Khadijah
Atlanta, Georgia
October 26 & 27, 2019
Workshop & Show!!
Dear Friends in the Dance,
I am thrilled to host Khadijah (of Denver) October 26 & 27, 2019 as we explore the African influences in Middle Eastern dance!
Relations between the African continent and the Arab world exist from time immemorial. They are deeply rooted in history, geography and culture. This unique relationship was reinforced by trade relations, migrations of peoples (both forced and voluntary), the spread of technologies and ideas, and the spread of Islam, to name but a few influences.
While having learned this fact of history from my own academic and dance studies, the pervasiveness and importance of African cultures and peoples in the contemporary Middle East became profoundly apparent to me during my time in the country of Oman.
I also became aware that, despite the historic and enduring exchange of peoples and cultures between Africa and the Middle East, the contributions of Africans and Afro-Arabs in the Middle East are erased from histories. This is timely and much needed subject for discussion and study – particularly for performers, practitioners and students of Middle Eastern dance.
Over this weekend, with guidance from our guest instructor Khadijah, we will more broadly explore those African influences in Middle Eastern dance through exploration of the Nubian and Khaliji dance styles. Khadijah is a unique, knowledgeable and engaging instructor with whom I know you will fall instantly in love with.
Looking forward to sharing this one-of-a-kind experience with you in October!
Amani