Jillina and Sabah

Up before breakfast started (these workshops start SO early!) but my hosts at the hotel had made sure I had access to tea and cereal. They looked after me really well. I don’t mind being called ‘Lovey’ in a broad Lancastrian accent. I don’t mind at all!

First workshop of the day was Jillina – Classic Remix, in the Spanish Hall again.

Jillina taught us lots of moves which I will do my best to remember, but I found this class quite a challenge. Jillina is a great teacher though. She’s charming and fun and comes round to check everyone from time to time. Again, she puts a lot of emphasis on the use of Obliques. (A wee tip she gave for locking the upper body when doing isolations with the lower part: move your shoulder blades down your back and just lock them to keep them nice and still). I like her particular Oriental style, and like to bear in mind that her own teachers include such legendary dancers as Mahmoud Reda. But my goodness, she has a lot of fans! They crowd round her making squeaking noises! …very strange… I’m writing about another workshop with Jillina tomorrow.

OK! Time for a quick coffee, then off to Sabah (above) for ‘Ballet for Bellydance’. Now, I attended a term of ballet classes for beginners recently, and I felt I really benefited, particularly with posture, arms and turns. I might even go back next term! ..if I can face having to jump like a large bean in front of a studio mirror – not a comfortable experience either to execute or to witness.

Sabah had us lying on the floor for some of the basic movements which was a great idea for avoiding the rigours of gravity! Then we explored Arabesques and concentrated on balance and posture. We did a lovely Arabesque move with a lock which resulted in a lovely butt wobble (another one for a great deal of practice) and Sabah was utterly charming throughout. You have to hand it to these s – they have to wear so many hats and they’re under a huge amount of pressure.

That took us up to lunchtime, and I had promised myself Saturday afternoon in front of the Open Stage.