Modern Egyptian Oriental

Mohamed Shahin will teach you an Egyptian “Raqs Sharqi” choreography combining traditional Oriental movements with modern Raqs Sharqi stylings. This choreography is ideal for a dramatic entrance to an “Egyptian Raqs Sharqi” performance piece. You will learn Mohamed’s acclaimed Egyptian technique and various classical combinations. Mohamed will give you many ideas for creative improvisation for you to utilize and personalize within your own dance performance. You will learn how to articulate movements using your whole body but with adding special emphasis on your hips, shoulders, and hands while engaging the essence of a unique Egyptian feeling. Mohamed will give you a clear and detailed breakdown of the movements, technique and combinations.

Shaabi – Cairo Street Dancing

“Shaabi” is a name for style of living, a style of dance, and a style of music. In Egyptian Arabic, the word Shaabi refers to the poorer, lower standard sections of the city of Cairo. The closest English equivalent to the word Shaabi would be "ghetto." The name came to characterize the style of music enjoyed in such neighborhoods. You will usually hear Shaabi music played everywhere throughout Cairo- in taxis and buses, in your favorite falafel shops, and lively street weddings. This style of music is somewhat rougher and more playful than the rest of Egyptian pop music. Truly, Shaabi is the music of the Egyptian people.