DONNA'S LECTURE: Second Steps: Being an Ally, Moving Beyond By-stander Syndrome and Having Courageous Conversations

Bridge for Dance, 9:00 to 10:00am

Despite the media’s portrayal of the world as a very polarized and damaged place, there are many extraordinary people quietly building a society that prizes inclusiveness. There is always room for more additions to this global family of healers, so please come join the conversation led by Donna Meija. We’ll be reviewing recent developments in anti-bias work and scholarship, and examining what we can do as individuals and a community to increase peaceful coexistence. Fusion dance was just the beginning of the important work we’ve started in the world as artists. Ally-ship takes many forms and is never a one-size-fits-all solution. Yet each courageous act of fellowship, no matter how large or small, is meaningful. Please don’t underestimate how your choices disrupt social bias and can tip the scales for a fellow human whom may feel demoralized and disenfranchised. Interestingly, you may find that you always get back more than you give. This workshop will explore definitive steps to move beyond “paralyzed empathy;” becoming effective as a listener, and thoughtful in our support of comrades. The inevitability of our global citizenship mandates we set a seat at our table for other world-views and voices. Do you really wish to make a difference? Please come join a conversation that is already in progress on an international level. Your contributions and thoughts will make it better for all.

$20 $15 per person

SOMRA'S WORKSHOP: North and West African Shimmies

Bridge for Dance, 10:00 to 11:30am

North and West African Shimmies: Looking to broaden your dance vocabulary and add that extra "something" to your performance to make it memorable? Ready to take a part of your dance to its indigenous roots? Join Somra El Nubia for an exciting workshop in North and West African Shimmies to make your next performance unforgettable and YOU that dancer they won't forget! After a warm up to get you ready to add excitement to your dance vocabulary, Somra will take you through a bold and exciting series of shimmies beyond the usual that will cause you to move in new, yet ancient ways. Bring a notebook and a water bottle because every minute of this workshop is intended to bring your body "home"!

$45 $40 per person

DONNA'S WORKSHOP: Le Funk Arabi

Bridge for Dance, 12:00 to 1:30pm

Each year, artists in Near Eastern and North African countries remix our own American hip hop traditions to new heights and possibilities. Arabic Hip Hop is arguably a counter-manifestation to the West's Tribal Fusion. In this workshop, Donna Mejia highlights the emerging movement aesthetics of this dynamic dialog. After a vigorous warm up and substantial stretching, dancers will receive a variety of stationary and moving progressions that punctuate the percussiveness in music driven by beats. Dance/athletic shoes, a long sleeve shirt and knee pads may be helpful on occasion. Donna’s musical playlist includes some of the best Arabic/International Funk, Hip Hop, Hard Core, House, Liquid, Phaze, Elemental, Mashup, and Electronica in the universe!

$65 $60 per person

Both Workshops

Attend both workshops with a discount of $10.

$100 $95 per person

Both Workshops Plus Lecture

Attend all three with a discount of $20.

$115 $110 per person

Harlem Hafla Performance: Premium Seating

Harlem School of the Arts, 6pm

Join our workshop teachers and an array of wonderful dancers from the East Coast in our celebratory performance!

These seats are in the first two rows.

Doors open at 5:30 and show starts at 6pm.

$30 $25 in advance; $35 at the door.

Harlem Hafla Performance: General Seating

Harlem School of the Arts, 6pm

Join our workshop teachers and an array of wonderful dancers from the East Coast in our celebratory performance!

These seats are in the third row and beyond.

Doors open at 5:30 and show starts at 6pm.

$25 $20 in advance; $28 at the door.