Last Monday, a Hafla (or a Middle Eastern dance party) was hosted at the Douglass Student Center by the ravishing ladies of the Rutgers Desert Lotus Cultural and Tribal Belly Dance Troupe. In the dim light, lively Middle Eastern music played as belly dancers showed off their moves in choreographed performances and freestyling improv circles.

Those who attended got to enjoy delicious (and free!) catered Middle Eastern food, two hours of performances, and even free lessons from the dance troupe members. Ever since Shakira hit the scene, belly dancing has been rapidly gaining prominence and popularity in main stream culture. As shown by the dancers at the hafla, the dance makes all women look sensual and beautiful, regardless of her shape and size. The next belly dance event can't come too soon!