The
Workshop : Chicago Shimmyfest 2006, held August 24-29,
was the fourth event of its type. Each year it never ceases to amaze me
how the event evolves into something better every time. The focus of the
event is for performers of all levels, to gather information and experience
to be the best they can be. For the fourth time in a row, the event was
sold out and the group of dancers who participated were from all over
Illinois, all over the U.S. and even from as far away as Korea!

The
workshops were filled with a positive and nurturing energy. Two different
choreographies, one classical oriental and the other Saidi, were offered
to challenge not only the body but the mind and spirit. The belief behind
training with such discipline is that the body must rise to the level
where it ‘gets out of the way’ so that during performance,
the dancer has automatically flawless technique that allows her/him to
perform freely and with emotional expression.
But
there is more presented than choreography at this 20-hour workshop. Lively
discussions were held regarding Tips on Improvisation and How to Choreographfor Yourself, as well as a Q&A session with Vahe Zakarian, our guest
drummer whohas experience for over 50 years as a tabla player for both
folkloric and oriental dancers.
Fun
and empowering sessions were held with Vahe drumming during class for
exercises on connecting with the tabla and the rhythms and improving the
ability to manage a live drum solo. The information
provided and the exercises experienced were meant to boost the level of
each and every dancer there, regardless of whatever level at which they
entered. |