Here - Arab Center of Washington

Arab Center of
washington
2013
ARAB FESTIVAL:
NASEEJ
Weaving the Threads of Arab Culture
October
12-13
Seattle
Center
Washington
ArabFestival2013Porogram
WIDE-ANGLE APPROACH
We see a globalized world
and educate global citizens
www.shoreline.edu
ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
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ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
Festival Supporters
2013 Arab Festival
Volunteers & Supporters
Thank you to our generous
institutional funders, business
sponsors and individual donors who
made the 2013 Arab Festival possible!
We couldn’t have done it without you.
Stage Managers
$200 to $499
Bill Holt
Alice Saliba
Raja Atallah
Michael L Arsheed
Atef Azzam
Craig & Cynthia Corrie
Christoffel Dreyer & Janne Abu Lurade
Hussein Hayek
Gaby & Rita Khoury
Shada Nasser
Tom Rezanka & Rhenda Meiser
Annette M Toutonghi
Zeer Inc
Seattle Center Staff
Jennifer Basiliko, Event Services Representative
Barbara Bryant, Public Relations/Marketing
Angela Peterson, Program Assistant
Steve Sneed, Cultural Programming Director
EXHIBITORS
Festival Coordinator
Su Nelson
Festival Assistants
Karen Smith
Philip Yovetich
Coffee Tent
Ziyad Zeytoun
Omar Bushnaq
Hilmi Eladem
Festival Finances
Sam Alkhalili
Ray Ashir
Avinash Tiwari
Fashion Show
Chema Jamel Oh
Programming
Patricia Auch, Chair
Oraib Khalifeh
Laura Ishak
Su Nelson
Fundraising
Lisa Minerich, Chair
Huda Giddens
Hiba Risheg
Avinash Tiwari
Marketing/Publicity
Ola Alsaidy, Chair
Ali Aqel
Mya Hamsa Emad
Hala Karaki
Mish Mish
Ahmed Tanahy
Program Guide
Mya Hamsa Emad, Graphic Designer
Su Nelson: Editor
Vendor Booths
Koloud Tarapolsi, Chair
Oussama Al-Khalili
Hiba Yamani
Volunteers/Recognition
Laila Taji Saliba, Chair
Hala Karaki
ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
FOOD
Bil-Hana
Harissa Mediterranean Cuisine
BOOTHS
Arab Center of Washington
Al Kahwah Coffee House
Ann Made Jewelry
Annie Wright Schools
API Chaya
Cune Press
Dar Salaam
Darsafi Publishing
Edmonds Community College
Educational Resources
Egypt Country Booth
Henna Dervish Body Art
Libyan Association of the Northwest
LoveMEnation
Palestine Heritage Group
Petra Mediterranean Bistro
Rachel Corrie Foundation
Sage Arab Snacks & Sweets
Salaam Cultural Museum
Seattle Police Department
Shoreline Community College
Syrian Arab Republic
Translation4All
Tunisia Country Booth
Handmade Arts Tables:
A Crafty Arab
Kuffiya Clothing
Nadia Reimer
Sabika Seattle
SPONSORS
24K Gold Sponsor - $2,500
Shoreline Community College
14K Gold Sponsors - $500
City of Bellevue
Teller & Associates
DONORS
$1000 and above
Oraib Khalifeh Kabbani
$500 to $999
Ayman & Nadia Dahleh
Ali Dalloul & Mehrane Mokdad
Laura Ishak
Sereen Taher
$100 to $199
Ali Aqel
Isam Awad
Manal Boulos
Asad & Farihan Bushnaq
Amal Muammar-Hastings
Claude Soudeh
William Hanna
$99 or Under
Kree Arvanitas
Robert Burrowes
Louise Dillard
Afifi Durr
Cost Mahshi
Judith Kay Mahshi
Lisa Minerich
Su Nelson
Rasha Qamheyeh
Georgette Saade
Phil Vedovatti
GRANTS
Seattle Center Foundation
Seattle Office of Arts and Culture
WESTAF
Microsoft Matching Funds
Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation Matching
Funds
MICROSOFT VOLUNTEERS
Ali Aqel
Hala Karaki
Hiba Yamani
IN-KIND DONATIONS
Wagih Abu-Rish
Seattle Hookah Lounge
Patricia Auch
Huda Giddens
Goodie’s
Laura Ishak
Su Nelson
Olive Tree Restaurant
Hiba Risheg
Bassam and Laila Saliba
Seattle Center
Simon Shaheen
Hatem & Rasha Zeine
Thank you to all the donors we were not able to list by
our print deadline. Many thanks also to all the volunteers
who are signing up now and those we know will offer to
lend a helping hand upon arrival at the festival.
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Welcome
About ACW
Arab Center of
washington
ACW BOARD
Huda Giddens, President
Mary Toutonghi, Treasurer
Su Nelson, Secretary
OFFICER
Rasha Qamheyeh, Appointed Finance Officer
Dear Friends and Supporters of the Arab Center of
Washington,
It gives me enormous pleasure to welcome you to the
8th biennial Arab Festival. I am awed by the energy,
dedication, and commitment to the Arab Center of
Washington that so many have contributed over the last
10 months in preparation for the 2013 Festival. Our N.W.
Arab founders would be very proud of this heroic effort.
Our Festival aims to bring to light the wonderful richness
of Arab culture. With our theme “NASEEJ: Weaving the
Threads of Arab Culture” we hope to present a rich
palate of experiences, all of which reflect the myriad
facets of this culture. Please immerse yourselves in the
sights, sounds, flavors, and interactions with Arabs at
this Festival. Make yourselves known to us, and engage
with us, as we would like to engage with you. Such
interactions are both fascinating and enriching.
Without the dedication of the volunteers you meet as you
encounter the many booths, programs and exhibits, as
you enjoy the activities available to you, as you purchase
a very special item for a person dear to you, as you taste
the flavors of the foods you eat, and as you experience the
music you hear - all of this would not be possible. A big
THANK YOU goes to all the volunteers. They are truly the
“spine” of this Festival.
Without the faith our donors, grantors and business
sponsors have in the efficacy of its message, this Festival
would not be possible. We are most grateful for the
confidence they have in us.
Our sincere hope is that you know us better, and enjoy all
what is available to you at this Festival.
ABOUT ACW
Who We Are:
Founded in 1992, the Arab Center of Washington (ACW)
is a non- profit organization working in Washington
State to foster deeper understanding of and appreciation
for the richness and vibrancy of Arab culture and its
contributions, through educational programs and
community outreach events. ACW is a cooperative of
community organizations, associations and individuals Arab and non Arab alike - who share a passion for Arab
culture and a desire to see it accurately represented and
holistically reflected.
What We Do:
ACW illuminates the faces of Arab culture by focusing on
human interaction and the shared human experience.
ACW builds bridges for a better tomorrow by providing
education and platforms for civic engagement,
promoting dialogue, removing misconceptions, and
forging relationships, mutual understanding and
common ground.
ACW celebrates culture by highlighting Arab history,
contributions, food, music, and art.
ACW programming includes dinners, historical events,
symposiums, forums, seminars, community gatherings,
picnics, a biennial fashion show, and a signature Arab
Festival every other year.
IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO DONATE!
Donate online at:
www.arabcenterwa.org
With my best wishes,
Like us on FACEBOOK: Arab Center of Washington
Huda Giddens,
President,
Arab Center of Washington
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ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
Listing of our musicians
Arabic Melodies
Ali Bourji is the lead singer for this popular band
based in Portland, Oregon. Having performed at
many social events in the Puget Sound Area and
beyond, they are joining us at the Festival this year
to “give back” to Seattle. We are delighted to have
them!
Ashraf’s Ensemble
Ashraf Kamel will be joined by Anton Issa, playing
Arabic music on keyboard, table! and frame drum.
Fathia et les Troubadours
Fathia Attalah is a French-Algerian composer,
guitarist and Jazz singer from Toulouse. She
travelled with her own groups all over Europe and
then became the director of Le Centre Français
Artistique et Culturel de Seattle from 1998 to 2003.
She produced a musical revue, French Cabaret on
Broadway. She sings Jazz standards as well as her
own compositions in English and in French for
many different audiences in Seattle. She has fans
in France, Lebanon, Japan, Canada and last but not
least the United States. Her album Fathia and les
Troubadours was recorded in Redmond, WA, with
the participation of three other musicians: Omar
Haggag, Joel Gamble and Mustapha. It is above all an
“an album of uplifting traditional French music” with
an Arabic influence. Read more about Fathia et les
Troubadours: www.fathiainseattle.com
George Sadak
As a drummer and tabla (dumbek) player, George’s
musical journey took him through Middle Eastern
music, Jazz, music of the Arabian Gulf, the Balkans,
and his niche and first love – the Egyptian music of
his native land. Growing up as a drum kit player,
George had a chance to learn several styles of music
that did not necessarily use the Egyptian table which
helped broaden his approach to composing tabla
grooves.
As a teenager, George performed in international
clubs around the Northwest during the 80s. In
the 90’s he relocated to LA where he performed in
international shows and was a studio session artist.
Today, George performs around the Northwest with
several bands, and runs the Barking Dog Studio in
Edmonds, Washington. He enjoys teaching Tabla and
sharing his music with all.
ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
House of Tarab – (see feature section as well)
House of Tarab, Seattle’s Premiere Arabic Music
Ensemble, will perform a selection of classic Egyptian
music featuring compositions by Um Kalthoum,
Abdel Halim Hafez, Mohamed ab-del Wahab, Riyad
al-Sunbati and Hani Mehanna as well as taqasim on
Oud, Nay, Violin and Micro-tone keyboard. Find out
more at www.houseoftarab.com
Maurice Sadak Rouman
Maurice Rouman is an Oud master whose career
spans over 70 years. Maurice participated in the
revolution of modern Egyptian music as a child
in the early 20th century while studying Western
classical music before he went on and immersed
himself in middle eastern music specializing
in ancient Egyptian . His work over the years
gained him several awards in Egypt and the US.
Maurice recently received a Governor’s Arts and
Heritage Award in 2012. Today he shares his music
passion with a few selected students to insure the
continuation of his mission. He also performs with
his group the MB Orchestra which he founded in the
late 70’s. www.themborchestra.com
Deima Elnatour
This is a live performance with an inspired Jordanian
American musician. The beloved oud will take you
on an exciting journey of familiar Arabic classics and
modern tunes.
Deima Elnatour is an author, strategist and public
speaker with 13 years of experience in operations
management. She holds a Ph.D. in information
science and technology. In her free time she loves to
play the oud, piano and compose music.
Malitia Mali Mob
Malitia Mali Mob embodies the very essences of
hip hop to an extreme level. Coming from Somalia
where “there is no choice but to have a “by any
means” mentality, because if you don’t, you don’t
survive.” MMM is the very story that hip hop is built
on. While listening, MMM embarks the listener on
a journey of coming from nothing and striving to
achieve the American Dream. With stories that shine
a light on the world’s deepest struggles, leading the
listener to find paradise within their own life and
relating to the essential of survival. MMM has a
story that those who live within reality can relate to.
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Listing of our musicians
Listening invokes exhilarating passion to better life,
and enjoy the paradise within life. Guiding emotions
from the feeling of sorrow to a beaming joy. MMM’s
music advances the mind from being politically
aware to taking joy in finer materials, having an
militant mind set to having love for humanity. MMM
is proud of their story and prides themselves on
letting the music speak for itself.
Mostafa
Born in 1984 in the Persian Gulf, Mostafa spent his
childhood years in a single parent household moving
from place to place. Always the new kid, music
quickly became his closest friend. His mother always
gone at work or school trying to ensure a better
future for her children, and his sister always out
with "friends" he learned to be independent at an
early age. At the age of 10 his father returned, and
at the age of 13 he finally ended up in Bellingham,
Wa. As he grew he started to stray down the wrong
path and was constantly kicked out of his family
home. Left homeless, he started "hustling" to keep a
little money in his pockets. While living that life he
ended up in jail as well as in the hospital near death.
Needless to say he learned all of his lessons "the hard
way." He started writing his own songs at 10 and in
2008 he was finally given the opportunity to step
into the recording aspect of the game. In late 2008
he was fortunate enough to come into contact with
"two of the best producers in the Northwest," Deep
Lemon and C-Legz. Throughout his short venture into
recording thus far he has worked with various other
talented producers from all over the world such as
Natural Beats, Allie E., Science, and M-Seq to name
a few. Since The release of "The New Beginnings
Ep", "A Toast To The Moment" And "Calendar Year",
Mostafa has been actively performing while working
on new projects. More at mostafa.bandcamp.com
Naseem Band
Entertaining audiences locally and in Lebanon for
over a decade, Walid Nakkour on keyboards and his
brother on percussion will get you up and dancing!
SK
Samir moved to the US from Lebanon at age10. He
believes that Hip Hop and Rap Music have helped
define who he is and who he wants to become while
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also reflecting some of his struggles and giving him
some balance in his life. He has been writing music
and lyrics since 2003.
Sons of Hagar
Reunited for the festival, Syrian brothers Abdul
and Ahmad Hawasli will perform rap music, using
rhyme to talk about life. They have recorded multiple
albums. They are named for Abraham’s wife and
Ishmael’s mother – a woman revered for her faith
and strength.
Taibo
Taibo is an American/Libyan rapper and is working
on his 11th CD. He has been making music for
nearly two decades, his focus was mostly party and
gangster rap with some politics on the side.
At the end of 2010 Taibo watched the uprisings in
Tunisia and Egypt waiting nervously for Libya to
join in because his father, brothers and sister along
with a large part of his family live in Libya. When
the revolution started Gaddafi cut the phones and
Internet before attacking every city on the way to
Benghazi, the city his dad and family were living
in. When he finally got a hold of his dad again after
months of war, he started planning, booked a trip
and left for Libya.
This is a new beginning for Taibo after returning
from Libya’s revolution, his music is becoming
uplifting and revolutionary while keeping his
political edge.
Tarik Bentlemsani
Tarik Bentlemsani is a versatile guitarist who has
approached music from many perspectives. Coming
from a multi-cultural family, he was exposed to
music from all over the world at an early age.
Tarik received his degree from Central Washington
University where he studies classical and jazz guitar
and independently pursued original projects. Tarik
currently is in demand as a guitarist for jazz groups,
rock and funk bands, bluegrass bands, solo classical
performances and anything else that needs a guitar.
He has performed as a soloist, with funk super-group
The Brown Edition, with jazz vocalist Lizzy Boyer and
many other projects.
ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
Featured Artist: Simon Shaheen
Simon Shaheen Ensemble
by Ahmed Tanahy
Simon Shaheen is a Palestinian oud and violin virtuoso who has been dazzling his listeners around
the world with his unique style as he deftly leaps from traditional Arabic sounds to jazz and Western
classical styles. Shaheen is one of the most significant Arab musicians, performers, and composers of
his generation. His work incorporates and reflects a legacy of Arabic music, while it forges ahead to
new frontiers, embracing many different styles in the process. This unique contribution to the world
of arts was recognized in 1994 when Shaheen was honored with the prestigious National Heritage
Award at the White House.
Since he formed the Near Eastern Music Ensemble in New York in 1982, establishing a group that
would perform the highest standard of traditional Arab music; people around the world have been
enjoying his unique art until today.
His concert credits are a veritable compendium of the world’s greatest venues: Carnegie Hall, Kennedy
Center, Cairo’s Opera House, Theatre de la Ville in Beirut, and Belgium’s Le Palais des Arts. In May of
2004, Shaheen appeared at Quincy Jones’ “We Are The Future,” fundraising concert in Rome in front of
a half million strong crowd.
1:30 PM - Arab Music Talk - Rm 311 in Armory
2:30 PM - Meet the Artist: Simon Shaheen - Exhibit Room in Armory
5-6:30 PM - Simon Shaheen Ensemble - Mahrajan State, Fisher Pavilion
ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
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Local Spotlight: House of Tarab
House of Tarab
by Hala Karaki
“Tarab” is a state of ecstasy and surrender one enters
while listening, with Body and Soul, to music. That is
how the “House of Tarab” see it and that is exactly
where their performance will take you. They come
from different places and they work different jobs
but a passion and love for classical Arabic music
brought these talented musicians together. It all
started around a decade ago.. The Founding Members
David McGrath comes from a lineage of
traditional Irish Musicians happened to live with
Ethnomusicology students from UW. There, he was
introduced to a something new, something he fell in
love with, the Nay and the Arabic music. Stephen Elaimy’s first inspiration came from listening
to his Palestinian father’s recordings of oud solos by
Farid El Atrash. Years later he became the founding
member of House of Tarab and has been playing the
oud for over 11 years. Jane Hall, walked in to the Seattle Art Museum and
saw a Monet painting. It spoke volumes about the
beauty and feeling art can bring into this world. That
ignited Jane’s own love for art in the form of music.
She now has been studying and performing the
Arabic tambourine (Riqq) for many years.
The Members Today
David, Stephen, and Jane founded the band and it
grew to include Sallah Ali a very talented violinist
from Iraq who is now retired & Erik Brown. Erik,
a musician since the 80s began seriously studying
the Arabic percussion in 2003. He is now the House
of Tarab Tabla player, renowned for his ability to
connect with dancers during live performances and
striving to represent an authentic sound in Arabic
music. With a masters in music from Yale, Tracy
Helmig -- the Suzuki violinist -- traveled to Egypt to
study the arabic violin. Michael Nagueb performed
on nay and keyboard at the Cairo Opera House for
several years before moving to the United States.
Upon coming here, Michael worked at a gas station
for some time where he used to play music behind
the counter. The customers liked it and business was
good. “I’ve been given a gift, and I should use that
gift to give joy to the people” says Michael. He is
currently working as an engineer as well as playing
the keyboard with House of Tarab. Andy Zadrozny
a professional bassist for 30 years, was always
looking for opportunities to studying world music.
His familiarity with odd time signatures, intricate
rhythms, exotic intonation, and improvising schemes,
had him was well-prepared when “House of Tarab”
came.
Learn more at: www.houseoftarab.com
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ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
Lectures and Presentations
Armory Main Stage
Saturday, October 12
1-1:15 PM: Weaving New Roots, Lena Khalaf Tuffaha
Lena Khalaf Tuffaha is a first
generation Arab American.
She was born in Seattle and
raised in the Arab World. She
writes poetry and short fiction,
and does literary translations
in Arabic and English. Lena is
bilingual and enjoys reading,
cooking, gardening and travel.
She lives with her husband and
daughters in Redmond. She will
give a talk about identity.
West Stage – Armory (Center House)
Saturday, October 12
12:30 – 1:00 PM: ACW Book Club, Members Panel
The Arab Center of Washington has many ways
to reach out to the general public in hope of
building better understanding of the culture of
the Middle East. One of these ways is the Book
Club. The group meets once every other month to
discuss books written by Arab Authors, discussing
social issues in the day today life of Middle Eastern
Countries. Members of the club will give a summary
of some of the books and give their opinion of these
books.
I:00 – 1:30 PM: The Nay & Arabic Music, Michael
Nageub
“Although very simple, the nay is one of the most
difficult Arabic instruments to play. It is the only
wind instrument used in Arab music, and widely
appreciated for its warm, breathy sound and its
subtle tonal and dynamic inflections.” (www.
maqamworld.com)
1:30 – 2:00 PM: Arab Cooking Demonstration, Hiba
Risheg
The Arab Cuisine is famous for its fresh and tasty
food. Join us to learn some easy recipes to prepare a
simple meal or a healthy snack.
ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
2:00 – 3:00 PM: Stories... Personal and Folk from the
Arab World, Afifi Durr
Afifi is a former Arab Center of Washington Board
member, and member of www.Seattlestorytelling.org
– she will to tell personal and folk tale stories from
the Arab World. Adults are invited to join and tell
their own story for 5 minutes only. Please come and
enjoy the fun of storytelling.
3:00 – 3:30 PM: The Art of Belly Dance: Facts &
Myths, Zulaika
Zulaika’s Keynote presentation will present the
history of this dance form and bust quite a few
myths along the way! She will explain where it
comes from and how it has evolved to the various
forms presented in the world today.
3:30 – 4:00 PM: Embellishment of Arab Costumes,
Oraib Khalifeh
Discover the many ways Traditional Arab Costumes
are artfully decorated- from hand embroidery, to
colorful fabrics, beads, coins, shells, and more.
4:00 – 4:30 PM: Islamic Art and Architecture, Hisham
Gaber
This presentation is about the basic aspects of
Islamic art and architecture and how they pertain
to Egypt. It covers mosque design, calligraphy, and
home design.
4:30 – 5:00 PM: Caravan: A Music and Dance Journey
through The Arab World, Zulaika
Zulaika’s Keynote presentation takes you on a
fascinating tour of the Middle East through its
colorful and varied dance traditions — from the
men’s stick dance in Egypt to the woman’s party
dance of Saudi Arabia, to the line dances of the
Levant. You will hear the traditional rhythms, see the
colorful folkwear, and experience these colorful and
expressive dance traditions in their cultural context.
Armory, Room 311
Saturday, October 12
3:30 -4:30 PM: Why Culture Matters: An
Anthropological Approach to Our Lives, Christina
Fusch
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Lectures And Presentations
What is culture? Or, more importantly, why does
culture matter? In the Middle East, archaeologists
search for artifacts from ancient cultures in giant
hills of dirt called tells. We can think of our lives
as “hills” of culture: holistic, integrated, learned,
linguistic and shared. Anthropologist Christina
Fusch will lead a conversation about how elements
of culture form, are learned and are shared. With
a background in the study of Arab societies, Fusch
will often use elements from this culture to ground
the conversation and illustrate key cultural themes.
If a community has a special interest in another
culture – e.g., Latino, Native American, Korean, etc.
– the conversation can be tailored to those groups.
Cultures hold much in common, and we will explore
how elements of culture permeate our lives.
Christina Fusch is an academic with a strong interest
and experience in cultures and languages. Currently
teaching Arabic and Anthropology at Everett
Community College, she has taught at Whitworth
University and been a consultant for Yale University
Press. Fusch has a master’s in religious studies
from Gonzaga University and is currently working
on a master’s in business administration from the
University of Washington. She has served on the
Board of Directors for the Arab Center of Washington
and has directed local festivals in attempts to reveal
the peaceful, hospitable culture of the Middle East
not often seen in the news.
1:45 - 2 :15 PM: ACW Book Club, Members Panel
(See description in Saturday’s lineup)
2:15 – 2:45 PM: Arab Cooking Demonstration, Hiba
Risheg
(See description in Saturday’s lineup)
2:45 – 3:15 PM: Caravan: A Music & Dance Journey
through The Arab World, Zulaika
(See description in Saturday’s lineup)
3:15 – 3:45 PM: Embellishment of Arab Costumes,
Oraib Khalifeh
(See description in Saturday’s lineup)
3:45 – 4:15 PM: Simsimmiyya, Fathallah
The Simsimmiyya is a traditional plucked lyre used
in Egypt, Jordan, and Yemen. Egyptian musician,
Fathallah, will explain the instruments qualities and
entertain you with songs from different regions.
4:15 – 4:45 PM: Islamic Art and Architecture, Hisham
Gaber
(See description in Saturday’s lineup)
West Stage – Armory (Center House)
Sunday, October 13
12:15 -1:00 PM: The Art of Belly Dance: Facts & Myths,
Zulaika
(See description in Saturday’s lineup)
1:00 – 1:45 PM: Arab-American Youth, Yes We Can! Overcoming the Effects of Racism in a Post 9/11
World, Mary Toutonghi
Mary is a graduate student at the University of
Washington. She will be talking about her research:
gathering oral histories of second generation
Arab-American youth, asking them to describe
their struggles and successes as they navigate
becoming adults in a post 9/11 society.
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ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
Schedule
Saturday, October 12, 2013
Mahrajan Stage
Fisher Pavilion
Armory Stage
Center House
Audrey, Jafra
Noon
12:15pm
12:30pm
12:45pm
Zeffa
Dance Workshop:
Zulaika
Opening Ceremony
Lena Khalaf Tuffaha
1:15pm
Audrey, Dahlia
Setup Time
1:30pm
Setup Time
2:00pm
Tarik Bentlemsani
2:15pm
2:30pm
3:15pm
Elisa, Janelle, Malia
Malitia MaliMob
SK
Shahrazad, Dahlia,
Zulaika
Maurice Rouman
George Sadak
Benat Sahar
Armory Stage
Center House
Shahrazad
Dance Workshop:
Mish Mish
Setup Time
Ghassan Alqaisy
Girls Debka, Jafra
Setup Time
Setup Time
Rap Show:
Fashion Show
House of Tarab
Arabic Melodies
Taibo,
Mostafa,
Sons of Hager
Karavans
3:30pm
3:45pm
Shahrazad
4:00pm
Jafra Debke
4:15pm
4:30pm
Ashraf's Ensemble
Setup Time
2:45pm
3:00pm
Mahrajan Stage
Fisher Pavilion
Setup Time
1:00pm
1:45pm
Sunday, October 13, 2013
Setup Time
Setup Time
Naseem Band
Sabura
4:45pm
Shahrazad, Jafra
Setup Time
Janelle, Zulaika
Setup Time
Deima Elnatour
George & Friends
Setup Timev
Zulaika
Fathia Atallah
Thank you!
Thank you!
5:00pm
5:15pm
5:30pm
5:45pm
Simon Shaheen
Ensemble
6:00pm
6:15pm
6:30pm
Thank you!
Thank you!
For more events, Lectures and presentations, please go to pages 10, 11 & 17
ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
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Schedule
Fisher Pavillion
Mahrajan Stage
Seattle Center Armory
Celebrating Cultural Diversity
City of Bellevue
Religious discrimination is
Un-AmericAn
We cAn Help!
Confidential Case Review
Stephen telleR
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Bellevue values the culture and
heritage of all its citizens. As the
region’s most diverse city, we
understand that events like the
Arab Festival mirror the vibrancy
and growth of your local and
global economy. Cultural
celebrations pave the way for
international business and send
a clear message that our region
and our city is a welcoming place.
206.324.8969
ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
Dance
Audrey LaRue: Melaya Leff
Elisa Gamal: Melaya Leff
A melaya is a large piece of black fabric that was used
by Egyptian women in the early part of the last century
as a modesty wrap over their street clothes. In the 1940s
Mahmoud Reda introduced the sassy, flirty “melaya leff”
character dance as part of his folkloric troupe’s theater
show; today’s dance stars in Cairo frequently will include
a melaya leff tableau as part of their show
A melaya is a large piece of black fabric that was used
by Egyptian women in the early part of the last century
as a modesty wrap over their street clothes. In the 1940s
Mahmoud Reda introduced the sassy, flirty “melaya leff”
character dance as part of his folkloric troupe’s theater
show; today’s dance stars in Cairo frequently will include
a melaya leff tableau as part of their show.
Banat Sahar
Find out more at: www.elisagamal.com
Banat Sahar will perform regional dance styles of North
Africa: from Tunisia, raqs al-shaabi; from Morocco,
Shikhaat; and from Egypt a duet with canes in Saidi
style as well as a group baladi dance. Banat Sahar has
been performing in the Northwest since 1997. The group
formed under the tutelage of Shelley Muzzy, founder
of the Bou Saada Dance Troupe. The group’s repertoire
includes North African, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian
regional dance styles as well as classic bellydance.
Jafra Dabke Team
Dahlia
Dahlia was born to a family of musicians, artists and
singers and has been surrounded by music and song
throughout her life. She studied traditional Western
dances, such as ballet and tap, at a very young age. She
will perform a sequence of saidi and assaya dances.
Find out more at dahliadance.com
Karavans Dance Troupe
Formed originally as the Batiste Dabke Team in honor of
Omar Batiste, Jafra is now comprised of four energetic
men who have become quite popular at weddings and
parties throughout the Northwest
Janelle Bel Isle
Karavans Dance Troupe brings to life the colorful folk
and tribal dances of the Middle East, North Africa and the
Persian Gulf States. Over the years they have performed
at numerous cultural festivals, community events and for
educational enrichment programs, including the Folklife
Festival, World Fest and the Arab Festival. Mish Mish is the
director of Karavans.
Find out more at karavansdancetroupe.com
ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
Janelle began her studies in dance, music, and
anthropology in California. Having moved to Seattle
three years ago, she continues to enjoy learning about
dance and music of the Middle East. She studies Arabic
music theory and likes playing viola and oud. Janelle will
perform two different dance styles rarely seen locally:
Nubian and Suez Canal dance.
14
Dance
Nubian Dance: as a neighboring empire, the ancient Nile
valley kingdom of Nubia enjoyed much less modern
archeological acclaim than the Northern Egyptians,
due to 19th+20th century wars and the construction of
Nile dams, leaving nearly all of the civilization, farmlands,
and artifacts under water. Today, resettled Nubians
populate cities among their other Egyptian and Sudanese
neighbors and continue to practice their own independent
languages, and music and dance traditions.
Suez Canal Dance: In the mid-nineteenth century,
European and Egyptian interests began construction of
the Suez Canal, set to link the Mediterranean and Red
Seas. Mostly uninhabited desert at the time, the canal
zone became quickly populated with workers from very
diverse backgrounds. Not only Egyptian Bedouins dug
the canal, but an eclectic turnout of Western and Eastern
Europeans labored as well. With no existing infrastructure
for the workers to entertain themselves after work, most
passed time playing music on the Bedouin semsimmiyya (a
small lyre), and dancing as they did back home. After the
completion of the Suez Canal in 1869, the new city centers
of Ismailaya and Port Said became busy commercial
areas. These cities today are known for their unique style
of semsimmiyya music and melting pot -derived dance
culture. Unlike of the rest of Egyptian dance, the canal
area tends to use a lot of high center of gravity and
footwork, as well as spoon playing. The semmsimmiyya
instrument, “al-bombuteyya” dance style, and sailor attire
are still strong identity markers for this region.
Sabura
Of Syrian-Lebanese heritage, Sabura performs and teaches
Middle Eastern dance throughout the western U.S. and
Canada. She has been included annually in the King
County Arts Commission (now 4 Culture) Touring Arts
Rosters for the past 11 years, and was the first Middle
Eastern dancer to receive a Performing Arts Award from
the Seattle Arts Commission (Mayor’s Office of Arts and
Cultural Affairs). Sabura directed Performances or Publicity for the first
four of Seattle’s Arab Festivals, is a community coordinator
for NW Folklife, and has twice won the national title
of “Bellydancer USA”. Besides teaching workshops and
private lessons, she works both in health informatics and
as a family practice physician.
Sabura feels that Middle Eastern dance is one of the most
complex, varied, and exquisite of all the dance genres. She
wants the general public to experience the rich soul of
Arabic music and dance and---through it---to gain greater
appreciation for and understanding of the arts, cultures,
and peoples of the Middle East. To learn more, visit www.sabura.net Shahrazad Dance Ensemble
Malia – Iraqi Knife Dance
Living north of Seattle with her husband and two
children, Malia is Iraqi Gypsy dance, called Raqs Kawlee, is
a raw, upbeat style usually performed to fast percussion
on the keshaba, an Iraqi drum. Oftentimes dancers will
incorporate knives, which symbolizes loving someone so
much that you would die to see them again.
Knife work is playful and exciting and often seen at parties
and weddings.
This year marks Shahrazad’s eighth Arab Festival. They
have been regular performers at Cultural Crossroads and
NW Folklife over the past 30 years and are perhaps best
known for their traditional folk dances, including debkeh,
khaliji and saidi, which they will be performing again this
year.
Find out more at shahrazadensemble.com.
To learn more about performance, learning opportunities
and community events, please visit www.piedpeacock.com
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ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
dance
Zulaika
Zulaika’s career in Arabic dance spans 30 years.
In Minneapolis, she was a founding member of Jawaahir
Dance Company, a soloist at Arabic restaurants, and a
teacher at the Cassandra School. Zulaika currently lives
and teaches in Bellevue. Raqs Al-Jazur - Dance of the Islands.
Zulaika performs a traditional Tunisian woman’s dance
which is always seen at parties and weddings. Vigorous
horizontal hip movements characterize this dance, and in
the southern islands of Djerba and Kerkennah it is often
performed with a clay water pot balanced on the head.
Shamadan: In Egypt, the dancer is an integral part of
the wedding celebration, which takes place at night. The
dancer and young girls carrying tall candles lead the
procession of the bride and groom (called the zeffa) to
the wedding party. At the turn of the century, one dancer,
Shafia al Coptia, set herself apart from other dancers
for hire by balancing a lantern on her head. Not to be
outdone, Nesla al Adel balanced a candelabra and a new
tradition was started called the Shamadan.
Zar: The Zar is best described as a healing ritual, a unique
form of relief, that is practiced in areas of North Aftica
and the Middle East. Most of the Participants are women.
An essential part of the ceremony is drumming and
dancing. It is believed that certain rhythms will placate a
spirit that is possessing her and causing her mental stress.
The rhythm of the spirit captivates the woman and she
dances into a trance that lasts till the spirit is pacified.
Find out more at www.pcauch.com.
ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
16
What To Do And See
OTHER FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS
“A IS FOR ARAB” Exhibit by Jack Shaheen
ACW is pleased to present this travelling exhibit to the
Puget Sound region. It will be on display in the Armory on
the main floor.
Powerful, accessible and compelling, A is for Arab, which
features images from The Jack G. Shaheen Archive at
New York University (NYU), reveals and critiques the
stereotypical portrayals of Arabs and Muslims in U.S.
popular culture. Providing historical context about these
images which range from film stills to comic books
to editorial cartoons, this traveling exhibition aims to
educate and stimulate discussion about the impact of
stereotypes on both individual perceptions and national
policy.
Shaheen is the leading expert on Arab stereotypes in
Hollywood films, television shows and elsewhere in
popular culture. He is the author of four books: Nuclear
War Films; Arab and Muslim Stereotyping in American
Popular Culture; The TV Arab; and the award-winning
book and film Reel Bad Arabs: How Hollywood Vilifies a
People. He is a member of the AANM’s National Advisory
Board, and co-hosted Arab Images on Film on cable TV’s
Turner Classic Movies in June 2011.
The exhibit will be located in the gallery near the stage in
the Armory just go up a few steps and turn right towards
the backstage area and it will be on your left.
FASHION SHOW
The fashion show offers a glimpse of rich Arab traditional
clothing as well as a contemporary view of today’s women
and their attire. It will showcase a collection of traditional
fashions from different Arab countries of the world to
kick off the fashion show, than slowly but surely it will
highlight today’s women from different regions of the
Arab world, from young to old, from hip to traditional,
and from day wear to night and special occasions wear.
This Fashion Show is coordinated by Chema Jamel Oh,
who is a Fashion Designer & Merchandiser, and the owner
of the Islamic Boutique Al Firdaws at MAPS Redmond.
Chema worked in the fashion industry for over 10 years
specializing in women’s haute couture. Traditional
clothing will be provided by private individuals. Our
models are volunteers representing all walks of life as real
women should be. 2013-2014 Fashions, special occasions
wear, Hijab, jewelry & accessories are provided by
Boutique Al Firdaws at MAPS Redmond.
FAMILY ACTIVITIES CENTER
Can you guess what the words algebra, sofa, and coffee
have in common? Each of these words is of Arabic origin,
and life would not be as enjoyable without them. Have
you ever wondered what your name would look like in
Arabic calligraphy? Join us and explore the rich heritage
of Arab culture through family arts and crafts, storytelling
and more! It’s fun for all ages!
Arab World Tour: Grab your passport at the family
activities corner in the Armory (take the stairs by the
main stage) and get it stamped at the various booths.
Then stop by for a special prize! when all your Arab
Stamps are colected.
FARAWAY EYES
Bellevue-based Darsafi Publishing, LLC, will present to
the public “Faraway Eyes,” an exhibit of contemporary
photography art, during the Arab Festival this year.
Faraway Eyes will present works by Middle Eastern and
North African photographers living in the region and in
diaspora. The majority of the works are of a candid nature,
where the artists try spontaneously to capture moments
of beauty and tranquility. Visitors of the exhibit will be
able to vote for their favorite images, and a winning
image will be announced at the end of the event.
Your Islamic Boutique @ maps
New 2013-2014 Fashion Dubai Abayas,
fancy Hijabs & accessories,
Wedding and Party Services, Interior Design,
Event Decorations, and more ...
BoutiqueAl [email protected]
425 260 9700
Maps - 2nd level, Suite 202
17550 NE 67th Court
Redmond, WA 98052
Your Islamic Boutique @ maps
Join us on Facebook:
www.facebook.com/BoutiqueAlFirdaws
17
ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
Local Profile: Maged Zaher
A local in the news
Maged Zaher
By Mish Mish
Maged Zaher is the author of THANK YOU FOR THE
WINDOW OFFICE (Ugly Duckling Presse, 2012), THE
REVOLUTION HAPPENED AND YOU DIDN’T CALL ME
(Tinfish Press, 2012), and PORTRAIT OF THE POET AS
AN ENGINEER (Pressed Wafer, 2009). His collaborative
work with the Australian poet Pam Brown, FAROUT
LIBRARY SOFTWARE, was published by Tinfish Press
in 2007. His translations of contemporary Egyptian
poetry have appeared in Jacketmagazine, Banipal, and
Denver Quarterly. He performed his work at Subtext,
Bumbershoot, the Kootenay School of Writing, St. Marks
Project, Evergreen State College, and The American
University in Cairo. Maged was nominated for and is now
a finalist for a Genius Award by the Stranger at the time
of the writing of this program.
Maged came to the US thirteen years ago at the age of 28
to pursue a graduate degree in engineering. Since then he
has worked at Microsoft, written three volumes of poetry,
translated modern Egyptian poetry into English and
appeared at Bumbershoot, Evergreen State College, and
American University in Cairo.
Maged’s poetry, which can also be found online and in
various publications, appears to be personal ruminations
on capitalism, consumerism, politics, religion, and pop
culture by someone caught between two worlds, as he
still travels frequently back and forth to Cairo.
“The Revolution Happened and You Didn’t Call Me”, has
been called an expatriate’s responses to the Arab Spring.
It is filled with short verses that capture moments in the
daily life of a culture engulfed in change.
Here are a couple of Maged’s short poems:
1
The steps of an animal
Into the disfigured trap
Opens the absolute
The missing are here
Reflected in the background of our desires
And the joyful music we are working through
2
My son taught me to eat cheese pizza
I do and think that
Airports are erotic entities
And words will stay words
Despite poetry
And while at it
Stories too don’t end
They only get interrupted by death
Then continue
His first book of poetry, “Portrait of the Poet as an
Engineer” published in 2009, was dedicated to the Arabic
language. His second volumes,”Thank You for the Window
Office”, is a book-length poem reflecting on his career
in the corporate world. Maged’s most recent publication,
ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
18
Local Profile: Huda Giddens
HUDA GIDDENS
founder of GIDDENS SCHOOL
When Huda Giddens, a Palestinian, first came to Seattle
in 1968 she was professionally ready to integrate her
past academic teaching, advising and consulting into
founding a school for young children. Starting it at
the preschool level, in 1972, Huda has seen the Giddens
School grow in size, academic levels, and reputation to
include the fifth grade. It is open to all children.
The Giddens School has a particular educational
philosophy. It is grounded in the belief that every
child can learn, that every child is a unique individual,
and that every child is important. With that as its
underlying conviction, it has developed a pronounced
ethic of justice, equity, and social responsibility. This
ethic enriches a strong academic curriculum, in which
each child is helped to grow intellectually, emotionally,
physically, and ethically, to become the very best person
he/she can be.
The Giddens “family”, as it comes to be known, consists
of a variety of people. It attracts children from different
racial, ethnic, economic, and family composition
backgrounds. This wonderful mix enables each child
to value and appreciate him/herself, as well are others.
Because the classes are intentionally kept small, each
child has the opportunity to learn about his/her
capabilities, strengths, weaknesses and how to deal
with them, and to explore new arenas of knowledge,
of being, and interaction with others. Scholarships are
available at Giddens.
Now in her retirement, Huda is very proud of the
children who have graduated from Giddens School
since 1972. More so, she is awed by the dedication
of teachers who have given - and still are giving so much of themselves in their understanding and
implementation of the School’s philosophy and ethic.
The current Head of School, Mr. Robert Kogane,
has lovingly and very capably steered the School
to its present status within the circle of the Pacific
Northwest Association of Independent Schools. The
Giddens School, with the unique blend of its philosophy,
ethic and academic standing, holds a special place in
this distinguished group.
You are invited to visit Giddens School at:
www.giddensschool.org
Arab Center of
washington
Founded in 1992, the Arab Center of Washington
(ACW) is a non-profit organization working in
Washington State to foster deeper understanding
of and appreciation for the richness and vibrancy
of Arab culture and its contributions, through
educational programs and community outreach
events. ACW is a cooperative of community
organizations, associations, and individuals –
Arab and non-Arab alike – who share a passion
for Arab culture and a desire to see it accurately
represented and holistically reflected.
To volunteer, partner, donate, or for more information,
contact us at: The Arab Center of Washington
12525 28th Ave NE, 2nd Floor, Seattle, WA 98125
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: Arab Center of Washington
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ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
Address: 12910 SE Kent Kangley Rd, Kent, WA 98030
Phone:(253) 630-4976
Sunday -- Thursday: 11:00AM – 9:00PM
Friday -- Saturday: 11:00AM – 10:00PM
ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
20
e x p e r i e n c e e d u c at i o n
Lower SchooL K-Grade 5
Monday, november 18 6:00-8:00p.m.
MiddLe SchooL Grades 6-8
Monday, november 4 6:00-8:30p.m.
Upper SchooL Grades 9-12
Wednesday, november 6 6:00-8:30p.m.
No rSVp reQUired
3400 East Harrison Street Seattle, Washington 98112
PHonE (206) 326-7736
[email protected]
www.bush.edu
Hamsa Emad
Arab American Graphic
& web designer currently
working as a freelance
Designer & a Graphic /
Web Instructor at a Design
Academy in the South
Seattle Area.. Graduated
with a BFA in Visual
Communications from the
International Academy
of Design & TechnologySeattle.
[email protected]
linkedin.com/in/myaemad/
Iftah Ya Sim-sim!
“Open Sesame!”
Opening doors to cultural understanding
through Music and Dance of the Arab World.
Zulaika
ArtsWA Teaching Artist
Educational Workshops
Residencies and Lectures
www.pcauch.com ・[email protected]
425-652-6994
21
ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
Amana Developing World Fund
Value and Diversification Beyond Developed Markets
Targeted to investors seeking value and diversification
beyond developed markets
Global scope, with focus on 30 emerging markets
Diversified across countries of the developing world,
currencies, and industries
Actively managed by the award-winning, values-based,
global expertise of Saturna Capital
Seri Wawasan Bridge in Putrajaya, Malaysia
Please consider an investment’s objectives, risks,
charges, and expenses carefully before investing.
To obtain this and other important information
about the Amana Developing World Fund in
a current prospectus or summary prospectus,
please visit www.amanafunds.com or call toll free
888/73-AMANA. Please read the prospectus or
summary prospectus carefully before investing.
The value of Developing World Fund shares rises and
falls as the value of the stocks in which the Fund invests
goes up and down. Only consider investing in the Fund
if you are willing to accept the risk that you may lose
money. Fund share prices, yields, and total returns
will change with the fluctuations in the securities and
currency markets as well as the fortunes of the industries
and companies in which the Fund invests.
Performance data quoted herein represents past
performance which is no guarantee of future results.
The Amana Developing World Fund is distributed by
Saturna Brokerage Services, member FINRA / SIPC.
Saturna Brokerage Services is a wholly-owned subsidiary
of Saturna Capital Corporation, adviser to the Amana
Funds.
The Developing World Fund involves risks not typically
associated with investing in U.S. securities. These include
fluctuations in currency exchange rates, currency
devaluation, less public information about securities, less
governmental market supervision, and lack of uniform
financial, accounting, social and political standards.
The Amana Developing World Fund invests according
to Islamic principles. This limits opportunities and may
increase risk.
ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
While diversification does not guarantee against a loss
in a declining market, it can help minimize the risk of the
decline of a single market.
22
tribute to Helen Thomas
Honoring the late
Helen Thomas
a pioneer journalist.
by Ola AlSaidy
Helen Thomas is not only admired as an influential
Arab American figure, but as a woman that paved
the way for women in journalism. She served
57 years as a correspondent for United Press
International and was the dean of the White House
press corp. Amongst her many accomplishments in
journalism, she was also respected by many after
becoming increasingly outspoken in her views
regarding the Iraqi war and taking a stand with the
Palestinian people.
Helen was one of nine children, born to parents
who emigrated from a region in Tripoli that is now
Lebanon, and moved with her family to Detroit.
Neither parent could read or write, but Helen broke
through all barriers and became one of the most
prominent authors and syndicated columnists.
She was the only person who had her own seat at
the Briefing Room. All other seats were assigned to
media outlets rather than individuals.
During her tenure, she was known as outspoken,
blunt, demanding and unrelenting. Her reputation
was known not only in the US but also abroad. When
Cuban president Fidel Castro was asked what the
difference between democracy in Cuba and in the
US, his reply was that he did not have to answer
questions from Helen Thomas. President Obama
released a statement after her death calling her a
“true pioneer”.
As president of the Women’s National Press Club,
she helped lift the ban that prevented women
from attending an address by soviet leader Nikita
Khrushchev. Helen was posted to the White house as
a presidential correspondent where she earned the
nickname “The First Lady of the Press”. She served
with eleven presidents starting with the final days
of the Eisenhower administration and ending with
President Obama’s second term.
23
ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
Krumly Dental Care
(206) 557-4522
ArabFestival2013Program&Schedule
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