Mahraganat (street shaabi) is more than funky beats and fast-paced lyrics. This once underground, shunned form of music has become mainstream in Egypt; but how? Before we start dancing, we will be discussing the economic, political, sociological, and cultural issues that gave rise to this form of music, and consequently, the form of dance. The goal is to understand the context of what this music means to modern Egyptian culture and how we, as dance artists, can go forward with a deeper understanding and appreciation of what it means to dance to this music. After this brief lecture, students will be learning a short choreography that mixes elements of street style, folklore, raqs sharqi, and popular dance. This class is open to all levels and will include a breakdown of the lyrics that accompany each step. Please have two full knives available, preferably metal butter knives, but plastic will suffice. We will be throwing in plenty of authentic moves from the streets of Cairo and will use butter knives to mimic the large knives the men use when dancing this style.

Skill Level: All Levels

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

Are you looking to attract more inspiration into your dance? Infuse your creative exploration of movement with tools and techniques that bring a sense of joy, playfulness, and curiosity to your practice. Step into a space of allowing your Inner Muse to awaken. Students will be guided through exercises that inspire and nourish the creative artist within and will learn how to apply these methods to practice, performance and creating new material. Several short Belly Dance inspired choreographed sequences will be the source of exploration in this engaging and interactive workshop.

Recommended for all dance skill levels.

Skill Level: All Levels

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

Join Mr. Ozgen to explore how to dance to Turkish Romani’s 9/8 rhythm. He’ll teach useful techniques and popular combinations.

Skill Level: All Levels

Sunday, 10am-12pm Central Time