Hi, everyone, I just wanted to update you with information on the upcoming hafla and workshops with Souhail Kaspar. He will be here the weekend of May 3rd and 4th. (Please disregard the earlier date. We had to move it back one weekend). The hafla will be a dance party with Souhail and Rachid Halihal. Also some local musicians, some featured dancers, some wonderful vending by Fashionable Movement and Anaya Tribal, oh yeah, and LOTS of dancing for party attendies. Fun, fun, fun!

More info will come later, and I have updated the website: www.phoenixhafla.com

Also, don't forget to cheer Souhail on on February 10th for the 50th Grammy award show! He has been nominated for this year's Grammy in World Music for his work with Rahim Alhaj in "When the Soul is Settled: The Music of Iraq."

If you have any questions, ideas, or want to volunteer, please drop me a line. I can't wait to see everyone in a few months!

Elissa

P.S. I will once again be performing with Nawari Dance and Music Ensemble at the Arizona State Fair every weekend from Feb 9th to March 31st. If you're out there, please come by and say hello!

P.P.S. The next Midnight Caravan event will be October 17th-19th, 2008.