Colorful Happenings
Mosaïque News
April 2013
Happy (finally) Spring!
As you know, Mosaique's studio and cultural arts center is now housed in our own dedicated space!
Check it out!
This is an exciting time in our organization as we expand our programs and cultural offerings.
In celebration of our new studio, we are offering a Grand Opening Special! This is a unique opportunity try our classes without obligation. Join in one or more adult or kids classes to experience what Mosaique offers our members!
Here are some of the exciting events happening at the studio this spring:
Saturday April 20
The Art of Dance Soloist Showcase Featuring Ayperi, will bring together diverse artists from across our region! Each performer has honed a unique style and talent, drawing inspiration from the empowering and expressive dances, collectively known as "bellydance" in popular culture.
Grand Opening Reception from 5p - 7p immediately after the show! The public is invited to explore the center and learn about our offerings.
Facebook Invite.
Saturday May 18
Workshop with the Fabulous Nica!
Nica brings over 25 years of professional dance experience, a vast repertoire and a fresh perspective to the art of dance. In this workshop she will help participants infuse fluidity, strength and elegance to any style through a rare and beautiful dance style, Arabo-Andalusian Dance Technique & Styling.
Saturday June 15
Workshop with the Amazing Ayperi! Ayperi is best known for her elegant dance style, stunning veil work and mesmerizing drum solos. In this workshop, she will guide participants in the Power of Nuance in Music Interpretation.
Learn more about our upcoming shows and workshops on our Events page.
I look forward to seeing you at our new studio and cultural arts center!
Sincerely,
Katayoun
CEO & Artistic Director
Mosaïque Center for Cultural Arts
katayoun@mosaique-center.org
(571) 283-9494
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March 2013
Special Announcement: New studio in Sterling!
Greetings!
Mosaique has just acquired a dedicated space to house our dance studio and cultural arts center! As of April 1st, 2013, you will find all our classes at 1323 Shepard Drive, Suite D - 2nd floor in Sterling!
We will have a beautiful dance space, freshly painted, with mirrors, and new wood floors. Conveniently located just off Rt 28 at the Sterling Blvd exit, close to Rt 7, with many shops, restaurants and businesses nearby, our new studio is above Cyrus Academy, the Farsi school.
Registration is now open. Check out our Spring Class Schedule in our new home!
I am very much looking forward to this next phase of our organization. We will have a Grand Opening reception on Saturday April 20 at 5p, immediately after our Soloist Showcase. We will post more information soon about this and other special events on the horizon.
Many happy wishes for spring....I hope to see you at our Nowruz event this Sunday, March 24. We have much to celebrate!
Sincerely,
Katayoun
CEO & Artistic Director
Mosaïque Center for Cultural Arts
March 10, 2013
About Nowruz
The Persian New Year called Nowruz, literally means 'New Day' in the Persian language, and is based on the Zoroastrian calendars of pre-Islamic Persia. In harmony with the rebirth of nature, Nowruz begins on the first day of spring. It is celebrated worldwide by Iranians, Afghans, Tajiks and Uzbeks, among others. Nowruz begins on the first day of spring, the vernal equinox, which in 2013 is Wednesday March 20 at 7:02 AM, EDT.
The rituals and traditions symbolize the many facets of the Nowruz holiday, including the setting of the "Haft Seen" table with the seven items beginning with the Farsi letter 'seen', equivalent to the sound of the English letter S:
- Sabzi (sprouts, usually lentil or wheat): Representing fertility and rebirth of nature.
- Seeb (apple): Represents natural beauty.
- Samanu (a pudding in which common wheat sprouts are transformed and given new life as a sweet, creamy pudding): Represents the reward of patience.
- Somagh (sumaq berry used as spice): Represents the color of sunrise; with the appearance of the sun Good conquers Evil.
- Senjed (the sweet, dry fruit of the Lotus tree): Represents love. It has been said when the lotus tree is in full bloom, its fragrance and its fruit make people fall in love and become oblivious to all else.
- Seer (garlic): Represents health.
- Serkeh (vinegar): Represents age.
The Nowruz holiday season lasts two weeks, beginning on the eve of the last Wednesday of the old year, called Chahar-Shanbeh Suri (literally means Eve of Red Wednesday), when people gather in the streets or even in their own backyards and jump over bonfires while singing a special phrase, "Give me your healthy red glow and take away my sickly yellow color." Jumping over the flames burns away the bad luck of the old year.
The two weeks long celebration ends with a relaxing and fun-filled day outdoors on the 13th day of New Year called Seezdeh Bedar (seezdeh is the number 13, "getting rid of 13" which is believed to be an unlucky number). On this day everyone goes on a picnic (It is considered unlucky to stay indoors on the 13th day). The picnic spot is preferably near a stream where the Sabzi from the Haft Seen is thrown into the stream. The sabzi is supposed to have collected all the sickness, pain and ill fate of the family so it must be dispersed in running water.
Nowruz is a time to reflect on life, renew and strengthen our relationships, and start fresh with the renewal of the earth. It can be a second chance at New Year's resolutions. With the arrival of spring comes the opportunity to rid ourselves of the negative and look forward with a more positive outlook.
We wish our friends of all ages, nationalities and backgrounds a wonderful spring and a Happy Nowruz, in celebration of life, love, joy and good health!
Learn more about Nowruz and Persian Culture:
Culture of Iran
Persian Mirror
Greetings!
Happy New Year!.....Once again. It's the Persian New Year, called NoRooz, meaning "New Day" in the Persian language (Farsi).
NoRooz arrives on the first day of spring, the vernal equinox. This year, the new year begins Wednesday March 20 at exactly 7:02am EST.
Learn more about NoRooz and its traditions in the featured article.
This spring, take care and rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit! Check out our Spring Classes for inspiration!
Once again this year, we are hosting a NoRooz Dinner Show and Dance Party at Bamian Afghan Restuarant in Falls Church on Sunday March 24. Tickets are on sale now!
Our NoRooz show features traditional and contemporary Persian dances and other folkloric dances from around the Middle East, including dance styles rarely seen by the general public. You don't want to miss it!
Happy Spring, and Happy NoRooz
Sincerely,
Katayoun Hutson
CEO and Artistic Director
Mosaique Center for Cultural Arts
katayoun@mosaique-center.org
February 2013
Happy New Year!.....Again. It's the Chinese New Year...the year of the Water Snake. What kind of luck can you expect this year? Find your sign at TravelChina.com, Chinese Zodiac.
2013 is shaping up to be a busy fun-filled year of events and special activities!
Our first event of the year is a big one.....our third annual Persian New Year celebration!
Be sure to mark your calendars with the exciting events we have planned, highlighted below. I will be sending out special announcements with the details of each unique event. In the meantime, learn more on our Events page.
Next month, Colorful Happenings will be all about the Persian New Year, called NoRooz, which begins on the vernal equinox, the first day of spring.
It has been another mild winter so far. Let's look forward to an early spring.
January 2013
Happy New Year!
It is that time of year when our optimism is infectious as we look forward to the coming year!
In 2013 I make only one resolution; one resolution with infinite possibilities:
To live intentionally.
This simple thought is driving my personal and professional goals as I transition into a new role at Mosaique.
In 2013, in addition to my most important role of chief instructor, my new title will be CEO and Artistic Director.
In this capacity, my work will focus on community outreach and enhancing the Mosaique experience for our members.
What will you resolve to do? What ever you do, I hope you do it with a sense of purpose and seek possibilities.
I wish you a wonderful start to 2013 and a year filled with much joy, love and laughter.
SAVE THE DATES! Upcoming Events!
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NOV/DEC 2012
While you're preparing for holiday dining, remember to stock up on colorful juicy fruits, especially pomegranates! Celebrate the winter solstice Persian style! Learn about Shab e Yalda, the Persian winter festival celebrated on the longest night of the year.And as you look forward to the Shift with great anticipation, take a look at our Winter Class Schedule! This session features classes at a new Sterling location!
Sign up by December 20 for $20 early registration discount! Try our new ONLINE REGISTRATION FORM
I am really excited about our new special programs! Here's what's new this session in our class offerings:
Intro to Cultural Dance & Music is a short six-week session that introduces students to the movement vocabulary 0f Middle Eastern cultural dance forms, such as belly dance and Persian dance. Each week we will explore a variety of dance movements through mini-routines and combinations. We will experiment with props and instruments such as veils, finger cymbals and drums! Finally, we will review in a fun ShimmyFit class at end of the session! Designed especially for new students, get a thorough experience of our programs so you can confidently choose the class you would like to pursue. Learn more about Class with Katayoun!
Club ShimmyFit! Enjoy all the benefits of ShimmyFit with more flexibility! In addition to the drop-in option, you can now purchase a package of ShimmyFit Dance classes, without enrolling in a specific class session. More ways to enjoy our classes...
By popular demand, I will conduct another intensive session of ShimmyFit Instructor Training on January 26. This teacher-training program offers the optional certification test. The ShimmyFit program has opened the rich world of Middle Eastern dance and music to a wider enthusiastic audience, while promoting teaching standards within the dance community. I have immensely enjoyed sharing the ShimmyFit Dance format with area instructors and aspiring professionals. Applications are being accepted for the winter training session.
Remember to register online for winter classes by December 20 for the early registration discount.
I wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving and a Happy Holiday season!
Sincerely,
SEPTEMBER 10, 2012
Join us this fall for Rhythm & Raqs, an innovative music class for dancers and music lovers! Rhythm & Raqs integrates music and dance in a unique curriculum which explores both through the ensemble concept.
1) Dancers who have a desire to better understand Middle Eastern music and culture, and
2) Anyone who wishes to begin or expand their musical journey with the rich sounds and traditions of Middle Eastern dance rhythms
"Rhythm & Raqs"
Course Objectives
- Identify and play a variety of dance rhythms on percussion instruments
- Identify and play a variety of cymbal patterns
- Make appropriate artistic choices in a performance with regard to music/cultural contexts, and considerations for different audiences, occasions, and venues
- Practice corresponding movements/steps with cymbal patterns and rhythms
- Explore non-verbal communication within an ensemble
- This is a multi-level class. While some dance and/or music experience is helpful, it is not required.
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SEPTEMBER NEWS, 2012
We are gearing up for fall classes, featuring folkloric dance and music, also known as Raqs Balady! I am busy working on choreography and compiling music for the new sessions that start the week of Sept 16!
You might ask, "What is folkloric dance and what does it have to do with belly dance?" Or you may wonder, "Why should I learn folkloric dance?" The answer is simple. Folkloric Middle Eastern dances are the various regional and ethnic traditions, which are actually the roots of contemporary belly dance. And they are tons of fun!
There are three characteristics of folkloric dance that I have observed throughout my 20 years of studying the various styles:
Community - Folkloric dances are social by definition, and there is always an element of community or group dynamic associated with its ritual and performance.
Spirited - Folkloric dances and music are highly energetic and joyous, whether the movements are small and subtle, or big and bouncy.
Colorful costumes - Folkloric dances display the pride and riches of the people they represent, and a people's distinct clothing and textiles are as much a part of the dance as the music and movements.
To be honest, I did not like folkloric dance or music in my early years as a dancer and instructor. They grew on me over the years, especially as I learned more about them.
A rare specialty, I have focused much of my training and education on folkloric dance and music. While I love and respect these traditional forms, I do not believe that traditional means staying the same. I have experimented and innovated on these traditional forms while retaining the authentic flavors. They have become my favorite of all the dance styles that I have learned.
The movements are mechanically simple; capturing the authentic flavor is a bit more elusive. I have created a systematic way of teaching the technique and authentic flavors of these uplifting and spirited dance forms.
You have a unique opportunity to experience the variety and flavors of these dances at Mosaique. Join us in Classes & Workshops this fall for a totally unique and enriching experience!
Sincerely,
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June 10, 2012
This summer, join me for classes and workshops to begin or expand your dance journey. I've included the schedule overview here, and some important information about the dance styles. Please review this information, and follow the links for more details.
Summer Classes
For Beginner Dancers:
Sundays 10:00am - 10:55am
Intro to Persian Dance, 6 wk session
Explore fluid and energetic Persian dances and music including classical, social and folkloric traditions. Ballet shoes or dance sneakers highly recommended. Ages 13 +, no previous dance exp. required
Mondays 6:00p - 6:55p
ShimmyFit (all levels), 6wk session
Beginner-friendly! Fitness and grace through belly dance! Learn a routine and practice a variety of movements and steps from Middle Eastern dance traditions.
Wednesdays 12p - 1p
ShimmyFit for Life, 6 wk session (low-impact, slow pace)
Explore basic skills and fun drills culminating in simple layers and combinations.
Thursdays, 8p-9p
Intro Middle Eastern Dance Series, 4 week session
Each week a different style or focus, explore topics in Egyptian belly dance, Persian dance and folkloric flavors.
Fridays 11a - 12pm
ShimmyFit Dynamic (all levels, high intensity, fast-paced), 6wk session
Beginner-friendly! Fitness and grace through belly dance! Learn folkloric and classical dances in a fun fast-paced format. Dance sneakers highly recommended.
For Experienced Dancers:
Sundays 11a -12p
Egyptian Raqs Drills & Skills, mixed-level (17+) Prerequisite: Minimum 6 mos. experience or instructor approval.)
Practice Oriental and folkloric styling with drills and combinations in a fun fast-paced format.Ballet shoes or dance sneakers highly recommended.
Sundays 12p - 1p
Persian Dance Drills & Skills, mixed-level (17+)
Prerequisite: Minimum 6 mos. experience or instructor approval.)
Practice classical and folkloric styling with detailed drills incorporating arms/hands movements, turns and transitions. Ballet shoes or dance sneakers highly recommended.
Tuesdays 6p - 7p
Egyptian Raqs Technique & Artistry, Interm-Adv (17+)
Prerequisite: Minimum 1 yr progressive experience or instructor approval.)
Explore dance rhythms and instrumental melodies with detailed drills and dynamic combinations.
Tuesdays 7p - 8p
Persian Dance Technique & Performance Skills, Interm-Adv (17+)
Prerequisite: Minimum 1 yr progressive experience or instructor approval.)
Practice Persian dance styling aesthetics and choreography. Explore the art of improvisation in performance.
Workshops:
July 10, 6:00p - 8:00p, Intro to Raqs al Assaya (Women's Egyptian cane dance)
August 28, 6:00p - 8:00p, Fusion Veil Choreography (Basic veil skills required)
About Egyptian Raqs (belly dance)
For complete class details, visit the Schedule & Registration page.
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May/June 2012
Greetings!
We are half way through our spring session and delving deeper into skills, drills and choreography.
Students in Egyptian Raqs classes are working on a choreography with a veil entrance to a very beautiful Modern Egyptian piece.
In the Persian Performance class, we are working on a delightful choreography with some interesting phrasing and tricky transitions. We are also having fun tossing around ideas for a backstory for this dance. I love exploring the storytelling of cultural dance!
Students in the various ShimmyFit classes are working hard on conditioning and building their movement vocabulary through drills and choreography. Each class offers a different focus. The ShimmyFit classes are for all levels and are drop-in friendly. Join us some time in our Reston or Ashburn locations. It is great fun!
I am planning a fall date of ShimmyFit Intructor Training. This is an intimate and focused session to help new and experienced instructors use the ShimmyFit format to teach their own programs. The first training session filled very quickly. If you are interested in this training or have questions, email me!
If you missed the opportunity to sign up for the spring session, join us for summer classes!
In this newsletter, I've included an installment of my Q & A series, about a topic I have very strong feelings.
Reminder: No classes this Sunday and Monday May 27 and 28. Enjoy the Memorial Day holiday weekend and everything it means to you.
And remember, dance while you can.
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"When I first started dancing and teaching, I didn't know anything about Middle Eastern music except that it had it's own flavor. At some point, I realized I needed to learn about the music if I was going to be a good mentor to my students and advance my own dance. I now realize what a great gift I gave myself and my students. By focusing as much on my music studies as my dance training, I opened a whole new world of inspiration, learning and personal growth.
Through the years, this question comes up frequently. And it continues to be a top concern for students and aspiring professionals:
'How do I know I'm being respectful of the culture and dance? I don't want to do anything wrong or offend people from the culture.'
My answer is usually the same. Start with the music.
Know the geographic origin of the music you want to perform to. If you can't find where it comes from on a world map, then perhaps there is not a strong cultural connection in the music. On the other hand, you might find, after researching your song, that it is actually from a specific country, tribe or region, therefore it has a definite cultural context, movement vocabulary and clothing style.
In my experience, and from my own perspective as someone who is from "over there," if you are using music from a particular culture, your dance style needs to be appropriate and respectful of the cultural context of that piece of music. In other words, match the dance to the music.
Perhaps the music is a fusion, inspired by, or an artistic interpretation of Middle Eastern music; you don't have the same boundaries and it is, perhaps, more open to interpretation.
Intuitively, we know that music propels and inspires dance, ethnic dance in particular. Aesthetically and from a cultural stand-point, it is jarring and inappropriate to disconnect the dance from the music.
On a final note, just because you love a piece of music does not mean that you should dance to it in public. Some music is meant to be enjoyed solely as a listening or meditative activity.
Learn about Mosaique's Music Program.
Contact us for inquiries and suggestions.
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April 2012
Greetings!
We had an amazing NoRooz event! We were delighted to have guests from many different cultural backgrounds, including Iranian, Turkish, Arab and American. You can view photos on our Facebook page.
Join us for our next event on Saturday April 28 in Ashburn, as we have our first Open House from 12 noon to 2p. Stop by anytime or stay for the whole thing. There will be demo classes, performances, dancing, drumming, prizes and more! The event is free and open to the public. Families welcome!
I am thrilled to announce that we have our first group ofShimmyFit certified instructors: Mosaique membersAyperi and Anne Oliphant, along with Elizabeth Lingafelt from Alexandria and Mhairi Basilah from Baltimore. Congratulations ladies!
Our spring session of classes is off to a great start! We have stepped up our programs just a bit with a few small changes that offer significant benefits.
This spring, we started offering all of our classes in 12-week sessions. We will continue to accept drop-in and mid-term enrollments, so it's not too late to join. We have fine-tuned our technique and performance classes while adding focus and challenging content.
For new students and those who would enjoy extra practice, we have a free basic skills class open to all currently enrolled students.
In addition to our regular ShimmyFit dance program, we now offer ShimmyFit Dynamic. Based on energetic and spirited dance styles, ShimmyFit offers a more fast-paced experience. With a structure that is beginner-friendly, this session, we are working on Egyptian folkloric dance technique and styling.
Learn more about current classes.
Just when you think it is spring, summer makes a guest appearance. Enjoy, and don't forget to dance!
MARCH 2012 - *NoRooz issue*
Greetings!
Happy New Year!.....Once again. It's the Persian New Year, called NoRooz, meaning "New Day" in the Persian language (Farsi). NoRooz arrives on the first day of spring, the vernal equinox. This year, the new year begins March 20 at exactly 1:11am EST.
NoRooz traditions are based on the ancient symbols and rituals of the Zoroastrian religion of Ancient Persia, now present-day Iran. NoRooz is celebrated by Iranians, Afghans and other Central Asian and Middle Eastern cultures throughout the world.
NoRooz festivities last for 2 weeks. The symbols and rituals are all centered around the themes of life, health and renewal. And it seems anyone can embrace these traditions to start fresh with the arrival of spring.
Learn more about NoRooz and its traditions on this wonderful site all about Persian culture: Persian Mirror.
Once again this year, we are hosting a NoRooz Dinner Show and Dance Party at Bamian Afghan Restuarant in Falls Church on Sunday April 1. Tickets are on sale now!
Our NoRooz show features traditional and contemporary Persian dances and other folkloric dances from around the Middle East, including dance styles rarely seen by the general public. You don't want to miss it! Buy now to reserve your place at our big celebration!
Spring is approaching. And here we are wondering when winter will arrive. If it's all the same to Mother Nature, I don't mind skipping it this year.
Happy Spring, and Happy NoRooz!
Mosaique Events & Classes
Wednesdays
12:00p Lunchtime Belly Dance Fun! Beginner Friendly! Drop-in for only $10/class!
Thursdays
8:00p NEW TIME! ShimmyFit! - Fitness and grace through belly dance! (Beginners and up)
Fridays
11am ShimmyFit! (Beginners and up)
Sun Mar 18 10am-1pm, Persian Dance Intensive
Sun Mar 25 10am-1pm, Props Intensive (veil and cane)
Sunday April 1, Mosaique's NoRooz Dinner, Show and Dance Party!
February 2012
Greetings!
Last month I mentioned some of my goals for Mosaique in 2012. I'm having a blast developing ideas for our shows, special programs, and teaching my students.
In the process, I'm also reflecting on 2011. Last year in many ways, was a year of 'firsts' for Mosaique.
2011 in review:
- We had our first NoRooz event to celebrate the Persian New Year
- We created our first theatrical show Myths, Legends and Mysteries
- We organized our first hafla and dance showcase for the community
- Several Mosaique members shared their first Middle Eastern dance solos, including Dara, Melanie and Amira Shagara. And "Noura" debuted in a group veil performance.
Our NoRooz show features traditional and contemporary Persian dances and other folkloric dances from around the Middle East, including dance styles rarely seen by the general public. Learn more on our Events page.
This year I am also looking forward to challenging my students and myself in our study and practice of dance and music. No doubt you will see this manifest in our performances throughout the year.
Next month, Colorful Happenings will be all about the Persian New Year, called NoRooz, which begins on the vernal equinox, the first day of spring. When spring arrives, the earth is renewed, and according to NoRooz traditions, we too have an opportunity to start fresh....again.
It has been a mild winter so far. Let's hope for an early spring.
Sincerely,
Tuesdays
6pm Middle Eastern Dance (mixed-level)
7pm Persian Dance Technique & Performance (mixed-level)
Wednesdays
12p Lunchtime Belly Dance Fun! Beginner Friendly! Drop-in for only $10/class!
Thursdays
7:30p ShimmyFit! - Fitness and grace through belly dance! (Beginners and up)
Fridays
11am ShimmyFit! (Beginners and up)
Sundays
11am Middle Eastern Dance Technique & Artistry (Int/Adv) ($20/class, drop-in only)
12pm Music Education and Appreciation (all levels) ($20/class, drop-in only)
Sun Mar 18, Persian Dance Intensive, 10a-1p
Sun Mar 25, Props Intensive (veil and cane), 10a-1p
Sunday April 1, Mosaique's NoRooz Dinner, Show and Dance Party!
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January 2012
Greetings!
Happy New Year! I'm going to jump on that wave of optimism and tell you about the exciting things I'm looking forward to this year!
First, I want to thank you all for your support and encouragement of Mosaique. It means so much, and often comes at times I need it the most. And especially to my students and Mosaique members, Thank YOU! I so admire and appreciate your dedication to your art and to your own excellence.
Like many of you, I'm sure, I have BIG dreams and ideas! They often manifest in new programs, or spill into my current classes. And sometimes there just isn't any more room in the programs (or anywhere else) to bring them to fruition. Maybe that's a good thing. After all, the universe knows.
All that said, I'm excited for 2012! Not because it is supposed to be a mystical year (though that does make it fun). I'm excited because it is a new year and I have lots of new things to share!
Here are a few of my goals for Mosaique in 2012:
1. Launch the pilot for ShimmyFit Instructor Training - Email me if you're interested, I have a great deal for you!
2. Further develop the curriculum program, Certificate of Specialization in Middle Eastern Dance, Music & Cultural Studies - Accepting applications now!
3. Produce even more amazing events than last year, and inspire more Mosaique members to participate - Yes, this possibly means YOU!
4. Find a fabulous space to serve as our dedicated studio in a great location that welcomes what we offer the community!
Number 4 is a tall order, but I'm putting it out there for you and the universe to ponder and respond appropriately.
I have been thinking about my friends, students, and associates, and realized 2011 was not a great year for many. And while I managed to accomplish some great things professionally, personally I struggled more than I have in many years. That's the bad news and it's behind us, but still within reach to teach us.
Here's the good news: 2012 is here and we can start fresh with a whole new outlook, or just a new outfit. In my opinion, you can't go wrong with either; it's your choice.
One of my mantras since I started Mosaique has been, "Think BIG! Act small." These small acts include continuing my education and training, making personal connections, and having fun!
This year, I'm ready for something BIG! I hope the universe agrees with me.
So, I guess that was my declaration of my professional New Year Resolutions. On the personal side, I am keeping it simple: eat better, exercise more, worry less.
2012.....Enjoy!
Sincerely,
January 8, 2012: New workshop added
Intro to Shimmies!
~A whole hour of hip-shaking fun~
"Surrender to the jiggle!"
K
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September 2011
We are gearing up for fall classes, featuring folkloric dance and music! I am busy creating choreography and compiling music for the new sessions that start later this month. Join me for a joyous experience and learn the modern art of belly dance through its authentic roots!
Aside from the pure joyful nature of folkloric dance, what I love most is that they are derived from the dances of real people in real places, where women, men, and children all participate! Everyone, any age, of any skill level can dance! I know because I teach and share these dances with people of all ages and abilities, from preschoolers to senior adults, and they all immensely enjoy the experience of dance, music and culture. These dances are for anyone who enjoys moving to music!
In the fall season of classes we will explore a few of my favorite folkloric styles, such as Bandari (Iranian), Baba Karam (Persian), and Saidi (Egyptian). Maybe they will become your favorites too.
I hope you enjoy the article I wrote about folkloric dances, and be sure to check out the video links to some past performances.
Check out the complete schedule and register online! Let me know if you have any questions.
Enjoy the holiday weekend!
Katayoun
What is folkloric dance?
By Katayoun Hutson
Students often ask, "What is folkloric dance and what does it have to do with belly dance?" Or they may wonder, "Why should I learn folkloric dance?" The answer is simple. Folkloric Middle Eastern dances are the various regional and ethnic traditions which are actually the roots of contemporary belly dance. And they are tons of fun!
The study of folklore dances is a must for any serious 
student of Middle Eastern and belly dance styles; however, anyone interested in taking up dance for exercise and recreation will find the folkloric flavors of Middle Eastern dance are not only a fun workout, but the musical and cultural elements make it even more enjoyable!
If you have never taken dance classes or have never tried belly dance, it is great to start with folkloric styles. Beginners enjoy the more relaxed and forgiving nature of folkloric dance technique compared to other performance styles. Experienced dancers will enhance their repertoire, add depth to their dance, and garner more respect from their audiences. Plus, Middle Eastern folkloric dances are among the most interesting to study because they offer a more diverse experience of the cultures, history and geography of the region.
While we recognize some of the same movements in belly dance, folkloric dances are not actually styles of belly dance. Each country and region has its own distinct style of movement and musical traditions. However, they all seem to have some common elements. The movements, and more importantly, the flavor of the movements, can vary greatly from region to region - even regions within the same country.
There are three characteristics of folkloric dances that I have observed throughout my 20 years of studying the various styles:
Community - Folkloric dances are social by definition, and there is always an element of community or group dynamic associated with its ritual and performance.
Spirited - Folkloric dances and music are highly energetic and joyous, whether the movements are small and subtle, or big and bouncy.
Colorful costumes - Folkloric dances display the pride and riches of the people they represent, and a people's distinct clothing and textiles are as much a part of the dance as the music and movements.
Click the links below for videos of these spirited and joyous dances:
Troupe Eshveh's signature Saidi (Women's Egyptian stick dance)
Katayoun's Beledi with cymbals
You have a unique opportunity to experience the variety and flavors of these dances at Mosaique. Join us for a totally joyous and enriching experience. Happy Dancing!
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June 2011
SAH'RA
Meet Sah’ra, experienced dancer and performer specializing in Egyptian Oriental and folklore dance. Sah’ra has been active in the Middle Eastern dance community since 2000. She has also been a member of Troupe Eshveh since January 2010.
“My original career was HR and Recruiting, but I left that recently to join my husband full-time in the business we started three years ago. We do Home Improvement/Remodeling Contracting work, and I am currently pursuing an education in Interior Design.
Since joining Mosaique in 2009, I have taken multiple dance classes and music classes, and participated in the Curriculum Program in 2009, and am currently working on Teacher Training with Katayoun.
I first became interested in Middle-Eastern dance in 2000, after walking in to a bellydance fitness class in my gym (one of Wendy Youssef's first classes), entirely by accident, really. That day, I fell in love with the music, and the movements, and I've been hooked ever since.
I perform as often as possible! Most of my performances this past year have been with Troupe Eshveh, but I've also performed as a soloist at some haflas. The first time I performed was for a Holiday Party at Dance with Me Studio. I thought I would never be able to go through with it. After I got off the stage, I had such a rush, the only thing I could think is "that was awesome! When do we do it again??" I still feel that way after I get off the stage. Before I get on the stage, it's an entirely different set of feelings!
When my husband and I first started dating in 2006, I was actually taking a break from actively studying and performing. Dance had consumed my life for 6 years, and I had wanted to simplify and focus on some spiritual goals. I had not thought that I would take a 2-year break! However, in those two years, I changed careers, bought a home, and married my husband. A year after we were married I was ready to get serious again. My new husband was not thrilled with the idea of his wife being a "bellydancer", but he also didn't want to keep me from doing something that would make me happy. He has since gotten quite an education, and actually has strong opinions about what makes a "good dancer" now.
Often, when I first tell someone new about what I do, they will say something like "Hmmm...I would have pictured you doing River Dance, or something...", or, "You don't look Egyptian, how did you learn that?" I never know how to respond to that.The rest of my family and friends think it's the coolest hobby, ever! I have to agree.
One of the first things Middle Eastern dance changed for me was my body image. When I first happened upon that dance class, I had been spending 2 - 3 hours a day in a gym. Soon after, I gave up the gym completely, and focused on dance and yoga. I had never felt stronger or healthier. I learned that a body doesn't have to be "perfect", to be beautiful. When I would complain about gaining weight, Wendy would remind me that "the jiggle is beautiful", and through watching other dancers, I began to understand what she meant.
In 2000, when I first started dancing, my life was a mess, I was a mess. I won't say dance is the only thing that changed that, but it definitely helped me on my way.
Studying with Katayoun has been so amazing. She has helped me improve my confidence-level, pin-point my weaknesses and strengths, and discover my own style. My upper-body and arms have improved at least 50%!! I choreographed a drum solo this year, something I had never done before out of fear (that it would suck!), and I absolutely love it! It's probably my favorite piece in my repertoire currently.I admire women…all women! Every woman I know does something that inspires me! I admire women that actively pursue their interest in Middle-Eastern Dance, despite being working mothers, that's such an inspiration to me. I admire women like Katayoun and my best friend Joanna, because they don't just talk about what they want to do, they set goals and then work on how they will achieve them.
I also enjoy yoga and meditation. I love music, though I'm not currently doing anything cool like making music, music has been my world since I first understood what it was. And books are my ultimate escape, I read a ton!
At the end of last year, my goals for 2011 included performing more and beginning to teach. However, I soon realized that doing both may not be entirely realistic, given that we're expecting our first child this September! I know that all the women I have known who have had children and continued to dance will be a great resource to me now, because while I'm sure I may slow down for a few months, I don't intend to take any more 2-year breaks.”
Sah’ra will be a featured performer in Mosaique’s upcoming show. Visit her website at www.sahraraqs.com.