World Belly Dance Day 2008 Austrialia

ON THE SUNSHINE COAST, QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA WITH BELLA BELLYDANCE SCHOOL

We had a beautiful sunny afternoon to celebrate two key events. One was the grand opening of our fabulous new dance studio ‘The Palace’ in Maroochydore, and the other event was World Bellydance Day. We couldn’t manage the official day of 10 May, and so chose Sunday afternoon 18 May, to ensure as many as possible of our dancers could be present to celebrate.

We invited family and friends, as well as some guest dancers. In all, we had about 55-60 happy smiling faces in the crowd.

Our event commenced with a Nubian dance warmup for everyone to get in the spirit of the dance. Solo and group performances filled the program, with a lovely variety including classical, sword, Nubian, Tribal, Flamenco fusion, Tahiétiénne, Bollywood, pop Arabic, and folk. We had many first time performers. Who would know it – they danced so well! I am so proud of them.

At interval break we had tasty light nibblies and drinks, while being entertained with live music.

Numerous prizes were given away to dancers, e.g. hip scarves, beaded bags, vouchers, and a grand prize of a 6 piece bellydance costume, all very generously donated by our wonderful supporters, Australian Bellydance Store. The general audience also scored with Lucky Door prizes of chocolates and wines.

Proceeds from our event are going to charity. This year we selected The Butterfly Foundation, part of Eating Disorders Association. Their general philosophy is closely aligned to that of many of ours in the bellydance world – ‘health and beauty come in all shapes and sizes’.

What a fabulous way to celebrate the joy of dancing with so many beautiful women, while marking this special occasion. We are already planning next year’s event!!

Dr Daphné Harber
Principal, Bella Bellydance School