Honed by dancers in the AmCab tradition, veil dancing while wearing (and playing!) finger cymbals was once the hallmark of an accomplished belly dance performer. This workshop will teach you the vintage tricks and techniques of this beautiful and versatile tradition!

Part I – Veil Entrances with Finger Cymbals

First, we will get comfortable playing finger cymbals while holding a veil. Then we will learn and drill energetic veil and cymbal entrance combinations which can be used at the beginning of an Arabic show.

Part II – Expressive Veil Dance While Wearing Finger Cymbals

We will explore different ways to hold the veil while wearing finger cymbals, and how to keep cymbals quiet while manipulating the veil. We will then practice getting out of different types of veil wraps while wearing cymbals. These combinations could be used in the second part of the traditional five-part AmCab show.

Additional Information:
Bring a silk or other lightweight veil, and make sure that you bring a pair of smooth-textured zills (textured Zildjians might tear up your veil!).
Please wear something that will allow you to tuck a veil at your left and right hips, and left and right shoulders (i.e., some kind of waistband/hip scarf to tuck at the hips, and a bra under a loose-collared top, or a snug tank top with thin straps to tuck at the shoulders).
Nasira
Nasira is a belly dance performer and instructor from Mansfield, CT. She is known for her vintage style and finger cymbal playing. She has performed for benefits, restaurants, and festivals around New England for almost 15 years, and she is a former member of Troupe Little Egypt and Beledi Dance Company.