C A S S A N D R A

"Cassandra, a striking and charismatic presence, manages to find considerable emotional depth through her muscle isolations and pelvic undulations."
          Star Tribune, Minneapolis, MN

"... Cassandra is amazing. Amazing, amazing, amazing."
               review from Arab Dance
               Seminar 2008

"One of the most respected Arabic dance companies in the country..."
          Skyway News, Minneapolis, MN

Gala Show:

Performer Information:

Orient Express 3 is a showcase for workshop participants, amateur and professional.

All performers (including all troupe members) must also be registered for workshops to be considered for the show. Orient Express shows are intended to support the efforts of dancers who pursue training through our workshops. If you register late, your show submission will not be given consideration until that time.

Auditions:
If you are new to Nicola & Spice Road's shows you are asked to submit video (DVD, YouTube, etc.) showing your dance in the same style (e.g. Orientale, cane, baladi, shaabi), and preferably in the costume you intend to wear, or email a picture of you in it.
If you have previously danced in Orient Express 1 or 2 with Hadia, or in Journey Through Egypt with Sahra Saeeda, you are not required to submit an audition. To ensure your best dancing and first choice of music and style, we encourage thorough preparation and thus have an early deadline. Applications are due April 1.

Performance Slots:
Out of respect for Cassandra, we will give first priority to:

• local and visiting dancers who have established a reputation for quality performances;
• ethnic/cultural forms--Egyptian, Turkish, Lebanese orientale or folkloric; folkloric North African, Persian, Saudi, Rom. "Fusion" and interpretive pieces will only be considered if submitted by experienced dancers who understand the unique demands of those forms;
• the best of each style or status (student, amateur, pro) to fill the program. Unlike previous shows, this is not first-come. We will consider all submissions that meet the deadline. Student groups are welcome if being prepped by their teacher.
• SPACE IS VERY LIMITED

Submission:
Submission deadline is April 1, with forms included. Auditions or juries have become a regular part of major shows in most cities. Please demonstrate professional conduct by respecting the show criteria.

Performer forms
1. Media Agreement/Waiver,
2. Performer Agreement/Waiver,
3. Performer information
4. DVD order form (o

ptional)

We thank you in advance for working towards the best show possible. Performers receive complimentary tickets and enjoy reserved seating.

Technical Rehearsal:
Technical rehearsal is scheduled for 4:15 pm at PTE Mainstage. Cassandra has first priority. Rehearsal attendance is mandatory. Please plan accordingly. Stage, light, and sound cues only. Please see the 4-part Performer Form (above) for more information.

Cassandra has first pick of music--be warned that you may be asked to change your music, with some warning. Please be prepared.

Theatre specs

DVD Sales:
Performance DVD available to show and workshop participants by presale only. $15. Contact Nicola for more information and order forms (see Performer Forms above). DVD's will only be available for sale to performers and to workshop participants.

Workshops:

Called "THE BEST DANCER IN AMERICA" by Raqia Hassan of Egypt

A truly masterful teacher, a divinely inspired, superbly musical, incredibly fluid performer, and a guiding force for excellence in dance education and performance.

Technique Tune-up for Teachers & Performers

Hone your skills with a true master teacher! Cassandra has a proven record of producing top-quality dancers, using her renowned methods and deep understanding of Middle Eastern dance, music, and culture. Her teaching style is supportive, clear, articulate, humourous, and challenging. Bring your finger cymbals.

Friday, May 7, 2010

Saan Studio,
Prairie Theatre Exchange,
Portage Place 

6:30 - 10:00 pm  (3 hours class time)

Maximum 20 participants! Register now! --- 70% FULL

Orientale Technique

This workshop will require a veil and finger cymbals. Finger cymbals are "suggested and requested" as part of the technique for both Satursday and Sunday but at NOT the main focus.  Students with little to no experience are strongly encouraged (and welcome!) to come and take part in the dance technique.  It's never too soon to learn with the best!

Saturday, May 8, 2010

PTE Rehearsal Hall
Prairie Theatre Exchange,
Portage Place 

9:00 am - 4:00 pm (5 hours class time per day)

* To keep registration costs down, please bring your own water bottle and lunch.

Rhythms and How to dance to them

Sunday, May 9, 2010

PTE Rehearsal Hall
Prairie Theatre Exchange,
Portage Place

9:00 am - 4:00 pm (5 hours class time per day)

* To keep registration costs down, please bring your own water bottle and lunch.

Fees:

The Early Bird deadline has now passed.

Early Bird =  paid in full by April 1  

Registration Form

Limited space at all workshops, to keep your learning experience high-quality!

Instructor's Discount
Please contact Nicola for more info at 204-957-7520 or nicolaraks@mts.net.

Pay workshop fees online

* you will still need to complete a participant waiver when you check in the day of the workshop (or bring a copy of the registration form already completed and signed)

Vendors:

Vendors Welcome!

Limited vending space is available for Sunday and Saturday.

Please book tables through Nicola at 204-957-7520 or nicolaraks@mts.net.

Set up/tear down times will be quick--please plan accordingly.