EGYPT

March 5-8, 2009, Fleck Dance Theatre, Harbourfront Centre, Toronto, Canada.

Egypt explores the subtle nuances and profound spiritual poetry in classical Middle Eastern music. The production features the ground-breaking choreography Kariat El Fingan, inspired by Yasmina’s mentor and one of Canada’s most imaginative ballet and modern dance choreographers, Robert Desrosiers. Mr. Desrosiers served as choreographic advisor for the entire production.
“Through this collection of six new works and three remounted classics, audiences will be able to reflect on the twenty-year history of the company and our exploration of more than 14 classical and folkloric styles like whirling dervish and bellydance,” expressed Yasmina Ramzy, Artistic Director of the company. “It will also give new audiences a chance to experience and understand the increasingly rare and extraordinary interaction between Middle Eastern dance artists and a traditional Middle Eastern orchestra.” Yasmina Ramzy remains active in the promotion of Middle Eastern art. In addition to teaching and performing in the Middle East and worldwide, she is the founder of the International Bellydance Conference of Canada. Ms. Ramzy has recently been commissioned to create choreography for the internationally renowned Bellydance Superstars (US). The Arabesque Dance Company & Orchestra plans to remount the production Descent of Ishtar (1998) in 2010.

World Premiere: March 5-8, 2009
Premiere Dance Theatre, Harbourfront Centre, Toronto, Canada
Sponsored by NextSteps, Toronto Arts Council, Now Magazine
Choreography: Yasmina Ramzy with Choreography Advision by Robert Desrosiers
Musical Composition/Arrangement: Bassam Bishara, Suleiman Warwar
Lighting Design: Arun Srinivasan
Costume Design: Deborah Shaw, Denise Mireau, Jane Graydon
Running Time: 120 minutes
Cast: 17 dance artists,9 musicians/vocalists