Week 3- First Performance!!!

Location:Kampala and Busabi

Classes, homework, site visits, finding NGOs, in addition to a weekend performance made this week pretty eventful. I was really nervous about our performance because we only went through the whole dance once and never practiced certain speaking portions in the drama. Nevertheless, I was still excited to get away from the hustle and bustle of Kampala for the weekend and just enjoy nature!! The drive to Busabi was beautiful. It kind of makes me mad that the US is so developed because I would never see some of those sites at home. I love the fresh air and being able to see the stars every night. Once we arrived in Busabi it was pretty late so we did not practice with Hatagote. That was a bit concerning because Saturday would be our only practice before the performance later in the afternoon. Working with Hatagote was a wonderful experience. When we were dressing for the performance, I felt so peaceful and at home. The older women in the group took such good care of me and I was really proud to be able to dance and sing beside them. They were all so beautiful and kind and it made the weekend the best experience I've had so far. Everyone was so happy. It was contagious!!! I couldn't help but smile and laugh the entire time I was with them. Of course going into the rural side of life had its challenges because of the issues of flooding that devastated parts of the region BUT the fact that they still greeted us with a smile was a testament to their amazing spirits. Words can't express how happy I was to be there and I hope this trend will continue :)