Farima Dance

Dance of the Devine Nature
2018-07-28 - 2018-08-01 | Headwaters Outdoor School, 6615 Shepherds Way, Weed, CA, 96094, United States
Release – Receive – Awaken the Soul… A Journey of Self Reflection and Renewal
Join us for a special spiritual retreat on Mt Shasta this summer with Sufi dance master and Magi (Shaman) Farima Berenji (CID-UNESCO) and Shaman and Nature Specialist Tim Corcoran.
Together we will call upon the spirit of the mountain, we will dance the spirals of nature, and we will become one with the spirit of nature.
We will explore the sacred geometry and the spirituality of the mountain and nature through Sufi whirling, ancient Iranic mystic dance movements, meditation, shamanic ceremonies, poetry, music, and sweat lodge ritual. We will open to a deeper level of communication and interaction with mother earth and father sky. We will awake the Goddess Ameretat (Persian Goddess of Nature) and discover the many ways in which the Earth speaks to each of us.
Mt. Shasta is considered by many to be one of the seven sacred mountains found on earth and it is called by some The Magical Mountain. Legends and mysteries abound about the ethereal aura felt and seen by some who have trekked near, around, and on the natural wonder. It is believed the mountain has a mystical power that exudes peace and harmony.
The number seven has been a sacred and symbolic expression among the Iranic culture. It is believed that a seeker must manifest the seven Creations of Life to be one with the divine.
Activities and lessons include:

Spirals of Nature – Turns, Circles and Spirals based on the Sacred Geometry found in Nature
Self Awareness and Self Observation
Communication with Plants and Animals through Dance and Rituals.
Meditation in Nature and Meditative Hikes
Sweat Lodge Ceremony
Storytelling, Poetry, Music, and Chanting
Zikr (Sufi Prayer) and Ancient Zoroastrian Prayers (Based on the Number 7)
Earth Philosophy and Plant Medicine Classes
Ancient Iranic Awakening Ritual and Dance of Ameretat (Persian Goddess of Nature and Mountains), led by Farima Berenji

Payment
Early bird registration ends June 15, 2018
$375 until June 15, $450 thereafter.
Paypal purchase includes $13.35 processing fee.
Payment includes meals and shared accommodations, 2 per room. Transportation is not included.
Farima Berenji
Founder and Artistic Director, Worldwide Simorgh Dance Collective, 2007
Founder and Director of Dance of the Soul® and the Awakening and Warrior and Lioness Project ® (Ancient Iranic Warrior Dances and Rituals, 2013)
Farima Berenji is an award winning Dance Ethnologist and internationally acclaimed dance artist, choreographer, instructor, and Sufi dance master. Recognized and certified as one of the few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical Iranian dance ethnology by UNESCO, she travels worldwide to record, research, lecture, perform, educate, and to inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. She is a Magi (Iranian Shaman Master) and a Sufi. Read more…
Tim Corcoran
Shaman and Nature Specialist
Tim first went to the woods at age six. At seventeen he spent four months alone in the Canadian Wilderness practicing Earth living skills. He began a career teaching wildlife conservation in 1974. During this time he learned how to communicate with the spirits of the animals he worked with.
In 1992, with Headwaters Outdoor School, Tim realized his lifelong vision to share what he learned from the Earth seeking to inspire people to discover their own connection with the Earth. Read more…

Carnival of Cultures 2018
2018-07-21 11:00 - 18:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Main Street, Cupertino, 19419 Stevens Creek Blvd, Cupertino, CA, 95014, United States
The Simorgh Dance Collective unfortunately made a last minute cancellation and will not appear in this festival.
Carnival of Cultures is the Bay Area’s premier festival showcasing the diversity of our resident community.
The delicious array of food representing the different cultures that make up the SF Bay Area is complemented by music, dance, shopping and exciting activities for the entire family. Visit the world without getting on a plane or going on a road trip! The festival will represent the variety of food, music, art and merchandise from each culture.
Enjoy live contemporary music and dance performances and get to know fellow Bay Area residents.
Entry to the festival is FREE. Parking is FREE.
The Carnival of Cultures Cupertino is brought to you by the Cupertino Chamber of Commerce and is powered by Eventscoop.

Soul of the Sema
2018-07-13 - 2018-07-15 | Alişler Yurdu, Armutlu, Turkey
From Balkh to Khorasan – Summer Sufi Retreat in Armatlu, Turkey
Metaphysical Movements, Rituals, Whirling and Music of the Mystics
Join world renowned Sufi Dance Master and Dance Scholar Farima Berenji for a three day dance immersive retreat for whirling and Sufi traditions of Ancient Iran, Greater Khorasan (Land of the Rising Sun), Samarkand, and the Indus Valley. We will take on the path of the mystics, a journey of discovery, in space and time, reconnecting with our ancient ancestors. We will sing, dance in prayer, and immerse ourselves in the Soul of the Sema.
Using Farima’s unique teachings, techniques, and research, we will come together into deep meditation and rest in the stillness of our authentic hearts. We will study the sacred rituals, prayers, and whirling of our ancient past and that of our great masters such as Attar, Shams, Rudaki, Khayyám, Khwarazmi, and Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Balkhī (Rumi). We will take the path to ancient Khorasan and explore the wisdom within Sufi legends and learn the seven pathways of love.
Participate in

Khorasan Sema
Qalandar Sema
Sogdian Whirling
Baluchi Sema
Uygur Sema
Vahishta Sema
Whirling of the Sun (Ancient Iran) and Poetry in Motion

Your days will also include:

Farima’s Hu Meditation and Motion in Silence
Farima’s 5 Element Breath Therapy
Gawati (Medicine Dance and Zikr) and Turkmen Zikr
Erfa (An Ancient Iranic Metaphysical Gathering)
Singing, Chanting, Drumming, and Blessing Rituals of Ancient Iran
Sohbet (Sufi Talk), Lectures, and Discussion

No dance experience is needed just come with an open heart and willingness to learn, explore, share, and have fun.
Location
Alişler Yurdu (Little Ali Village) is in a small town, about 1 hour drive away from Yalova. The village is famous for its traditional arts, healing energy, and beautiful scenery providing a perfect hideaway for those craving privacy and tranquility. It is an ideal place for dance, creativity, healing, nurturing, and relaxation. The village is also famous for its natural hot spring waters, olives, and sea coast. They say it has the cleanest coast in the Marmara Sea. In the village there are horses, cats, dogs, and other friendly local animals. Everyone is welcome to ride the horses if they wish, or play with animals. The farm applies natural horsemanship principals and has natural ponds filled with natural cold spring water, which can be very refreshing during warm days. Our retreat area has an amazing panoramic sea view and the beach is only a 15 minute walk away!
Accommodations
The retreat center is a shared facility with one room with 3 beds, toilet, and shower, 6 small rooms of 2 beds, and one room for a couple or for those who wish more authenticity. There will also be camping ground available for people who wish to experience more nature. Hotels are also available for those who want private accommodation. Please note that the retreat program will NOT cover your private hotel cost. We can help you find a hotel but you are responsible with making the arrangements and payment yourself. Retreat fees only cover accommodation at the shared retreat center.
Meals
The retreat includes 3 healthy meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) including vegan and non-vegan traditional tastes. Snacks, water, coffee, and tea is available throughout the day. Please note that attendees are expected to help with washing their own dishes after each meal. We do not want to waste any plastic or paper in this village. Helping with food preparation would also be greatly appreciated but not expected.
Payment

Early bird registration ends June 15, 2018
$350 until June 15, $450 thereafter
Includes $13.35 processing fee.
Payment includes: workshop tuition, meals, accommodation in the retreat center (shared facility), and snacks. Payment does NOT include: airfare, sea transportation to or from the pier station, entry visa, which must be obtained before or at the airport in Turkey, or your private taxi fee. Payment can be made by PayPal, check, or cash (a service charge will be added with PayPal payment).
Due to high demand and limited space in the retreat center, no refund will be provided for any cancellations.
Contact us for more details.
Farima Berenji
Founder and Artistic Director, Worldwide Simorgh Dance Collective, 2007
Founder and Director of Dance of the Soul ® and the Awakening and Warrior and Lioness Project ® (Ancient Iranic Warrior Dances and Rituals, 2013)
Farima Berenji is an award winning Dance Ethnologist and internationally acclaimed dance artist, choreographer, instructor, and Sufi dance master. Recognized and certified as one of the few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical Iranian dance ethnology by UNESCO, she travels worldwide to record, research, lecture, perform, educate, and to inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. She is a Magi (Iranian Shaman Master) and a Sufi. Read more…

Azerbaijani and Kafkaz Dance Workshop, Part 2
2018-06-28 20:30 - 22:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Vision Dance Center, 375 Saratoga Ave. Suite B, San Jose, CA, 95129, United States
In the first part of this series, Dr. Gürbüz Aktaş presented a 2hr session of Azeri dance technique for men and women. By overwhelming request, this additional session to teach traditional Kafkaz dance style has been added before Dr. Aktaş leaves the Bay Area this weekend.
Learn Kafkaz and review Azeri dance styles in this additional 1.5hour dance workshop with master instructor, performer, and leading authority of Azeri dance: Dr. Gürbüz Aktaş.
Dr. Aktaş will teach men’s and women’s dance styling the fast footwork, and some Lezginka. Both men and women may participate in this workshop.
Dr. Aktaş is visiting from Turkey and will be here in the Bay Area only until the end of this week! Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a master!
Registration
Register online
Gürbüz Aktaş
Dr. Gürbüz Aktaş was born into the Kafkas (Caucasian) culture in Kars, Turkey, where he performed the dance and music of the area since childhood. His eventual mentors included top teachers of Azerbaijani, Northern Caucasian, Georgian, Daghestani and Russian dances and he has performed with some of the top dancers of the state companies of these areas. During his study of dance at San Francisco State University, he was the founding director of the renowned Kafkaz Folk Song and Dance Ensemble in San Francisco, CA from 1986-1996.
He went on to become the Director of the Dance Department at Ege University’s State Turkish Music Conservatory in Izmir, a post from which he retired after 22 years, in the spring of 2018.
As a leading expert in the traditional dances of Azerbaijan he has conducted extensive field research in remote villages interviewing older dancers as well as interviewing founding members of the Azerbaijan State Ensemble. His work was officially sponsored by the Turkish government
Gürbüz Aktaş holds a BA, MA ,and is a Full Professor PhD in Ethnochoreology.

Azerbaijani and Kafkaz Dance Workshop
2018-06-24 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Vision Dance Center, 375 Saratoga Ave. Suite B, San Jose, CA, 95129, United States
Learn Azeri and Kafkaz dance styles in this 2hour dance workshop with master instructor, performer, and leading authority of Azeri dance: Dr. Gürbüz Aktaş.
Dr. Aktaş will teach Azerbaijani men’s and women’s dance including the fast footwork, and some Lezginka. Both men and women may participate in this workshop.
Dr. Aktaş is visiting from Turkey and will be here in the Bay Area only for a limited time. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a master!
Registration
Register online
Gürbüz Aktaş
Dr. Gürbüz Aktaş was born into the Kafkas (Caucasian) culture in Kars, Turkey, where he performed the dance and music of the area since childhood. His eventual mentors included top teachers of Azerbaijani, Northern Caucasian, Georgian, Daghestani and Russian dances and he has performed with some of the top dancers of the state companies of these areas. During his study of dance at San Francisco State University, he was the founding director of the renowned Kafkaz Folk Song and Dance Ensemble in San Francisco, CA from 1986-1996.
He went on to become the Director of the Dance Department at Ege University’s State Turkish Music Conservatory in Izmir, a post from which he retired after 22 years, in the spring of 2018.
As a leading expert in the traditional dances of Azerbaijan he has conducted extensive field research in remote villages interviewing older dancers as well as interviewing founding members of the Azerbaijan State Ensemble. His work was officially sponsored by the Turkish government
Gürbüz Aktaş holds a BA, MA ,and is a Full Professor PhD in Ethnochoreology.

TEDxYYC Conference Lecture
2018-06-22 13:00 - 17:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Jack Singer Concert Hall, 205 8 Ave SE, Calgary, British Columbia, AB T2G 0K9, Canada
TEDxYYC has spent eight years bringing some of the brightest and best minds to Calgary, and 2018 will continue the legacy of inspiration! You’re invited to join us for an important journey far beyond your known boundaries of thought at TEDxYYC 2018 on June 22.
Farima Berenji will be guest speaker at this conference. Her topic: healing by dance.
More details…
Tickets

Poetry in Motion
2018-06-16 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Center for Creative Living, 1460 Koll Circle, Suite C, San Jose, CA, 95112, United States
Where Movement Becomes Devotion
An interpretive, improvisational, and devotional dance form inspired by mystical and classical Persian poetry.
Persian poetry contains spiritual messages representing the Divine essence. The words in Persian poetry speak to us, revealing the emotion of our soul. Persian poetry is rhythmic—it has an essence of melody, which guides us to dance. The great Persian poets extolled dance in their poems to symbolize the power of life. Hafiz, Saadi, Omar Khayyam, Attar, and Rumi each represented dance in their verses as a spiritual instrument to become one with the Divine.
In this workshop we will

learn to bring the graceful words of Persian poetry to life.
move, write, and practice to various Persian poetry and poetic styles (working individually and as a group).
learn to use imagery from the verses of poetry.
create devotional dances and will be whirling to the sacred words of Persian Poetry (both in Farsi and English).
learn techniques to recite Persian Poetry, find hidden messages, and use it as guidance and healing.
sing, chant, and dance both indoors and outdoors, and whirl into ecstasy by listening to beautiful live music and poetry.

Be sure to bring inspiring poetry to read and be ready to dance with others. Farima will help demonstrate movements, illustrate technique, and lead us in recitation of Persian poetry and Poetry in Motion.
Light Snacks and refreshments will be available. Feel free to bring a snack for yourself or to share!
Registration
Register online
Or pay by bringing $30 in cash or check.

Sufi Whirling Workshop
2018-04-08 14:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Globe Institute, 351 9th Street #Ste 202, San Francisco, CA, 94117, United States
Learn the basic technique of Sufi whirling (Iranian and Turkish style), history, and theory. Farima’s teachings are based on Indo-Iranian ancient rituals, science of whirling, and the sacred geometry of whirling. We will learn essential techniques of whirling preparation, maintaining balance and posture, controlling dizziness, self-focus during turning, breath work, and more.
For this workshop please wear comfortable clothing, whirling skirt (optional), socks or soft-soled shoes. Avoid eating a large meal 2 hours prior.
Register online

Houston Nowruz Festival
2018-03-25 14:00 - 22:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Bayou City Event Center, 9401 Knight Rd, Houston, TX, 77045, United States
The 11th Annual Houston Nowruz Festival is the largest Persian New Year celebration in the state of Texas. Featured artists include Kamyar, Hamid Talebzadeh, Nikita, DJ Alireza,
and dance performances by Farima Berenji and the Simorgh Dance Collective.
Tickets:
$25 (if purchased in advance) and $30 at the door
Nowruz Festival Tickets

Sacred Spring Gathering
2018-03-20 13:00 - 17:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Castle Rock State Park, 15000 Skyline Blvd, Los Gatos, CA, 95033, United States
A sacred dance gathering with whirling, meditation, and poetry in nature celebrating the new life that surrounds us in nature. Lead by Farima to honor the Spring Equinox.
Contact us for more details.

Journey of the Simorgh
2018-03-17 18:00 - 22:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Trinity Presbyterian Church, 12310 Lorraine St, Anchorage, AK, 99516, United States
A dance concert by the Simorgh Dance Collective of Alaska, adapted from the Persian epic Conference of the Birds by Farid ud-Din Attar. Featuring Persian sacred, classical, and folkloric dance choreographed by Farima Berenji. Admission includes ethnic dance performances, dinner, silent auction, and open dance floor.
“It was in China, late one moonless night,
The Simorgh first appeared to mortal sight.
He let a feather float down through the air,
And rumors of its fame spread everywhere.”
~Farid ud-Din Attar
Doors open at 6:00 PM, show starts at 7:00 PM.
Tickets

PRICES REDUCED
Adults: $35 online and at the door
Child (6 – 12): $15 online and at the door
Purchase tickets…
Simorgh Dance Collective
A worldwide collaboration of expert and emerging dancers and musicians devoted to cross-cultural dialogue and artistic collaboration through traditional, classical, and sacred dance styles of the Silk Road.
Read more…
Farima Berenji – Artistic Director, Choreographer
“I cannot put the concert from tonight in words. Emotional, full of energy, oneness and beauty. Especially the last two songs and Farima’s powerful and emotional Sufi whirling left me so affected. I am still shaking from the energy. Will never forget this concert. Thank you again and I hope there will be many more.”
—Meral Ozturk – Manchester, England, on Seven Cities of Love

Farima Berenji is an Iranian-born scholar and an award winning, internationally acclaimed performing artist, choreographer, instructor, lecturer, dance ethnologist, and archaeologist specializing in classical, folkloric, and sacred dances of Persia and the Silk Road. Her training spans a lifetime of intensive collaboration and research with master artists, scholars, and spiritual teachers worldwide. She is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective, a worldwide collaborative devoted to teach dance technique, interpret, illustrate, present, and perform dances of the Silk Road. Farima performs, offers workshops, and lectures worldwide upon request and has appeared in the US, UK, Austria, Czech Republic, Turkey, Mauritius, and Iran. Read more..

Sufi Whirling and Sufism
2018-03-12 18:00 - 21:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Calgary, Alberta, Canada
A class lead by Farima upon Sufi Whirling and Sufism. Contact us for details and location.

Workshops, Sema Gathering, and Norouz Performance
2018-03-09 - 2018-03-11 | Abbey Studio, 2687 Penrith Ave., Cumberland, BC, V0R 1S0, Canada
Friday March 9, 7:30-10:00pm: Dance Performances and Sema
Performances and Sema Gathering Plan to join Farima Berenji and her Comox Valley Simorgh Collective at the Abbey Studio for an evening of Persian traditional and sacred dance performances. The show will be followed by a Sema Gathering (Sufi Whirling) facilitated by Farima. With Farima’s guidance we will learn personal and spiritual Sema or Sufi Whirling as well as other turning practices, while listening to sacred poetry and music. Feel free to bring a percussion instrument or a poem to share. People that wish to participate in the Sema Gathering are encouraged to wear white or light colored clothing and, socks or soft soled shoes are recommended for whirling.
7:30PM: Doors open
8PM-9PM: Traditional and sacred dance performances
9-10PM: Sema Gathering.
All are welcome and admission is sliding scale $10-$15 payable at the door.
Saturday, March 10: Zikr
Sacred Circle, Abbey Studio Join us at the Abbey Studio on for a Zikr led by Farima. Zikr is a sufi meditation practice which uses repetitive simple movements and rhythmic chanting as a form of devotion. This evening event is also open to everyone and is done seated, either on the floor or on a chair making it accessible for those with mobility issues.
All are welcome to attend on a pay at the door donation basis.
For more information about these upcoming events call Cathy Stoyko at (250) 218-0704 or email Cathy.

Annual Student Norouz Show and Fundraiser
2018-03-04 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Center for Creative Living, 1460 Koll Circle, Suite C, San Jose, CA, 95112, United States
Celebrate Norouz, Persian New Year, in this cultural dance and music studio gathering with dance performances by the Simorgh Dance Collective, Farima Berenji and Bay Area guest artists, live music, and potluck. Includes silent auction of elegant costumes, jewelry, accessories, and many treasures.
Stay for open floor dancing at the end. Musicians and dancers feel free to come show your talent.
Bring a potluck dish to share. Suggested admission: $10-15 donation.
Donations gratefully appreciated. All profits help fund dancers of the Simorgh Dance Collective acquire costumes, research, and stage a future dance projects.
Simorgh Dance Collective
A worldwide collaboration of expert and emerging dancers and musicians devoted to cross-cultural dialogue and artistic collaboration through traditional, classical, and sacred dance styles of the Silk Road.
Read more…
Farima Berenji
Farima is an award winning, internationally acclaimed performing artist, instructor, dance ethnologist, and archeologist. She specializes in sacred, classical, and folkloric dances of the Silk Road. Farima is the founder and artistic director of the Farima Dance Company and the Simorgh Dance Collective. Recognized as one of few world experts and scholars of Persian dance history, Farima infuses spirituality into her dance and teachings to impassion, empower, and inspire.
Read more…
Center for Creative Living
Near the 4th Street Bowl. Nearest cross streets are 4th St and Koll Circle. Come into the parking lot and proceed to the left, AROUND TO THE BACK of the building. It is well lit and there is plenty of parking. Enter through the back door.

Norouz Performance at West Valley Branch Library
2018-03-03 15:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | West Valley Branch Library, 1243 San Tomas Aquino Rd, San Jose, CA, 95117, United States
Celebrate Norouz with dance performances by Farima Berenji and the Simorgh Dance Collective.
Nowruz celebrates the first day of spring and the beginning of the year in the Persian calendar. Nowruz has been celebrated by people from diverse ethnic communities and religious backgrounds for thousands of years.
Sponsored by the San Jose Public Library and the City of San Jose.

Travel and Adventure Show 2018
2018-02-18 12:00 - 12:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Santa Clara Convention Center, 5001 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara, CA, 95054, United States
The Farima Dance Company (Simorgh Dance Collective, San Jose) performs Persian and Silk Road dance on the Global Beats Stage. After our performance we invite everyone to learn and participate in a fun dance from the Silk Road.
Experience inspirational and informative seminar stages (Travel Channel Theater, and Destination Theater), plus culture and entertainment abound on the Taste of Travel Stage and Global Beats Stage offering dozens of culinary demos and dance performances all weekend long. Plus, check out many of the hands-on activities offered at the show.
The Bay Area Travel & Adventure Show is where travel lovers come for travel inspiration, expert information and fun, cultural interaction. It’s where you’ll discover thousands of authentic travel experiences and speak directly to the travel experts who can get you there, give you the inside scoop, and save you money on exclusive travel deals. It’s the only travel show in the Bay Area that showcases hundreds of captivating worldwide destinations from India to the Caribbean to California drive vacations.
View the schedule on the Global Beats Stage.
Online ticket sales…
Follow Travel and Adventure Show on Facebook.

Caravan of Seekers – Sufi and Sacred Dance Retreat
2018-02-02 00:00 - 2018-02-09 00:00 (Asia/Kolkata) | Mystic Jaisalmer, Near Gadisar gate, Dhibba para, Old city , Jaisalmer, 345001, India
With Sufi Dance Master Farima Berenji (CID-UNESCO) and Ashraf Ali
An in-depth dance and healing journey to India, with a curriculum designed specifically around Sufi-based practices of Indo-Iran, spiritual ecstasy and sacred dance, heart-opening, and love.
Join Farima and her dear friend and Meditation Guide, Ashraf Ali, for an all-inclusive retreat and caravan to the mystical land of India. In this intimate journey we will journey to deserts and temples of India to connect with our ancient past!
Go deep into the ancient culture of Indo-Iran, learning the rituals of the Sufi mystics of both lands. Walk path where healers and mystics have walked. Learn Farima’s unique Indo-Iranian healing rituals, temple dances, and Sufi teachings. We will open ourselves to the channels of Light in this mystic land… A land is filled with Spiritual Elements!
This journey is highly recommended for those who are ready to venture deeper in their inner connection and the Divine. The retreat is also part of the ‘Dance of the Soul’ Certification Program, and is highly recommended to those who are currently attending an intensive Certificate Training Program with Farima.
The journey will include:

Farima’s special Sufi & Mystic Dance and Whirling training of Indo-Iran (Dance of the Soul Certificate Program)
Temple Dances and Rituals of Indo-Iran
Nightly Sacred Circles and Zikr
Poetry in Motion: Featuring interpretive dance inspired from Persian and Indian mystical stories and sacred art, illustrating the connection between Persian classical and Indian classical dance.
Meditation, visualization, and sound healing with Ashraf Ali.
Farima’s unique 4 Element Breathing Therapy and Element Therapy
Sightseeing of sacred sites and temples of Jaisalmer
Lectures and Sohbet (Sufi Talk) with Farima and Ashraf Ali
Desert Tour: Camel walk, Whirling in the desert (with a special Sufi singer & musician) and sleeping under the sky!

Payment and Rules
Entire package per person:
By Jan. 2, 2018: $510
After Jan. 2, 2018: $600
A discount is given to Simorgh Dance Collective members
A deposit of $250 must be made to secure booking.
REGISTER ONLINE
Payment includes all local transpotation, all meals, luxury/deluxe rooms for double occupancy, Jaisalmer sightseeing, desert tour and camping, workshops, caravan, etc.
Asraf Ali
Ashraf Ali was introduced to the world of meditation a decade ago. He visited many ashrams, meditated in different temples and monasteries, and practiced with Zen masters and Sufis of the desert. In 2007 he was initiated into the Osho commune in Pune and at Osho Nisarga, Dharmshala. He also became certified in Ayurvedic Yoga Massage. Since then, Ashraf has been sharing his humor, love, and passion by leading meditation and massage therapy in India and Europe. Guided by Osho, Ashraf continues to unravel the inner world of beauty, mystery, and sensuality through moments of celebration. Whenever connecting with people of many different cultures worldwide, Ashraf humbly describes himself in a few simple words: “I am the travel guide of your inner journey.”
Farima Berenji
Farima Berenji is an Iranian-born scholar and dance ethnologist, an award winning internationally acclaimed dance artist, a choreographer, instructor, and an archaeologist specializing in ancient, sacred, classical, and folkloric dances of Persia, Ionia, and the Silk Road. Farima has spent her lifetime studying Persian dance, culture, and history. She performs, offers workshops, and lectures worldwide upon request. Recognized as one of a few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical dance ethnology, she travels worldwide to record, research, lecture, perform, educate, and to inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. As a Sufi and semazen, Farima is an exceptionally inspiring instructor strongly connected to spirituality and healing. She seeks to lead people to the historic beauty and richness of Persia and the Silk Road culture and to aid them find inner bliss through dance, music, and spirituality. Read more…

Sufi Dance and Sound Healing Workshop
2018-01-21 16:30 - 19:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Convent Arts Collective, 660 Oak Street, San Francisco, CA, 94117, United States
After a very successful, soldout sound healing and Sufi whirling workshop in January 2017, sound healer Gabriel Gold and Persian Dance Artist Farima Berenji decided to collaborate again, this time focusing on the “Spirals of Life” as the theme.
Held in a beautiful, historic chapel in the heart of San Francisco we will seek the foundation of spiritual healing through sacred sound and movement, embodying song and movement founded on the Sacred Spirals of Life!
Farima will teach the basics of “Sufi Whirling” and share her extensive knowledge of Sufi dance traditions and meditation practices.
Gabriel will teach the basics of wordless singing as meditation as well as supporting the Sufi whirling sessions with live musical performance of Hang and Halo Handpans and ending the workshop with a deeply relaxing “Sound Healing Meditation”, utilizing Crystal Singing Bowls, to help integrate the day’s learnings. Read more…
The doors open at 4:30pm and close at 5pm. Please do not arrive after 5pm as it would be disturbing to flow of the workshop. From 4pm till 4:30pm there will be a complimentary Chinese-Style Tea Service.
Price
$35 via Eventbrite
$40 at the door (CASH ONLY)
Limited to 20 participants only, register ASAP! Last year’s session was highly successful so reserve your space early.
Bring
Bottle of water, Yoga mat (optional for stretching).
Farima Berenji
“I cannot put the concert from tonight in words. Emotional, full of energy, oneness and beauty. Especially the last two songs and Farima’s powerful and emotional Sufi whirling left me so affected. I am still shaking from the energy. Will never forget this concert. Thank you again and I hope there will be many more.”
—Meral Ozturk – Manchester, England, on Seven Cities of Love

Farima Berenji is an Iranian-born scholar and an award winning, internationally acclaimed performing artist, choreographer, instructor, lecturer, dance ethnologist, and archaeologist specializing in classical, folkloric, and sacred dances of Persia and the Silk Road. Her training spans a lifetime of intensive collaboration and research with master artists, scholars, and spiritual teachers worldwide. She is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective, a worldwide collaborative devoted to teach dance technique, interpret, illustrate, present, and perform dances of the Silk Road. Farima performs, offers workshops, and lectures worldwide upon request and has appeared in the US, UK, Austria, Czech Republic, Turkey, Mauritius, and Iran. Read more..
Gabriel Gold
“A mystical, angelic voice and music that moves one to journey through both the deep joy and sorrows of the Soul.”—Grace Cathedral, San Francisco, CA
Gabriel Gold is a San Francisco, CA, USA based multi-instrumentalist (a pioneer of the Handpan, a steel melodic percussion instrument), composer and acoustic researcher, specializing in the study of sacred resonant spaces. His current work is founded on inspiring deeper connections to “sacred spaces” around the world, both natural and man-made and to help bring awareness to the need to protect and honor them. A selection of Gabriel’s past works include: his latest album “Halo”, recorded in acoustically resonant sacred spaces throughout the world; his “Healing Voice” workshops and singing circles, through which he has personally supported thousands of people on the journey of developing a spiritual and fulfilling relationship to their singing voices; the musical score for four feature length ballets with Labayen Dance Co. and Mudita Arts Ballet, and others. Read more..

The Star of Bethlehem
2017-12-24 10:00 - 11:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Center for Creative Living, 1460 Koll Circle, Suite C, San Jose, CA, 95112, United States
Learn the little known background on journey of the Persian Magi and the story of the sacred star this Christmas Eve in a lecture by Magi Farima Berenji.
Hosted by the Center for Creative Living, the program starts at 10am with a song, prayer, meditation, and announcements. About 10:30am, Farima will be introduced and speak 30 to 40 minutes. Since it is Christmas eve there’ll be a pot luck. Everyone is invited to attend, bring a dish, and partake in all activities.
Farima Berenji
As a Sufi from the bloodline of St. Fateme and a Magi (Shaman) from the bloodline of Iranian Zoroastrian Magi, Farima is strongly connected to spirituality and healing. She is one of the very few Iranian women granted by the Magi and Gwati tribes of Iran to perform ancient healing and sacred rituals. Her Shamanic healing therapies are now in use in hospitals in Iran and the US. Farima infuses spirituality into her dance and teachings to exceptionally impassion, empower, and inspire students to deeply understand the meaning of culture and dance and to explore dance as a powerful means to express emotion, facilitate spiritual healing, and bridge cultures.
Farima Berenji is an Iranian-American scholar and dance ethnologist, an award winning internationally acclaimed dance artist, a choreographer, instructor, and an archaeologist specializing in ancient, sacred, classical, and folkloric dances of Persia, Ionia, and the Silk Road. Read more…

Heart of Khorasan Sufi Retreat
2017-11-10 - 2017-11-12 | Badem Han Retreat Center, Çeltik Köyü İç Yolu, 22880, Çeltik, Edirne, Turkey
CANCELED DUE TO CIRCUMSTANCES OUTSIDE OUR CONTROL
A weekend Sufi retreat of ancient Iranic whirling traditions and Central Asian Sufi traditions including Khorasan Sema, Uyghur Sema, Baktashi Sema, Turkmen Zikr, Gwati Zikr, Vahishta, and more.
We will take on the path of the ancients, a journey of discovery, in space and time… reconnecting with our ancient ancestors and the origin of Sema. We will take the path to ancient Khorasan and Central Asia to study the sacred rituals, whirling, music, and prayers of our ancient past and that of our great masters of such as Attar, Shams, Rudaki, Khayyám, Khwarizm, and Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Balkhī.
At the last day of the retreat, Farima will be teaching whirling with daf, double drums, props, veils, double veils, and double skirt.
Please bring a drum/daf, poetry, veils, and whirling skirt.
Retreat includes:

Stay at Badem Han Butik Pansiyon
Food & Snacks
All workshops and healing rituals with Farima

Farima will also be teaching an intensive Sufi Courses and Sacred Dances in Iran, Georgia, India, and US in the coming months… Contact Farima for registration and details.
Location
Bademhan Retreat Center
Badhem Han Retreat Center is near Saros Bay on the Aegean Sea. Within a forest paradise including a 20 acre fruit tree grove and sprawling lawns, the Badham Han Retreat Center offers the opportunity to connect with nature.
Payment and Rules
Fee: 400 tl
Please contact Farima Berenji or Hatice Sara to make reservations.
Farima Berenji
is an award winning dance ethnologist and internationally acclaimed dance artist, choreographer, instructor, and an archaeologist specializing in ancient, sacred, classical, and folkloric dances of Persia, Ionia, and the Silk Road. Recognized as one of a few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical Iranian dance ethnology, and an award winning instructor of Sacred Dance and Feminine Power through UNESCO, she travels worldwide to record, research, lecture, perform, educate, and to inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. As a Magi (Iranian Shaman), Sufi and Semazen, Farima is an exceptionally inspiring instructor strongly connected to spirituality and healing. She seeks to lead people to the historic beauty and richness of Persia and the Silk Road culture and to aid them find inner bliss through dance, music, and spirituality. Farima teaches her own original findings, methods, techniques, and exercises to uncover the connection between the soul and dance movement.
Farima is the first and only Iranian woman to have been chosen as Dance Ambassador of Iran by the UN. She has been honored with numerous awards in performing arts communities for excellence, cultural diplomacy and preservation. She is the recipient of the prestigious UN/UNA award for her dance ethnology research and globally advocating ancient Iranian and Central Asian dance education.
Farima and her company have performed for the UN, Governor of Alaska, Governor of CA, Governor of Spain, Ambassador of Canada, Ambassador of Turkey, and at the EU. Farima is the first Iranian-American woman to perform and be recognized by the National Folk Dance Organization of America, and her Simorgh Dance Collective was the first Iranian dance company directed by an Iranian woman to perform during a reception for President Obama.
Farima has also been recognized by California Congressman Mike Honda, the Iranian Women’s Rights Committee, and National Geographic. Her research and unique approach to sacred dance and ancient healing rituals are now being used in various institutions, dance schools, and healing centers worldwide.

Samhain - Calling of the Ancestors
2017-10-29 17:00 - 19:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Center for Creative Living, 1460 Koll Circle, Suite C, San Jose, CA, 95112, United States
Join Magi Master (Samahain), Farima Berenji for a special sacred circle gathering of dance, meditation, and remembrance to celebrate the evening of Samhain–The Calling of the Ancestors!
This is an evening of remembrance of our ancestors. We will guide and be guided by those who have passed. We will offer and request guidance from our ancestors! Be prepared to go deep, travel across worlds, feel your inner emotions, meet animal spirits, and be transformed!
Accompanied by live music by Jayson Fann and other guest artists, we will start the evening venturing deep into meditation using Farima’s unique 4 Element breath work, then transitioning to Gawati (medicine dance) and Vahishta Zikr (Ancient Iranic Shamanic circles and healing rituals), cleansing of the soul (animal dance, Zoroastrian candle rituals and drum circles), and prayers (chanting Zoroastrians mantras). Following this Farima will lead a journey into your inner Universe attempting to connect with the soul of our ancestors, to obtain divine energy through ecstatic dance and ancient Iranic whirling, and to receive empowering messages and healing!
In ancient Persia Samhain Night, our All Hallows Eve, represented the first night of the dark season. Crops were harvested and stored. The date marks both an end and a beginning in the eternal annual cycle and a celebratory calling of the ancestors. The Zoroastrians believed that the border between this world and the spirit world thinned on this night, allowing the spirits to reach through the veil that separates them from the living. The festival was observed by the Iranian Samahain (Magi) as the ‘Calling of the Ancestors.’

Musicians — Feel free to bring your instruments and join our music circle. Let your heart guide your music during our open floor whirling.
Lovers, Seekers, and Watchers — Come and join our sacred circle. You are welcome to set and feel the healing energy, bring a poem to share, join our Zikr, pray with us, or just laugh or cry… as we journey together to be closer to the light.

Sliding Scale Donation
$15-20 donation per adult at the door.
Overview
Our gathering is NOT a performance or a workshop. More details on Farima’s program of sacred dance and Shamanic rituals may be found here.

We will be called together for a welcoming circle and Farima will lead us into her unique four element breath meditation and relaxation.
We will progress into prayer and open floor whirling with both live and recorded world sacred music, poetry, drumming, and meditation.
We will close with a sharing and gratitude circle.

A table with healthy snacks and refreshments will be available at all times.
Guidelines and Tips
Please no talking and keep the gathering area quiet at all times. Respect yourself as well as those around you. Please wear comfortable clothing and wear socks or soft soled shoes.
Feel free to bring:

An offering for the alter.
1-2 poems that inspire you to dance or share.
Yoga mats or pillows (optional).

Farima’s monthly sacred circle gathering offers a unique expression of sacred culture, inspired by nature, ancient Iranic rituals, and beautiful spiritual traditions. We will whirl and journey together to celebrate love, unity, and allow the light to enter our soul.
Open your heart! Listen! Turn, dance, and move in anyway that makes you feel alive!

Journey of the Simorgh
2017-09-23 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Historic Hoover Theatre, 1635 Park Ave, San Jose, CA, 95126, United States
A dance concert performance by the Simorgh Dance Collective of San Jose, adapted from the Persian epic Conference of the Birds by Farid ud-Din Attar. Featuring Persian sacred, classical, and folkloric dance choreographed by Farima Berenji. Live music performed by Jayson Fann, Homeyra Banejad, and Steve Robertson.
Tickets

Doors open at 6:30 PM

$25 Online at http://journeyofthesimorgh.bpt.me
$30 at the Door
Visit our Facebook event page for details and discussion.
Farima Berenji – Artistic Director, Choreographer
“I cannot put the concert from tonight in words. Emotional, full of energy, oneness and beauty. Especially the last two songs and Farima’s powerful and emotional Sufi whirling left me so affected. I am still shaking from the energy. Will never forget this concert. Thank you again and I hope there will be many more.”
—Meral Ozturk – Manchester, England, on Seven Cities of Love

Farima Berenji is an Iranian-born scholar and an award winning, internationally acclaimed performing artist, choreographer, instructor, lecturer, dance ethnologist, and archaeologist specializing in classical, folkloric, and sacred dances of Persia and the Silk Road. Her training spans a lifetime of intensive collaboration and research with master artists, scholars, and spiritual teachers worldwide. She is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective, a worldwide collaborative devoted to teach dance technique, interpret, illustrate, present, and perform dances of the Silk Road. Farima performs, offers workshops, and lectures worldwide upon request and has appeared in the US, UK, Austria, Czech Republic, Turkey, Mauritius, and Iran. Read more..
Jayson Fann – Musical Director
“Jayson Fann interweaves architecture and spirit with seamless grace and beauty. His love of art and culture is celebrated in every detail of his work, his passion is eclipsed only by his exquisite imagination”
Jayson Fann is a interdisciplinary artist, musician, designer and producer with a focus on large scale works that weave natural Architecture, multi-cultural imagery with inspirational messages. The emphasis of his work is creating interactive staged environments for productions that integrate visual arts, activism, performance and ritual. His work is rich with mythical imagery, vibrant colors, rhythm and symbolism inspired by world culture. Jayson traverses the cultural, visual, and musical landscape to create cross cultural collaborations that take place worldwide.
Jayson Fann was featured at the 2008 Pan African film festival, broadcast across fifty African nations on The Africa Channel, featured on BBC, in Conde Naste magazine, New York Times, World Architecture News, In Habitat, and Universal Studio film Production Wanderlust. He has served as stage designer for the critically acclaimed show Spirit Awakening written by Queen Nana Odede Akuyoe Graham and others. Jayson designed the stages for the Esalen International Arts Festival for nine years consecutively, served as the visual arts director for First Night Monterey and built a multi stage arts and performance space called the Big Sur Spirit Garden. Read more..
Homeyra Banejad – Musician, Vocalist
Homeyra Banejad is an Iranian daf player and vocalist. As a member of the Iranian Musician Union of Iran she has performed in Iran and the US with Sima Bina, Hamed Nikpay, Simin Ghanem, and many more artists! She will be accompanied by her amazing company members.
Steve Robertson – Musician
More details soon…
Simorgh Dance Collective
The Simorgh Dance Collective is a world community of artists devoted to cross-cultural dialogue and artistic collaboration through traditional, classical, and sacred dance styles of the Silk Road. The Collective currently has member companies and artist affiliations in Alaska, British Columbia, Turkey, and the San Francisco Bay Area. Read more..
Sponsorship Opportunities
Journey of the Simorgh is entirely self-funded through ticket sales. Lavish new costumes, live music, and studio and theater rental poses a great challenge on a limited budget. Your support enables the professional and emerging artists of the not-for-profit Simorgh Dance Collective bring to audiences an appreciation for the culture of the Silk Road in dance and music.
All sponsorships include honourable mention of your name or company name in our concert program, Facebook page, and website, plus a Dance of the Soul DVD and signature tote bag, plus these items at the following levels of support:

Friends level: $150 donation – 2 tickets
Bronze level: $250 donation – 3 tickets and one dance class pass
Silver level: $500 donation – 5 tickets and one dance class pass
Gold level: $1000 donation – 8 tickets, one dance class pass, and special gift.

Contact us for more details how to become a sponsor.
Farima Berenji
Jason Fann
Homeyra Banejad

A statue of simorgh at Simorgh Cultural House, Nishapur, Iran “It was in China, late one moonless night,
The Simorgh first appeared to mortal sight.
He let a feather float down through the air,
And rumors of its fame spread everywhere.”

Detail of a scene of Conference of the Birds, A Persian miniature by Habiballah of Sava ca. 1610 “Dear Hoopoe, welcome! You will be our guide…”

Detail of a scene of Conference of the Birds, A Persian miniature by Habiballah of Sava ca. 1610 “I was a dweller once in paradise;
There the insinuating snake’s advice
Deceived me — I became his friend, disgrace
Was swift and I was banished from that place.
My dearest hope is that some blessèd day
A guide will come to indicate the way
Back to my paradise.”

The Lioness - Ancient Iranic Warrioress Dances
2017-09-10 11:00 - 15:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Move Studios, 600 E Franklin St, Monterey, CA, 93940, United States
On the Path of the Ancient Ones…
We will take on the path of the ancients, a journey of discovery, in space and time to reconnect with ancient Warrioresses of Persia, Mesopotamia, and the Near East. Drinking deeply from hidden wells of inspiration, now being revealed in our time, we re-discover our empowerment in the process. Join us on an exciting and unique journey of inner and outer exploration as we awaken the ancients within us.
Open for both men and women, this intensive workshop will be based on Farima’s theories and research on movements, ritual dances (based on archery, spear, horses in war practices) and symbols of the Iranic and Mesopotamian female commanders, empresses, and the Indo-Iranian Amazons.
The workshop will have an overviews of various movements and dance figures originating from these ancient warrior tribes such as:

Amazons (Ha-mazan) – “Amazons” is derived from the Indo-Iranian word “Ha-mazan” meaning “Woman Warriors” who were fighters of the early 5th century of current Caspian region and the northwestern province of Iran (Azarbaijan).
Ardalans – “The Mighty Fighters” and great horseback riders.
Sarmatian – The great spear fighters.
Scythian – The great women archers.
Hazarabam – Known for their great sword skills, the Hazarbam fighting units was famsouly known as the “Immortal Army.”
Dances of the Medes and Pre-Elimite Dynasty, known as “The Lioness.”

We will have live music and native warrior style drumming by multi-instrumentalist Jayson Fann for this workshop!
Schedule

Time
Experience

10:30-11:00am
Registration in lobby

11:00am-12:30pm
The Lioness – Part 1

12:30-2:00pm
Free time. Enjoy and explore downtown Monterey, eat lunch, walk the beach, etc. with us or by yourself.

2:00-3:30pm
The Lioness – Part 2

The Lioness Project©
Ancient history is filled with women of various Iranian stock who were warriors as well as Goddesses. The role of the ancient Persian female warriors of Iranian stock can be traced back several millenniums. In Persia, women enjoyed a level of gender equality unmatched even to this day. Iranian women were always noted for their strength, courage, status, and affluence.
Founded in 2010 by Artistic Director and Dance Ethnologist Farima Berenji, the Lioness Project© is based on many years of collaborative research with Iranian scholars, archaeological research and discoveries on the history, rituals, dances, and symbols of ancient Persian, Indo-Iranian and Mesopotamian female commanders, empresses and the Indo-Iranian Hamazan (Amazons). It introduces movements, rituals and choreography inspired by battle and sacred movements of these ancient warrioresses.
Farima has studied these ancient battle movements, armory, and the connections between these movements with modern dance form. Her findings, theories, and dance techniques are currently taught by many educational and dance institutions across the globe including institutions and organizations in Iran and Turkey. All of her work/technique have been found and researched by Farima and her team during her intensive archaeological excavations.
More about Farima Berenji

Folklore Festival Tour
2017-08-01 - 2017-08-28 | France and Spain
Performances with the Iranian folklore company Leymer Folk Music & Dance Group touring France and Spain.
Festival program locations and dates (in French)

Inner Journey: Sufi Music and Dance
2017-07-27 20:30 - 22:30 (America/Toronto) | Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Way West, Toronto, Ontario, M5J 2G8, Canada
Inner Journey features mystical music by Regard Persian with dancing by Rumi Canada Whirling Sufi dancers. Special guest performance by Farima Berenji.
This program is an associate partnership presented by Rumi Canada as part of their Mystical Music Series.
Artists include

Regards Persan

Pooria Pournazeri: Tanbour
Ziya Tabassian: Percussion
Saeed Kamjoo: Gheychak, Kamancheh
Sardar Mohamadjani: Oud
Zohreh Shahbazi: Daf
Habib Hajimolahoseini: Vocals

Rumi Canada Whirling Sufi Dance

Raqib Brian Burke
Mira Hunter Burke
Farzad AttarJafari (Farzad AJay)

Tickets
Available either

In person: Harbourfront Centre Box Office, 235 Queens Quay West, Toronto.
Phone: 416-973-4000, press 1 from Harbourfront Centre’s box office
ONLINE

Huma, Wings of Light
2017-07-22 | Cumberland United Church, 2688 Penrith, Cumberland, British Columbia, Canada
More details coming…

Haft Sema (Seven Sema) A Journey of the Heart
2017-07-20 - 2017-07-23 | Abbey Studio, 2687 Penrith Ave., Cumberland, BC, V0R 1S0, Canada
Join Farima Berenji for a four day intensive retreat and venture deep into the heart through sacred circles and sufi whirling practices, practices based on the sacred number seven in Iranian mystical traditions and Sema rituals, Zikr (sufi prayers), and Shamanic healing, music, and sohbet (Sufi spiritual talk).
Retreat and training will focus on Farima’s intensive breathwork technique, her unique whirling techniques, and styles based on the Seven Pathways of Love.
The number seven has always been a sacred and symbolic expression among the ancient Persian mystic culture. For Indo-Iranians, Mesopotamians, and Zoroastrians, the number seven represents the “Seven Creations” or “Yazatas.” For that reason, it is believed that a mystical seeker must manifest the seven Creation of Life to be one with the Divine. These sacred movements and healing rituals later became the traditions of Iranian Sufi path in Greater Khorasan (Land of the Iranian Mystics) and are the origins of Sacred Dance and Sema (Sufi Whirling) movements.
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The retreat and workshop will focus on these styles of Sema including:

Ancient Indo-Iranian Sema (Sun/ Mithraism) and Sema of Planets
Khorasan and Uyghur Sema
Seven Sacred Birds Sema
Sacred Flower and Sacred Geometry Sema
Whirling in Silence and Whirling with Poetry
Four Element Sema
Turkish (Mevlavi) and Baktashi Sema

Given time, Farima will also teach her new research (Seven Senses Sema) whirling based on the Seven Senses.
The retreat will also include optional morning healing therapy sessions with Farima and a sacred dance workshop with guest instructor Cathy Stoyko in:

Whirling Techniques (Iranian, Turkish, and Central Asian Styles)
Stone Therapy
Element Therapy and Breathwork
Seven Makham – Seven Modes Music Therapy
Meditation and Visualization
Indian temple dance worshop with Cathy Stoyko

Nightly activities and healing ceremonies:

Drum Circles, Zar, Gwati, and Zikr (Sufi Prayer and Indo-Iranian Shamanic Rituals and Medicine Dance)
Sema Gathering
Sohbat – Farima’s Sufi talk based on the Seven Pathways of Love

Additional activities included:

Light lunches and healthy snacks
Guided walking tour of Cumberland
“Huma, Wings of Light” evening Sacred dance performance
Nature outings to Cumberland forest, lakes and beaches

Venue
The retreat will take place at the Abbey Studio in Cumberland B.C. (at First & Penrith Ave.) with outings into Cumberland Forest, nearby lakes and beaches for evening events and shared food. The Abbey Studio is a beautifully restored 120 year old former Catholic Church in the heart of the historic Village of Cumberland. The studio is located within walking distance to restaurants, cafes, parks, Cumberland Forest, Allan Lake, a natural food store, and several guest house and B&B accommodation options.
Tentative schedule
Travellers should plan to arrive by Wed. July 19th if possible.
Thursday and Friday July 20/21
10AM-11AM Morning healing therapy sessions (optional)
11AM-5PM Seven traditions of Sema
1-3PM Lunch and free time
8-10PM Zikr/prayers and healing ceremonies
Saturday July 22
10-12AM Sacred dance workshop based on Odissi Indian classical dance tradition with Cathy Stoyko (more details soon)
12-1:30PM Lunch break
1:30 PM-4PM Seven Sema whirling and sacred movement
4-7PM Guided walking tour of Cumberland and free time to explore…
7-9PM ‘Huma, Wings of Light’ sacred dance performance featuring Farima Berenji and her Comox Valley Simorgh Dance Collective at the United Church in Cumberland (across the street from the studio).
Sunday July 23rd
10AM-11AM Healing session and music therapy with Farima
11AM-4PM Seven Sema and sacred movement
1:30-2:30PM Lunch break
5-7PM closing evening Zikr and healing ritual
7-8:30PM Pot luck dinner, Q&A (optional)
Payment
Payment for the retreat includes: all workshops and evening events, light lunches and healthy snacks, guided walking tour of Cumberland, “Huma, Wings of Light” evening sacred dance performance, and nature outings to Cumberland forest, lakes and beaches.
Retreat fee $385 CND ($350 for Simorgh Collective members).
A deposit of $150 sent by May 31st, 2017 will secure your registration. Balance to be paid upon arrival.
Payment options:

Cheque made payable to Cathy Stoyko and posted to Box 1196, Cumberland B.C. V0R 1S0
Cheque or cash dropped off in person at the Abbey Studio, 1st & Penrith Ave. Cumberland B.C.
Email money transfer

REGISTRATION IS CLOSED
Evening events are open to everyone not just those registered for the retreat. Pay at the door upon a sliding scale basis: $5-$15.
Sat. July 22nd

Persian Dance Technique
2017-07-19 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Abbey Studio, 2687 Penrith Ave., Cumberland, BC, V0R 1S0, Canada
Persian dance comes from an ancient culture of 8000 years and its movements are a blend of enchanting sacred movements reflecting birds, animals, flowers, and elements. Persian dance is also inspired by Persian poetry and sensuous miniature artwork. It is delicate, refined, and full of meaning. Delicate hand movements, gentle upper body undulations, and facial expressions are the essential elements of this dance.
The focus of this workshop will be on Persian dance techniques such as:

Persian hands, movement of the wrists and arm
Upper body undulations and shoulder isolations
Footwork and floor patterns
Persian bodyline
Dazzling Spins
Art of improvisation
Art of expression

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to study Persian dance with international touring dance artist and scholar Farima Berenji. Farima comes to the Comox Valley to share her passion and extensive knowledge only once or twice a year. We are honoured to host her here in Cumberland at the Abbey Studio.
Price
Fee for the 2 hour intensive workshop is $40 CND ($35 for Simorgh Collective members)
Register in advance with cash dropped off at the Abbey Studio-2687 Penrith Ave. Cumberland
OR, mail a cheque to:
Cathy Stoyko, PO box 1196, Cumberland B.C. V0R 1S0.
Contact Cathy by phone at (250) 218-0704 or email cdstoyko@uniserve.com
Space is limited to 16, register soon
Farima Berenji
Farima Berenji is an award winning Dance Ethnologist and internationally acclaimed dance artist, choreographer, instructor, and an archaeologist specializing in ancient, sacred, classical, and folkloric dances of Persia, Ionia, and the Silk Road. Recognized as one of a few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical Iranian dance ethnology by UNESCO, she travels worldwide to record, research, lecture, perform, educate, and to inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. More details…
