14th/15th Birthday party
I have known Hassan since he was 7 years old, he has always been a cheeky little minx, but quiet, respectful and amusing.
Before he became a teenager, he would playfully shout 'Ya Helen' in his squeaky voice, when seeing me in the street. This squeak has now transformed into a deeper tone and the playfulness is evolving into a confident,young man.
His father Nubi, is the owner of Blue Sky Restaurant, which is set on the edge of the River. The view of the Nile and Luxor Temple, day or night, is stunning and makes a perfect place for Hassans 14th/15th birthday party.
He has told everyone he is 15, but the family all say he is 14, will we ever know? Does it really matter?
The traditional stick dancers, play fought to rababa music (Named after the fiddle type instrument, that creates a screechy sound) It's a true show of masculinity, but graceful and unique to Upper Egypt. When the dancers reach a crescendo and contact (Not permitted) occurs between the sticks, an observer steps in and removes the contacting offender, replacing him with another, eagerly awaiting on the sidelines.
A dancing horse was promised for the evening, it's another way of expressing one's masculinity. Stepping in time to the music, it was rare to see such a connection between the rider and the animal, simply using his legs to control the horses movements and not shouting or hitting it, which is perceived as 'Skill' here.
The half chocolate and half strawberry cake was then bought in, candles were lit and the men all danced around clapping and singing, Hassan was enjoying every minute.
What a wonderful evening, all by the River Nile and it's fresh evening air.
Failed miserably on the photos, I welcome any advise on night photography with moving subjects...it's an area that I need to learn more about.
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