Gulf Dance Weekend Atlanta, GA
February 6 & 7, 2015
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THE INSTRUCTORS
Kay Hardy-Campbell
Kay has taught Gulf (Khaliji) women's folkloric dances for more than three decades. After earning a BA in Arabic and Middle Eastern Studies, Kay lived in Saudi Arabia for several years, learning the dances at women's wedding parties and in the homes of Saudi friends. She also began researching traditional Saudi and Gulf culture and has written extensively about the music and folkdance of the Middle East. She has returned to Saudi Arabia three times on assignment for Saudi Aramco World Magazine. Kay plays the 'ud and helps direct the Arabic Music Retreat. While she doesn't perform Khaliji dance as a soloist, Kay choreographs for her students and dance companies. Known as a "teacher's teacher," Kay aims to share her knowledge of dance, music and culture with generosity, and is delighted when her students experience the joyous aspects of traditional Arabian culture first hand through music and dance.
Uza Mitra
One of the few Westerners specializing in authentic Iraqi dance, Uza is part of New York City's newest generation of Middle Eastern dancers and scholars. A member of Najji Theater, a group devoted to the personal experiences of the Iraqi people and contemporary Iraqi culture, Uza works with Iraqi artists living in diaspora in United States. Being a member of the legendary Anahid Sofian Dance company, she has been mentored in many regional dances ranging from North African, to Egypt and Turkey. Uza has taught Middle Eastern dance at Saint Joseph's College, and hosts special topic workshops and events. Uza has also performed with Serena Studios, Ranya Renee's company, and co-choreographed an Iraqi number while performing with Jehan Kamal's Rak Stars. As a musician and singer, she has fronted her own bands, and performed with Rachid Halihal's Andalus Ensemble. When she's not dancing or playing her guitar, Uza works as a filmmaker and photographer.
YOUR HOST
Amani Jabril
Best known for her fluid and deeply sensual style of dance, Amani Jabril has built her reputation on delivering stellar dance technique combined with the heart and soul of the Middle East. Trained from an early age in dance and drama, Amani has studied and performed extensively throughout Europe, the Middle East and North America. She was honored to have been invited to assistant teach during the 2011 US tour of Master Mahmoud Reda and also to have taught in 2011 and 2012 at the Amani Oriental Festival in Beirut, Lebanon. Awarded 2010 Best Newcomer by Nafoura International Bellydance Magazine and featured on the cover the Mazaag debut album, Amani is now teaching nationally with workshops scheduled around the United States.