Raqs Caravan Showcase Preview: Sha’bi

December 10, 2009 01:19 PM

Delicate, demure and mysterious Sha’bi is not. Instead, think bold, infectious beats and plenty of coin-spangled hip shaking to compliment the intensity of the music.

The audience members will be ready to dance in their seats when Allyson’s Sha’bi performance class shimmies onto the stage during the annual winter Raqs Caravan Showcase. Allyson’s students will perform to “Bel Arabi,” a love song by one of the founders of the Sha’bi genre, Saad.

Sha’bi burst onto the Egyptian music scene in the early 1970’s. Sha’bi, which means “the people” or “folk,” is a perfect description of the genre’s origins. Sha’bi emerged from the working class neighborhoods of Cairo shortly after Egypt was defeated by Israel during the Six Day War of 1967. Looking for ways to reaffirm the strength of their communities, Sha’bi musicians infused their music with revolutionary and proud lyrics. They also sang about everyday life, as well as falling in love.

Sha’bi music is still popular in Egypt today and can often be heard in the clubs of Cairo. Today, however, the music has become more electronic and synthesized. Famous musicians include Hakim and Kalid Agag as well as Saad.

The Sha’bi performance class will take the stage during the 5:00 pm show.

Raqs Caravan Showcase
Date: Saturday, December 19, 2009
Time: 5:00 pm & 8:00 pm
Location: Woodward Theater at Calvary Baptist Church
777 8th Street, NW, Washington
Chinatown/Gallery Pl Metro
Parking Note: Parking is available in a pay garage next to the church. Unfortunately, Sahara Dance is not authorized to validate parking.
Cost: $15, open seating

Purchase your tickets online!

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