Aziza Raks Workshop Weekend Southampton

  Aziza has been an inspiration to me for a long time. Mainly through watching video clips of her in action through a few bellydance websites, but nothing prepared me for the real thing! When you have an idea of someone, and then get the chance to meet them, you are always worried that you will be disappointed. But this lady is even more my hero now!

The workshop weekend was arranged by afra al kahira. A bellydance performer and Teacher, who bravely decided to arrange for Aziza to come and teach in the U.K. for the first time.
his lady has been voted "Cabaret bellydancer of the year" and the coveted "Bellydancer of the Universe".

So, did this lady fill us with fear when entering the class for the first time? NO.(Although, I did have to be persuaded to enter the first workshop as I was soooo nervous!) This lady is a fabulously generous, funny and totally inspiring teacher. She put us all at our ease within the first five minutes, repeating short combinations at a pace that we were all capable of following. I must admit that at times though it was just wonderful to just stand and watch the great lady in action!  During the first class she even had us on all fours, perfecting the tummy flutter, who'd have guessed! Hope no one was filming for "You've been framed".

The first evening we were there, we attended the Hafla, and although I lost my companions for a while (Trying on stunning costumes from the bazaar! And, I have to admit that I succumbed to a new set of gold Isis wings! I couldn't try them out, however, as it was raining in the car park!) We eagerly awaited Azizas' performance. Her dance was captivating, every move was effortless, I think the main thing that sets her apart from other dancers is her inner grace, and the belief that she truly enjoys performing to her audience, drawing you along with her. Her choreography is always spot on, and always with humour! This is a sassy lady.

The second day brought the veil workshop, three hours of twirling and fluffing! But although the majority of us struggled she was always patient and good humoured throughout, we all, by the end of the class had all the basic moves! If ever you get the chance to attend a workshop, or indeed buy an instructional DVD by Aziza, you really should grab the opportunity. You will not regret it.