Bellydance Show at Couples Retreat, Byron Bay, NSW

A Magical Retreat in Byron Bay: A Journey Through Dance, Connection, and Femininity

Nestled in the stunning hills of Byron Bay, overlooking misty valleys and lush greenery, the couples’ retreat created a luxurious and intimate atmosphere that perfectly set the stage for two unforgettable performances and a transformative femininity workshop led by Marta.

As night fell, guests—dressed in matching tiger-stripe robes—gathered around a sleek, gas-powered fire, set against the backdrop of an infinity pool. The atmosphere was relaxed and cozy, with soft lights illuminating the space, enhancing the otherworldly feel. White fabric draped from the timber posts of the luxury arbor, creating an ethereal sense of space. The seating arrangement was thoughtfully designed to foster connection, with three levels forming a square around the fire: one in front for the performance, one above for movement, and one at ground level where Marta could engage closely with the audience, encouraging deeper interaction.

The Performances: Energy, Symbolism, and Connection

Marta opened the evening with a dynamic and energetic show, drawing from ancient symbolism and featuring her iconic golden Isis wings. These wings, embodying royal dignity from the Ancient Kingdom, served as a powerful metaphor for union, creating a sense of sacred space that perfectly matched the retreat’s theme. As Marta moved, the wings danced gracefully through the air, captivating the audience with their weightlessness and beauty.

Next, Marta brought in a sword, symbolizing the fine line that relationships often walk—a delicate balance between love's strength and vulnerability. The sword’s sharpness illustrated how relationships, though powerful, can sometimes feel fragile, navigating the fine edges of emotional depth.

The first performance concluded with a high-energy drum solo, where Marta poured her full energy into the rhythm. The pulsating beats filled the air, leaving the audience in a state of awe—relaxed yet energized, with a renewed sense of connection.

The couples’ response was telling. During the first show, they sat in quiet awe, absorbing the beauty and symbolism of each movement. By the second performance, the energy shifted, and the audience erupted in applause, fully embracing the raw energy and joy Marta brought to the stage. The atmosphere became electric, as everyone became swept up in the shared experience.

The Femininity Workshop: Softness, Power, and Voice

The following morning, Marta led a femininity workshop for the women, set in a cozy, reflective atmosphere. With cups of tea and coffee in hand, the women gathered to explore the deeper elements of feminine power.

The workshop centered on the power of a woman’s voice and the strength found in softness. Marta began by telling the story of Scheherazade, weaving a narrative of intelligence, resilience, and grace. As she spoke, Marta held a freshly picked white flower—symbolizing purity and heart—and brought in her sword once more, using it to embody the excitement and danger of the tale of the Sultan’s wives. The sword became a symbol of drama and passion, representing the vulnerability and courage at the heart of feminine power.

The most powerful moment of the workshop came when Marta invited the women to connect with their own unique expression.Marta presented a single white flower to the women, inviting them to hold it, inhale its fragrance, and reflect on how they have found softness in their own words and actions. As they passed the flower around, each woman shared her personal experience, creating a gentle exchange of energy and connection. Marta then guided the women to explore the power of soft speech and subtle presence, much like Scheherazade’s own art of storytelling. Through this process, the women were encouraged to embody their own inner softness and power, discovering how grace and vulnerability can coexist in their voices and actions.

Reflections on the Experience

Looking back on the retreat, Marta found a deep sense of fulfilment she felt in connecting with both the couples and the women in such meaningful ways. The performances gave the couples an emotional and symbolic journey, while the workshop allowed the women to discover and embrace the gentler, yet powerful, aspects of their femininity. Through these experiences, Marta created an environment where connection, creativity, and energy flowed freely, leaving everyone deeply moved, inspired, and empowered.