(no subject)
The weekend was alright. Friday & sunday were miserable & achy, and the only notable thing I did was work. Saturday was the Mira Betz show.
It was at a new place down in pittsburgh that I'm impressed with, & jealous of... gives me ideas for when I have a studio of my own. Expensive ideas (but it's nice to have goals.) Mira is very sweet, very lyrical and professional, and has an awe-inspiring belly. I honestly had a hard time watching the rest of her, because her musical accents with bellyrolls alone were fascinating. Balafon, a west african troupe from Pittsburgh/D.C., performed, and they were fantastic. And really good with audience participation in a way that doesn't humiliate the "volunteers"... that's not always an easy thing. I wish I had more time to talk to them- I didn't even catch most of their names, honestly- but I can guarentee that we'll know each other when we see each other next.
It's strange being part of this community and having everyone know who I am. I mean, I started this four years ago with my friends, and we were stuck-to-the-plaster-wallflowers out of awe and complete intimidation. And now, everyone knows my name even if they have no reason to, we tease back and forth and give each other rides home & share bottles of wine-- and I wouldn't like this community so much if they weren't that open. But it's different when it's yourself, that moment of realisation that you're actually involved in the community? Almost exactly three years ago, Spark Tour came through, & it our first time seeing the bellydance community in its full power; I remember telling Steph & Chels, I found my niche. It's so fulfilling to see that coming true, even a little at a time.
I think my dance is at an interesting point- I'm between levels, if that's anything to bother about. But there are glimpses of... something... developing, & I can see it increase in my solo practice videos. What I'm to be, and so far I like it, even if there is still so much work to be done.
Speaking of solo practice. I perform in a week and a half! I definitely haven't realised yet. I also need to finish a pair of harem pants before then, that I forgot about until this week. I'm glad they won't take long, though I really wish I had my pattern still.
Also! I got to see Chelsea, which was definitely a high point. & I got a raise, even if it isn't much. And I may be going to Gettysburg in may, and maybe getting a tattoo somewhere in there too? So far, I have no plans for my birthday, but it sounds like everything else should make up for it.