Thread: Can anyone tell me about these international teachers

In February this 2009 we've got a weekend of Aziza teaching in Edinburgh (thanks Caroline) which I would really, really, like to attend but at the moment I can't see a way to make my finances stretch to it.

On the same weekend I have the 'budget option' of a Belly Dance Festival just down the road from my parents. I went to this festival last year (its first year of running) and it wasn't the best I've ever attended but I did get a lot out of it at the time and I am considering cutting my losses and going again.

They've got two international teachers teaching their. neither of whom I've heard of before so I wondered if anyone her could give me the lowdown.

The teachers in question are Shema from Canada and Helene Stakem from the US.

I'd be interested in hearing about Shema, because I've heard she's originally from the UK according to the Arabesque website.

I met Shema in June at the BDSS Blackpool event and she is a really sweet and funny person. I haven't experienced her teaching, but have seen her dance at Planet Egypt and she was quite enjoyable. Don't know much else, but I hope that helps :)

Aziza is really super wonderfull. if you cant afford the workshps, maybe go and at least see the show?

Aziza is really super wonderfull. if you cant afford the workshps, maybe go and at least see the show?

I know, I know... I have to be pragmatic and a long, stressful and expensive round trip just to see the show isn't really an option. I can't justify paying to stay over if that's all I go to do.

Aziza is my first choice but I figure that if I can't go to her, then I might as well see if I can do something else constructive and dance related that weekend.

Can I just mention that the Aziza tickets are selling like hot cakes, so if you change your mind do book soon to make sure of a place.

Would it be an option to come and attend 2 or 3 classes (and show) instead of the full 5, and stay in a Bed and Breakfast instead of a hotel. As she is really worth it.

Would it be an option to come and attend 2 or 3 classes (and show) instead of the full 5, and stay in a Bed and Breakfast instead of a hotel. As she is really worth it.

That *is* my only option. Any more is way out of my range.

Come and say hi to me if you do come & visit, it's always good to meet other bhuzzers!

Decision made (pending dear old Paypal transferring the money)

I have decided to go to Aziza for the Sunday workshops only. I'm planning to do a round trip.

I'll try and find you to say 'Hi' Caroline, though I believe we may have 'met'. I think I stood behind you and flapped about in an incompetent style in a Raqia Hassan workshop at the last JOY. Whoever was standing in front of me, making it look easy, looked a lot like the picture on your website.