Author: Maddie

Don’t Miss These Belly Dance Workshops in July!

⛱️ ☀️ This summer is sizzling at Sahara Dance!  Our Saturday workshop series is in full swing – here are the next workshops not to be missed in July!

Sizzling Saidi Workshop with Florencia, July 8, 1:30-3:30 pm

Saidi folklore dance is one of the most prominent dances in upper Egypt, based on the traditional martial art of Tahtib. This lively and energetic dance incorporates skills of flexibility and emphasizes the ability to control the cane (Assaya) while framing the dancer’s movements. Learn proper cane dance technique and how to control the balance between the cane and the dance movement. (Recommended for dancers Performing at the World Culture Festival!)

 

Bambouti Workshop, July 22, 1:30-3:30 pm

Bambouti is a folkloric dance from the maritime heritage. It is a dance that displays the trade and exchange of goods between the fishermen, sailors and sea merchants who work on small boats and trade with large ships passing through, docking at the entrance, or anchored in the ports of the Suez Canal. Fishermen celebrate and dance on the beach when the boats return to the canal with a lots of fish.  Join Mohamed Ali and learn more about the history of Bambouti!

Drum Solo Magic Workshop with Florencia, July 15, 1:30-3:30 pm

Drill the isolations, dynamic techniques, and expressive nuances that define the essence of a drum solo choreography. Enhance your sense of timing, coordination, and musicality and expand your repertoire of Middle Eastern rhythms. (Recommended for dancers Performing at the World Culture Festival!)

Raqs El Hacha’a Workshop with Alma, July 29, 1:30-3:30 pm

Explore this folkloric Middle Eastern dance from Iraq! Seasoned dancer and performer Alma breaks down the fundamentals of Raqs el Hacha’a, a dance originated by the Kawliya (nomadic) people in Iraq. Learn about the musicality and primary movements of this fun and dynamic folk dance characterized by earthy moves and usually performed with daggers.

Join us for these workshops and more, every Saturday at the Tenleytown studio!

We want you! Perform with us at the World Culture Festival!

Sahara Dance is opening up the opportunity to perform with our 80+ dancers at the World Culture Festival.  You do not need to be a current Sahara Dance student or company member to participate!  This is a huge opportunity for all belly dancers (and aspiring) in the DMV to be part of this huge performance opportunity on a global stage to help us represent Middle Eastern Dance to the world.

 

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DETAILS ABOUT THE WORLD CULTURE FESTIVAL: https://saharadance.com/perform-with-sahara-dance-at-world-culture-festival/

PERFORMANCE DATE: September 29 or 30 (to be confirmed), after 4 pm

PERFORMANCE LOCATION: We will be on a 20,000+ foot stage (yep, you read that right) at the World Culture Festival on the National Mall in Washington D.C. The performance will be globally televised.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE: Join us for the World Culture Festival Performance Intensive! This immersive program is designed to ignite your passion for dance, expand your repertoire, and empower you to shine on stage.

The WCF Intensive is offered as an in-person class (with recordings provided). Dancers will train on an 8-minute masterpiece choreography by Jillina, including sections with fan veil, khaleeji frame drums, and a drum solo. Class will be taught by Cynthia and video tutorials by Jilllina will be included for home practice.

Want more info?  Contact us at info@saharadance.com if you have questions not answered below!

Who is this class suitable for?

The World Culture Festival Performance Intensive Class welcomes dancers of various levels, from Beginner 2 and above.  The choreography is relatively simple with sections representing different styles of Middle Eastern belly dance. You will need to demonstrate proficiency with the choreography in order to perform in September.  This is a (very) large group choreography where everyone will be dancing together.

What can I expect from the program?

The performance intensive meets on 14 Sundays starting June 18. (See specific dates in the class description here – https://saharadance.com/product/world-culture-festival-performance-intensive-in-person/). 8 of those classes will meet at the Sahara Dance studio at 4433 Wisconsin Ave, Washington DC 20016. The rest of the class dates will be with the wider group of participating Sahara Dance companies at external locations large enough to accommodate us all.  Video recordings will be provided so you can practice in between classes.

How do I enroll in the class?

Enrolling in the World Culture Festival Performance Intensive Class is easy! Sign up here to secure your spot. Spaces are limited, so sign up soon to ensure your participation in this transformative dance experience.

Will this class be offered online or in-person?

The World Culture Festival Performance Intensive Class is an in-person program. Videos will be provided for at-home practice in between class sessions.

What is the cost of the class?

The cost of the Performance Intensive is $445. This includes all class fees and rehearsal fees.  Additionally, dancers need to purchase the WCF costumes and props, which include a custom made beledi dress, hip scarf, headband, pair of fan veils, and a frame drum (total $175).  (If the cost is prohibitive for you, please contact us at info@saharadance.com to discuss – we strive to make our programs as accessible as possible.)

What are the benefits of participating in the Performance Intensive?

There are many benefits to participating in the World Culture Festival Performance Intensive. Here are just a few:

  • Learn a new choreography from world-renowned choreographer Jillina
  • Perform at a prestigious international festival
  • Perform to a globally televised audience of millions!
  • Gain valuable performance experience
  • Meet other dancers from the DMV and all over the world
  • Have a once-in-a-lifetime experience!  This festival changes location around the world every year, and will likely never be in DC again in our lifetimes!

No brainer, tight? Can’t wait for you to join us! 

REGISTER HERE

MARK YOUR CALENDARS – Heart of Belly Dance Costa Rica is opening for registration on May 31!

🌟 Sahara Dance Presents: The 18th Annual Heart of Belly Dance Retreat with World-Famous Artist Jillina in Costa Rica, May 2024! 🌟

We are excited to invite you to join us for an exceptional belly dance experience at the Heart of Belly Dance Retreat at the award-winning Blue Spirit Resort in the breathtaking landscapes of Costa Rica in May 2024. This retreat will feature the incredible talent of Jillina, a renowned artist in the world of belly dance.

The Heart of Belly Dance Retreat offers a unique opportunity to learn from Jillina, an artist whose captivating performances and teaching style have made her a global sensation. Whether you are a seasoned dancer or just beginning your belly dance journey, this retreat promises to inspire and elevate your skills.

Highlights of the retreat include:

🌺 Workshops & Yoga for Dancers with Jillina: Delve into a series of carefully curated workshops led by Jillina. Explore Egyptian and theatrical fusion aspects of belly dance technique, musicality, and choreography. Treat your body to daily yoga for dancers! Jillina’s expertise will guide you towards achieving your dance goals.  The theme of the 18th annual retreat is the Connection & Creativity Edition.

🌊 Serene Retreat Setting: Enjoy the tranquility of our oceanfront retreat location, nestled amidst the natural beauty of Costa Rica. Connect with nature, enjoy watching the baby monkeys daily, swim in the ocean, find inner harmony, make new friends, and create lasting memories.

🌴 Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Costa Rica. Engage in cultural exchanges, experience local traditions, take a salsa dance class, and savor the flavors of authentic Costa Rican cuisine.

Registration for the Heart of Belly Dance Retreat opens on May 31 at 1:00 pm EST. Secure your spot early to ensure your place in this immersive belly dance experience with Jillina.

Go here for more information and to reserve your place. REGISTRATION OPENS MAY 31 at 1:00 pm ET! Space is limited, so don’t miss this opportunity to be a part of the Heart of Belly Dance Retreat in Costa Rica in May 2024. Payment plans available!

Join us for a transformative journey of dance, culture, connection, creativity, and self-discovery. We look forward to welcoming you to the Heart of Belly Dance Retreat!