I prophesized… a Few More Good Shows to Wrap up 2012

Djinn Shockley

Hope all those that take the time to read my ramblings had happy holidays and a Happy New Year. Here's to hoping you were all blessed with cheer, beer and … whatever else you wish for as 2012 came to an end … and speaking of endL

All is well that ended well and despite 'end of the world prophesies', some good things came out of 2012. We were blessed to have another year of happiness filled with good friends, good music, relaxing times and fabulous dancers of flamenco, belly dance, ballroom, etc. etc. Granted the world has seen a few dark clouds; however there are also plenty of things left to celebrate. Like we're still here … assuming we are since this gets printed in 2013.

My ability to attend events has been limited recently, but Rachel Reich's "Raq'n Around the Christmas Tree" was once again a success, gathering plenty of toys to benefit needy children and providing an amazing performance on December 6^th. Rachel and all those kind hearted entertainers that participated and performed for the good of innocents remind us all of the light that exists, even during questionable times.

The lovely ladies of that troupe danced their way into the "Birth 2012 Louisville" festival on December 21^t and 22 and continued to spread good cheer. Unity in Louisville provided the space and Al Hamsa and Raqia's Stars provided the dancing entertainment Friday at 10 p.m. and Saturday at 4 p.m. Festival goers were treated to a vibrant display of swirling veils and positive energy as those elegant dancers performed Egyptian, American Tribal, Spanish Arabic fusion and many other styles of dance.

The festivities at Birth 2012 were planned to make every moment a celebration of life via song, dance, meditation and music over the entire 24-hour period. Some of the greatest musicians in Louisville, like Tyrone Cotton and John Gage took the stage and reminding listeners why the blues never gets old. There were also special meditation and prayer times scheduled throughout the event.

Va Va Vixens took the stage with Blue Moon Circus at Art Sanctuary on December 31 to ring in the New Year. The hoop spinners, belly dancers, sideshow gurus' and gals provided a few hours of rip roaring, Vaudeville style entertainment to greet 2013 and say goodbye to 2012. If you haven't seen the Vixens … their amusing and exotic antics always provide a great time for crowds.

I prophesized a few more good shows to wrap up 2012 and hopefully some of you got to attend. Once again, hope everyone had happy and safe holidaze, filled with positive energy. My fingers are crossed that all comets kept their distance and the world finds a way to make 2013 an even better year.

*https://www.facebook.com/AlHamsa

*http://kentuckyhomefront.org/john-gage.html

*http://www.tyronecotton.com/