Camp program
Workshops
A wide variety of specialised music and dance workshops will be on offer throughout each day. The only problem is figuring out which one to do! Some of the workshops will occur once during the camp and others will repeat, progressing over the 3 days. Once you are at the camp you can go to any of the workshops on offer. Time schedules will be given out upon arrival. Beginners are welcome and all levels of skill will be catered for.
Belly Dance
Belly dance workshops abound, with highly skilled and inspirational teachers hosting workshops covering many different styles and perspectives of Belly Dance, from gypsy and folk styles to modern and classical Egyptian.
For more information go to: Dance Workshops
Balkan Dance
Energetic and fun circle dances from the Balkan regions will be taught, including many traditional village dances of Macedonia, Bulgaria, Turkey and the Romany Gypsies! We are also excited to have Gary Dawson, who is an amazing source of knowledge, giving talks on the culture, music and history of Balkan dance.
For more information go to: Dance Workshops
Drumming
All manner of percussive instruments will be taught; darabuka (tabla), tappan (davul), frame drums, Riq (tambourine) and zills.
Tuition will include Arabic, Turkish, Persian, Balkan and Gypsy styles!
For more information go to: Music Workshops
Instrumental
Our music teachers are able to provide tuition for many types of instruments.
Some of these are: ney (flute), kaval (flute), zurna, oud, cymbus (banjo), gajda (bag-pipes) clarinet, saxophone, and even didgeridoo! Instrumental classes are usually small groups and can also be one-on-one. Please specify your instrument/skill level and whether you own an instrument when registering for the camp, so that we can help you to get the tuition you require. Some lessons will be on the program and others (private lessons) can be arranged prior to or at the camp. An array of instruments are welcome in the ensembles too!
For more information go to: Music Workshops
For Singers
Learn songs from different regions of the Middle East and the Balkans. Let your vocal chords run wild with tragic Gypsy songs and romantic Arabic ballads!
For more information go to: Music Workshops
Henna Workshops
Like an ancient caravan trail, henna traverses culture and time. Discover some of the less known uses of henna, cultural design variations and application innovations. Decorate yourself and others with a practical henna session.
Concerts
Every evening the camp will transform magically taking us all on a musical journey through the Middle East and Eastern Europe. Concerts showcasing different regional styles of dance and music will be an opportunity to enjoy the talents of our wonderful teachers, along with performances by guest and emerging artists and bands.
Be inspired by some of Australia's most talented and respected musicians and dancers in an intimate and friendly atmosphere.
Sunday night will be your chance to perform at our “Bahar Bayram Concert” where workshop participants and teachers will share what they have created during the camp. There will also be opportunities for showing everyone what you get up to in your spare time – anything you've been working on at the camp or prior to the camp. Please note: All performances must be with live music wherever possible!
Bellydance Cabarets
Ever dreamed of dancing with a band and experiencing the joy of spontaneous creativity? Sign up for the Bellydance Cabarets!
The Cabaret is more than just a performance opportunity; it is a chance to experience the beautiful, sensual art of bellydance in its most sacred and powerful setting. Music and dance merge and audience and performers share in the magic of spontaneity and improvisation.
Balkan dance parties
Dance the night away to the thrilling sounds of Zurna and Tappan. Passionate Gypsy music will spur us all on as we join together and celebrate community and culture while learning traditional circle dances from the Balkans.
Expert teachers will teach and lead the dances so even those with two left feet will be able to participate. There is no excuse for being a wallflower at these parties!