Summer is just around the corner, and here at Sahara Dance, we are thrilled to unveil our summer schedule, packed with exciting classes, new performance and dance development opportunities, and a truly special Summer Caravan show you won’t want to miss!
Save the Date for a Spectacular Summer Caravan with Bellydance Evolution
Mark your calendars for Saturday, August 24th, as we present our biggest and most exhilarating Summer Caravan show yet at the prestigious Fitzgerald Theatre in Rockville, MD. With seating for nearly 500 people, this promises to be an unforgettable evening of theatrical belly dance.
What makes this show extra special? We’re excited to announce that we’ll be combining our Summer Caravan with Bellydance Evolution’s “The Jungle Book,” a theatrical belly dance production created and directed by the renowned artist and choreographer Jillina Carlano.
Summer Caravan will feature performances by Sahara Dance companies, followed by Bellydance Evolution. It will be our biggest show yet, second to our 2023 World Cultural Festival performance.
Perform With Us On Aug 24, 2024
Join a summer performance class or company to be part of this unique and spectacular experience!
With Jillina in town, we will restage a variation of our epic, 8-minute World Culture Festival (WCF) choreography! The WCF choreography will be a sizzling finale number to close the Summer Caravan show. Cast members may perform the drum solo as part of company class finale, or larger sections of the choreography as an additional performance offering.
As hosting Bellydance Evolution is a unique and huge undertaking, we will be organizing a special “Meet and Greet” with the cast for select audience members following the show. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to be part of Sahara Dance and Bellydance Evolution history, and enjoy dancing as part of an exceptional summer show. This special one-time show is sure to be a hit for the whole family, including children!
Summer company members may have additional performance opportunities at summer festivals, including Friendship Heights Alliance Makers Market on May 18th.
About Bellydance Evolution
Founded and directed by world-touring artist Jillina, Bellydance Evolution (BDE) takes a revolutionary approach to the art of dance, presenting theatrical shows with captivating storylines, much like ballet. Featuring top artists in Middle Eastern dance, music, Tahitian dance, freestyle, contemporary, tribal fusion, and ballet, each performance is a mesmerizing blend of culture and creativity.
About the “Jungle Book” Production
Embark on a mesmerizing adventure with “The Jungle Book,” a captivating show that unfolds against the enchanting backdrop of world dance. This unique production takes you deep into the lush jungles of India, where Mowgli, a spirited protagonist, leads an extraordinary quest to harmonize the delicate balance between humans and animals, striving to restore the laws of nature. Guided by the artistic vision of Jillina Carlano, the performance seamlessly blends diverse dance forms, including the expressive Raqs Sharqi, innovative Fusion, vibrant Tahitian, and contemporary Indian styles.
The dynamic fusion of these theatrical dance forms creates a visual feast for the senses, transporting the audience into the heart of Mowgli’s journey. Complementing the stunning choreography is the epic musical score by Paul Dinletir, adding depth and emotion to this unforgettable journey through rhythm, movement, and the untamed wonders of nature. “The Jungle Book” promises a magical and immersive experience that transcends boundaries and celebrates the universal language of dance and storytelling.
Audition Opportunities
While Bellydance Evolution does not offer auditions for individual tours, professional dancers interested in being considered should audition at joinBDE.com under “Professional BDE Rolling Auditions.”
Dance with Us This Summer! Exciting Additions to the Summer Schedule
As we gear up for summer, here are a few highlights from the full summer schedule:
New technique classes
- Beginner belly dance classes with multiple days and times to choose from.
- Beginner II with Nicolette
- Low Intermediate Technique – Veil and Cane with Gretchen
- Low Intermediate Fusion Combos – Balancing Props with Ami
- Advanced with Chiaki
- Intermediate / Advanced with Florencia
- Flamenco Fusion with Megan
- Finger Cymbals (Zills) – Beginner and Intermediate with Crystal
- Samba Fit with Sonia
- Check out the full schedule here!
New Performance and Dance Development Opportunities:
- Belly Dance Party Performance Class with Nicolette: Join Nicolette for an all-levels “Belly Dance Party” performance class. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned dancer, this class offers a fun opportunity to perform on stage without the full company commitment.
- Developing Choreography class: Back by popular demand! Develop your unique solo under the guidance of Rachel and Sahara Dance instructors, with a performance opportunity at our summer performance lab and open house in early August (details and dates to be announced).
- Al Fanaanat Project with Sahra Saeeda: Learn a classic Mahmoud Reda choreography staged by Sahra Saeeda (workshop to be announced) and get personalized video feedback from Sahra on your dancing of the choreography. You can also use this opportunity to audition to perform the choreography at our Summer Caravan show, as part of our Al Fanaanat Project. Stay tuned for details!
Join Us for an Unforgettable Summer of Dance
Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just starting your belly dance journey, there’s something for everyone at Sahara Dance this summer. From thrilling performances to dynamic classes, come be a part of our vibrant dance community and make this summer one to remember!