RIGA – a very special trip

A small, very fine group travelled to Riga for a week at the end of August. Sister Diana Cermane had invited and prepared a highly varied and all-round fulfilling programme for us.

Each day began with a breakfast lovingly prepared by the Latvian dancers and an attunement created by Friedel and Saskia.

Then it was time to explore Riga and Latvia. Nature, culture and concerts, tangible history and current politics, but especially dancing and celebrating together with Diana’s groups left a deep impression and lasting memories.

A big THANK YOU to Sister Diana and everyone who made this special experience possible.

Angela van der Kamp

Impressions of the trip (pictures)

Feedback from some Latvian dancers

Inta:

The most beautiful experience was meeting Friedel. I was welcomed like a long-lost friend, like a daughter coming home. When I danced with the German group, I immediately felt a mutual openness and connection. The dance connects us, we are together here and now. And it doesn’t matter where we come from or what language we speak. An absolutely selfless giving, where each of us shared the most important thing – ourselves – with deep, sincere joy.

Ruta:

I had a wonderful feeling – like meeting friends for the first time. From the first moment you feel so connected and close to all of them, as if they were your closest relatives or old friends. The feeling of closeness, even to the point of tears, was even stronger when dancing together.

I have never felt so happy, elated and joyful as during our week of dancing together.

My highest moment of happiness – our dance together with Friedel in the White Hall of the Rundāle Palace.

Anda M.:

My most beautiful experience with the German guests was singing and dancing together on Thursday evening to the sounds of the Kokle.

Aija:

They were personally inspiring, enriching and characterised by mutual friendship

Diana S.:

I loved that we all shared the love of dancing!!! We were not separated by nationality, language or different outlooks on life!!! We were united by our respect for music and dance choreographers! The harmonious dance of Friedel and Saskia together touched us very much! And the special soulmate with Barbara!!!

Andra:

: I was particularly impressed by the fantastic collaboration between Friedel and Saskia, both as mother and daughter, and Friedel’s fascinating wisdom, warmth and at the same time good and sparkling humour, and Saskia as a wonderful successor! It is a wonderful collaboration when everyone knows their place and there is a feeling of respect and love.

Laila:

Meeting Friedel and Saskia – a lasting treasure! How is it possible that Friedel can dance with words and Saskia can move like a bird in the sky?