Amanda Rose – FRI. DEC. 6th – (5 pm – 8 pm) – Embodying Baladi –

This workshop focuses on how to embody the Baladi movement style, movement repertoire, and how to modify Raqs Sharqi movement vocabulary to Baladi style, or the other way around. Once you understand the key embodiment and technique differences, you’ll easy be able to execute beautiful Baladi movements that look and feel distinct from your Oriental technique.

All levels are welcome. Please remember to wear comfortable fitting workout clothes.

Vanessa Raqs – SAT. DEC. 7th – (9:30 am – 11:30 am) – Star Dynamics

(Technique, Traveling Steps & Combos) It doesn’t matter what style you prefer, or what level you are… Going back to our fundamentals, and making sure that we create quality movement in any performance is essential. Vanessa will not only show you her famous fundamentals—She will help you tap into your own personal style while becoming more dynamic on the stage.

All levels are welcome. Please remember to wear comfortable fitting workout clothes.

Mohamed Ghareb – SAT. DEC. 7th – (12 pm – 3 pm) – From Ballet to Folklore

Mohamed Ghareb is teaching this workshop for the first time ANYWHERE!

Join ​ master instructor, Mohamed Ghareb in this engaging workshop, perfect for dancers of all levels. Explore belly dance through technique, movement, and emotion, while learning to:  

• Master foundational moves with Technique and Precision, proper posture, and intricate isolations.  

• Capture the essence of Sadie, Shaabi, or folklore.  

• Music selection to create authentic Choreographies.  

• Movement and Feeling: Understand the emotional essence behind each move to bring your dance to life.  

Dance Vocabulary: Learn the names and meanings of key movements to enhance your understanding of the art form.

Whether you’re refining elegance or celebrating tradition, this workshop will elevate your skills and artistry!

All levels are welcome. Please remember to wear comfortable fitting workout clothes.

Vanessa Raqs – SAT. DEC. 7th – (3:30 pm – 6:30 pm) – Saidi Specifics

*Saidi is one of the most popular Egyptian folklore dances we see on the stage these days. It’s important that we use the proper vocabulary and elements to create an authentic and accurate representation of this dance. In a world which keeps evolving, there are certain aspects which must remain true to the dances we are doing. Vanessa will guide you through “folklore style” steps, “Saidi specific” steps— And help you know how to blend them into a seamless creation, which audiences will appreciate and enjoy

*Remember to bring a straight stick assaya. If you do not have one or rather NOT travel with one, Diamond Pyramid will have some available for rent.

All levels are welcome. Please remember to wear comfortable fitting workout clothes.

Amanda Rose – SUN. DEC. 8th – (9:30 am – 12:30 pm) – Quality in Motion 

In this workshop we’ll explore and discover what we’ve taken for granted. By applying the concept of Laban Movement Efforts directly to Raqs Sharqi, we’ll explore untapped capacities for expression and nuance that we’ve been overlooking, as well as theory for invigorating our current movements. Class will include a brief exploration of the Laban Efforts, and direct implementation and experimentation with Raqs Sharqi movements. Then dancers will learn a combination where they can apply their knowledge, create their own nuanced versions, and untap new expressions.

All levels are welcome. Please remember to wear comfortable fitting workout clothes.

Vanessa Raqs – SUN. DEC. 8th – (1 pm – 4 pm) – Classic Egyptian Entrance Piece 

This choreography will be an outline for future choreographies, improvisation or, and understanding the musical cues and changes you hear in any composition. Let Vanessa guide you thru this process to give you the tools you need for any future projects. Take your dancing to the next level! 

All levels are welcome. Please remember to wear comfortable fitting workout clothes.

Amanda Rose – SUN. DEC. 8th – (4:15 pm – 6:15 pm) – Stage Presence (Expression & Connection)

In this class, we’ll focus not on what you do, but how you do it. Through short combinations and group and solo improvisation exercises, we’ll learn to connect with an audience, create sincere expressions, project engaging stage presence, and use body language to develop personality and charisma. This class is open level and for any dancer that wants to better their presentation, expression and connection for performances.

All levels are welcome. Please remember to wear comfortable fitting workout clothes.