Chadkirk Festival, posted by Meroe

I guess it would have been too much to hope that the weather this year at Chadkirk would be as glorious as it had been last year – but it tried, and Saturday’s sunshine certainly brought out the crowds. Ya Raqs had been invited back, by popular demand, and were once again accompanied by the boys from Deva Victrix. The girls performed no fewer than four sets, as well as a mini workshop – all of which went down really well with the crowd. The new Tunisian set proved to be a particular hit. The day absolutely flew by and when we were not dancing we were talking to the public and other stall holders and even managed to find time to have one of Chadkirk’s famous strawberry scones!

Meroe leads the workshop


Tunisian dance

Sunday’s weather was not so good and there was an awful moment when the whole day looked in serious danger of being cancelled. The arena on the lawn, which had been set aside for the performers, was rather soggy by midday and we were beginning to think that we should have brought along some sparkly wellington boots to dance in! But the gods were clearly smiling on us and a solution soon presented itself. We were to perform inside the chapel itself – so we felt it only right and proper that we should have another of those strawberry scones to celebrate!

Tameri, Meroe, Banafrit and Aziza dancing in Chadkirk Chapel

Despite being a slightly soggier day, Sunday was great fun too and a surprising number of visitors braved the elements to come and see us dance our Ghawazee and Fellahi sets. At one stage we even got one or two Romans to join in – truly a sight to behold! Another great event in a fantastic venue – if you’ve never been to the festival before you really should go – so watch this space and try and join us there again next year.