Learn a simple and elegant choreography incorporating Reda-style movements and music composed in a traditional form called Tahmila. The Tahmila is a 19th-century musical form consisting of a brief refrain played by the whole Takht in unison. Then each instrument improvises a measured taqsim over an ostinato pattern. Then they all join for the refrain, and then another instrument improvises, etc. This choreography is a modern interpretation based on the movement vocabulary of Egypt’s esteemed Reda Troupe - famous for elevating the art of Arab dance to the theater stage. Though the Tahmila well predates any visual recording of dance accompaniment, movements have been gleaned from historical sources and re-imagined for this choreography. The materials for this workshop comes from Bahaia’s commissioned dance with the National Arab Orchestra. In January 2020, she was asked to choreograph a small “takht” ensemble composition to “Tahmila Rast” for the orchestra’s first ever dance performance.

Skill Level: All Levels

Saturday, 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm CDT.

Join Amel on a journey through ancient Andalusian Moorish dances performed by women at various festivities such as weddings in the Maghreb. This dance emphasizes the elegant gestures of the dancer's arm and hands and is inspired by classical music and dance that originated in Andalusian Spain and traveled to North Africa when the Moors were expelled from el Andalus. The movement incorporates the rich tapestry of Arab-Andalusian traditions from the ancient cities of Algiers, Constantine and many other ancient North African cities, at a time considered by many to be the golden age of tolerance and cultural exchange.

Algerois, of urban origin, danced by women accompanied by music to the rhythm of the old city repertoire, classical or popular. The dancers, dressed in rich traditional costumes and adorned with jewels, highlight the elegance and harmony of the movements, made of small, light steps and modest inclinations.

Zendali dance is widespread in the eastern regions of Algeria. It is practiced by women and they are dressed in beautiful dresses embroidered with gold thread.

During the workshop, Amel Tafsout will focus on the different techniques of scarf dancing with the hands and hips and on how to keep the rhythm while improvising. (Please bring two chiffon scarves)

Skill Level: All Levels

Saturday, 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm CDT.

In our global oriental dance community, we can find Bellydance at many Greek restaurants, community events, and parties. But we often define and associate Oriental Dance with the Middle East and Arabic cultures. So where is the link? Let’s fill in that gap and enjoy Greek style bellydance! In a journey thru music and movement, centering on providing an overview of key points in Greek cultural history, Athena clarifies many of the questions which often arise when talking about “Greek Style” including defining and understanding commonly misused terms: Tsiftetelli, Chifteteli, Bouzouki, Rebetiko among others. We will delve into the nuances in style and song, and learn how to dance with that special Greek flavor!

Skills: All levels

Saturday, 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm CDT.

If the rhythms used in raqs sharqi have puzzled you, Lily is here to help you put the pieces together! Starting with one rhythm and flowing into the next, we’ll explore how they relate and to each other. We’ll have fun discovering their connections with dance games and combos to create a beautiful image.

Skill Level: All Levels

Saturday, 1:00 pm - 3:00pm CDT.

Modern Egyptian Style has revolutionized the music and dance industry everywhere, with strong accentuated moves and fast speed changes. Through technique, combos, and music interpretation, we will understand some of the most popular moves of modern dancers. Bring enough water, this is a guaranteed workout!

Skill Level: All Levels

Saturday, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm CDT.

Learn how to dance to Turkish Bellydance music. Mr. Ozgen brings in a mixture of his dramatic style with traditional moves. He’ll focus on beautiful hands and arms styling and technique.

Skill Level: All Levels

Saturday, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm CDT.