I’ve been getting a lot of questions about who is leading at Lava this spring. So here is the great fabulous answer! I grabbed some pictures from Facebook pages of each of us. In the spirit of “lack of vanity” we can all laugh at these interesting mugshots! Also, I’m writing all these bio’s so there is nothing official about them. Hope you all enjoy my perspective.

In the last week we have had some wonderful additions to our list so I am starting with some special treats!

Vayu is coming!

Those of you who know him know his musical talent and free, beautiful spirit. We don’t see him very often, so Vayu is getting tops on the list. Vayu hasn’t been with us in Lava Hot Springs for a while, but I’m sure he’ll lead a few dances, and we will be hearing some special musical notes next weekend. Maybe if we smile really a lot his will lead “Goddess is Alive” as only he can do it.

Jennie Nuriya

Jennie has been coming to Lava for many years. Starting out as a young dancer from Salt Lake she was soon noticed for her beautiful voice and the special spirit that she brought to the circle. Eventually she stepped in as a leader and we have been blessed ever since. Nuriya will be driving up from Colorado and we know how much we love her!

Lucinda Abbe

Lucinda is always a special treat at Lava. She has invested a lot of time and spirit in studying walks with Wali Ali and will be sharing a private workshop on Saturday afternoon (4-5) and will also add that special touch to some dances on Sunday morning.

Narayan

For those of you who do not know, Narayan is actually the wild and crazy guy who started the Lava retreats years ago. He is there leading almost every time, and we’ll have him in the circle this spring for sure. Yes, it’s spring! So I think we can expect something rousing and inspiring from Narayan!

Zareen

This is me! I am so blessed to be able to share with the community each year. Somebody called me “the happy dance leader” the other day. That’s a title I’m happy to take. I have some new dances to share, and can’t wait to see everyone.

Wayne

Fondly known as “Just Wayne” – if you have been to Lava you know him! Not only does Wayne share the occasional dance, but the beautiful decorations in the hall are mostly due to him, and he has that great bass guitar that adds so much to the circle. We can also always trust Wayne to hold the musical center of the circle with great care.

Rahmana

Rahmana leads in the dance circle in Boise and is an inspiration to anyone who wants to become a dance leader. She is the perfect example of how to do it. First of all, her bright, caring and crazy-wild character shows in everything she does. It makes her such a delight. On top of that, Rahmana works enthusiastically in all aspects of the dance world. She is a great organizer, on numerous committees and volunteers a ton of time to the dances. And she also puts tons of energy and devotion into her musical studies which makes her a better and better leader. She has been a tireless supporter of Lava and Wilderness Dance Camp and we are blessed each time she shares with us. I’m sharing her Facebook picture here with has her in a rainbow of light!

Chris Englund

Chris has been holding the circle energy in Jackson Hot Springs for a while now, and will be stepping into the circle and leading for us this season. A warm welcome to him as he gets more and more present each year.

Carol Hanson

Carol is the circle leader in Pocatello, and has also worked for many years with the organizations and teams that hold the Dances of Universal Peace together world wide.

And perhaps a few more! Yes, the Dances of Universal Peace are a community effort! With each leader bringing a small piece of the joy and commitment to world peace with them to each session.

And our Cook… Daphne!

Daphne lives in Pocatello and has fulfilled our dream of having a local cook. Not only that, she has deep ties to Thailand and has the most amazing culinary background. Saturday dinner is going to have a special combo of vegetables with coconut milk and cashew butter cream! Shoot, I’d come just for that!

So you all there in a week!

Love to all,

Zareen