TRIBAL FEST DETAILED CLASS SCHEDULE

For FRIDAY, MAY 14, 2010

 

Please Note: There are no classes being held for the remainder of Tribal Fest 10 in the MAIN HALL, due to preparation for The Show!

 

BOLSHOI   ROOM                     10:00-Noon

 

This is the last day of Rachel Brice’s 3-Day Intensive! See Wednesday’s Schedule for details.

 

 

 

RUSSIAN ROOM                       9:30-11:30     

 

Teacher/s: Sahira and Zymirrah of Texas     

Class Title and Description: Urban Gypsy’s Ghawazee-Influenced Steps for Improvisational Tribal Style (ITS) Vocabulary

 

Take the dance back to its roots! Inspired by the folk dances of Upper Egypt, Urban Gypsy brings you a "brand new" (but really old!) vocabulary of sassy and earthy movement combinations from their time spent with the Ghawazee and other folk dancers in Cairo in 2006. Hearken back to the days of dancing in the desert with Urban Gypsy. Don't forget your zills!

 

Urban Gypsy’s Bio:

Urban Gypsy has its roots in Houston, Texas, though its members teach and perform all over the world. In the six years of the troupe’s existence, they have fashioned a path for the tribal style to emerge and grow in Houston and across Texas. Sahira and Zymirrah are founding members of the troupe and also serve as its leadership.

 

In 2006, they had the honor (and thrill!) of being the first tribal dancers invited to teach at Ahlan Wa Sahlan, in Cairo, Egypt. Inspired by this experience, they have decided to take the dance back to its roots, developing their ever-growing unique blend of Folkloric Improvisational Fusion. The troupe consists of seven incredibly talented and dedicated dancers, passionate about bringing to life the beauty and grace of our dance. They also sponsor 3rd Coast Tribal each year in January in Fort Worth, Texas.

 

To contact Urban Gypsy, please visit: www.urbangypsy.cc

 

Skill Level: Open

What to bring: Don't forget your zills! (and maybe a notebook)

What to Wear: comfy dance attire

 

Please Note: Now, there are no classes being held for the remainder of Tribal Fest in any part of the Main Building, - it’s been commandeered for The Show! Classes continue in the Youth Annex.

 

 

YOUTH ANNEX (YA), LARGE (LG) ROOM              10:00-2:00  

Please note that this “class” is a 4-hour Mini-Intensive!

 

Teacher: E. Artemis Mourat of Maryland  

Class Title and Description: Finger Cymbals, Dance Rhythms and a Zill Solo!

 

Learn to master your Zills from the Zill Master herself – Artemis! Let’s demystify this powerful and ancient instrument. This workshop will teach dancers of all levels and styles how to understand and interpret music.  

 

We will cover 14 essential rhythms and you will learn techniques that are fun and easy to remember for each of these rhythms. We will practice zill patterns and you will learn a zill solo in class!

 
Whether you are “zill virgin” or an accomplished musician, you will find lots to learn.

The history of this instrument will be described and there will also be a section on Turkish Spoons (a.k.a. kashiklar). An instructional CD will be available for sale to bolster your practice at home.

 

Artemis’s Bio:

Artemis is a master teacher and has been dancing, teaching and researching dance history in the United States and abroad for her entire adult life. Artemis is of Greek and Turkish descent. She fuses her love of these cultures with strong academic knowledge and excellent dance technique.

 

She brings her spirited and articulate technique to workshops which include information on the history and cultures that generate the dances she teaches. She believes that we can all use art to build bridges across cultures. Artemis is well published and has taught in 13 countries and more than 33 states.

 

She has done field research in ancient dance, Middle Eastern dance and Rromany (“Gypsy”) dance in Turkey, Romania, Czech Republic, Spain, France, England, Morocco, Tunisia, Germany, Slovenia, Italy, Egypt and Greece.

 

She has attended traditional Rromany Festivals in France, Turkey and Romania. Artemis is listed in the International Dance Council (CID) “Who's Who” of Dance. Her photograph can be found in the International Encyclopedia of Dance under the listing for "danse du ventre" (translates to "belly dance") which is produced by the Oxford University Press.

 

She has won the "Ethnic Dancer of the Year Award" presented by the International Academy of Middle Eastern Dance (IAMED) and has won the "Most Popular Ethnic Dancer Award" from Zaghareet! Magazine twice. Artemis has also won their "Lifetime Achievement Award."

 

Skill Level: Open to all

What to bring: Zills, and Turkish Spoons if you have any. A few dollars for the instructional CD just in case you decide to buy it, (which you probably will! – KD)

What to Wear: Comfortable dance attire.

 

Long Note from Kajira: Partly because Artemis is so humble these days in her bio – probably because it would take a book by now to say everything she has accomplished over the years, I’d like to tell you more. So, if you care to read why I think you should take this class (and more about “Artie”), here goes:

 

Artemis was the first dancer (together with Laurel Victoria Gray) I ever sponsored. This was in the late 1980s or perhaps 1990-91-ish, and I made the flyer by hand! Throughout the years, I’ve had her teach other workshops here on the west coast and at the last Maui Intensive, and have visited her in Maryland where she lives for more and more study. She, in turn, had me teach there on a few occasions.

 

She became not only my favorite, most knowledgeable (and downright funniest) Turkish Rromany and Oriental teacher ever, but also my mentor in that area (and in the ‘biz o’ bellydance’ as well). Though I’ve studied Turkish dance with others, she became, and remains, my favorite because of her sparkling personality and the fact that she continues to study and is constantly learning and freely sharing fascinating new material with her students.

 

For example, she has irreplaceable video footage that spans at least 10 years or more, which she shared during the last Maui Intensive. Some of what she has filmed has already disappeared, or has been ‘altered’ for tourists. She went to great lengths to get some of this footage (including hanging from a telephone pole) and the dance world would benefit if she ever slows down long enough to get that footage onto DVDs!

 

As far as Artemis’s cymbal playing goes, it has often been said that “she plays zills as though they’re on fire” and I can vouch for that personally. She will share with you in this class not only rhythms and counts, but a collection of humorous, easy-to-remember verbal sayings that will have you playing, talking and laughing at the same time, guaranteed!

 

Over the years, I can gratefully say that our relationship has grown to be more than teacher/student, more than sponsorship, more than candid advice or an ear to listen to or cry into; we are truly friends. I feel like she is “my big sister”.

 

 

                                                                                   

YA LG                              2:15-4:15

 
Teacher: John Compton

Class Title and Description: The Roots of Tribal

 
(This Class Description has been written by Kajira D. at John’s request, and with his guidance.): In the first part of class you will learn Tribal “Root” Steps (many from Jamila Salimpour’s original format) which are invaluable for dancers and teachers of any Tribal genre. This is so you can see, feel and understand just how much these steps have not only influenced, but have been the main ‘building blocks,’ for ATS, SGI, most American ITS, as well as most Tribal Fusion styles. Plus, it is also fun and definitely educational to see how they’ve changed as necessary for SGI (Synchronized Group Improvisation), though John will not demonstrate those, he will focus on the original steps.

 

The next part of class may be the most important, as it is a very unique opportunity for a “down-n-dirty” Question-and-Answer session with the only person “from the good ol’ days” who is not “afraid” to talk truthfully about them! * 

 

* Note from Kajira: I mean it when I say that John is very, very knowledgeable about the early days of Jamila Salimpour’s famous Bal Anat (as he was her first male student, and first male dancer in Bal Anat) AND that he is willing, ready and eager to openly and honestly discuss that time of Tribal history.

 

Believe me when I say that this is not the case for other ex-Bal Anat dancers, as I discovered while researching for The Tribal Bible. Others’ “off the record” comments were born of a long-lasting (since the late 60s and early 70s-long!) fear of reprisal.

 

But John is one of the most fearless persons I have ever encountered, does not mince words or beat around bushes, has a great sense of humor and is looking forward to sharing the truth behind the mythical Bal Anat troupe and its enigmatic leader, Jamila Salimpour.

 

And, of course, ANY questions you care to ask, pertaining to that period or not. I would definitely be in this class if not setting up for The Show, even if only for the Q-n-A part!

 

John’s Bio:

(This Bio is written by John): The eyes - brilliant and blue. The gaze - captivating and mysterious. Poise, grace, hypnotic movement and many years of discipline create the mystique, the magic that is John.

 

John Compton is America's first dancer in the "Khawal" genre since the Chicago World's Fair of 1893. John's years of dance experience, a dynamic style and genuinely warm personality make him a superb instructor as well as a truly exciting performer.

 

His amazing track record of major shows, night clubs, media appearances and workshops extends through the U.S. and Canada.

 

He initially studied under the legendary Jamila Salimpour and received additional training in the folkloric style from Patti Farber. He first performed as a featured soloist in Jamila Salimpour's Bal Anat in the early 1970's, then in Patti Farber's folk dance ensemble, Baba Ganooj. In 1976 he formed his own show, Kos-Kadas, the opening extravaganza for the King Tut exhibit at the De Young Museum in San Francisco. He is the Co-Founder and Co-Director of The Hahbi 'Ru Middle Eastern Dance Ensemble.

 

"John brings a solid, aggressive presence to the dance as he overwhelms crowds with his crisp spins and dramatic tray routines." - Middle Eastern Dance Association, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

"Dressed in the manner of the ancient caliph, he swirls his way into dreams… it's as if Valentino has come back to life." - San Francisco Examiner

 

Skill Level: Open

What to bring: Cymbals, questions and notebooks for the Q-n-A (From Kajira: It may be possible to record the Q-n-A with small audio recorders [not video cameras]. I don’t know for sure, but I’d bring one and ASK John before beginning to record, to make sure that is OK with him. He may not wish to be recorded, so of course be your usual respectful self if his answer is “no.” Mahalo!)

What to Wear: Comfy dance wear; you’ll be seated for about half the class, so may wish a light shawl for your shoulders for that part.

 

YA LG                            4:30-6:30

 

 This is the second day of Carolena’s Intensive! (See Thurs. for Details)

 

 

YA LG                           6:45-8:45     

 
Teacher: Amy Sigil

Class Title and Description: Well… We Think It’s Slow…  

 
Welcome to the softer side of UNMATA. We're switching the elixir from jet fuel to chamomile tea, and taking some time to smell the roses. This workshop features a selection of UNMATA's rarely seen slow repertoire, vinyasa inspired warm-ups, and a chance to catch your breath.

 

Amy’s Bio:

Amy Sigil, director/choreographer of UNMATA and owner of Hot Pot Studio in Sacramento, CA, has been spreading her high-octane performances and workshops around the globe for the last 8 years and has been dancing for 14 years. She likes her dance Fasty and her music Loudy! She is an athlete; a full force tough love dancer, with 110% heart for the game. Her workshops will make you sweat till you bleed and UNMATA will make you smile till you scream! Influenced by her studies in Bellydance, American Tribal Style, Hula, and Hip Hop, Amy brings you...SIGIL Style...not just a dance style; a life style.

 

Skill Level: dance experience recommended

What to bring: a yoga mat could come in handy for your warm-up

What to Wear: dance workout clothes

 

YA SM                                10:15-2:15   

 
Teacher: Elizabeth Mahina    

Class Title and Description: Island Influences 

 
From the graceful hands of Hula, to the precise and fast Tahitian hip movements, Tribal Fusion can borrow a lot from Polynesian dance. Join Elizabeth as she teaches basic Polynesian dance steps and builds them into exciting Tribal Fusion combos to enhance your tribal repertoire!

 

Elizabeth’s Bio:

Elizabeth Mahina was raised as a dancer from the time she was 4 years old and began performing as a Polynesian dancer professionally by the age of 6. She studied ballet & jazz throughout her childhood & during her college years in Santa Cruz she began to study belly dance.

 

In 2003 Elizabeth started taking tribal style from Ayse Cerami, then director of Sundara Varna. Since then she has been able to fine-tune her varied dance and artistic background into a cohesive belly dance fusion style. Elizabeth has Basic Skills and Teacher Training in ATS by Carolena Nericcio. She continues to take classes and workshops from as many teachers as possible.

 

Elizabeth has taught workshops at Tribal Ford, U.K.; Tribal Caravan, Los Angeles; the IBDC in Las Vegas; & Bedouin Bazaar, San Diego. She directed Raks Ohana, a dance troupe using Polynesian and Belly Dance influences. She has performed with and assisted in directing the Conejo Valley chapter of the Sisterhood Dance Collective and is currently director for the Los Angeles dance troupe Tandava and co-director of She'enedra along with Ayse Cerami.  She is also co-owner of Sacred Circles Productions, the company that created Mythical Creatures L.A. and has more upcoming belly dance stage productions in the works!

 

She teaches and performs nationally & internationally as a soloist as well as dancing with her troupes. To learn more, visit: http://www.elizartist.com

 

Skill Level: Enthusiastic beginner to advanced.

What to bring: water

What to Wear: comfy dance workout wear

 

                                                   

YA SM                       12:30-2:30   

 

Teacher: Princess Farhana

Class Title and Description: Strike a Pose! How to Make the Camera Love You      

 

No matter what style of dance you perform, you need great promotional photos, and this workshop gives you the tools for looking amazing in front of the camera!

From head shots to full body poses, learn tips and tricks to achieve beautiful body lines and interesting angles that highlight your assets and hide your flaws.

 

We will analyze the ingredients that make a great photograph, and you will learn how to feel relaxed and confident in front of the camera, maximizing your best features and projecting vibrant emotions.

 
We’ll also touch on prop use in photos, costuming, studio and stage lighting and the different effects lighting has on your costumes and make-up. 

 

We will go over camera-friendly make-up techniques and before running through a
number of classical, modern, ”alternative" and pin-up type poses. Don't think you won't be sweating in this workshop...you're about to find out why models get paid so much!

Princess Farhana’s Bio:

Acclaimed international dancer Princess Farhana has performed, taught and written about Oriental Dance and Burlesque for nineteen years. She has appeared in Egypt, France, Switzerland, Belgium, Portugal, all over The United Kingdom, Mexico and Canada, and across the US.

 

Named “Favorite Oriental Dancer 2006 & 2008” by Zaghareet! Magazine, Princess Farhana has been featured in numerous motion pictures, videos, television shows and dance documentaries, as well as many instructional and performance DVDs.

 

Trained in Egyptian style by Raqia Hassan and Zahra Zuhair, among others, she is also known for her high-concept, theatrical fusion performances and dazzling stage presence. Her warmth, enthusiasm and adventurous spirit - on and off stage - captivates audiences and students alike.

 

Contact Princess Farhana (Pleasant Gehman): (323) 460-4890

Email:  pgehman@earthlink.net   and visit: WWW.PRINCESSFARHANA.COM

 

Skill Level: Open

What to bring: Water, possibly a notebook, and a face towel for the “sweating” part.

What to Wear: Form-fitting dance wear, so you can really see those poses well.

 

 

YA SM   2:45-4:45   

 
Teacher: Sarah J. Locke

Class Title and Description: Dance Alchemy: Combinations, Formations, and Presence      

 
Alchemy Dance Theater are known for their dynamic movement vocabulary, fluid line, and intricate formations, as well as a strong group stage presence that has been called “mesmerizing”, “captivating”, “deeply moving”, and more. 

This workshop will share some of the ingredients that go into this Alchemical process so you can find new pathways to creativity, regardless of your dance style. The secret recipe: Movement exercises that will cultivate a greater range of choices in your dance, in terms of both technique and expression.

We’ll draw on a range of contemporary dance and experimental theater sources to develop presence, body awareness, emotional expression, and other elements of deep listening.

 Signature Alchemy combos that create a balance of powerful energy, fluidity, intricacy, and accessibility (in other words they’re fun to do!). These combos will give you even more tools to fully inhabit your dance.

 Also included will be Formation explorations to inspire both soloists and troupe members, both improvisations and choreographies. We’ll play with stage space, dynamics of form and timing, and more.

 This integration of Alchemy ingredients will empower you to access your fullest dance: a true expression from the inside out.

 

NOTE: You can fully enjoy this workshop without taking Sarah’s other workshop on Wed., but if you want to do both, they go very well together as a MINI-mini-intensive!

 

Sarah’s Bio:

Sarah Johansson Locke is a performer, choreographer, and teacher whose work is inspired by her experience with several forms of traditional and contemporary dance, theater, yoga, and somatic modalities. As the Artistic Director of Alchemy Performance, Sarah has been at the forefront of establishing and cultivating the New York Tribal/Fusion scene since 2001.

 

She directs two companies, Alchemy Dance Theater and the Alchemy Tribal Collective; teaches dance, yoga, and anatomy; curates the HYBRID performance series; and performs frequently. As a certified instructor of yoga and embodied anatomy as well as a dance teacher with 15 years of experience, Sarah is known for her informed and inspiring classes which empower students to find a deep sense of body awareness and creative expression. 

 

Her performance style stands out for its strong yet meditative power, its ability to draw you in to a profound and sacred space.  Alchemy Dance Theater and the Alchemy Tribal Collective are known for their dynamic movement vocabulary, fluid line, and intricate formations, as well as a strong group stage presence that has been called “mesmerizing”, “captivating”, “deeply moving”, and more. 

 

Sarah began her study of tribal bellydance in 1994 and was a member of Gypsy Caravan of Oregon for several years before returning to NYC (where she grew up) to develop her own style of contemporary tribal fusion as an alchemy of her wide-ranging theater, dance, and movement experience. 

 

Throughout her career, she has been involved with projects ranging from site-specific installations and street theater to international arts festivals and large theater productions, both across the U.S. and in Europe. 

 

To learn more, visit: www.alchemyperformance.com

 

Skill Level: Experienced Beginners and Up

What to bring: maybe a notebook and water

What to Wear: Dance class attire