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Raqs Sharqi, literally translated, means dance of the east, or oriental dance, commonly called by the somewhat misleading name 'bellydance'. This ancient and beautiful art form developed first as a folk dance and was developed as a theatricized art form beginning at the turn of the century in Egypt. It is danced by both men and women, by children through grandparents as an expression of joy. Raqs Sharqi as a performance art has evolved into a variety of sub genres as it has been adapted to film and theatrical productions, multi ethnic restaurant shows and different regional and artistic influences.
At Alaska Awalim, we focus on Egyptian and Classic American Oriental, however we do introduce other styles as well, and even within these sub genres there is much variety and room for growth.
The Foundation Level classes are appropriate for beginners as well as more advanced dancers wishing to refresh their knowledge of core movements and principles. Every effort is made to associate movements and principles with the appropriate style, history and cultural references as we examine not only how the dance is done, but how it has become what it is today.
Foundation Level consists of 4 six week sessions which may be taken in any order. Foundation Level covers fundamental technique, introduction to finger cymbals and rhythms, and introduction to veil.
Intermediate/Advanced Level features a continuation of fundamental techniques, advanced rhythms and musical comprehension and a survey of regional styles. Finger cymbals and completion of Foundation Level (or equivalent) are required.
Just Drills is a mixed level, technique intensive class which incorporates conditioning for dance. All levels are welcome, either on a drop in basis, with a 6 class punch card or on the all-access pass.
Special topics are offered periodically, either as weekend workshops or in 3-6 week sessions. Classes are open to multiple levels, depending on the topic, and are considered workshops in the payment plan, regardless of session format.
Current Class Schedules are available on our BLOG!
Lara is also available for workshops & private lessons in the following topics:
Finger Cymbals
Ancient instruments traditionally used to accompany dancers throughout the Middle East, finger cymbals have fallen in and out of popularity over the years, but are making a strong come back. Lara's workshops are designed to help dancers become comfortable and relaxed while playing and dancing to the complex, beautiful rhythms of Middle Eastern music. Many potential classes/workshops are available on this topic, depending on the desired focus.
Raks Assaya
Egyptian cane dance, traditionally danced by women to twit the menfolk and their participation in tahtib, a stylized martial art using long staves, practiced in the Middle East.
Balancing
Balancing technique as it applies to bowls, baskets, trays, lamps and miscellanies.
Sword
American theatrical balancing and presentation technique.
Veil
A fusion genre using traditional Middle Eastern movements with modern and dramatic dance inspiration from artists such as Loie Fuller and Ruth St. Denis.
Double and 3/4 veil
Advanced variation on veil technique.
Floorwork
A traditional part of Raqs Sharqi performances, currently banned in Egypt, but still performed in other parts of the Middle east and around the world.
Drum Solo
A challenging part of traditional Raqs Sharqi shows this topical course will focus on improvised conversation between dancer and drummer.
Choreographic Development
Learn how to design your own choreographies—and remember them too!
Survey of Regional Styles
Every region of the Middle East can claim its own stylistic variation of Oriental Dance. This class provides a brief summary of some of the characteristic differences of Egyptian, Lebanese, Turkish and Classic American styles of Oriental Dance.
World Fusion Skirt Dance
Fusion skirt dance draws principle inspiration from traditional Turkish, Russian and Spanish dance styles, a little fabric manipulation from Modern dance in the tradition of Loie Fuller & Ruth St Denis, and a good bit of fantasy and imagination. Lara's technique focuses on polishing those dramatic accents that help produce a truly exciting and dynamic routine, and can be integrated into any dance form.
Musical Analysis
Understanding the music we dance to helps dancers deliver a more authentic, dynamic and confident performance. Understanding the structure of classic Middle Eastern music styles can also help in understanding the modern derivatives, so you can understand why even Egyptian pop varies from its western counterparts.
