Alaska Awalim

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. Badia Masabni is widely credited with moving the dance form from the streets to the stage, employing professional oriental dancers along with professional ballroom dancers in her casino in Cairo. You can still see various forms of the folk dance style at modern weddings and social gatherings, or danced in the homes, often with women dancing for other women in a family setting. 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 American cabaret styles, however even within these sub genres there is much variety and room for growth.

The fundamental 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.

Raqs Sharqi classes have recently been restructured.

Level one will now consist of 4 six week sessions which may be taken in any order. Level one will cover fundamental technique, introduction to finger cymbals and rythms, and introduction to veil.

Level two will also be broken down into 4 six week session, beginning Sept. 2008. Level two will feature a continuation of fundamental techniques, advanced rythms and a survey of regional styles. Finger cymbals and completion of level one (or equivalent) are required.

Special topics will also be offered in six week sessions on a rotating basis and will be open to multiple levels.

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.