Gypsy Witch Playing Cards
I’m doing a lot of interviews lately, because frankly, I think the women I’m interviewing are more interesting than posting my opinions about something. Of course, I’ll get back to opining, but here’s another interview with a fascinatingly magical woman, Doreet, whom we call Didi. I picked her as the Witch of the Week for Samhain because she’s a wise, mystical, creative, effervescent and loving person whose unique Gypsy Witch style results in a diva look minus, thankfully, the attitude. Didi is an incredible middle-eastern dancer, choreographer and performer. When she’s onstage, magic happens – for the other dancers and the audience. She performs often in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Didi also works at Serpent’s Kiss in Santa Cruz (http://serpents-kiss.com/), which is a Magickal Arts Shop and Botanica specializing in authentic, unique, hand-crafted, and one-of-a-kind ritual, healing tools and witch craft supplies. Many items are crafted by the owner and staff. Sit for a spell and read for yourself what makes this girl shimmy and shine and what her other magical gifts are.
Did in Her Beloved Forest
1. Can you give us a quick bio of you & your spiritual path?
My parents were from Israel, so I was raised in Judaism. My stepfather was a Cantor, so it was required of me to attend services at the synagogue. I didn’t feel I needed to go into a building in order connect with deity, I felt more comfortable out in nature.
I began studying Wicca as a solitary. I spent a lot of time at Uma’s Tools of Magick
Didi in Repose
in San Francisco. Uma was very kind to me, allowing me to sit and look at books, ask questions and hang out. I learned a great deal about candle magick and blending oils from her, and miss her dearly. As my studies grew, so did my desire to connect with others on the same path. I began studying and working with friends in the City. I studied with Anodea Judith (author of Wheels of Life: A User’s Guide to the Chakra System and Waking the Global Heart: Humanity’s Rite of Passage from the Love of Power to the Power of Love) and became involved with Church of All Worlds. As much as I love working Magick with others, I am mostly a solitary practitioner.
Samhain Bat in charcoal by Jeff Ward
2. What brought you to Serpent’s Kiss & what has it been like there for you? What is your role there? What are your favorite aspects of working there?
I first came to Serpent’s Kiss shortly after Susan opened the first shop. I adored her instantly. I would stop by for supplies, books & jewelry!
Last year I was invited to teach Belly Dance in the shop and it’s been a great experience. While in the shop, I’m Priestess on Duty. I love the energy of the shop and I love being able to help people.
3. What is a typical day like there? can you sketch one for us with words?
There really isn’t a “typical” day at Serpent’s Kiss – each days brings a new surprise! My days start with lighting a prosperity candle, burning some incense and turning on some good music. I’m always happy to welcome our customers and answer their questions. I’m also creating Veve candles that are really beautiful and it’s my favorite project in the shop. We have a whole selection of clothing and belly dance costuming and I adore helping people pick out that perfect something that makes them feel fabulous.
Take a Dance on the Wild Side
4. What types of dancing do you do? How has dancing worked with your spiritual path?
I am a Tribal Fusion Belly Dancer, and founding member of Raks Hakohaveem. I am classically trained in Egyptian and folkloric dances of Northern Africa. Dancing strengthens my connection with Divine energy.
The Many Dances of Didi
5. How long have you been teaching dance & what do you like best about it?
I’ve been teaching Fusion Belly Dance for a little over a year. I love sharing my knowledge and passion with my students and watching them blossom into dancers. I adore my students. If you’re interested in class prices and schedule, contact Serpent’s Kiss at 831-423-KISS (5477).
6. What type of magical work do you excel at? Do you work on behalf of others? What work is your favorite & your least favorite?
I have an affinity with Candle Magick, and enjoy blending oils for ritual or intentional use. If requested, I will do work for others.
7. What have been some of your most successful workings, & some of your least successful?
I’ve had success in charging prosperity & stability candles in which the final outcome was gainful employment, and I’ve heard my lust candles do the trick too. 😉
9. What are the other ways that you express yourself as a witch?
I dress in a “witchy” manner and proudly wear my pentacle and triple moon pendants. My tattoos have Magickal significance to me. My home and garden are sacred space.
10. In pop culture, do you have favorite witchy characters, TV shows, books or movies?
Samantha Stevens on Bewitched was my role model as a child. At 11 I discovered Stevie Nicks, which explains a lot about my look. Anne Rice is one of my favorite authors, I’m enjoying a new book series called the House of Night by P.C & Kristen Cast. Practical Magic is one of my favorite movies, as is Bell Book & Candle.
Kim Novak and cat Pyewacket in Bell, Book and Candle
So that’s Didi in her magical nutshell. Of course, the real thing is better than this interview, but at least a slice of Didi is better than no Didi! Thank you for reading, and drop me an email if you have any ideas, questions or suggestions for this blog.
Have a blessed Samhain and make the most out of this time with your ancestors!
Siren Says 