Critically acclaimed dance and music ensemble Arabesque returns after a year’s hiatus with the world premiere of its production, SAWAH. Over 43 musicians and dance artists from Toronto and Montreal take to the Fleck Dance Theatre to express western sensibilities fused with traditional Arab style. The Arabic word SAWAH means traveler or wanderer, the show explores feelings of joy and freedom one feels when embarking on an new journey. This production is directed and choreographed by Arabesque founder Yasmina Ramzy and musically directed by Bassam Bishara and Suleiman Warwar. They create large intricate ensemble performances, while maintaining the essence of the improvised tradition. The creation of any Arabesque performance involves an evolution of ideas and styles in a very collaborative process.

Music: Six oud players, 3 violinists, 7 dumbek players, riqq, qatim, guitar, daholla, trumpet, tabal.
23 male and female dance artists.
Music and dance styles from Egypt, Lebanon. and the Gulf.

From April 10-13 SAWAH features six performances at the Fleck Dance
Theatre in the Harbourfront Centre as part of the NextSteps series.

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