Nisaa is pleased to offer the following class series online via Zoom.  Before registering, please read ALL the information below, and if you have questions, e-mail or call 314.599.0506 for more information.  Stay up-to-date regarding upcoming class sessions by subscribing to Nisaa's monthly newsletter!
July 2023 Online Class Series with Nisaa
Registration and Payment Information
PLEASE READ ALL THE INFORMATION BELOW

Fee:

$65 USD for the class series

Please note that class fees are non-refundable after the start of the session.  Classes missed in the current session may not be used as credit for classes in future sessions.  Registrations are non-transferable.

Registration:

Register here with PayPal.  Click on the link to the right.  You don't have to have a PayPal account to use this method of payment.  Please be sure to register with a current e-mail address - Nisaa will e-mail the Zoom meeting links to this e-mail address!

Important Information:

  • Register at least 24 hours prior to the first class meeting.
  • Check your e-mail!  Nisaa will e-mail you the Zoom meeting link within 24 hours of the start of each class meeting.  If you have not received an e-mail at least two hours prior to the start of each class, please contact Nisaa immediately to request the Zoom meeting link.  Please do not wait till the last minute!
  • A recording will be available for viewing for 14 days after each class meeting.  All purchasers will be notified by email as soon as each recording is available.
Raqs Baladi: An Exploration of the Roots of Egyptian Belly Dance
The dance known in the West as “belly dance” originated as an informal social dance performed at happy occasions by men and women of all ages.  It wasn’t until the beginning of the 20th century that this traditional dance – raqs baladi – and its professional variants – performed by the awalim and ghawazi – were transformed into raqs sharqi – the glamorous theatrical style of belly dance that audiences recognize today.  Yet, for both ordinary Egyptians and professional dancers, raqs baladi represents the essence of belly dance.  In this class series, join Nisaa for a deep dive into the baladi roots of Egyptian belly dance.

Target Audience: Middle Eastern Dance Students (Intermediate to Advanced/Professional)

Week One – What Is Baladi?
Saturday, July 8, 2023 | 2-4 PM US Central Time

Discover the deeper meaning of baladi.   Baladi is about so much more than just dance.  It's a complicated term that embodies many layers of meaning.  Through lecture, photos, music samples, and videos, Nisaa introduces you to the concept of baladi and its meaning within Egyptian culture. 

Week Two – Baladi Aesthetic and Technique
Saturday, July 15, 2023 | 2-4 PM US Central Time

Explore baladi movement.  Nisaa introduces you to baladi aesthetic and technique by comparing and contrasting with theatrical raqs sharqi styling.  Learn how raqs baladi varies from region to region within Egypt, and why and how Cairene raqs baladi has become dominant in stage representations of the form.
Week Three – Taqsim Baladi
Saturday, July 22, 2023 | 2-4 PM US Central Time​

The taqsim baladi or ashra baladi, sometimes known as the baladi progression, is an improvisational music style that is unique to Egypt.  It emerged among musicians in early 20th century Cairo in the context of performances at social celebrations such as weddings.  It is music specifically meant for baladi dance.  Learn the defining characteristics of the taqsim baladi, and explore how to interpret and express this quintessential Egyptian musical form through dance.