Qalb al-Folklore (قلب الفولكلور)

What is Qalb al-Folklore” (قلب الفولكلور)?

This translates to “the heart of folklore”. With so many events featuring artists who teach raqs sharqi, I felt it was time to bring a one-day, focused event to Orlando to bring us back to what started it all, folklore and regional dances that made us fall in love with the people and the dance.

So why not highlight an artist who has dedicated their life to a specific regional style / the folkloric dances that raqs sharqi is based on?

In 2026, we are kicking it off with Khadijah from Denver, who is an international educator, performer, and Ethnologist of Afro-Arabian dance, music, and more.

She is of Kenyan descent, born in KSA, and known for having unique didactics of Afro-Arabian Folklore, music, and its cultural aspects.

I had the pleasure of meeting her a few years ago and have crossed paths a couple of times now, and she is not only super smart, warm, and giving, but also deep and passionate about the Art and giving credit where credit is due. You are going to love her!