The Turkish Drop

Yesterday I got to dance, which is always a good thing. There was a hafla in Ft. Walton. A hafla is a regional belly dance party where many different troupes gather to perform and entertain. It's always a lot of fun, and yesterday was no different.

My troupe, Gypsy Parvana, is hosting a hafla in October. I've been working incredibly hard to pull this off. I have secured Tamra-henna of the Bellydance Superstars for a workshop. She's the biggest name to come to this area for a workshop. She's quite expensive, so this could be a huge moneymaker or I could lose my shirt. I'm hoping for the former.

So yesterday I performed a new step, the Turkish Drop. It's a very difficult and dangerous step. It's the first time I've ever done it in a performance. One begins with a backbend, then, while maintaining said backbend, drops to both knees. It requires amazing strength and flexibility, so I guess all that Pilates and Yoga are paying off. Here are some pictures:

The backbend:

And the drop:

After the drop I continue to extend all the way to the floor, so I don't land with my back on the floor. My costume is comprised of many Christmas presents, does anyone recognize their gift?

My troupe also performed, but only a small contingency could make it. We had 7 people for our veil dance (no pictures yet), and 4 for our intermediate drum solo, Brazilian Pearls.

This is the dance I was choreographing right after Cabaret in March. It was originally designed for 12 dancers, but we made some nice changes for just the four of us. From left to right, we are Jessica, Jamie, me, and Dawn.

Zachary was with Daddy all day. When I got home the three of us, plus Julie the dog, went for a ride in the golf cart. To my horror Ryan has taught Zachary to push the gas pedal on the golf cart. I just cringe at the possibilities there - but I do wonder, am I becoming a fun-hater or am I being a prudent mother? Daddy and son both giggled as we rounded the corners at full speed. Geez, it's like having two children sometimes.