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Jill, Middle Eastern Dance instructor; owner of Calabash Studios

Jillian

Jillian has been teaching middle eastern dance in Hawaii for 10 years. She has studied for over fifteen years. Her style is a fusion of Raqs Sharqi, Arabic, Persian, and other dance styles. She teaches private and group lessons and coaches dancers and troupes. Jillian also leads THE WORKOUT! A combination of yoga, belly dance, ballet, aerobics and more to bring you the sweat you crave. Come and shake it! Wear loose clothes, bring water, and have a great time!

 


Abby, Middle Eastern Dance instructor

Abby

Well sought after local artist, Abby dances as Mahasti Azar. Featured at Shaka's, Lola's, and other local venues, Abby has studied under Jillian, Saqra, and Kunti Devi. A member of the Puna Community, she is co-owner of Jungle Love in the New Pahoa Shopping Center. Her bright Raqs Sharki style brings elegance and a sense of fun to middle eastern dance. She has taught in Hawaii for the several years. Abby specializes in the creating a solid foundation for her students. A strong performer to live music, she offers her students her expertise in creating improvisational combinations, linking movements, floor work, and more. She has continued her education with Willow Chang, Erna Woo, and Zaina Hart. Bring water and dress loosely for Abby's classes. Bring a scarf to accentuate the hips.

 

Jesse Seymour

Jesse has 15 years experience teaching, performing, and recording island wide, nationally and internationally. Back home after completing his B.A. in Fine Arts at Berklee College of Music, he's teaching Afro Cuban and Brazililan Drumming. A well rounded performer, Jesse plays an incredible number of percussion instruments. His powerful style has allowed hime to play with numerous well known artists such as Celia Cruz, Eggui Castrillo as part of the Tito Puente Tribute Orchestra, Mohammed Camara - Musique Du Mali; Giovanni Hidalgo; Ernesto Diaz - Manquito; Reynaldo Gonzales - Groupo Afro Cuba and more. Jesse breaks it down for all ages! Rental drums available.

 

Joe Hoffman

Leader of BIG ISLAND CAPOIERA ANGOLA, Joe Hoffman began training with Mestre Jurandir in the fall of 2000. Dedicated to preserving the tradition of the art, Joe receives his guidance from Mestre Jurandir as he leads the group through the music, spirit, and dance that is Capoiera. Come and join this fabulous group as they bring the music to life, ignore gravity, and fall in love with this Afro-Cuban martial art form.

 

For more information contact Jill, jcb3@hawaii.rr.com, 808-896-2499