drumming and their time spent in the crash course we threw at them, and thanks to our other blonde Jen for joining in with the shakers when not dancing. Thought we all 'jelled' well folk. (Jen pictured right with Rita behind her, and below left Fiona, Piotr and our other Jen)
We performed improvised tribal (no choreography at all) on the little stage with our drummers, then the Kinecroft stage with our choreographed dances and CD's, and then trooped off to The George pub for more improvised tribal and drumming (check out the video's on Video Bar of the left of this page). With the help from our friends belly dancers Isisisters from Witney, again loaning us their amp again, we again returned to the little stage for one more time. Thanks ladies.

Tired feet, hands, and hunger loming, some trooped home whilst Fiona offered to host us at hers with showers, dancing to Bob Marley and a takeaway (with Bob accompanying us to the Chinese too).

All 'Marleyed' out now, so roll on Bunkfest 2010!! Yay!!!!

Conservative Club Family Day

2009-09-24T09:47:00.000-07:00

Sunday 30 September 09 and Ashnah strutted their stuff at the Family Day organised by The Conservative Club (Con Club) in Abingdon. The weather was playing along, the barbecue was out, and the children kept busy with games and face paint. More mainstream entertainment was provided by the two dance groups who use the Club’s upstairs space for rehearsals so along with SalsaEngland http://www.salsaengland.org/, this was our first opportunity to show what we did every week. We did a couple of numbers outdoors and decided to finish our gig inside. The music system proved so much better and added not only general atmosphere but immeasurable bounce to our steps. This was our first showing of our recently acquired improvised tribal skills ... and even if I do so say myself ... I think it went really well .. we may not have blown the roof off but we certainly earned decent cheer. Check out our YouTube video on the Video Bar on the left hand side of this page, or click on the photo. Next stop the Wallingford Bunk Fest ... please pray for sunshine!!
Ashnah Video
article written by Rita........

A New Talent ??

2009-08-20T17:36:00.000-07:00

Is it a phase or a craze? Neither - seems to be a new found love ........ playing drum is just sooo therapeutic. Bought a tabla a year ago after inspiration from other musicians, dabbled a bit, took workshops, then bought a djembe this year with the idea of playing for Ashnah (one day....). Along with Phil, we played with our djembes, added zills, bought some shakers, Rita and Agne joined in too - and hey! sounds ok......ish.

But who will dance if you play mmmmm.....?

maybe they'll ask Me...ow

Rita, Phil and I have now started to take lessons with the Oxford Drum Troupe www.southoxford.org/activities/odt.html. Absolutely brilliant. Yea, ok, sore hands ouch, but great fun and well recommended.

Barefoot at Warwick Folk Festival

2009-08-20T17:10:00.000-07:00

July, warm weather, great company, laughter, plenty of dancing and lot's of wine - I danced with Barefoot Bellydance at Warwick Folk Festival. I don't think I've ever taken part in such a long procession, I couldn't feel my fingers after playing zills and dancing for so long. What a brilliant exhausting, but great experience though!

Show me the way to go home, I'm tired and I wanna go to bed ..........

Hathor

2009-08-20T16:46:00.000-07:00

Hathor hafla in Kidlington, and another showing of our skirts in our skirt dance, Hanina by Galactic Caravan, Intergalactic. It didn't go 'exactly' to plan (1 foot wrong by someone led to 2 feet wrong by the rest of us ha) but we managed to finish upright and smiling. Great evening!

Abingdon Dance Festival

2009-08-20T15:47:00.000-07:00

This year we were again invited by Abingdon Town Council to take part in the 2009 Abingdon International Dance Day. There were Irish dancers, Flamenco, Balkan, the Traditional Morris dancers, us - Ashnah yay! and many more. We showed off our new 'uniform', with our beautiful full tribal skirts made specially by Bellynut Tribal (think we're getting the hang of this matching costumes now)! Check out the full 'swishability' in the pictures below - all together now - oooooh.............

Hey, look at me!

When those skirts get spinning, the weight pulls you round...... and when you stop - they sort of - don't .... mmm

Sassy Rita!

Camp

2009-07-12T10:55:00.001-07:00

Kay and Phil went to camp for the weekend at Chepstow, as Kay was dancing with Barefoot Bellydance (Gypsy Caravan style and directed by Steffi Colbert) at the Two Rivers Festival. Great weekend, lovely weather, fab company and lots of fun and laughter. Thanks Barefoot ladies! We were sooo exhausted.

Ashnah goes Tribal

2009-07-12T10:10:00.002-07:00

With the arrival of Agne, Ashnah is now venturing into a sideline of tribal bellydance here in Abingdon, so not only are we just including elements of tribal steps into our Ashnah style, we are now having separate sessions to learn Fat Chance Belly Dance tribal style. FCBD is an improvised style of dance with no choreography, just steps, combinations, cues and transitions to learn and remember. I’m looking forward to our first ‘public’ performance with this style, and just turning up with no choreography to remember, though don’t forget of course that Ashnah will continue to perform their original style too.

Tribal sessions are now being held at 7pm - 8pm on Wednesday's at Abingdon Conservative Club, Conduit Road/Ock Street. If you're interested in tribal bellydance and would like to try it out, please to contact ashnahbellydance@googlemail.com

Ashnah Performance Group rehearsals are at 8pm onwards, which is by invitation only.

Ashnah welcomes Agne

2009-07-12T09:56:00.000-07:00

In April, Ashnah welcomed a new member, Agne, all the way from Poland (though she lives here in Abingdon of course, bit too far to travel otherwise). With the arrival of Agne, so it fires up the interest in tribal style dancing (yea)!

Birthdays 2009

2009-07-12T09:52:00.001-07:00

Birthday meals this year so far, saw Kay’s being celebrated at the Parasol Chinese in Abingdon, Phil’s was a Chinese takeaway hosted at her house with dancing when the furniture was pushed out the way, Diane’s at an Indian in Didcot, Jen’s was lunch at Pizza Express after we’d danced at the Abingdon Day of Dance and Rita did hers in style by christening her new BBQ in the rain with many friends in her garden.

Oh dig em wellies!

Do I really know these people....... mmm

Hello Hello Hello

2009-07-12T09:25:00.000-07:00

Another hot day, and this time Ashnah danced at an event in Botley organised by the Thames Valley Police, Abingdon.

Witney Hafla with Nikki Livermore

2009-07-12T09:01:00.000-07:00

For the first time ALL 6 of Ashnah members performed the Prophecy stick dance. It took weeks of practice for all who haven’t performed this before, but as always, it was ‘alright on the night’.

Photo: Nikki Livermore & John Sleiman

Dancing Round Tables

2009-07-12T08:46:00.001-07:00

Private party at a Bowls Club - a first for Ashnah - dancing at tables without choreography!!! That’s what Bellydance is all about!

Gypsy Caravan

2009-07-12T08:32:00.000-07:00

Christmas 2008 I was invited to join the Barefoot troupe in Aylesbury. I’ve also signed up to do a 3 day workshop Collective Soul (with Barefoot Bellydance) with the famous Paulette Rees-Dennis from Gypsy Caravan followed by Tribal Vibe 2009.

Balkan Evening

2009-07-12T08:15:00.000-07:00

Ashnah danced at a Balkan evening with the group Balkansko Oro. We had lovely evening watching and listening to the stories behind each dance, and then watched a dancer from London perform his exciting dance with a drum. Many thanks Sally for the food, drinks and hospitality in your amazing house. Photo’s

October 2008 Tribal Vibe

2009-07-12T07:59:00.000-07:00

Photo's courtesy of Barefoot Bellydance

Philippa and I spent a weekend away doing workshops at Tribal Vibe in Aylesbury, organised by Steffi from Barefoot Tribal Bellydance. We both took part in a couple of Awalim workshops then Phil tried the African with Louisa Thomsen followed by the energetic workshop taught by Urban Gypsy (famous for Britain’s Got Talent) both of which she loved and they were such fun, exhilarating and exhausting. Amonst others, I did the zill workshop with Awalim which was brilliant and also the drum workshop run by the Barefoot band which was oh so fab (am now hooked). The first evening started off with an introduction workshop with Awalim from USA followed by supper, drinks and chatter. We picked up new moves to add to our repertoire and met other dancers from various groups.

Saturday started off with a walk to the local (complete in dance gear/costume) and had an spicy Indian samosa for breakfast mmm....... Following the workshops there was a show in the evening with dancers Urban Gypsy, Awalim, Barefoot, Tribe of Kismet and Fulya and performances from Barefoot and the Barefoot students in which I danced too. Fabulous show. Later back at the hotel we celebrated with drinks and an order of 15 pizzas at around midnight!!!!

Sunday more workshops and we staggered home in the late afternoon, tired and weary. Can't wait for 2009 Vibe!!!

Wallingford Bunkfest

2008-08-31T10:33:00.001-07:00

I think we must be blessed this year as every time we've been out performing the sun has shone down on us, though today was an absolute scorcher, which is very uncomfortable in full costume!! We shared the stage with 3 other dance groups at various times during the day - Old Speckled Hen, Knockhundred Shuttles and Lumbawakk - all of whom were good dancers and great fun.

There was also a group of Welsh dancers called Dawnswyr Tipyn o Bopeth, all the way from .......... Wales. I think they were feeling the heat more than us in their full Welsh costumes complete with the traditional tall black hats. Other dancers were one of our favourite groups - the Heneghan James & O'Gara School of Irish Dance - whom we danced with in Abingdon on International Dance Day. We also met another bellydance group and old friends, Hazzaz from the Witney area (thanks ladies for the loan of your amplifier)!! Much appreciated!! It was a brilliant day, and all dancers cheered each other on, such a great atmosphere.

After doing about 15 dances in the open sunshine, heat exhausted we trawled the many goods stalls, ate from various food vans and drank gallons of cold drinks and sought every bit of shade we could, eventually leaving after well over 6 hours of total fun, taking home with us headaches, smudged makeup, weary bodies and tender skin from the sun - ouch!!

Would we suffer all that pain again next year? You bet we would!!

2008-08-31T09:48:00.000-07:00

Abingdon's Got Talent

2008-08-04T15:28:00.000-07:00

28th June saw 3 of us competing in Abingdon's Got Talent competition, run by Abingdon Town Council, which was held in Abingdon Market Square. How delighted we were when it was announced that we'd won a place in the finals in July along with 12 other acts, o'er. Finals day loomed and we practised our new saidi stick dance almost daily again for it's second showing. Finals day July 26th arrived and it was again another beautiful sunny day and the crowds thronged the Square for the show down. We were 2nd to last on, so were able to watch some of the fabulous acts appearing before us. At last we were able to strut our stuff (not a foot wrong or a drop of the stick by any of us - this time), it was questioned though why we danced with 'walking sticks' mmm - saidi stick dancing is yet another form of belly dance (check out the link above for saidi description). We were awarded with runners up in our (ahem! over 18's) category which we were all delighted with. Well done to all those who participated and of course congratulations to those who won (Simon Cowell has definately missed some talent). A big thanks to Abingdon Town Council for putting on the competition too, the judges, compere and the crowd of folk cheering (sounds like the Oscars)!

Barefoot Student Showcase, Aylesbury

2008-08-03T10:22:00.000-07:00

On Friday 18th July we appeared as guest dancers at the Barefoot Student Showcase held at the Limelight Theatre in Aylesbury. As well as dancing with Ashnah, Kay (moi) is also a member of Barefoot tribal bellydance and attends classes in Thame weekly, and was dancing in the show with Barefoot and managed to get Ashnah booked in to dance too. This was yet another different experience for us and one that was very enjoyable to watch and also to participate in. The first half of the show started with classical bellydance from many of the Barefoot students and Anuket, who are Barefoot's student troupe. Their style of dance is different to ours so it was lovely to watch and pick up ideas from them (hopefully they picked up ideas from us too)!!!!!! Ashnah ended the 1st half of the show with our dances - a veil dance, then a short lively dance followed by our new saidi stick dance which was it's first appearance. The second half of the show was danced by Barefoot tribal students, 2 of which I danced in yay, with the show ending with a performance by the Barefoot troupe themselves led by Steffi Colbert (founder and teacher of Barefoot).

We rounded off the evening by a sing song in the car on the way home with a pit-stop at Thame for burger, kebab and chips. Always the best when you're hungry.

Photo's to follow shortly .........................

New Web Page (click here)

2008-07-28T10:17:00.000-07:00

Ashnah has a new web page with a contact email for bookings. Check us out on the Link on the left hand side or just click the title of this posting.

Eshta to Ashnah

2008-06-14T09:49:00.000-07:00

We have now started our own amateur dance group called Ashnah. We meet weekly for rehearsing, choreographing our own dances, meals out, fun and laughter. The old dance name Eshta belongs to Abingdon Dance Studios with whom we performed for many times. We all began our dancing with the Dance Studios years ago, and began practicing for ourselves weekly there too as well as taking regular lessons. Since finding our own dance venue to regularly meet and create our own choreography, we decided to have our own name too. Ashnah means 'change' in Hebrew which we felt was appropriate having changed our name.

International Dance Day

2008-06-08T15:50:00.003-07:00

A few more selection of 'poses' from us.

2008-06-08T15:50:00.002-07:00

Back in May - here we are again, dancing in Abingdon market place for International Dance Day which was organised by Abingdon Town Council, which another wonderful sunny day. We had debated all week about doing our veil dance, but it's always a bit risky when dancing outdoors. Good job we decided against it - it was quite windy. This day we were dancing for Abingdon Dance Studios, along with the Street Dancers and Cheerleaders. Also dancing was a fabulous group of Irish dancers, Ceroc dancers andAbingdon Morris dancers.

Dalton Barracks

2008-06-08T15:50:00.001-07:00

There are 5 of us dancing here - Rita is tucked away behind Jen. Had the usual odd mishap during our dancing - forgetting which track came on next so being in the wrong position - ooops. Maybe nobody noticed Jen running to get into place eh? Lovely Jen was also face painting at this event too (no end to her talents), and forgot to bring her dance shoes - mmmm - nice belly dance costume with brown cowboy boots Jen!!

2008-06-08T15:50:00.000-07:00

All week the rain lashed down - and we were booked to dance at Dalton Barracks on the Saturday (along with the Abingdon Morris dancers), an annual spring event with BBQ. As if by magic the day dawned with lashings of sunshine which continued all day. We did find it extra warm though when we danced a little too near the huge BBQ next to us and a bit tearful when the smoke blew over us - all good fun though. Dalton Barracks laid on superb food that day, and it was lovely to see many families there.

Rita

2008-03-21T04:28:00.000-07:00

Mmm blury picture, was it the wine or are you moving Rita? This is behind the scenes during a performance of Sinbad the Sailor.

New Friend

2008-03-21T03:49:00.000-07:00

Who's your new friend Di? Actually this is Jon, or better known as Mrs Sinbad, the pantomime dame. One of the lovely actors from the Wootton Players

Eshta does Panto - oh yes we do

2008-03-20T18:54:00.000-07:00

Here's Di, myself and Phil doing panto at Wootton in February. The Wootton Players kindly asked us to appear in their panto Sinbad, what a blast! Ok we only had a 2 minute slot on each evening but it was worth it. Rehearsals, meeting the cast, the crew, waiting behind the scenes, the fabulous props (actual flying carpet), Kate the Director and many others - wouldn't have missed it for anything. Thank you Wootton Players for a wonderful experience!

Eshta

2008-03-20T18:44:00.000-07:00

This is some of the gang when we danced at Didcot Civil Hall last year. One of us lost a foot bracelet, two clashed veils and dropped them, someone went the wrong way and left one dancer on her own and two also danced the wrong steps in the wrong section of the music. Apart from that, everything was perfect!!