Business Details
Experience Authentic Middle Eastern Dance in Minneapolis
Jawaahir Dance has been a leader in Middle Eastern dance education and performance for over three decades. Founded by Cassandra Shore and now led by internationally acclaimed Artistic Director Vanessa of Cairo, we specialize in authentic Arab dance rooted in the cultural traditions of 22 Arabic-speaking countries. Our company combines rigorous technical training with artistic innovation, offering performances that range from traditional folkloric dances to contemporary theatrical productions.We provide comprehensive educational programs including workshops, master classes, and community outreach initiatives that make this art form accessible to diverse audiences. With a commitment to cultural preservation and artistic excellence, we have become a respected institution in the Upper Midwest, performing at venues like the Southern Theater and Elision Playhouse while maintaining strong community engagement through lecture-demonstrations and collaborative projects.
Services
Dance Performances
Workshops
Private Lessons
Cultural Events
Educational Programs
Theatrical Productions
Community Outreach
Dance Intensives
Lecture-Demonstrations
Folkloric Dance
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of expertise in authentic Middle Eastern dance instruction
- Our artistic director trained with legendary Egyptian dance masters
- We combine traditional folkloric performances with contemporary innovation
- We provide accessible community education programs for all skill levels
- Our dancers perform at prestigious regional venues and cultural events
What people say
Authentic performances
Cultural enrichment
Professional instruction
Joyous expression
Respected institution
Services
Dance Performances
Jawaahir presents traditional and contemporary Middle Eastern dance performances featuring professionally trained dancers. Our shows combine authentic costumes, live music, and cultural storytelling for theater productions, festivals, and private events. We offer both full company performances and soloist options adaptable to various venues and budgets.
Workshops
We offer comprehensive dance workshops covering folkloric styles, technique development, and cultural context. Our programs cater to all skill levels from beginners to professional dancers, featuring guest instructors and specialized intensives during annual events like the Summer Soiree.
Educational Programs
Our educational initiatives include school programs, library events, and lecture-demonstrations that teach Middle Eastern dance history and cultural significance. We provide interactive experiences with traditional costumes, instruments, and movement instruction for diverse audiences.
Private Coaching
Personalized dance instruction available for individuals seeking technical improvement or performance preparation. Sessions focus on proper technique, musicality, and cultural context with experienced instructors who have trained in Egypt and internationally.
Community Events
We organize and participate in cultural events including haflas (Middle Eastern dance parties), henna fundraisers, and collaborative performances with other arts organizations. These events promote community engagement through dance, music, and cultural exchange.
People
Vanessa of Cairo
Artistic Director
International performer and award-winning choreographer with 12 years of experience in Egypt. Trained with renowned Egyptian masters and holds a BFA in Ballet from Texas Christian University.
Cassandra Shore
Founder
Recognized master of Middle Eastern dance with decades of experience. Known for artistic intensity and musicality, she established Jawaahir as a leading cultural institution in Arab dance.
Theresa Kane
Board Member
Longtime dancer and instructor with expertise in Middle Eastern dance forms. Joined Jawaahir in 2004 and contributes to both performance and educational programs.
Laila Sabouni
Dancer Instructor
Syrian-Chilean dancer with training from international masters. Combines dance instruction with psychology background to teach cultural dance forms and therapeutic applications.
Renee Szudy
Dancer Instructor
Experienced instructor with 25+ years in Middle Eastern dance. Trained in Cairo and New York, specializing in technique and cultural context of Arab dance forms.
Questions
What styles of dance does Jawaahir teach?
We specialize in authentic Middle Eastern dance including Egyptian folkloric styles, Raqs Sharqi (belly dance), and regional traditional dances from across the Arab world.
Can beginners attend workshops?
Yes! Our workshops accommodate all skill levels, with many specifically designed for beginners to learn fundamental techniques and cultural context.
Do you offer performances for private events?
We provide professional dance performances for weddings, cultural events, and private parties featuring soloists or full company performances with traditional costumes and music.
How can I support Jawaahir's programs?
Support through donations, attending fundraising events like our Henna Party, or participating in our workshops and performances helps sustain our cultural education programs.
Are your classes accessible to people with disabilities?
We're committed to accessibility and offer adaptive instruction. Our venues are physically accessible and we welcome inquiries about specific accommodation needs.
Do you offer online dance instruction?
While most programs are in-person, we occasionally offer virtual workshops and maintain video resources for students to supplement their dance education.
