Oriental Dance Retreat

"Summer at Shambhala -- Celebrating Freedom of Expression"

Developing Individual Style, Personal Meaning and Authentic Expression

July 2-6, 2012

Shareen in Tokyo, Japan, 2009

“Summer at Shambhala—Celebrating Freedom of Expression”

Shareen’s 9th Oriental Dance Retreat at Shambhala Ranch will be held July 2-6, 2012. “Summer at Shambhala—Celebrating Freedom of Expression” will focus on Egyptian movement that provides a foundational basis for embodied feeling, the generation of personal meaning, and artistic actualization found at the heart of raks sharqi, the solo dance of Cairo. In the revitalizing, renewing space of Shambhala, participants will explore our mutual passion by strengthening performance skills, crafting our dance presentations, and developing individual expression that reveals our unique inner language. 

"This was a journey of self-discovery...an essence is now present which wasn't there before. It has deepened the feelings I can express through movement."  Sadia, international teacher, performer, and 2010 retreat participant

Morning classes consist of technique, steps and combinations in all areas of Egyptian dance including Oriental, taqsim, beledi, drum solo and shimmy movements, turns and perimeter patterns, veil entrance, and finale steps, all practiced individually and in short choreographed sequences. Afternoons will be spent on creative performance exercises, theatrical techniques, and improvisational skills, with in-class coaching that encourages mastery in the dance, supports confidence and expands emotional accessibility. Evening discussions consist of dance-related topics, sharing our personal goals and community-oriented vision. Shareen will comment on her Egyptian performance experiences and provide anecdotal insights into the famous personalities of Egyptian dance, along with  video-dvd viewing with movement analysis of Egypt’s dance luminaries, past and present. A visit to Orr Hot Springs after dinner is on the agenda. We will celebrate Fourth of July in the quaint coastal village of Mendocino, CA. On the last evening we will enjoy our enriching time together with a studio recital.

Some U.S. and International Retreat Participants Respond

“This was such a peak experience!”

“The Retreat put me together with other dancers from other countries and cultures, exposing me to their view and style of the dance, which is very enriching”

“Very rewarding! Life changing!”

“For twenty six years, my dance style was pretty much the same. I feel like I am learning a whole new art form!”

“I came home relaxed and energized, with a deeper understanding of my body; the music and dance fit more precisely.”

“Shareen has inspired me to rethink how and why I dance, infusing it with new meaning.”

“Thank you for the alchemy that happens at Shambhala. It works its way through the whole year.”  

Shareen El Safy performing at El Leil Nightclub, Cairo, 1989

Shambhala Ranch

Dance Retreat and Workshop Center

The pulse of life permeates the 140 acres of beautiful rolling hills, located on a magical site of ancient Indian trails and spiritual rituals. It is a private, creative and natural environment, with panoramic views, redwood forest, swimming pond, and private beach on a river, hot tub, and organic gardens. The tastefully decorated, luxurious ranch house with comfortable bedrooms has a large mirrored dance studio with a sprung wood floor, large redwood decks, and music throughout. It is located two hours north of San Francisco between Ukiah and the coastal town of Mendocino near the famous Orr Hot Springs. (www.shambhalaranch.com)

  "The name Shambhala comes from a Tibetan Buddhist teaching that there is some magic in everything and it's up to the individual to discover it. Shambhala Ranch's magic lies not so much in its obvious natural gifts, but in the way it can help you find yours."  

J.B. Dance Retreat and Workshop Center visitor

Directions to Shambhala: 101 North from San Francisco to the last exit in Ukiah, "North State Street." Turn right onto N. State St. Take the first left onto "Orr Springs Road." 19 miles to Shambhala (6.5 miles past Orr Hot Springs). Look for an open valley with a large redwood lodge on the hillside to your right, and a white mailbox ("21200" with animal paintings). Shambhala’s office phone is 707-937-3341. Guest phone in the lodge is 707-937-3515. The Santa Rosa Airport is the closest airport to Shambhala and is serviced by several airlines. Connecting flights available from San Francisco airport to Santa Rosa, and other direct flights from some airports. Check with your travel agent. Call Shareen 805-962-9639 to coordinate transportation from Santa Rosa, Mendocino or San Francisco, if needed.

“Shareen is a great communicator, verbally and through movement, and as such her classes are challenging and inspiring.” Amar, teacher and performer

 “Shareen’s ability to analyze movement is multi-level, working with the physical and energetic aspects to get to the heart of the technique.” Ranya, teacher and performer

 “Integrating Shareen’s technique leads to a deepening of the dance. It becomes more profound. Shareen is a dancer’s dancer, and her workshop a very rewarding challenge.” Myra, teacher and performer

Evening Recital

On Thursday night, our last night of the retreat, there will be a studio concert with participants performing their solo pieces for the group. Shareen will also dance her latest choreographies. Bring your costumes and music on CD, and enjoy an evening celebrating individual artistry and mutual camaraderie!

Nourishment

Nearby orchards supply a variety of fresh fruits. Organic herbs and vegetables are grown locally. Patio tables with market umbrellas provide casual outdoor dining. A professional chef prepares our delicious meals with special attention to individual tastes. Vegetarian, free-range poultry and local fish entrees are accompanied by wholesome grains, healthy salads and vegetables, and tasty desserts. Breakfast includes eggs, cereals, fruit, juices, yogurt, breads or bagels, coffee, teas, etc. Chilled water, teas, coffee, fruits and snacks will be available throughout the day. Participants are asked to bring their own beer and wine.

"The food was pure bliss. It made my heart soar."
Michele, 2010 retreat participant

Sleeping Accommodations
Bedrooms are light and airy with two to six comfortable beds in each room. Dancers may request their roommate preference. Bed linens, pillows, comforters, and towels provided.

Shareen El Safy

Oriental Dance Retreat

“Celebrating Freedom of Expression”  

Developing Individual Style, Personal Meaning and Authentic Expression

Shambhala Ranch

July 2-6, 2012

On Monday, July 2nd, we will meet at the acclaimed Francis Ford Coppola Winery, with a newly-completed restaurant, for lunch and wine tasting at 1 pm. The winery is located at 300 Via Archimedes, Geyserville, CA 95441; 707.857.1400. It is located north of Santa Rosa on Hwy 101, on our way to Shambhala. Please contact Shareen to confirm your reservation. Lunch entrees average $12-$15. (www.franciscoppolawinery.com) *optional 

Daily Schedule

Check in at Shambhala Monday, July 2nd, 4 pm.

 Dinner 6:00-7:00 pm

Orientation 7:30-9:30 pm

Daily July 2-6
7: 30-9:30 am Breakfast
9:30 am-12: 30 pm Morning Class
12:30-1:30 pm Lunch
2-4 pm Afternoon Class
6:00-7:00 pm Dinner
7:30-9:30 pm Special presentations & activities.

Tuesday evening at Orr Hot Springs after presentation (optional)  

Wednesday afternoon, 4th of July Celebration in Mendocino.

Thursday evening Studio Recital with Retreat Dancers 8pm
Check out Friday, July 6th, 11 am.

Shareen’s Oriental Dance Retreat July 2-6, 2012, "Summer at Shambhala-Celebrating Freedom of Expression" will focus on Developing Individual Style, Personal Meaning and Authentic Expression. In the revitalizing, renewing space of Shambhala, participants will explore our mutual passion for the dance by strengthening performance skills and developing individual expression that brings out our unique inner language. The Class Schedule offers an intimate opportunity for students, teachers and professional dancers to study empowering technique and Oriental dance method grounded in Egyptian dance vocabulary with both classical and current steps from Cairo and choreographic sections for musical interpretation. Evening presentations include discussion of dance-related topics, our performance goals, and the careers of dance luminaries past and present. 

“Shareen taught me the secret of Egyptian Dance—to dance from within, from your unique and beautiful soul; to dance from a place of honesty.” Gabriela, performer and 2011 retreat participant

Healthy gourmet meals catered by a professional chef, comfortable accommodations, outdoor fun and recreation, special evening presentations and the Studio Recital help make our Retreat experience rich and satisfying. Optional activities like wine tasting near Shambhala, lunch in the coastal town of Mendocino, and relaxing in the famous waters of Orr Hot Springs, further extend our enjoyment. Shambhala Ranch Retreat Center: 21200 Orr Springs Road, Ukiah CA 95482. 707/937-3341.(www.shambhalaranch.com)

Oriental Dance Retreat with Shareen El Safy

"Summer at Shambhala -- Celebrating Freedom of Expression"

July 2-6, 2012

Registration Form

 Name___________________________________________________________________

Address_____________________________________________________zip__________

Phone__________________Cell phone__________________Fax___________________

Email__________________________________________________________________

Dance name______________________________________dance level_______________

Roommate preference______________________________________________________

Early registration discount $695. Paid in full on or before February 1, 2012.

A non-refundable deposit of $185 holds your reservation. All-inclusive enrollment fee $785 until May 1st. Remaining balance of $600 due on or before May 1st, 2012. All inclusive enrollment fee $875 after May 1st until June 15th. Remaining balance of $690 due on or before June 15th. Enrollment is accepted only as space allows. Group size is limited to twenty dancers. Cancellations made on or before May 1st will be reimbursed enrollment fee minus non-refundable deposit, and must be received in writing (fax or email okay). No cancellations after May 1st unless substitute can be found by cancelling party. In the unlikely event that the Retreat is cancelled, all funds will be promptly reimbursed.

Payment Form

Personal checks, money orders, and major credit cards accepted in U.S. Dollars only.

 Payment enclosed:    $_______________________________________________________________

$185 non-refundable deposit holds your reservation throughout.

All-inclusive enrollment fee $785 until May 1st. (A non-refundable deposit $185 holds your space until May 1st. Remaining payment of  $600 due on or before May 1st, 2012.)

All-inclusive enrollment fee $875 after May 1st until June 15th. (A non-refundable deposit $185 holds your space until June 15th. Remaining payment of $690 due on or before June 15th, 2012.)

 Please charge $_________ to my credit card: Card #_________________________________________

Exp. date________credit card holder name:________________________________________________  

City, country if outside USA, and postal code:________________________________________________

Food Questionnaire

Name____________________________________phone__________________________

Please underline your meal preference.     Poultry & Fish                 Vegetarian only          

If you have food sensitivities, the chef would like to consult with you. Please add $20 to enrollment fee if special dietary items are required. Describe:_________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________ Email:______________ _______

Copy and Paste this form into an email, and send completed form to shareen@shareenelsafy.com, or print out and mail to:

Shareen El Safy

PO Box 90936

Santa Barbara, CA 93190-0936.

To register for the Retreat online, go to www.shareenelsafy.com or phone or fax your registration and payment forms to 805-962-9639.