The arrival 

On Saturday 23^rd June 2005 Al Asria folk dance group from Jabalia refugee camp in the Gaza strip, Palestine, finally arrived at Manchester Airport for their two week tour of the Midlands and the north of England. They were welcomed by an enthusiastic crowd of supporters from Sheffield, York and Liverpool. This was their third attempt to reach the UK. Two previous tours, set up for November 2004 and February 2005 were postponed at the last minute, because the group were prevented from leaving Gaza by Israeli border closures.

Dancing in orchard square in costume the dancers are radiant

The troupe

Al Asria comprise 5 girls and 6 boys aged between 14 and 20, accompanied by their dance instructor, and three youth leaders.  They performed Dabka, the traditional Palestinian form of dancing, poetry and songs. The performances were of a very high standard. The young people were vibrant, energetic and audiences were enthusiastic.

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