Online booking for Raqs America is now closed. You will be able to purchase available tickets for all workshops and the Saturday evening show at the door. Thank you and see you at Raqs America!

Sweet and Saucy Beledi

Who

Rachel Kay Brookmire

Rachel Kay Brookmire is the founder and Creative Director of Sahara Dance, Washington DC's Center for Middle Eastern Dance (http://saharadance.com).

A sought-after performer and teacher, Rachel specializes in modern Egyptian raqs sharqi. Known for her playful and elegant stylization, Rachel has performed regularly with bands in Arab nightclubs and shared the stage with internationally acclaimed artists such as Lebanese pop stars Nancy Ajram and Fadel Chaker and London's Turkish-influenced musical group Oojami.

Rachel is the Director of Sahara Dance resident company, Raqs Sahara, noted for "enthralling, sensuous Middle Eastern dance styles" (The Washington Post). She also directs Sahara Dance student companies, Raqs Caravan East and West. Seeking to elevate and develop Oriental dance as a theater performance art, Rachel and Raqs Sahara create several annual theater productions highlighting both traditional and experimental belly dance.

Rachel has taught belly dance to thousands of students. Her gentle teaching style emphasizes postural alignment, contextual awareness of Arab music and culture and a joyful celebration of femininity. Recognized for her detailed, structured teaching approach, Rachel's classes focus on precise and intentional movement execution, musicality and individual expression.

Rachel began her full-time study of belly dance with a two-year intensive apprenticeship with Autumn Ward. She has traveled to Egypt and throughout North America to continue diligent training with world-renowned master teachers, most notably Yousry Sharif. Prior to studying Middle Eastern dance, Rachel practiced yoga and trained in modern and West African dance.

What

Learn a playful Egyptian beledi dance, juxtaposing the silly and the sensual... Delight in swirly moves, full-bodied shimmies and fancy steps. A fun time for all levels!

Where

Studio 3

When

Saturday 21/06/2008 13:20 - 15:20

How Much

$40