Al-Wahda

---

Friday September 18: Community Workshops

No prior experience necessary, no cost to attend but registration is strongly encouraged to ensure space. People of all backgrounds, identities, and ages 12+ welcome (minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult.) 

Yalla Drum Workshop: Arabic Drumming Experience
Friday, Sept 18th: 3:00-4:30pm
This workshop will be a hands on introduction to Arabic percussion. Drums will be provided, and participants of all experience levels are invited to learn foundational Arabic rhythms, explore traditional drumming techniques, and make music together in a fun, welcoming environment.

Mirah Ammal: Dabke
Friday, Sept 18th: 4:30-6:00pm
A traditional social dance, dabke is a feature in social gatherings, celebrations, and movements with local variations throughout Southwest Asia, and is often especially associated with Lebanon, Palestine, Jordan, and Syria. In this workshop, you’ll learn some key elements of dabke—steps, techniques, rhythms, and cultural significance associated with the form and diverse communities in the region and in diaspora.

Shabbal Sudanese Dance Workshop
Friday, Sept 18th: 6:00-7:30pm
The workshop will begin with a short video presentation introducing participants to the colorful and diverse dance traditions of Sudan and the communities, landscapes, music, and stories behind them.From there, participants will explore the stories, rhythms, and movements that shape Sudanese dance, traveling from the bian lands and the Red Sea region to the Nuba Mountains, Kordofan, and Darfur. Through guided movement, participants will experience dances and rhythms including Halfa (North), Kassala (East), Al-Keran, Al-Mardoum, and Al-Jarrari (West) while learning what these traditions represent and the communities they come from."

Somali Dance Workshop
Friday, Sept 18th: 7:30-9:00pm
This workshop will teach Somali traditional dances from different regions in Somalia.

Saturday September 19: The Al-Wahda Show and Celebration

Join us for an evening of food, celebration, and dance and drum performances from regions of Sudan, Somalia, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, and Egypt. The show features visiting artists Shabbal Dance and local artists Somali Museum Dance Troupe, Yalla Drum Ensemble, and Mirah Ammal and Bahira Dance Theater. Enjoy this unique opportunity to connect, learn, and engage in learning, and meaningful cultural exchange.

The performance is September 19, 2026 at 6:00 PM (Central Time). Tickets are sliding scale donation based (with a $20 minimum recommended for those who are able.) Proceeds from the silent auction benefit Gaza Relief and CFPA's arts and heritage-based youth programs.