Kay as performer / choreographer / director

NEWS FLASH:  HELWA  are back – more details below.

When I first learnt to bellydance I was so shy about performing yet it was one of the things that drew me to bellydance.  I didn’t want to perform until I felt I was good enough …… but then you need the experience of performing to help you develop as a performer.  It is a catch 22 situation.  I used to look back on early videos and cringe ….. now I look back and see them as the start of a journey …… one that still continues.  I gradually learned that each performance needs pitching differently.  A restaurant audience is different to a wedding which is different to a Hafla or festival which is different to a theatre.  Each utilises different skills.

I was one of the founders of the Tarab dance company.  A co-operative venture with a group of experienced dancers based in the North.  We met up monthly to work towards a show – each getting more challenging as we went along.  Previously I had choreographed for my classes but Tarab gave me the opportunity to develop more challenging choreography …… and get to grips with managing a tour and dealing with theatres, lighting etc.

‘Bellydance:  A true story’
Gradually I had formed my own dance company,  ‘Helwa’.  A vehicle to encourage young talent and challenge them.  The make up of Helwa has varied over the years.  I created a couple of theatre shows which we worked on and showcased in various theatres.  Then I decided to write and choreograph my personal dance journey.  I was the narrator.  My Helwa girls performed.  From a pharaonic number to saidi to melaya and more.  Some dances needed a certain amount of acting too.  Costume changes between every number – It challenged us all in different ways.
We took this show to several events and theatres around the North.  A week at the Edinburgh festival – we sold out every night.  Then we teamed up with the Johara dance company – we each showcased our 50 minute shows making a brilliant evening of entertainment.  We finished the tour in London and Cambridge.

Then lockdown happened.  Everything changed.

Now I have a hybrid group ‘The Amarettes’.  A group of students who come to my hybrid classes every week.  We work on a combination of technique, interpretation and choreography.  We showcase pieces of choreography at different events, haflas and festivals.  A different cast of dancers at each one performing ‘live’.  I am working on a new show which I hope to bring to life with the Amarettes.
If you are an experienced dancer sign up to my hybrid classes – Tuesday nights 7 – 8pm.  Join ‘Love Bellydance’ as an Amarette.

HELWA ARE BACK

I am now working with Moyra Banks creating a new show for the Edinburgh Fringe 2027.  Moyra was one of the dancers in ‘Bellydance A True Story’.  This gives her the opportunity to develop her choreography skills and get involved with the logistics of touring a show.
We have a mixture of dancers – some from the last show and new members – this show will challenge and develop each in a different way.
Look out for ‘El Rakassa’ at the Fringe.