Give to the Max
Give to the Max day has passed, so we want to say a big thank you to those of you who were so generous. And the good news is, it’s not too late! If you didn’t get an opportunity to contribute to Jawaahir, you can still give by clicking DONATE. Thank you!!!!
You can read the letter from Vanessa of Cairo, our Artistic Director, here.
Shows
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Click here to see many, many, many more photos from this fabulous show last summer!
Check back as we update information on our exciting events and performances. Thank you for supporting us, and we'll see you soon!
Workshops & Classes
On-going Classes
Jawaahir encourages dance students to support our city’s wonderful local instructors who specialize in Raqs Sharqi and Arab dances. Look to Jawaahir Dance Company founder, Cassandra Shore, and current and former JDC members Renee Szudy, Louise Indritz, Laila Sabouni, Angela Skrade, and Alana Mari. Also, check out the Guild of Middle Eastern Dance for local events and class listings, and of course stay tuned to us here at jawaahir.org, our newsletter, and social media pages.
News
Interview with Vanessa
Check out this interview with Vanessa—our Artistic Director—in the April 2026 issue of Fanoos Magazine!
Established in 2020, Fanoos Magazine provides a source of accessible information and sharing for the bellydance and SWANA arts community.
Vanessa's Variations
This fun and informative workshop focuses on technique and combinations.
Although this fabulous workshop is over, it was recorded. For a limited time, you can still receive the link to the recording by clicking the Purchase button below.
Mentorships with Vanessa
Even though the mentorship is closed for 2026, you can contact Vanessa for private coaching sessions, and to get on the waitlist for next year’s program.
Vanessa is now accepting mentorship applications for 2025.
Experience Unique Mentorship
Every year is a new opportunity to show up for yourself… Let Vanessa guide you through your own unique journey in 2026. You will Transform through this experience.
This program is designed for up to 20 dancers of all levels. No matter what style you prefer, or how much time you can devote… You will Transform through this experience.
Contact VanessaRaqs@gmail.com
Transform includes:
- Exclusive workshops & classes with Vanessa
- Access to recordings
- 4x one-on-one private coaching sessions
- Feedback and discussion with Vanessa to help you set your goals, create your intentions for this year
- 20% discount for additional private lessons
- Private Facebook group dedicated for members only
- Access to live group meetings and Q&A with Vanessa
- Activities & projects with Vanessa
Reservation Request
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Zorongo Location
Zorongo Studio, 3715 Minnehaha Ave, Mpls; entrance from the alley behind the building off 37th Street.
Hothouse Dance Location
Hothouse Dance, 2303 Kennedy St NE, Studio 201, Mpls
About Sandra & Moussa
Moussa Faraj has dedicated over 20 years to mastering the traditional Levantine folk dance Dabke. He is a proud member of The Arabian Knights Zaffa Group in Detroit and Al Awtar Zaffa Group in Houston, performing and teaching Dabke at weddings, cultural events, and celebrations across the United States.
Sandra is a bellydancer and performer, co-owner of Hips & Dips Bellydance, and co-producer of Raqs Houston. With over 10 years of performing Dabke alongside Al Awtar Zaffa Group in Houston, she has deeply immersed herself in the richness of Lebanese folklore and dance.
Together, Moussa & Sandra perform as a powerful duet, bringing their love for one another to life on stage. Their connection is woven into every performance as they share their passion for dance, drumming, and Dabke—blending traditional rhythm with expressive artistic storytelling.
About Sadie
Sadie is a Colorado-based performer and international dance icon whose dynamic stage presence and creativity have earned her a 20-year career touring to over 50 countries. You may have seen one of her viral YouTube videos or caught her performance on America's Got Talent. Most recently, Sadie had the honor of coaching Shakira in preparation for her Diamonds World Tour.
Sadie is the founder of RaqsOnline.com, the world's largest online school for Raqs Sharqi, World Dance, and Fitness. With over 700 classes (and counting!) led by expert instructors from around the globe, Raqs Online continues to grow as a resource and hub for dancers everywhere.
Stay connected with Sadie at SadieBellydancer.com and RaqsOnline.com or join her for one of her unforgettable destination retreats to Egypt, Costa Rica, and beyond, including "Cosmic Heart Tours" with Vanessa.
About Vanessa
Vanessa, the Artistic Director of Jawaahir, is an American-born dancer who lived and danced full-time in Egypt from 2008 until 2020, when the Covid pandemic brought her back to the USA.
To date, Vanessa is the first and only American woman to start and operate a production company in Egypt. She has held contracts in five-star hotels and has danced and acted in productions at the Balloon Theatre, one of Cairo’s most famous establishments.
Since 2011, she has been invited to numerous countries to teach and perform, and she is thrilled to share her insight, experience, and love of dance with you.
Vanessa holds a BFA in Ballet from Texas Christian University.
She currently offers online private coaching and her mentorship program "Transform." She has served as the Artistic Director of Jawaahir Dance Company since September 2022 and, along with Sadie, organizes their "Cosmic Heart Tours" through Egypt and beyond!
Elision Location
6105 42nd Avenue North, Crystal, MN.