Folk Dance is inclusive! Originally done by "the people" in ritual settings, it is more commonly enjoyed as playful entertainment, rather than labored as structured performance. Because of its relaxed nature, gender differences are deemphasized and the dance is forgiving of physical size and abilities. Therefore group or solo, women or men, old or young, expert and amateur, foreign and native, can all enjoy these dances together.
This inclusive program introduces 4 folk dance styles from around the Arab world1
Dabke - the stomping line dance from the Eastern Arab World
Khaliji - the undulating hair tossing dance from the Arabian Peninsula
Saidi - the revolving cane and stick dance from Southern Egypt
Sufi (Egyptian) - the swaying and turning ritual that involes bliss and trance
Karim teaches the steps, gestures, and combinations with detailed explanation and educated structure. Each srep has an Arabic name and a cultural context, and all are clearly explained and demonstrated. Accompanied by Aubre and Lauren, Karim presents all the lessons, plus 6 choreographies that can be performed by any size group.
