JamBallah Northwest- A Bellydance & Fusion Festival (Aug 9-11 '13) Early Bird Prices-Good Through June 22!

(Studioo A) Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome. Bring a reusable water container and a yoga mat or towel. Please wear layers of stretchy and comfortable clothing.

Saidi is one of Egypt's most beloved folkloric styles of belly dance for both men and women that has a long tradition both on and off the stage. In countless ways, it has heavily influenced nearly every style of modern belly dance. Dancers, both traditional and tribal, will benefit greatly from understanding these roots of today's belly dance movement. Dahlia is an expert at articulating Saidi style for both masculine and feminine artistry. Re-learn the fundamentals of your favorite shimmies, big hips and the quintessential Saidi style footwork. For the second hour, bring a cane (assaya) or stick (tahtib) and get a grip on how to make this strong yet flirtatious dance seem effortless. -- Demystify the movements that make us who we are as dancers through Saidi and Raks Assaya (Cane Dance)! *Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome! Please wear pants or a slim skirt. Dahlia will have some canes/assaya and sticks/tahtib available to borrow for students who do not have their own. Remember to bring a reusable water container, and, if desired, a pad and pen for notes, a yoga mat for stretching and towel for sweating!*

(Studio C) 'Datura Vocabulary for Group and Solo Improvisation' Learn a few movements from Datura's emerging ITS vocabulary that can be used for solo or group work. This class is limited to 25 people. (*Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome, but at least one year of consecutive dance practice suggested. Bring your finger cymbals, yoga mat, and love of improvisation with a shared vocabulary. Bring a reusable water container, and if desired a pad and pen for notes. Please wear layers of stretchy and comfortable clothing and bring a few snacks for breaktime if desired.*)

(Studio A) Slow down. Take a deep breath. Enjoy the movements, and improve your stage presence to boot. This workshop is all about the rich and creamy, the gooey and the dreamy. The use of well-placed and carefully chosen slow movements can make a dancer appear experienced beyond their years. Much of this is relative to the flow of energy through the body. In this class we will dance a fresh choreography, all the while focusing our intentions upon the breath and the flow of chi (ki, prana) through the entire body. Healthy, fun, and intense. (*Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome, but at least one consecutive year of belly dance practice recommended. Please wear layers of stretchy, comfortable clothing, and bring a reusable water container. If desired, bring a yoga mat, towel, a pad and pen for notes.*)

(Studio B) This class will focus on how to safely execute Zaar head movements and other hair flinging movements, and will also specifically cover responsible fusion with modern bellydance. Participants will learn a safe warm up, technique for movement, a variety of combinations incorporating the material as well as information about the roots of these women’s trance dances. Zaar and trance dance movements can be powerful for both dancer and audience, and create a commanding presence during performance. Learn to let down your hair and harness this potent movement! (*Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome. Please wear layers of stretchy, comfortable clothing, and bring a reusable water container. If desired, bring a yoga mat, towel, a pad and pen for notes. Please note, this class may not be ideal for dancers who have experienced neck injury. If you have any special concerns please contact the instructor before registration.*)

(Studio D) Hungry for the knowledge that’ll help you best refuel and maintain the most precious possession you have? Think about all of the things you require your body to do for you every day…from the simple task of taking you from place to place to using it as a canvas for the art of movement and dance. The way you take care of, feed, and tune up your body will have a massive impact on your daily life. Though the concept of wellness can be incredibly confusing, complex, and even contradictory, this class is designed to give you a few simple tools to help improve your physical and mental vitality. This workshop will cover some basic guidelines designed to help you find the energy you need to be the best dancer, athlete or human being you can be! We’ll learn about macronutrients, micronutrients, hydration, physical training and recovery, body composition, goal-setting, motivation, stress management and habit-changing skills. A combination of seminar and activities, you will be able to take this information and tailor it to your individual needs. Ashley has been a certified fitness instructor since 2003. Throughout the last decade she has been trained to teach nearly any group fitness format, from water aerobics to indoor cycling to Zumba, and currently specializes in yoga, Pilates and belly dance. A yogi, dancer, opera singer, and general fitness and wellness enthusiast, she’s devoted the past ten years to learning, researching and training with a goal of spreading fitness, wellness and art to others…near and far. (*Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome to this discussion class. Bring a reusable water container, and if desired a pad and pen for notes.*)

(Studio A) Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome. Bring a reusable water container and a yoga mat or towel. Please wear layers of stretchy and comfortable clothing.

(Studio A) A fusion of Arabic Dance, Flamenco and Latin Caribbean – This is a hot and fiery dance blending Arabic hip movements with Flamenco and Latin Caribbean skirt technique and arm work. The Latin Caribbean skirt work movements come from Puerto Rico Folk Dance called Bomba and Plena. We will be using a mixture of Arabic and Flamenco music and work on numerous combinations that will teach the dancer how to incorporate wisely the fusion of Spanish, Arabic and Latin Caribbean Dance. Learn dramatic and theatrical moves with your skirt and unique hand and arm technique that will enhance your own show stopping performance. (*Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome, but at least one consecutive year of belly dance practice recommended. Please wear layers of stretchy, comfortable clothing, and a full skirt--remember to bring a reusable water container. If desired, bring a yoga mat, towel, a pad and pen for notes.*)

(Studio B) Dancing with the veil allows you to dance with the wind, to express beyond your vessel and bring about new creative explorations. The veil allows you to Expand Your Energy visually for your audience, painting in various colors your individual art. We will learn veil movements that will help to release your power, convey meaning and enliven stages. We will also focus on posture and grace, two very important aspects of a clean veil performance. This workshop is great for all levels, some will be picking up new movements while some dancers will be inspired by a fresh perspective. (*Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome. Please bring your favorite veil, or there will be some to borrow. Bring a reusable water container, and if desired a pad and pen for notes. Please wear layers of stretchy and comfortable clothing.*)

(Studio C) Dance is art created through the body: dancers seek to interpret the music, to make visible the essence of the song, to give form to the intangible. Using an ATS base, we will delve into the concepts of form, energy, pattern and composition, applying them with some signature Gypsy Fire moves, variations, and combos. Focusing on Improvisation and group work, we will create dynamic 3D compositions, utilizing some Gypsy Fire turns and passes, as well as formation changes. Bring visual texture, connection, and fun to your dance, and elevate your group's performances by consciously 'Making Shapes'! (*Difficulty/What to bring: Intermediate and above-- some familiarity with the foundations of ATS strongly suggested. Bring a reusable water container, and if desired a yoga mat, towel, and a pad and pen for notes.*)

(Studio D) An exploration into the rhythms of dance and music . In this course we will take a close look at the rhythms common to the music and dance of North Africa and the Middle East. It is open to dancers and also drummers who want to learn more about the rhythm structures covered in the session. We will discuss rhythm structures, learn how to vocalize rhythms, learn an assortment of rhythms, work with zill patterns, and put the rhythms in the context of melodies. We will also discuss terminology and jargon that drummers/musicians use and cover communication skills that will help both drummers and dancers collaborate with each other more effectively. There will be a brief section on drum technique, both for the benefit of the drummers in the class and also to make sure non-drummers understand the tones and basic techniques drummers use. Dancers who aren’t interested in drumming can feel free to bring zills, but will have plenty to learn in the class even without zills. There will be some extra drums on hand for those who need them, although anyone wanting to focus on drumming during the class is encouraged to bring their own. (*Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome to this Discussion Class. Bring a reusable water container, and if desired a pad and pen for notes.*)

(Studio A) Dalia will be teaching this workshop using Turkish and Balkan Brass Band Music while dancing with skirts. Balkan Brass Band or Chochek Music (Serbian: trumpet) is a distinctive style of music originating in 19th century Serbia when trumpeters in the military transposed folk music during harsh times. It is popular throughout the Balkans, especially Serbia, Macedonia and Bulgaria. In this workshop we will learn to dance with skirts to both Turkish Roman Music and Chochek music. Skirt and Footwork will be taught to accentuate this music. This is a high energy and a positively "feel good, exciting, fiery" dance experience. (*Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome! Please wear a full circle skirt. Bring a reusable water container, and if desired a yoga mat, towel, and a pad and pen for notes.*)

(Studio B) Take your dance and play with it, turn it upside-down, and inside out! In this class, we will explore a variety of dance "games" to push your dance boundaries and creativity.. Topics will range from partnering exercises, adventures in improv of all varieties (not just tribal), and fun ways to come up with new combinations. Please bring an open mind and a sense of humor. (*Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome. Bring a reusable water container, and if desired a yoga mat, towel, and a pad and pen for notes. Please wear layers you can easily move in.*)

(Studio C) This workshop will focus on how to get from here to there on any size stage. Many dancers are comfortable when dancing in one spot but when the music calls for traveling they have trouble creating movement patterns that are clear and visually pleasing to the audience and make sense with the phrasing of the music. We will go over dynamic traveling steps and ways make them into interesting shapes and patterns linking them together into a fun and challenging choreography. We will also break down some classic dance tunes and learn how to listen for those places in the music where these techniques could be used. (*Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome. Bring a reusable water container, and if desired a pad and pen for notes. Please wear layers of stretchy and comfortable clothing.*)

(Studio D) A Belly Dancer's guide to the Secret Language of Tribal Textiles & Ethnic Adornment. As Belly Dancers, every piece of our costuming is like a secret language of ancient Tribal communications. In cultural context, women (and men) greeting each other knew instantly the other's marital status, if she had born children, health/emotional issues, and the wealth & location of her tribe, all based on her adornment. All the embroidery, mirrors, bells, coins, tassels & colors hold energetic meanings in this ancient language of symbolism. We will specifically explore the common Tribal Fusion & ATS® adornment, what Tribal Peoples these originate from & how to decipher the secret language contained within. If you have a special piece of jewelry or costuming you wish to know more about, please feel free to bring it. You will receive a handout with info to keep, along with a coin guide. Books from Zahara's Adornment Library will also be available for your perusal. (*Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome to this discussion class. Bring a reusable water container, and if desired a pad and pen for notes.*)

(Studio A) Vintage Stylization w/ Spins, Levels + Zils. In this workshop we'll dip into our American belly dance history with a few vintage style combos, heavily inspired by the late 60's and early 70's. Prepare for fun and challenging finger cymbal patterns with floorwork, level changes, and of course, shimmies. (*Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome, but at least one year of consecutive dance practice suggested. Bring your finger cymbals, yoga mat, and love of improvisation with a shared vocabulary. Bring a reusable water container, and if desired a pad and pen for notes. Please wear layers of stretchy and comfortable clothing.*)

(Studio B) What is the difference between the sacred dances of Zaar, Guedra, Schikkat & Khaleeji? Why the emphasis on hair/head movements? These and many more questions will be answered as we explore the differences & similarities of these women's dances, their costuming, settings, Healing/Energetic/Sspiritual properties, & as we experience the movements ourselves. Based on Zahara's research of anthropological studies, experiences here in the USA and abroad in N. Africa & the Middle East, we will explore with cultural sensitivity the amazing Energy of Women's Trance Dances. Also will include performance examples for Tribal Fusion Belly Dance. (*Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome. Please wear a caftan or a long skirt and top you feel comfortable moving in & a large square scarf or veil. Not recommended for Dancers with neck or shoulder injuries, although we will explore how to do these without hurting yourself. Bring a reusable water container, and if desired a yoga mat, towel, and a pad and pen for notes.*)

(Studio C) Have you ever wondered what makes Sha'abi dance different from other styles of traditional belly dance? Seattle's multi-award-winning instructor, Dahlia, will define and demystify this urban Egyptian style and have you emulating and loving the "dirty" side of Egyptian dance in no time. Utilizing the stylization and nuance of some of our most beloved Egyptian artists, Dahlia will teach you to speak Sha'abi, loud and proud! *Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome, but at least one consecutive year of belly dance practice recommended. Please wear stretchy, comfortable clothing - full skirt not recommended. Remember to bring a reusable water container, and, if desired, a pad and pen for notes, a yoga mat for stretching and towel for sweating!*

(Studio D) In this Discussion Class, learn the make up techniques to always look your best on stage and in front of the camera. After working on set at photo shoots and runway shows in the fashion industry for nearly 10 years and performing on stage for most of her life, Emily has a unique skill set to offer on makeup application. This hands-on lecture class will cover products, colors, application and how-to advice for a variety of make up situations as well as opportunity for Q&A. This class includes an in depth demo of a “basic” face and you are invited to bring your make up bag to try out techniques as they are taught. We will also touch on how to create a look for a character for more theatrical performances. Participants will come away with knowledge of how to prepare for a performance or a photo shoot and bring out their own unique, beautiful features. A detailed hand out provided but feel free to take notes as well. (*Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome. Bring a reusable water container, and if desired a pad and pen for notes. If you like, bring your make up bag.*)

(Studio A) Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome. Bring a reusable water container and a yoga mat or towel. Please wear layers of stretchy and comfortable clothing.

(Studio A) In this workshop we'll learn a few creative approaches to guiding the audience's focus and gaze. This can create subtle changes in mood, in perception of the dancers' different roles, and most importantly, to bring focus where you want it. Come prepared to work in groups, and to play well with others. (*Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome, but at least one consecutive year of belly dance practice recommended. Bring a reusable water container, a yoga mat or towel, and a pad and pen for notes. Please wear layers of stretchy and comfortable clothing.*)

(Studio C) Extracting Inspiration From All Places Using Butoh Techniques. This class is very new, and inspired by Sharon’s studies of Ankoku Butoh (Japanese for black, black dance)- Using story and character building techniques, as well as breathing and visualization, we will dive in to our deepest, darkest creative bodies in order to access the unusual. The focus in this class is to learn to become a channel, a conduit for information, and to release the ego and sense of self fully. This can help alleviate stage fright, creative blocks, and fear related to dance. Please bring a yoga mat, comfy clothes, and an open mind. Exercises in a body-centered somatic therapy will also be taught in order to create safe, sacred space. This class is limited to 25 people.(*Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome. Warning- this class may change your life. Bring a reusable water container, and if desired a yoga mat, towel, light snacks, and pad and pen for notes.*)

(Studio D) Dalia has been creating theatrical dances made for theater and nightclubs for over the past 30 years. Part lecture and part discussion, this class focuses on how a dancer can be more exciting in his/her performance. Techniques will be discussed in how to move on the floor to make your dance more dynamic, how to create strong body lines to become more dramatic either performing on a stage and/or night club, and Learn Dalia’s numerous tricks of the trade and become an ecstatic dancer. (*Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome. Bring a reusable water container and a pad and pen for notes to this discussion class.*)

(Studio A) Join Ashley and Doug on a ride to drum solo bliss. In this class, students will practice dancing and zilling to some common middle-eastern rhythms and learn a little basic music theory, in order to arm themselves with the knowledge that will make dancing with live musicians a fulfilling and pleasurable experience! Ashley and Doug will demonstrate some of the basics of dancer-drummer communication skills and break down some techniques to help students overcome the sometimes seemingly overwhelming task of collaborating with their own live music-maker! Topics will include choreography versus improvisation, solo performance versus troupe. (*Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome. Bring a reusable water container, your zills, any confuzzling questions and a sense of adventure! If desired a yoga mat, towel, and a pad and pen for notes.*)

(Studio C) With the revival of vaudeville comes a renewed love of the music of its golden age. Hot jazz, minstrel music, Tin Pan Alley classics, and some modern mash-ups are what we will be dancing to in this exciting workshop. We will learn some Charleston basics, including footwork and arm movements, drill classic belly dance movements to the era’s music, and learn combinations that pull the different styles together beautifully. This class is great for fusion belly dancers, burlesque artists, and swing dancers who want to put a little extra flair in there! Sparrow’s background as a musician and her longtime love of swing dancing give her a unique ability to break down the movements and music that give this period its pizazz. (*Difficulty/What to bring: All levels welcome. Bring a reusable water container, and if desired a pad and pen for notes. Please wear layers of stretchy and comfortable clothing.*)

(Studio D) A historical and design overview of henna motifs from the land of its origins, North Africa. We will work with Amzigh, Berber, and Moroccan design motifs, discussing their symbolism and magical significance. We will work specifically with Moroccan henna paste to create our own sigils of protection and blessing. Students will learn North African henna technique and mixing tricks for this special type of henna. Each participant will receive a goodie bag with supplies and design handouts. (*What to bring: Bring a reusable water container, and if desired a pad and pen for notes to this Discussion Class. Please wear short-sleeved shirts, shorts/skirt, and/or sandals to practice henna application without getting mussed. All henna supplied--each attendee will receive materials to work with in class, a gift bag of henna products to try at home, and may have the opportunity to be adorned with henna by Wendy, time dependent.*)