“Syrian Dabke: The Making & Unmaking of Folkloric Dance” with Shayna Silverstein

Syrian Dabke

The Making & Unmaking of Folkloric Dance

with Shayna Silverstein

Sunday, September 7th, 12 PM PDT, 3 Pm EST

Do you love dabke? It’s almost impossible for dancers like us to resist the infectious rhythms and energy! This insightful lecture will take you on a journey through the rich history and cultural evolution of this powerful dance form – from its roots to today’s modern innovative choreographies.

Syrian dabke is a vibrant Arab music and dance tradition popular across the Levant. From joyous weddings to spontaneous celebrations of friendship and family, dabke practice invigorates celebrations with its infectious rhythms and communal spirit.

But how – and why –  did this beloved social dance transform into the stage performances we see today? This talk delves into the pivotal mid-20th century, when political and cultural leaders adapted social Syrian dabke into what we now know as raqs sha’biyya, or folkloric dance. 

These staged adaptations became powerful symbols of ethnonationalism, solidifying a Syrian national identity. We’ll decode the choreographic choices made: What elements were highlighted, and what was intentionally left out as dabke moved from the proverbial village square to the proscenium arch? More importantly, we’ll examine the profound impact of folkloric dance on Syrian society, tracing its influence from those formative years up to the present day.

Finally, we’ll bring the story to the contemporary stage with a look at “Displacement,” a compelling recent choreography by Mithkal Alzghair. This segment will offer fresh perspectives on how Syrian dabke continues to be adapted and reinterpreted by artists today, reflecting contemporary themes and experiences.

Join us to:

• Develop a deeper appreciation for the historical and cultural significance of Syrian dabke
• Understand how dance became a key symbol of Syrian nationalism for Syrians and for the world
• Explore the role of gender, ethnicity and social class in the making of Syrian folk dance
• See who becomes a folk dancer with a look behind the scenes at tryouts, rehearsals, and training methods
• Identify different public perspectives on Syrian folk dance
• Uncover the choreographic decisions that shaped staged folkloric dance in Syria
• Discover how today’s choreographers approach the adaptation of Syrian social dance for the stage
• Understand how popular dance is affected by political change in today’s Syria

This is an unique opportunity for anyone passionate about Middle Eastern dance to understand the bigger picture. Don’t miss this chance to join us for what is sure to be an eye-opening experience!