A review by Afra Al-Kahira
This event took place at the Waterman's Theatre, London on Sunday 2nd April 2000.
Opened by Nabila in a lovely classical orientale number which set the standard for a afternoon of dancing of the highest standards. Nabila, from Germany, is a talented entertainer and during the course of the afternoon she made the most of the Waterman's intimate atmosphere. Inviting, almost challenging the audience to participate. She used this to particularly good effect during her Melaya Lef number when she addressed the audience directly (in character), and deftly persuaded the sole man sitting within reach in the front row to join her on stage for a lovely playful dance, which did nothing to embarrass or intimidate her 'helper'. Nabila performed in a variety of styles in a range of stunning costumes (although I would like to have seen a little less lycra which sadly caused a couple of dresses to 'ride up' needing to be surreptitiously pulled down rather too frequently) and also included a 'modern' fusion number which showcased her general dance skills very well. Definitely someone I'd love to see again.
Sujata Banerjee is a highly talented, wonderfully expressive performer of Bharata Natayam. She gave us two marvelous and quite breath-taking performances. In the first half she performed a beautiful devotional dance and then later a narrative piece telling the story of a young girl waiting for her beau who, sadly, does not appear. Before she commenced each piece Sujata came onto the stage and gave the audience a brief explanation of what she was dancing, an excellent idea as for many in the audience this was their first experience of this type of dance. Over the years I have been fortunate to see Ms Banerjee perform several times and for me this was one of her finest performances, particularly the second number which transported me away to India - wonderful!
Amel Tafsout, accompanied on drum by Salah-Dawson Miller, provided us with a third contrast in dance styles. The earthy rhythms of the drum and Amel's mesmeric hips and arms made you feel as though you were in a Berber's tent. I particularly enjoyed the scarf dance which gave Amel a magical look as though she was surrounded by a halo of swirling colours, emphasizing her beautiful arm and hand movements. Amel has the ability to convey an incredible feeling of energy in her dancing - you could almost see the sparks flying from her hips. It makes it impossible to sit still when she's dancing, your feet twitch with the urge to join in. The simple, yet rhythmically intricate drumming made for a wonderful contrast to the music of the other performances.
As a finale all the dancers reappeared on stage and danced together to Salah-Dawson's drumming - a fun and light-hearted finish to the show.
Congratulations to Mosaic for putting together a well-thought out programme of dance, full of interesting highlights and contrasts, and having Sandra Thibault as MC to open and finish was an excellent idea.
Afra al Kahira