Not a night, but a day at the museum, posted by Myriam

Mid April and we were back to one of our favourite venues, but this time on a weekday, rather than at a weekend, which made a nice change for us.

Meroe, Kebi, Myriam and Yasna ready for the Day at the Museum

Right from the first set we were surround by enthusiastic crowds of visitors and lots of potential mini-me dancers.  We performed four sets through the course of the day starting with our Tunisian costumes and routines from North Africa through to our Egyptian finery – we took visitors on a historic and cultural journey of the dance.

Yasna and Kebi with a Tunisian inspired routine then...

... on to Egypt next with Kebi, Meroe, Myriam and Yasna

After each performance set we were joined by children and their parents who were all keen to take part in a mini-me dance workshops.  The children got to wear coin belts, hip scarves and hats, and were given our special “keepsake” certificates. 

Scarves flying in one of our "dance for all" workshops

At one of our workshops we were joined by a very enthusiastic school party which meant, for the first time ever, we ran out of hip scarves.  Everyone had a great time and the museum staff logged no less than 1751 visitors watching our performances!  So at least this time we could use the impressive visitor numbers to justify the, now traditional, Ya Raqs cake-fest at the end of the day!

Pure improvisation with Meroe and Myriam

On a personal note, I had an extra “adventure” – my very own “Night at the Museum” although during the day! Between workshops, costume changes and dancing I managed to get lost behind the scenes trying to find my way back to the performance space.  Thankfully I was rescued by a member of staff.  It was quite spooky but I don’t think I managed to wake up any mummies or dinosaurs! 

Myriam wowing the crown with her cane solo.

Our thanks to all those at the museum who, as ever, looked after us so well -  especially Adam – but also to all the lovely people we met, who danced with us.  Always such a pleasure.