The Story So Far

Ya Raqs was formed in 2005 from two Arabic dance classes in Chester and the Wirral. Our intention was to concentrate on traditional Arabic dance, rather than more modern and 'belly dance' styles. Our debut performance was a small hafla (party) in Tattenhall organised by and for Meroe's Chester based class.

Over time, our repertoire has expanded to include North African dance as well. Our first public performance was at the Liverpool Arabic Arts Festival Family Day at Sefton Palm House in July 2006. Chester is a Roman city and still has many Roman remains, including an amphitheatre. The city's Roman history is brought to life by Roman Tours, who stage events throughout the year. It is known that the Romans employed Middle Eastern dancers to entertain the troops, although there is no record of any coming to Britain. In 2007 we were invited to perform at a number of Roman Tours' events, including National Archaeology Weekend, the Chester Roman Festival and a torchlight parade for Saturnalia, the midwinter festival.

In March this year we were invited to dance at the 2nd British Egyptology Conference, held at the University of Liverpool. For this we swapped our traditional costumes for something a little more glamorous.

As well as events in Chester, we have ventured further afield, dancing at the Welwyn Roman Day, the Chadkirk Festival in Stockport and Beeston Castle in Cheshire.