Suhaila Salimpour and the Salimpour School of Dance with the Shawl Anderson Dance Center, Suhaila has been awarded the prestigious Gerbode Grant for her innovative storytelling performance show, “Al Zaman.” This recognition is not just a personal achievement; it marks a significant milestone in the world of belly dance as Suhaila becomes the first belly dancer to receive this esteemed award.
The Gerbode Foundation: Supporting Artistic Visionaries
The Gerbode Foundation, known for its commitment to fostering new dance and movement-based projects, has awarded a total of $400,000 to California choreographers, culture bearers, and traditional artists. This funding initiative aims to support innovative work highlighting the rich diversity of movement and storytelling in the arts. Suhaila’s project stands out for its unique blend of cultural heritage and contemporary performance, making it a fitting recipient of this prestigious grant.
“Al Zaman”: A Journey Through Movement and Storytelling
“Al Zaman” is more than just a performance; it’s an immersive experience that combines the art of belly dance with historical, cultural, and personal narratives. Suhaila’s vision for “Al Zaman” is to create a captivating journey that transcends language barriers, offering Arabic-to-English translations to ensure that all audiences can engage with the story being told.
At the heart of “Al Zaman” is the emotional complexity of the Maqam melodic system, which serves as both a musical foundation and a storytelling device. Through carefully curated movement and narrative, Suhaila invites audiences to explore the intricate layers of Arabic artistic expression, paying homage to a bygone era while making it accessible to contemporary viewers.
A Celebration for the Salimpour School
This achievement is not only a personal triumph for Suhaila but also a significant moment for the Salimpour School of Dance. Founded by Suhaila’s mother, Jamila Salimpour, the school has been growing for belly dance education and innovation. Suhaila’s recognition by the Gerbode Foundation underscores the school’s commitment to elevating the art form and expanding its reach within the broader artistic community.
The Salimpour School has always emphasized the importance of storytelling in dance, and Suhaila’s project embodies this philosophy. By integrating movement with narrative, she continues to honor her family’s legacy while pushing the boundaries of what belly dance can represent in today’s world.
Thank you to all of our community members, this is an achievement that we are happy to share with all of you.