By John Redmond
Middle Eastern Culture, Dance & Art Club in Korea (MECDACK) will host a belly dance dinner party “hafla” at the Saffron Restaurant, Ibis Hotel in Myeong-dong on March 5.
This family-friendly, alcohol-free event for people interested in food, music, dance and culture of the Middle East will begin at 8 p.m. for a three-hour run.
A hafla generally involves dinner and social dancing at a Middle Eastern restaurant in Seoul and focus on providing an educational, interactive cultural experience, as opposed to entertainment.
Now in its fourth year, MECDACK, founded by Belynda Azhaar, is a social club and information source and holds regular meet-ups in Seoul with the occasional free belly dance lesson and surprise guest performances.
MECDACK also has a serious side, and actively follows the current affairs of the Arab world.
Many members were key contributors to the Aid Gaza Benefit Night held in Seoul February 2009. This fundraiser raised awareness for Palestine and $3,000 for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) Special Gaza Appeal.
Azhaar is a world-class international dancer, quickly gaining recognition, respect, and popularity for her professional, informative, and fun workshops.
The cost is 22,000 won per person (which is 25 percent off the regular price). Drinks and additional food orders cost extra. Children under 6 years of age are free. Attendance to this event is by prepaid bookings only.
The Saffron Restaurant in Myeong-dong is located on the first floor of the Ibis Hotel (SK Myeongdong building) opposite Lotte department store, and is easily accessible by bus or subway.