Women-only belly dancing night for anti-violence campaign

BELLY dancers in Nottingham are taking part in a women-only benefit to raise money for the Million Women Rise campaign.

It will be at the Canal House in Nottingham from 7.30pm on Friday, February 19. Tickets cost £5.

Million Women Rise challenges violence against women and money raised will ensure women from the city can attend a Million Women Rise march in London on March 6.

Malika, one of the star performers of the night, said: "I have experienced domestic violence myself and know how important it is to have support through these difficult times and I am honoured to be able to support this very important issue."

Event organiser Mo said: "There's a sizable Egyptian dance community in Nottingham – and its great that these women have offered to share their dance for a great cause. We've performers from many different traditions – cabaret, tribal, funky, dancing with sticks, veils – you name it.

"The evening will be great fun, but has a serious message. We still have three women each week murdered by their partners and ex-partners in the UK alone, and violence against women and children is endemic across the world – whether as a tool or war or within the home."