This workshop will explore the movement of Raï, the popular music of West Algeria. Raï music is rebel blues - it challenges the religious, the colonial, the social, and the acceptable status quo and therefore has been historically disenfranchised by colonialists and local Algerian nation-state. Despite its marginalization, it has been a symbol of soulfulness, freedom, and groove. Students will learn rai "groove" through rhythmic and fundamental footwork.. (live percussion if available)

This workshop will explore the movement of Chaâbi, the "peoples'" music of Morocco. Chaâbi reflects the working class struggle of Moroccan people, and is typically danced socially in informal gatherings such as weddings. Chaabi music is bright, celebratory, and typically increases in melodic and rhythmic intensity - allowing dancers to push themselves to a musical climax. Chaabi  often has horse symbolism in its lyrics and movement - and connects those to dance with strength, endurance. and groundedness, such as a horse.

Students will familiarize themselves with the fundamentals of movement and establish a relationship with Moroccan rhythms on the path of becoming a musically holistic dancer. (live percussion if available")

This workshop will explore a traditional dance from one sub-group of the indigenous people (Amazigh) of North Africa, known as the Chaouiya. This group is home to the region of the Aures mountains in East Algeria.  Chaoui dance is maternal and grounded, truly symbolic of this tribe's respect to the divine energy of nature and agriculture. Famously known by the "bounce" of the belly, this style is danced with strong isolations in the pelvis area. 

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Students will learn the core isolation of the "belly bounce", fundamental footwork, and create/continue a relationship with Chaoui rhythmic heartbeat.

This workshop will explore the movement of Algéroise, the Andalusian influenced music style from the capital city of Algiers. Algéroise is a classic traditional style representing the essence of "Alger La Blanche" or "El Behdja" - the port city of Algiers that is distinct in its white colonial architecture bedded across the blue Mediterranean. This dance is feminine, while heavily rhythmic and meditative. Students will learn to dance with thoughtful intention and coordination of "les mouchoirs" (hankerchiefs) in their hands. 

Students will familiarize themselves with footwork, fundamental movements and establish/continue a relationship with Algéroise rhythms and aesthetic.

Lecture explores the musicial, rhythmic, and histotical roots of Algeria rai music and examine its context as a social phenomenon amongst Algerian youth.

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Lecture explores the underground sub-culture of Rai, the spaces created around it, and the role of women and queer perfomance.

What is "North African" dance, and what are the dozens diverse styles found across Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia? What do they look like and what is their customs?

This lecture will explore that various regional styles of "popular" music of Moroccan Chaabi, the instrumentation, musicality, and dance variations.

This lecture explores unethical consumption and commodification of North African culture, for the benefit of social and financial capital within privileged communities. We will examine power, privilege, and access regarding the NA/Arab dance world.

A conversation aimed around intercommunal dialogue, especially around Nortth African youth and cultural workers - to help us navigate white supremacy, commericalization, and  cultural misrepresentation while keeping our cultures safe and strong!