Middle Eastern - Al MahalaSalaam Aleikum!
Classes at al Mahala
Current al-Mahala class schedule is available here: Class-Activities Schedule
The class schedule is nearly full. If you still wish to teach a class, see the info below and contact Al-Mahala with questions or ideas here.
Events at al Mahala
Each night, join us in our dance tent for music and dance for our samras*(haflas). If you want to perform in the Salon, please let us know!
Join us for our Thursday Afternoon Social for homage to the medieval salons of Baghdad and Alhambra. This civilized gathering focuses on the more historically accurate dance and music of the regions, and offers the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely chess game, partake of some light refreshment, and the soak in the ambience of a time gone by.
With delight at the prospect of your visit, we remain In Service,
Contact Al Mahala
**What's a Samra?
The samra/ Zambra is a celebration attributed to the al-Andalus era of Southern Spain. 'Samra' in Arabic means a spontaneous celebration of dance and music, that takes place all night long. Originally the Arabic term 'Samra' was used to describe the noises made by the sounds of lively crowds and certain musical instruments, such as in a party or celebration. Also referred to as 'Zambra' in the Spanish language, documents dated to the 1600's describe the Zambra as festivities with the music of wind instruments such as the sounds of pipes and flutes.
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Gulf Wars XXII presents a magical opportunity for the SCA re-enactor to explore the widest possible range of historical activities. This twenty plus year tradition of rich diversity of topics is well represented within the microcosm of al Mahala, offering classes in cuisine, music, dance, garb, arts and sciences of not only The Levant, the Arabian Peninsula and Persia, but also India, Andalusia; Ottoman and Silk Road regions as well.
Please join us for daily classes - Beginner Dance at 10:00 am, preceded by Warm-ups at 9:00, and followed by Cuisine at 11:00. Join us for the one-of-a-kind sessions to include Arabic Language, constructing your own personalized garb patterns, and Period Pavement Techniques.