MICKI LONG

I started folk dancing when I lived in Israel in the early 70's. When I came back to New York, I "discovered" that there were folk dances from other countries. My major intro to Balkan dances was at the classes taught by Michael Ginsberg at Barnard College. His classes were very informative, not only in learning dances, but made me aware of rhythm and style.

I went to live in Berkeley in 1977 and 1978 and danced at Ashkenaz. It was there that I realized that the dances I loved to do most were from Bulgaria. From then on, Bulgarian music and dance were in my soul. I was one of the founding sisters of Bosilek in 1979.

I have traveled to Bulgaria numerous times. Had the opportunity to attend workshops with some wonderful choreographers---Kinski, Angelov, Shishmanov. Dancing with Bosilek all these years has been an important part of my life and has given me some wonderful memories.

In my other life, I enjoy dancing to Cajun/Zydeco music. I am also an amateur astronomer and often would rather look up at the stars, then down at my feet.

In fact, I remember on one trip to Bulgaria, we were having dinner at a restaurant in the mountains. There was a performance of dances being done outdoors, on the hot coals. The lights were turned off to make the dancing look more spectacular. Everyone ran to see the dancing. I looked up at the sky and it was like a sea of stars. It was the most magnificent sight. I love to travel and fortunately, have the time to do so. Most of my trips are folk dance related.