19th Annual Live Music and Dance Summer Intensive
Sydney Exclusive I Authentic Raqs Sharqi I Live Arabic Music
January 24-25, 2026
Amera's Palace, Marrickville
Step into a weekend like no other, immerse yourself in two full days of intensive dance and live Arabic music with the exceptionally talented Sydney Arabic Music Ensemble, a 4-piece traditional group offering dancers a rare and unforgettable opportunity to train with live instrumentation in the true spirit of Raqs Sharqi.
Your dance facilitators Jrisi Jusakos with special guest artist from Melbourne, Virginia Masri are two of Australia's most recognised performers and teachers. Known for their exceptional eye for detail and unwavering commitment to elevating each dancer, they are passionate educators with decades of experience. Their mission is to inspire, support, and pass on deep-rooted knowledge, strengthening our community through meaningful connection to music and movement.
The experience culminates in the Café Riche Recital, a sold-out showcase that has become a staple of Sydney's dance calendar and the only event of its kind in Australia that brings together live Arabic music and Raqs Sharqi, showcasing both established and emerging dancers. It's a nostalgic nod to the golden era of Cairo Cabarets, intimate, vibrant and unforgettable.
This event attracts dancers from all over Australia and beyond, building a vibrant and supportive learning environment. Be quick to grab the early bird special and organise your accomodation, this is one weekend you DON'T want to miss!
🌍 Representing artists from Egypt, Syria, Iraq, and Lebanon
🌟 Performance opportunities available
🗓️ Two full days of learning, collaboration, and inspiration
The Sydney Arabic Music Ensemble
- Emad Nosir: Violin
- Mohammed Lelo: Kanun and Oud
- Stuart Vandergraff: Nay and Saxophone
- Atif Badria: Percussion and Vocals
This is not a beginner course, it's a deep dive for passionate dancers with prior Raqs Sharqi experience, ready to grow artistically and musically. Whether you dance traditional or fusion styles, come and invest in your dance, train with source artists, and be part of a truly transformational weekend.
Early Bird Special $450 (until January 3rd)
Late Bird $520
- ENROLMENTS OPEN AUGUST 20 -
Also check out other Music events in Marrickville, Entertainment events in Marrickville, Performances in Marrickville.