Farima Dance

Sufi Whirling Workshop for Beginners
2016-09-27 19:00 - 21:00 (Europe/Istanbul) | Shaman Dance Theater, Çelebi Mahallesi Mücadele Çıkmazı No:11 Beyoğlu, Istanbul, Turkey
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.

Shamanic Journey
2016-09-30 19:00 - 2016-10-02 17:00 (Europe/Moscow) | Badem Han Retreat Center, Çeltik Köyü İç Yolu, 22880, Çeltik, Edirne, Turkey
A weekend immersion of ancient ritual dances and whirling, Indo-Iranian shamanic healing, and zikr.
We will take on the path of the ancients, a journey of discovery, in space and time… reconnecting with our ancient ancestors through sacred ritual dances, music, and prayers!
This special weekend retreat will include:

Zar
Zikr
Sufi Whirling
Ancient Ritual Dances
Gawati (Medicine Dance)
Drum Circle and Chanting
Indo-Iranian Shamanic Healing and Mantras
Farima’s 4-Element Breath Meditation
Personal Shamanic Healing with Farima (optional or upon request)
Sacred dance performance by Simorgh Dance Collective

Payment
Payment of 380 TL includes:

Stay at Badem Han Butik Pansiyon
Friday and Saturday night dinner
Saturday and Sunday breakfast
All workshops and healing rituals with Farima
Sacred dance performance by Simorgh Dance Collective

Payment does not include lunches.
Schedule

Retreat starts Friday, Sept. 30 at 19:00 with a small Sacred dance performance
Saturday and Sunday includes rituals and Shamanic Healing
Retreat ends Sunday at 17:00.

Farima Berenji
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, 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. Read more…

Sufism Meets Meditation
2016-10-13 19:30 - 22:00 (Europe/Moscow) | Ankara, Ankara, Turkey

Simorgh Concert
2016-10-15 20:30 - 22:30 (Europe/Moscow) | Ji Sanat – Kadıköy, Rasimpaşa mah (Yeldeğirmeni). Macit Erbudak sok.no: 66/A, Istanbul, Turkey
Simorgh Concert Contemporary and traditional music performance with
Faisal Macit (Daf, Percussion, Vocals)
Gülşah Bulut (Violin, Vocals)
Halil Tan (Santer, Oud, Guitar, Vocals)
Feride Duman (Clarinet, Vocals)
Diren Taş (Bass, Vocals)
Also with dance performance by Farima Berenji.
Ticket outlets
-J Art
-Taav Breakfast room (Rasimpaşa neighborhood Majid ERBUDAK Sok. No: 52)
For reservations and information
J ART
0545 849 39 81
jisanatkadikoy@gmail.co
Visit the Facebook event page for more details.

Journey of the Simorgh
2016-10-29 19:30 - 21:30 (Europe/Moscow) | Kadıköy Halk Eğitim Merkezi, Asım Gündüz Cd Bahariye Cd. No39 Kadıköy, Istanbul, 34156, Turkey
Journey of the Simorgh
(Based on the Story by Attar)
A Night of Sacred Dance, Music, and Poetry.
An incredible lineup of world renowned artists join together to take you on an amazing sacred journey! Includes a dance performance by the Simorgh Dance Collective of Turkey (Farima Dance Company).

Journey of the Simorgh
Farima Berenji (Iran, Azerbaijan, USA) – Director, Choreographer.
Internationally acclaimed performing artist, choreographer, instructor, and dance ethnologist.
Rashid Shadat (Uzbekistan, UK) – Dance, Poetry.
Internationally acclaimed performing artist, choreographer, instructor, and actor.
Faysal Macit (Turkey) – Daf, Voice.
Acclaimed Master of Sufi Music, Percussionist, vocalist, and instructor.
Ador Hooyar (Iran) Tanbour, Daf, Voice.
Acclaimed Iranian Sufi musician, vocalist, and instructor.
Varol Ozkaner (Turkey) Guitar.
Acclaimed artist, photographer, and musician.
Tickets: 45 TL
Tickets may be purchased at:
Kadikoy Halk Eğitim Merkezi Istanbul
Phone: (0216) 336 1200
or
Farima Berenji
http://farimadance.com
info@farimadance.com
Phone: (0542) 2328662
or any Simorgh Dance Collective dancer or musician.
Visit our Facebook event page for details and discussion.

Fabulous Fall Festival 2016
2016-11-12 11:00 - 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Hillview Community Center, 97 Hillview Ave., Los Altos, CA, 94022, United States
The Farima Dance Company performs at 1:58pm.
The Bay Area Belly Dance And Music Association (BABDAMA) Fabulous Fall Festival features a fabulous line-up of featured dancer performances including live music by Tahneen. Vendors will be selling middle eastern dance apparel, props, and accessories all day long. Profits of the festival help benefit the non-profit Next Door Solutions to Domestic Violence. BABDAMA is dedicated to the celebration of the arts of Middle Eastern dance.
Festival Schedule…
Visit the Facebook event page…

Song of the Soul
2016-11-18 20:00 - 21:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Pacific Cultural Center, 1307 Seabright Ave, Santa Cruz, CA, 95062, United States
An enchanting evening of mystical and sacred dance, music, and poetry of Persia and Turkey with dance performances by Farima Berenji and the Simorgh Dance Collective. Music by Gabriel Gold, Caravan El Noor, Sufí master musician Jim Blum and special guest, world renowned Sufí master musician Latif Bolat from Turkey.
Tickets: $20 advance / $25 at door
Doors open at 7:30pm.
Visit our Facebook event page for details and discussion.
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..
Latif Bolat
Regrettably, Latif Bolat is unable to come. We are sorry for the late notice as well as the opportunity lost for him to join us in bringing this wonderful concert to you.
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..
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..
Caravan El Noor
Caravan El Noor (Caravan of Light) creates and performs devotional chants and dances from various spiritual backgrounds. Inspired by the Universal Sufi tradition, in which all paths to the Divine are honored, Caravan El Noor invites audience participation in a call-and-response format that transforms the hearts and mind through sacred mantric phrases and sound. The band includes Jihan “Gigi” Amer as lead vocalist and harmonium player, Robert Hansen as vocalist, guitarist, oud and dotar player, and Andrew Foehner on tabla, djembe, frame drums, and percussion. Read more..
Jim Blum
Jim Blum has attended many spiritual workshops and has been a Sufi with the Ruhaniat Sufi order since 1980. He leads Zikr as well as plays many ethnic and western musical instruments for Zikr or Dances of Universal Peace, including guitar, harmonium, clarinet, soprano saxophone, violin, viola, oboe, English and French horn, and others.
Jahmra (Erika Nicholas)
Jahmra participates in events within the Sufi community, including playing, and singing for Dances of Universal Peace in the Bay Area.

Ancient Persian Sacred Dance
2016-11-27 10:00 - 11:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Center for Creative Living, 1460 Koll Circle, Suite C, San Jose, CA, 95112, United States
A Brief Lecture Upon Ancient Indo-Iranian Sacred Dances

From the beginning of time, sacred movements and music have brought people together and healed the soul. In ancient Persia, there were seven sacred animals, birds, and flowers believed to have carried the spirit of the Gods. Numerous archeological antiquities and temples have been found that show the connection between animals and dance. These animals were a symbol of the power of life and represented as a spiritual instrument and these seven sacred birds each represented a certain Persian God or Goddess. These rituals and movements are considered the earliest known form of Persian dance and the origin of sacred dance. The origins of Iranian Shamanic rituals, sacred circles, and the mysteries of Sema will also be discussed.

Halanda Studio Holiday Party
2016-12-04 15:00 - 19:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Halanda Studio, 1062 Lincoln Ave., San Jose, CA, 95125, United States
Celebrate the holidays with music, dance, food, drinks and lots of holiday cheer! Dance performances from all over the world, Halanda studio class recitals, live music and drumming, open floor dance, drum circle and more!
The Farima Dance Company performs at 4:25pm during this 10th annual studio holiday celebration that showcases the dance talent of many students and instructors at the Halanda Studio. Featuring many multi-award winning dancers and performers including Tatiana, Alma, Natika, Jill, Hala, Amanda and more…
Free! Family friendly. All ages welcome! Invite your communities…
Facebook event page
More details and schedule…

Dance of the Soul Sema Gathering
2016-12-11 17:30 - 19:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Center for Creative Living, 1460 Koll Circle, Suite C, San Jose, CA, 95112, United States
Dance of the Soul
Sacred Dance, Music, and Poetry Celebrating Sheb-i Arus

Join us on a path for healing and self growth through the power of meditative whirling and sacred dance to live music, mystical poetry, and Zikr (prayer). With us create a sacred supportive space where we can all open our heart, body, and mind.
This night we will be celebrating Sheb-i Arus with whirling dance, meditation, and poetry. Sheb-i Arus commemorates the death and thereby union between the Persian mystical poet Rumi and the universe.
Special guests:

Mina Maral, vocalist
Nima Hafezieh, musician

Please bring a potluck dish to share as following the dance there will be a potluck. There is a refrigerator but no oven at the venue.
Sema is a powerful meditation ritual with music, poetry, and movement that originated over 700 years ago with the Sufis. Whirling is the customary dance of Sema whereby one attempts to abandon ego, pain, and personal desires and reach the source of all perfection. Whirling connects us with our center, our heart. There are no spectators when we enter this sacred gathering together. “Sema” means “listening”. Participate with us in this practice of deep listening, become filled with the energy of blessing, and create a channel of healing for all of creation.
We will open with sacred and mystical Persian poetry and meditation, journey into whirling, healing, and Persian and Near Eastern healing dances/rituals with live music, then close our gathering with chanting, drumming, and sharing.
Please wear comfortable clothing (white or light colored if possible) and bring socks or soft soled shoes to wear. If you choose to turn avoid eating a large meal 2 hours prior. Feel free to bring a poem, story, or music to share. Our gathering welcomes musicians and other spiritual or healing teachers to come and share their art.
$15-25 sliding scale donation. Your donation is greatly appreciated to help cover cost of rent.

A Night with Rumi: Love and Celebration
2016-12-16 20:30 - 22:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Community of Infinite Spirit, 1540 Hicks Ave., San Jose, CA, 95125, United States
Celebration of Rumi’s union with the universe — Shab-i Arus.
Poetry Recitation in English and Spiritual Music, Dance, and Drumming. Dance performance by Farima Berenji, music by Mehr Daf Ensemble in collaboration with Todd Javadi and Neema Hakmat. Nineteen artists showcasing their talent!
Tickets: $20 online at http://Mint.bpt.me

Annual Persian Art Conference
2016-12-27 - 2016-12-29 | Hilton London Heathrow Airport, Terminal 4, London Heathrow Airport, London, TW6 3AF, United Kingdom
Persian Classical, Sacred, and Folkloric Dance – Persian Art and Letters Conference
Lecture, Performances, and Workshops
Farima Berenji will present two dance performances, an Iranian folkloric dance workshop, a classical Persian dance workshop, and a lecture upon Persian culture at this prestigious international conference.
Persian Dance Performance
Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2016
Wednesday. Dec. 28, 2016
Persian dance performance by Farima Berenji and Rashid Sadat.
Nomad Caravan: Folk Dances of Iran
Wednesday. Dec. 28, 2016 1:00-2:30pm
30 GBP
Workshop
Poetry in Motion: Persian Classical Dance
Thursday. Dec. 29, 2016 1:00-2:30pm
30 GBP
Workshop
Sacred Dance in Ancient Persia
Thursday. Dec. 29, 2016 5:15-6:00pm
A brief lecture on the history of Persian and Indo-Iranian dance.
Persian Art & Letters Conference Theme: “Iran & Baha’i Faith, as seen through the Mirror of History”.
All plenary sessions will be offered in Persian and English, with dedicated programs for children and junior youth, as well as evening entertainment, arts exhibition, special visit to the resting-place of Shoghi Effendi, and much more.
More details of conference program…
Register…

Persian Classical, Sacred, and Folkloric Dance Workshops
2017-01-08 13:00 - 19:30 (America/Denver) | Bela Diva Dance, 4309 E Mississippi Ave, Denver, CO, 80246, United States
Three 90 minute workshops in Persian classical, sacred, and folkloric dance lead by Farima Berenji. Class space is limited to 20 participants.
Poetry in Motion: Persian Classical Dance
Sunday Jan. 8th 1:00-2:30 PM
Experience one of the world’s most enchanting dances. Persian dance is inspired by medieval Persian poetry, miniature artwork, sacred elements, animals, and geometry. Persian dance comes from an ancient culture of 8000 years and its movements often reflect the swirling of a birds, beautiful gesture and feelings, footwork patterns, and dazzling spins. Many great Persian poets extolled dance in their poems and used it as a symbol of the power of life and represented dance as a spiritual instrument to become one with the Divine.
Persian classical dance is delicate, intricate, subtle, and full of meaning. Delicate hand movements, gentle upper body undulations, and facial expressions are the essential elements of this dance. The dance emphasizes feeling, rather than movement. The dancer tells a story, by displaying a variety of expressions.
We will focus on various expression and feelings used in Persian Classical and Miniature Art dances and work on various motion and techniques. Samples of Persian Miniature artwork will be shown in class for inspiration and re-creation of the art works into dance. Please feel free to bring an artwork or a picture that inspires you.
Poetry in Motion workshop will includes a brief look into:

Persian Classical Dance – Technique and History
Persian Miniature Art Dance – Dances inspired directly from sensuous Persian miniature
Persian Hands – Symbolic meanings of Persian hand movements and history from the pre-Elimit Dynasty until the Safavad Dynasty
Poetry in Motion – Persian Dance through Persian Poetry. The Art of Expression – Learn the beautiful art of storytelling through facial and body expressions, how to portray emotion in movement, and the connections between expression and movement
Brief look at influential sacred elements within classical Persian dance – Sacred Animals, Geometry, Flowers, and Elements

Dance of the Soul Workshop – Turns, Circles, and Spirals
Sunday Jan. 8th 2:45-4:15 PM
This workshop will include Turns, Spirals, Whirling, & Candle Dance. Included will be a short Sufi training and dance workshop helping people of all experience levels to whirl for a sustained period. Please do no eat a large meal 2 hours prior to workshop.
Sema is a powerful meditation ritual with music, poetry, and movement that originated over 700 years ago with the Sufis. Whirling is the customary dance of Sema whereby one attempts to abandon ego, pain, and personal desires and reach the source of all perfection. Whirling connects us with our center, our heart. There are no spectators when we enter this sacred gathering together. “Sema” means “listening”. Participate with us in this practice of deep listening, become filled with the energy of blessing, and create a channel of healing for all.
An in depth dance journey covering various spotted and non-spotted turns, spirals and circles based on Sufi whirling traditions, sacred geometry, and sacred elements, as well as featuring beautiful and dazzling spins from Iran and Central Asia.
We will create a sacred, supportive space where we can all release whatever energy no longer serves us, relax and open our heart, body, and mind. We will discover the power and mystery of ancient dances and rituals – a gateway for self-growth and spiritual transformation– through movement, music, love, and stillness.
Farima’s signature project Dance of the Soul combines Persian and Near Eastern sacred and mystical dances, history, poetry, and the Sufi and healing rituals of the Persian, Turkic, and Altai Mountains. Having over 20 years of research in the field of performing arts and Persian Dance, internationally acclaimed and award winning performing artist and dance ethnologist, has researched and documented various Persian and Central Asian nomadic cultures, rituals and sacred elements. In collaboration with scholars and Sufi masters of Iran and Turkey, Farima presents new archeological discoveries and research upon Sufism and its connection to the ancient Sun Goddess and Zoroastrianism, the human body, and its symbolic meaning in the Universe along the pathway to the soul. Discover the power of dance as a gateway for self-growth and spiritual transformation through movement, music, love, and stillness.
Nomadic Caravan: Iranian Folk Dances
Sunday Jan. 8th 6:00-7:30 PM
Iranian folk dances reflect the ancient mythical stories, celebration of solstices, a tribute to the ancient sacred animals, Gods, and mother earth. It reflects lifestyle of people who lead a simple and spiritual nomadic life. They are rhythmic and elegant movements that reflect a nomadic way of living, beliefs, work, struggles, and battles. We will learn the great mythical history, costuming, and diversity of expressive movement vocabulary and dance styles of these nomadic cultures, which originate from 10000-year-old tradition.
We will take a dance journey to Iran and explores the beautiful dances, culture, and music of this country. In this workshop, Farima will teach various/ brief fun folk dances and background history of various nomadic cultures of Iran.

Basket and gypsy style skirt for Basket Dance
Light hip scarf for Persian Gulf (Khalij Dance)
Small hand scarves for Qashqai dance

Farima might have some extra props but not enough for all
Cost is $30.00/Workshop or $75.00 for all 3 with the Full Day Pass
Follow the link to register and reserve your spot today. Space is limited to 20 participants/class.

Journey of the Silk Road
2017-01-12 19:30 - 21:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Center for Performing Arts & Education, 8151 Village Parkway, Dublin, CA, 94568, United States
An evening of traditional and sacred dance and music of Persia and the Silk Road featuring dance performances by the Simorgh Dance Collective (Farima Dance Company), Farima Berenji, and music by Caravan El Noor and Gabriel Gold.
Travel through the fabled lands of the Silk Road, where music and dance celebrate the bounty of nature in mystic rituals and vibrant cultures. Features sacred, classical and folkloric dance and music of Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Persia and Turkey
Tickets $15 at the door or available online. Visit our Facebook event for announcements and additional details.
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..
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..
Caravan El Noor
Caravan El Noor (Caravan of Light) creates and performs devotional chants and dances from various spiritual backgrounds. Inspired by the Universal Sufi tradition, in which all paths to the Divine are honored, Caravan El Noor invites audience participation in a call-and-response format that transforms the hearts and mind through sacred mantric phrases and sound. The band includes Jihan “Gigi” Amer as lead vocalist and harmonium player, Robert Hansen as vocalist, guitarist, oud and dotar player, and Andrew Foehner on tabla, djembe, frame drums, and percussion. Read more..

Reimagine the Dream
2017-01-14 10:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Good Samaritan United Methodist Church, 19624 Homestead Road (near Wolfe), Cupertino, CA, 95014, United States
Crossing boundaries, Building bridges, Keeping hope alive
Reimagine the Dream! is a festival of music, dance, art, spoken word, food, and traditions from around the world. We invite groups and individuals from all faiths and cultures to help us cross boundaries, build bridges, and keep hope alive. Join people of many faiths and cultures as we gather to celebrate and renew the vision of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Includes a performance by the Farima Dance Company at 1:00pm.

Silk Road Weekend Dance Intensive
2017-02-03 - 2017-02-05 | Abbey Studio, 2687 Penrith Ave., Cumberland, BC, V0R 1S0, Canada
Farima Berenji returns to Comox Valley February 3-5, 2017 for dance performances, a sema gathering (Sufi whirling), zikr healing circle and two full days of dance workshops. On Saturday, Farima will teach Raqs-e-Pari (Dance of the Fairies), a veil/canopy dance. Sunday, we journey in dance along the legendary Silk Road to learn folkloric dances from Uzbekistan.
Registration is closed for Farima’s upcoming weekend intensive at the Abbey Studio in Cumberland.

Evening Show and Sema Gathering
Friday, Feb. 3rd, 2017
Sema Gathering, Abbey Studio
The Abbey Studio in Cumberland welcomes back international dance artist and scholar Farima Berenji for an evening of dance performances, poetry, and Sufi whirling. We will start the evening with Persian traditional, classical and sacred dance performances by Farima and Simorgh (Farima’s Comox Valley Dance Collective). Following the dance performances, 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 poem to share. People that wish to participate in the Sema gathering are encouraged to wear white or light coloured clothing and socks or soft soled shoes are recommended for whirling.
Doors open at 7:30PM, performances 8PM-9PM, Sema gathering 9-10PM. Admission is by donation at the door, all welcome, suggested donation sliding scale $10-$15 (included when you register for the full weekend).

Raqs-e-Pari, Dance of the Fairies and Veil Dance Workshop
Saturday, Feb. 4th 11AM-4:30PM
Raqs-e-Pari, Dance of the Fairies
In Persian folklore the ‘Pari’s’ were beautiful, fairy-like creatures that sometimes visited the realm of mortals. They are known to be the fairest creation of poetical imagination. They are hidden among the flowers or gardens in “Shahr Zarin” (Golden Land) and can be found in the world of angels. No description can equal the beauty of the female Pari and the highest compliment a Persian poet can pay a lady is to liken her to one of these lovely aerial beings. In this workshop we will enter the enchanting world of the Paris and learn the beautiful, gentle movements of Persian dance which portray fairy creatures using hand scarves, veils, and canopy to tell their magical stories. The workshop includes a background on history and costuming, followed by a beautiful fairy dance choreography. Please bring silk veils—large silk veils are best—and hand scarves. There will be some extras here at the studio to lend as well.
We will take a 1 hour break for potluck lunch and Q&A.

Sufi Healing Circle with Farima Berenji
Saturday, Feb. 4th 7:30PM-9:30PM
Sacred Circle, Abbey Studio
On Saturday evening February 4th, Farima be leading a Zikr (healing circle). 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 performed seated, either on the floor or on a chair making it accessible for those with mobility issues. No need to pre-register, suggested donation is $10 at the door.

Dances of Uzbekistan, Samarkhand, and Bukhara Workshop
Sunday, Feb. 5th 11AM-4:30PM
Dances of Uzbekistan
We will take the legendary Silk Road to Uzbekistan and learn about Central Asian dance traditions, culture, and history that have existed for two thousand years. These dances traded influences with the dances of India, China, Persia, Arabia and all the way to Europe. In this workshop you will get an introduction to various styles of Central Asian dance techniques mainly focusing on dances and styles from Uzbekistan. We will learn the beautiful facial expressions, hand and body movements and, various central Asians turns. We will sample various forms of Uzbek dances such as Bukharan, Ferghana, and Khorezm. The workshop will also include a short background history of culture, music, and costuming and will be followed by a fun choreography.
We will take a 1 hour break for a potluck lunch and Q&A.
Registration
Total price for the full weekend intensive (includes Friday evening event and dance workshops Sat. & Sun.):$200 by Jan. 1st, 2017 or $225 thereafter.
Farima would prefer that students attend the full weekend intensive!
Fee for one day workshop:$115 by Jan. 1st or $125 thereafter.
To secure your place in the weekend intensive, send a deposit of $100 to Cathy Stoyko. When your deposit has been received, your place will be held. The balance is due in cash on the first day of the workshops, by Sat. Feb. 4th, 2017 at the latest. Your deposit is nonrefundable. If the workshop sells out and there is a waiting list, we will do our best to fill your place and provide a refund.
To complete payment of deposit or payment:

Drop payment off at the venue: Abbey Studio, 2687 Penrith Ave. Cumberland BC
Send a cheque made to Cathy Stoyko, Box #1196 Cumberland BC, Candada, V0R 1s0
Via email money transfer

More Details
Contact Cathy Stoyko at (250) 218-0704 or email cdstoyko@uniserve.com

Dance of the Soul
2017-02-11 - 2017-02-12 | The Hearts Garden Temple, 1397 Pacific Rim Hwy, Tofino, British Columbia, V0R, Canada
Dance of the Soul Weekend Intensive
Sacred Dance and Healing Workshops
Sacred and Mystical Dances of the Silk Road
Saturday, Feb. 11, 12-3PM
Sacred Circle — A Shamanic Journey
Saturday, Feb. 11, 6-8PM
Turns, Circles, Spirals, and Sufi Whirling
Saturday, Feb. 12, 12-3PM
Registration
$130 for both days OR $70 for individual days.
$40 non-refundable deposit to hold your spot.
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.
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 and what make an ARTIST instead of just a dancer.
She will introduce you to ritual movements celebrating the grace and joy of life and to a society where and when women were honored and people lived in harmony with each other and with nature. She will show you how dance depicts the creation of the Universe through a spinning series of fantastic formations, metamorphoses, and rhythms. Farima will introduce you to ancient and contemporary Persian knowledge in a way that will make you proud to be a woman and yourself. Farima’s vision is to bring back the light and the power of the divine feminine, the Goddesses and Lionesses, through dance, education, and a sense of wonder and reverence. Farima infuses spirituality into her dance and teachings to impassion, empower, and inspire her students to deeply understand the meaning of culture and dance, to explore dance as a powerful means of expressing emotion and spiritual healing, and to use dance as a dialogue among cultures.
Farima is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective (founded in 2007). She is the first Iranian dance artist to found a worldwide collaborative devoted to preservation, performance, and promotion of ancient, classical, and folkloric dance of Persia and the Silk Road. Farima is the founder of the Lioness project, Poetry in Motion project, and the Awakening project. She has appeared in scholarly documentaries hosted by National Geographic and the U.N., and has been highlighted in various international media Farima is the recipient of the prestigious UN award and has been recognized by Congressman Mike Honda, by the Iranian Women’s Rights Committee “30 Voices,” Music and Cultural Organization of Turkey, and is the first Iranian woman to be awarded the National Folk Dance Award. Farima and her Simorgh Dance Collective was the first Persian dance company, directed by an Iranian to perform during a reception for US President Obama.

Travel and Adventure Show 2017
2017-02-11 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.

Persian Dance of the Qajar Dynasty and the Modern Age
2017-02-16 18:00 - 21:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Shawn Stendevad’s House, 16419 Marcus Street, Eagle River, AK, United States
Lecture on Persian Dance from the Qajar Dynasty to the Modern Age by Farima Berenji.
Potluck, bring a dish to share.
In the early 19th century, new styles of dance began to develop in Persia. Artists traveled to Europe, creating a bloom of modernism in the arts, particularly in the royal courts. Illustrations of this period include splendid paintings and texts emphasizing modern contemporary dances is the court and among the elite families. The West, largely as a result of political connections with France, England, and Germany, increasingly influenced Iranian art and dance. As a result, dancing changed dramatically, and classical Persian dance styles merged with Western ones. Ballet, Flamenco, and other modern dance influences migrated to Iran, ushering in the modern age of Persian Dance.
Register…

Persian New Year Celebration and Performances
2017-02-17 18:30 - 22:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Al Aska Shriners, 1930 E Northern Lights Blvd, Anchorage, AK, United States
Celebrate the traditional Persian New Year, called “Nowrouz”, with traditional Nowrouz appetizers and delights, dance performances, poetry, open dancing, silent auction, and wine bar. Learn some traditional folk dances from the Simorgh-Farima Dance Company of Alaska. Show off your dancing, singing, or other talents and win a prize! Performances by Farima Berenji, Simorgh-Farima Dance Company of Alaska, and special guests Laman and Vivienne Hendricks.
Tickets $35 before February 5th, $40 thereafter. Get tickets…

Persian Classical, Modern, and Urban Dance Workshop
2017-02-18 15:00 - 2017-02-19 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Children’s Dance Theater, 4000 W. Dimond Blvd., Anchorage, AK, United States
“Open to all and great for fusion artists, all dancers, and the culturally curious”.
Contemporary Persian Dance Technique and Style Workshop
Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017, 3-5 PM. $60.
Register…
Simorgh Dance Collective Choreography Workshop
Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017, 6-8PM. $60.
Workshop by invitation only for Simorgh members and prospective members. Contact Mary Ann Benoit 907-491-1253 about registering.
Register…
Sema Gathering
Saturday, Feb 18, 2017, 8:30–10:30PM. $60
Please wear comfortable clothing (white or light colored if possible) and wear socks or soft soled shoes. Feel free to bring a poem, story, or music to share. Bring a light sweet snack and a drum. Register…
Baba Karam and Persian Urban Dance
Sunday, Feb 19, 2017, 11AM-1PM. $60.
Urban dance styles and technique of the Qajar dynasty.
Register…
Simorgh Dance Collective Choreography Workshop
Sunday, Feb 19, 2017, 2- 4PM. $60.
Workshop by invitation only for Simorgh members and prospective members. Contact Mary Ann Benoit 907-491-1253 about registering.
Bring: Fedora hat, shawl and plastic knife. Contact Mary Ann Benoit 907-491-1253 about registering. Register…
Registration
Full workshop (all classes): $200 paid before January 10, 2017, $275 thereafter.
Individual classes (lecture, sema or workshops): $60 each.
Must be 18 or older to attend dance workshops. For information, contact Mary Ann Benoit at 907-491-1253.
Facebook event page…

Spring Celebration
2017-03-12 18:30 - 20:30 (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 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: $5-10 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.

Story of Esther
2017-03-13 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Danville, Danville, CA, United States
Farima dances in the role of Esther in this production.
More details to be announced…

Silk Road House Norouz Celebration
2017-03-26 12:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Hillside Club, 2286 Cedar Street, Berkeley, CA, 94709 , United States
Celebrate the annual Nawruz Spring Holiday and the 10th anniversary of the Silk Road House. Dedicated to promote and support diverse ethnic cultures, the Silk Road House is delighted to celebrate an important milestone with the Nawruz holiday which transcends religious, ethnic, linguistic and national divisions and brings people together. Includes a performance by the Farima Dance Company.
The following is a general event program:
12.00 pm – Doors open
12.00 pm – 2.00 pm – Food is served (Silk Road House will offer hot and cold Central Asian and Mediterranean dishes, beverages, fruits and dessert)
2.00 pm – 3.00 pm – Concert and Performance by Farima Dance Company.
3.00 pm – 4.00 pm – Dancing, karaoke, games and contests.
Purchase tickets online
Online tickets for adults are $25 per person. Children up to 5 years of age are free. Children 5 to 12 years old will be required to purchase a $10 ticket. Seniors are offered a discount
Due to limited capacity at the venue, the number of the tickets sold at the door will be minimal and will be $40 per person, regardless of age.

Sufi Flamenco Workshop
2017-04-09 12:00 - 14:00 (Europe/Istanbul) | Ustaların Sahnesi, Acıbadem Mahallesi, Fatih Sokak, No: 6, Kat: -1, Bölüm: -22, KADIKÖY / İstanbul, Turkey
Explore Sufi Flamenco fusion as a stunning journey from Southern Spain to Persia and Turkey. Learn the history and the beautiful movements of Flamenco, combined with Sufi Whirling traditions of Iran and Turkey in this workshop lead by Master Whirler and Dance Ethnologist Farima Berenji.
There is a historic, lively cross-cultural exchange between the cultures surrounding the Mediterranean sea since the 11th century. In both Spanish and Persian traditions, rhythms and dance are a source of releasing energy and becoming one with the divine. In fact, the word, the exclamation Ole! is derived from the name of Allah in order to call upon the divine.
Farima will teach her unique technique of Sufi whirling and will guide and teach the movement of the Iranian/Turkish Whirling and Flamenco dance with the rhythms of the Ilahi’s and Iranian Makhams.
The workshop will:

Present a brief history of the cultural influence of Sufism and Flamenco tradition.
Pave into Farima’s unique breath work in technique and relaxation, with a focus on the Spanish and Arabic words used in breath and dance movement.
Teach various hand movements, body movements, and expressions of sacred movements of Flamenco used in Sufi whirling traditions throughout Iran and Turkey.
Put movements into use and students will be drilled on technique and patterns during flamenco whirling, while listening to both Iranian and Turkish style Sufi music to learn rhythms and makams.
Explore and apply the movements into open floor whirling.

“Dance as if you are Praying” ~Farima
For additional details and notes visit the Facebook event page.
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. As a Magi (Iranian Shaman), Sufi and Semazen, Farima teaches her own original findings, methods, techniques, and exercises to uncover the connection between the soul and dance movement and what make an ARTIST instead of just a dancer.
Farima is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective (founded in 2007). She is the first Iranian dance artist to found a worldwide collaborative devoted to preservation, performance, and promotion of ancient, classical, and folkloric dance of Persia and the Silk Road. Farima is the founder of the Lioness project, Poetry in Motion project, and the Awakening project. She has appeared in scholarly documentaries hosted by National Geographic and the U.N., and has been highlighted in various international media Farima is the recipient of the prestigious UN award and has been recognized by Congressman Mike Honda, by the Iranian Women’s Rights Committee “30 Voices,” Music and Cultural Organization of Turkey, and is the first Iranian woman to be awarded the National Folk Dance Award and the Cultural Dance Award. Farima and her Simorgh Dance Collective was the first Persian dance company, directed by an Iranian to perform during a reception for US President Obama. More details…

Sema Gathering and Workshop
2017-04-15 02:30 - 16:00 (Europe/Istanbul) | YogaInn, Birlik Mahallesi, 435. Cd (5. Cd.) No:65, Ankara, Turkey
Learn the basic technique of Sufi whirling with emphasis on Khorasan and Uyghur Sema, its 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.
Registration: 65TL if booked prior April 11, 75TL thereafter.

Sacred Dance Performance
2017-04-15 17:30 - 19:30 (Europe/Istanbul) | French Culture Institute, Konrad Adenauer Caddesi N°30, Yıldız Sancak Mahallesi, Ankara, 06550, Turkey
Sacred dance performance by Farima Berenji accompanied by ney master, Oğuz Kaan Birhekimoğlu.

Sufi Flamenco Workshop, Level 2
2017-04-19 19:00 - 21:00 (Europe/Istanbul) | Ustaların Sahnesi, Acıbadem Mahallesi, Fatih Sokak, No: 6, Kat: -1, Bölüm: -22, KADIKÖY / İstanbul, Turkey
Additional and advanced technique and choreography workshop in Sufi Flamenco fusion presented by Farima Berenji.
Explore Sufi Flamenco fusion as a stunning journey from Southern Spain to Persia and Turkey. Learn the history and the beautiful movements of Flamenco, combined with Sufi Whirling traditions of Iran and Turkey in this workshop lead by Master Whirler and Dance Ethnologist Farima Berenji.
There is a historic, lively cross-cultural exchange between the cultures surrounding the Mediterranean sea since the 11th century. In both Spanish and Persian traditions, rhythms and dance are a source of releasing energy and becoming one with the divine. In fact, the word, the exclamation Ole! is derived from the name of Allah in order to call upon the divine.
Farima will teach her unique technique of Sufi whirling and will guide and teach the movement of the Iranian/Turkish Whirling and Flamenco dance with the rhythms of the Ilahi’s and Iranian Makhams.
The workshop will:

Present a brief history of the cultural influence of Sufism and Flamenco tradition.
Pave into Farima’s unique breath work in technique and relaxation, with a focus on the Spanish and Arabic words used in breath and dance movement.
Teach various hand movements, body movements, and expressions of sacred movements of Flamenco used in Sufi whirling traditions throughout Iran and Turkey.
Put movements into use and students will be drilled on technique and patterns during flamenco whirling, while listening to both Iranian and Turkish style Sufi music to learn rhythms and makams.
Explore and apply the movements into open floor whirling.

“Dance as if you are Praying” ~Farima
Farima Berenji
Farima Berenji is an award winning dance ethnologist, 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 by UNESCO, she travels worldwide to record, research, lecture, perform, educate, and to inspire dynamic creativity and healing through dance and movement. As a Magi (Iranian Shaman), Sufi, and Semazen, Farima teaches original findings, methods, techniques, and exercises to embody the connection between soul and dance movement of an artist not just a dancer.
Farima is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective (founded in 2007). She is the first Iranian dance artist to found a worldwide collaborative devoted to preservation, performance, and promotion of ancient, classical, and folkloric dance of Persia and the Silk Road. Farima is the founder of the Lioness project, Poetry in Motion project, and the Awakening project. She has appeared in scholarly documentaries hosted by National Geographic and the U.N., and has been highlighted in various international media Farima is the recipient of the prestigious UN award and has been recognized by Congressman Mike Honda, by the Iranian Women’s Rights Committee “30 Voices,” Music and Cultural Organization of Turkey, and is the first Iranian woman to be awarded the National Folk Dance Award and the Cultural Dance Award. Farima and her Simorgh Dance Collective was the first Persian dance company, directed by an Iranian to perform during a reception for US President Obama. More details…

Baba Karam Dance Workshop
2017-04-25 19:00 - 21:00 (Europe/Istanbul) | Ustaların Sahnesi, Acıbadem Mahallesi, Fatih Sokak, No: 6, Kat: -1, Bölüm: -22, KADIKÖY / İstanbul, Turkey
Two hour Baba Karam dance workshop taught by Farima Berenji. Includes an introduction into the history of the late Qajar Dynasty.
Jaheli or Baba Karam is a playful imitation of the machismo style of dance done by the working class men of Tehran. The dance illustrates typical movements inspired by tough street gang members of the Qajar era known as “Jahel”. Jâheli is part of an Iranian sub-culture that has its origins in the 9th and 10th century, a period when Turkic and Mongol marauders were present in eastern Iran. Local, informal constabularies were formed to protect each town or village and the men of these groups, called jâhel (meaning “ignorant” in Farsi), along with women, developed a subculture and dance with a mixture of street smarts and spirituality. Today the dance is also performed by women, and also sometimes Baba Karam refers to as a term for contemporary Persian Hip-Hop dancing.
Both men and women are welcome! Bring a fedora and shawl as props.
