SATURDAY 18TH OF MARCH

Workshop 1 11:00am-1:00pm: Rhythm Interpretation

How do you know when a Raqs Sharqi artist has trained with a Middle Eastern teacher? Well, most of us won’t but you can bet an Arabic audience will know immediately! In this workshop Najla is going to break down why rhythm interpretation is vital to dancing with that ‘nuance’ that most western dances don't have.

Workshop 2 1:30-3:30pm: Oum Kalthoum Stripped Back

It’s time to put aside the bells and whistles and understand how Arabic dance artists really respond to their classical music. In this choreography workshop, Najla is going to demonstrate how to pare things right back to the elements that are most essential to include when dancing to Oum Kalthoum including gesturing and lyric interpretation that simply and profoundly connects with the meaning of the song

Essence of East Showcase 7:00-9:30pm

Watch a spectacular line up of Australia's leading and upcoming artists as well as Najla Ferreira herself. Performance opportunities are open

SUNDAY 19TH OF MARCH

Workshops 3 11:00-1:00pm: Najla Style

In a world full copy-cats, be original! Every successful dancer in the world has one thing in common… They have developed their own style! Join Najla as she shares the secrets of the style that has set her apart and earned the love of thousands worldwide. Through this choreography, you will get a direct insight into how Najla interprets music and keeps her audience hanging off every step.

Panel Feedback Performance 2:00-400pm ONLY 10 Spots available

This event provides the opportunity to be given personalised feedback from a performance you will present to a panel of artists including Najla. Present the style of your choice, improvised or choreographed and be given some constructive feedback on what to work on as well as how to make the steps to achieve this. To get the most of this opportunity wear your full stage makeup, costuming and give it your all as if you are performing in a showcase event. This is safe environment for all levels of dancers to access valuable feedback in a supportive and uplifting environment.

Q&A With Najla: 5:00pm at River Bar and Kitchen

Join us in a farewell dinner for Najla to close off a wonderful weekend of dancing. Najla will be giving insight into her personal journey in the world of dance, how she has navigated work in the Middle East, pivotal points in her career, advice and tips for upcoming dancers and more. The space will be open for you to ask her questions as well.

Contact the host of Essence of the East