Farima Dance

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.

Solitude -- Sacred Dance Performance
2017-04-26 - 2017-04-27 | Peter Barkworth Theatre, Stockport College, Wellington Road South, Stockport, SK1 3UQ, United Kingdom
Farima performs as a guest artist in dance drama Solitude, a production directed by Ali Aminipour.
Doors open at 6:30pm, April 26 and 27. Contact organizer for more details.

Persian and Silk Road Dance -- Free Class
2017-04-27 20:30 - 21:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Vision Dance Center, 375 Saratoga Ave. Suite B, San Jose, CA, 95129, United States
Join us for a free introductory Persian and Silk Road dance class in honor of Bay Area Dance Week, April 21 – 30. Learn some fun classical and folkloric dances of the Silk Road and experience the beauty of its culture and history as well.
See our event listing online among almost 300 Bay Area Dance Week events.
Inspired by Persian poetry and miniature artwork, Persian and Silk Road dance combines swirling arabesques, sweeping gestures, shoulder isolations, footwork patterns, and dazzling spins. In this class we will learn various Persian and Central Asian dance movements, vocabulary, styles, expressions, turning, and short sequences. Class will also focus on the historical aspect of each dance style, costuming, and music.

Sacred Dance Workshop
2017-04-29 10:00 - 15:30 (Europe/London) | Hulme Park, 86 Royce Rd, Haulme , Manchester, M15 5LA, United Kingdom
Farima’s signature project Dance of the Soul combines sacred and mystical whirling movements, Sufi traditions, and healing rituals of ancient Persia, Turkey, and the Altai Mountains. Learn both personal and spiritual whirling based on Farima’s archeological discoveries and research, and of Sufism and its connection to ancient Iranian Zoroastrianism, planets, stars, sacred flowers and animals—all of which have symbolic meaning in the universe to open the pathway to the soul.

Bay Area Belly Festival 2017
2017-05-07 12:00 - 18:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Angelicas, 863 Main Street, Redwood City, CA, 94063, United States
Middle Eastern belly dance festival including performances by local artists, live music, and bazaar. The Farima Dance Company (Simorgh Dance Collective of San Jose) performs two Turkish folkloric dances on stage at 1:48pm.

Sema workshop
2017-05-09 | Jesuit Retreat Center of Los Altos, 300 Manresa Way, Los Altos, CA, United States
More details coming…

Journey through Uzbekistan
2017-07-01 - 2017-07-07 | Samarkand, Uzbekistan, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
Explore Uzbekistan’s beautiful ethnic music, dance, natural, and cultural heritage in this 10 day tour along the historic Silk Road. Hosted by Farima Berenji, internationally recognized dance scholar and award-winning world dance choreographer and performer.
This unique travel experience and opportunity focuses on the history, art, music, and dance traditions of Uzbekistan. Guests will study traditional dance and music with talented local artists including Uzbek dance instructor and performer Zilola Janikulova. Guests will also visit historic cultural sites and points of interest. Destinations include Samarkand, Bukhara, and Tashkent, prominent stops of the historic Silk Road trade route from East to West.
Payment Includes

Daily refreshments and snacks (tea, coffee, Nescafe, and mineral water are always at your  disposal enroute)
Private transport
Entrance fee of venues based on itinerary
Workshops and lectures
All transfers

Payment Does NOT Include

Visa fees (based on your departure country)
Airfare
Hotel accommodations
Personal transportation or taxi fees
Personal expenses or extra stay
Personal sightseeing
Hotel and transport service tips
Lunch and Dinner
Extra food and drink not included in the menu list
Alcoholic beverages

Payment and Rules
Payment, due 5 pm PST June 12, 2017:
$400 General prior May 30, 2017 or $450 afterward.
$150 Deposit to hold space.
Note Paypal applies a 2.9% + 0.30 fee to the transaction which we add to your payment. Contact us for other payment options.
A deposit of $150 must be paid to secure registration. The balance is due on the first day of the tour. No refund of deposit is given for any personal cancellation.
Hotel rates are $35-40 per night. Breakfast included with hotel. We will book one hotel so we can stay together.
Tour will be canceled or an additional fee might be included if a minimum of six participants is not reached. A refund is given if for any reason the tour is canceled.
Please come with an open mind and willingness to cope with change if need be.
We will NOT register anyone after June 12, 2017.
Visa
Please consult requirements and submission for US citizen tourist visa here. Canadians may also visit Visa Services Canada. Other nationalities please contact your local embassy to see if a visa is required as soon as possible.
More Information
For more details please contact us. Full schedule details will be given prior to the start of the tour. See also the Facebook event page for ongoing updates and media.

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…

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

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

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

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)

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

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.”

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!

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.

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…

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..

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…
