Festival Workshop
Let’s Khaleeji
with September Shahravar
About this workshop
This light-hearted upbeat dance and music from the Gulf region is recognised by beautiful and bright, oversized dresses called thobe al nashal worn over clothes without a hip belt. We will learn about rhythm variations, footwork, combos, hair dancing and how to work with the ornate thobe.
Your Tutor
September Shahravar
Shahravar has travelled and studied with legendary masters of this dance for over 30 years to hone and perfect the true essence of Oriental Dance, continually expanding her knowledge and repertoire, made visible with soulful, inspired performances. She often draws on her early years of Punk and New Wave music appreciation to add a dynamic fusion to performing modern belly dance. "My dance background follows classical cabaret, tribal and folkloric paths. Studying the rich cultural history as well as technique and drums, I am well trained and research Flamenco, Zahmbra, Turkish and "Gypsy" (preferred term is Rom or Roma), American Tribal, Saudi Folk, Khallegy, Tunisian, Egyptian Cabaret and Lebanese Debke Line dances." she has performed and taught workshops throughout the United States and has studied under experts as varied as Mahmoud Reda, Carolena Nericcio, Sahra Saida, Cassandra, Aziz, Ansuya, Amaya, Alexandra King, Bert Balladine, Rachel Brice, Kami Liddle, Ashley Lopez, Aziza, Delilah, Zoe Jakes and many more. In 2004, Shahravar created Utah's first collaborative belly dance troupe, Shah Sitara. This performing level group of advanced students and professional dancers. Over the years, Shahravar's work has been featured in Jareeda Bellydance Magazine, she opened for Beats Antique, and has been an instructor for many festivals including Cues & Tattoos.