This event is a way to experience dabke dance more informally, immersing yourself in our cultural identity.

Listed by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the folkloric Shami —derived from al Sham, the Levant region that includes the modern day countries of Palestine, Lebanon, Syria and Jordan — dance has ancient roots in community. Another version of it in Iraq is called dabcha or chobi. It is performed professionally and informally, all as a way of sharing joy with the community at celebrations such as festivals, weddings and graduations.

This event is a way to learn more informally and dance together with a focus on dabke, immersing yourself in our cultural identity and experiencing its expression.

The event will also include demonstrations of dabke choreography with our performances, as well as our students’ performances. To sign up for our dabke classes, visit: www.malikataldabke.com/dabkeclasses.