PRESS RELEASE DETAILS FOR THE PURPLE HAFLA ON 30.11.07
A group of Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire belly dancers is calling on local businesses to help them raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support.
Arabic dance enthusiast Ruth Bissett-Jones and her friend Von, dance choreographer and musician, decided to throw a charity "hafla" (belly dance party) after hearing that a friend from a local belly dance group had been diagnosed with terminal cancer.
All proceeds from the "Purple Hafla" event, to be held on Friday 30th November at South Normanton Community Centre, will go to the Macmillan charity, which provides practical, medical, emotional and financial support for cancer victims, and campaigns nationally for better cancer care.
The evening event will be a taste of the exotic east featuring performances by belly dancers from all over the UK.
One of England's leading belly dance teachers Maria D'Silva has volunteered to perform and to donate prizes. Maria has danced on both UK and Turkish TV and has appeared with world-famous cabaret "Belly Dance Superstars". None of the performers will collect a fee – all money taken goes direct to Macmillan Cancer Care.
She's also urging belly dance enthusiasts to don their coin belts and sequins and come along to support the dancers who have volunteered to perform on the night. But the event isn't just aimed at belly dance enthusiasts. Says Von, "Everyone’s welcome. If you’re looking for a night out with a difference and a chance to help a worthwhile charity, come and support us."
Ruth explains: "Just about everyone knows someone who has suffered cancer. It's a terrible fate that any one of us might one day have to face. Macmillan Cancer care is there for patients and their families 24/7. So whether they buy a ticket and come to the event or just send a raffle prize this is a chance for anyone who cares to raise funds for a charity that really makes a difference."