Enta Omri | Al-Andalus Project 2025

A tribute to the Egyptian diva Umm Kulthum on the 50th anniversary of her departure.

International choreographic project

Umm Kulthum, known as “The Star of the East,” was born in Egypt in 1904 and passed away in 1975, becoming a revered singer, movie star, and 20th-century icon. Thanks to the radio, her voice, unique in its ability to convey deep emotions, reached every corner of the Arab world and won the unanimous admiration of people across all social strata. Through her performances of sentimental poems, Umm Kulthum not only reflected Arab pride but also helped to forge a modern cultural identity.

Her most famous song, “Enta Omri,” resulting from her collaboration with the great composer Mohamed Abdel Wahab, continues to resonate as a testament to her musical genius.

About the show Enta Omri

In 2025, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Umm Kulthum’s departure, Nesma will restage “Enta Omri,” a choreographic work that celebrates the life and works of the diva. This show, which premiered with great success in France on the 40th anniversary of her departure in 2015, will be performed in Madrid on May 2nd and 3rd, 2025. The work outlines the artistic career of the singer from her early days in cinema to her unforgettable interpretations of love poems, including folkloric themes from old movies and other lesser-known works.

In this second edition of the Al-Andalus Choreographic Project, the work “Enta Omri” will bring together belly dancers from around the world and musicians. This show combines famous musical performances with elegant and emotive choreography in a carefully staged presentation with image projections that evoke the deep emotions Umm Kulthum has left imprinted in the collective memory.

Nesma, known for her elegance and artistic sensitivity, uses her experience as a solo dancer and her choreographic skills to introduce a new way of interpreting oriental dance, refined and expressive. In “Enta Omri,” Nesma delves into the sources of her creativity to evoke on stage the “Tarab,” a sentimental ecstasy emblematic of Umm Kulthum’s music, thus celebrating not only her musical legacy but also the lasting emotional impact of her art.

The Project

Created and directed by Nesma, the Al-Andalus Choreographic Project is an artistic and educational initiative designed to elevate the art of Oriental dance through a high-quality theatrical approach, incorporating live music. This project aims to promote learning, practice, and dissemination of Oriental dance, as well as to encourage the production and performance of shows that capture the essence and spirit of this dance.

Objectives

The primary goal of the Al-Andalus Project is to provide participants with a comprehensive educational experience, allowing them to closely experience the entire process of creation and staging. This includes everything from creative development and analysis of music for dance to technical learning, choreography study, and its execution on stage. An essential component of the project is the use of professional costumes, specifically designed for the Enta Omri show.

Target Audience

The Al-Andalus Choreographic Project is specifically designed for professional or advanced level belly dancers interested in expanding their artistic horizons in the world of oriental dance. It is also aimed at professionals who wish to be inspired by different creative approaches, or who seek to develop their own innovative productions in the future.

Commitment

A commitment to personal improvement is essential; the project requires participants to spend time outside of classes rehearsing and memorizing what they have learned, thus ensuring optimal benefit from the intensive training and the success of the show. Additionally, participants must be willing to adapt and learn new techniques within the spectrum of oriental dance, enriching their repertoire and professional experience.

Language

The project is generally taught in English. However, classes could be offered in Spanish if all participants are proficient in this language.

Project Phases

Phase 1 – Technical, Choreographic, and Theoretical Learning

In this initial phase, participants will receive choreography classes that include learning specific techniques and styles, complemented by theoretical sessions. These will cover the creative process, the production of the show, the study of the music, the process of music production in Egypt, the design of the costumes, and the cultural knowledge relevant to the show. Phase 1 will be conducted in different groups, each with specific schedules to accommodate the needs of all participants. For those with variable availability or different from the proposed schedule, there will be a group that will study exclusively with recorded videos, supplemented with private lessons.

• Dates: From September 2024 to April 2025 consult the calendar
• Lecture hours: 68 hours
• Format: Online, in-person, mixed, or with videos

Phase 2 – Classes, Live Music Rehearsals, and Costume Fittings

This phase will include costume fittings and intensive rehearsals, both with and without live music, to prepare the participants for the final performances. Additionally, there will be a live music improvisation class. This stage will take place in-person in Madrid.

• Dates: From Saturday, April 26 at 12:00 pm to Thursday, May 1, 2025.
• Rehearsal hours: 6 hours daily for 6 days.
• Format: In-person in Madrid.

Phase 3 – Performance of the Show Enta Omri

The project will culminate with two performances of the show “Enta Omri” with live music at the Paco Rabal Theatre in Madrid, in front of an audience, on May 2 and 3, 2025.

Teaching Modalities

Modality 1 – Online, In-Person, and Mixed

This modality combines the flexibility of online learning with the option to attend in-person classes. Sessions will be broadcast live online, allowing participants who wish to physically attend the classes whenever they prefer. Various schedules will be available.

• In-Person Class Location: Nesma Academy, Madrid.

• Class Recordings: All live sessions will be recorded and will be available on the platform www.nesmaacademy.com to be viewed repeatedly until the end of the project.

• Theoretical Classes: Will be delivered exclusively online, making them accessible to all participants without the need to travel, and will also be recorded for unlimited viewing until the end of the project.

Modality 2 – Learning with Pre-Recorded Instructional Videos

This modality is designed for those who have difficulty attending classes at a fixed schedule, providing a flexible alternative through the use of pre-recorded instructional material.

• Recorded Classes: Class videos will be structured in chapters and detailed, ensuring that they effectively cover the course content. Participants will be able to gradually access these videos and will have access to them until the end of the project via the platform www.nesmaacademy.com.

• Theoretical Classes: Similar to the live online modality, the theoretical sessions will be the same and available on the platform in the form of recordings, allowing students to learn at their own pace and review the material as many times as necessary.

Methodology

Continuous Learning

Regardless of the chosen modality—live online, in-person, or through videos—the methodology remains the same. Throughout the course, participants will learn and practice new choreographies while reviewing and refining those already studied in previous sessions.

Video Submission by Participants

To monitor the progress of participants, it is mandatory to submit videos performing the learned choreographies. After completing a choreography, participants will have approximately one month to submit their video; the specific deadline will be announced at the start of the course. Timely submission of videos is a crucial condition to continue participating in each choreography of the project and is essential for advancing in learning new choreographies and participating in the Enta Omri show. The videos must show a minimally correct execution of the learned choreographies to ensure the quality of learning and coherence of progress within the group.

Corrections and Feedback

• Live Online or In-Person Classes: Corrections will be made during the classes, taking advantage of direct interaction to adjust and improve the interpretation of the choreographies by the participants. It is recommended to attend as many classes as possible to benefit from continuous feedback. Keeping the camera turned on during classes is essential to facilitate communication and corrections. Furthermore, attendees must ensure they have a stable internet connection and sufficient space to move freely. Videos with specific corrections will be sent only if deemed necessary. After each session, the classes will be uploaded to the platform in a way that only shows Nesma teaching, with any in-person dancers in the background, if present. Participants attending in person must give their explicit approval to appear in these videos. Participants who join online will not appear in the final video uploaded to the platform, thus ensuring their privacy.

• Recorded Choreographic Classes: Participants opting for this modality will have gradual access to the recorded choreographic classes. Specific deadlines for submitting videos of each learned choreography will be set. After sending their video before these deadlines, each participant is entitled to a one-hour private class with Nesma for each choreography, aimed at addressing doubts and improving execution. If participants prefer not to schedule a private class or do not have enough time, they will receive a link to a personalized correction video.

Coreographic Content of the Program

Choreographies in the “Enta Omri” Show

• Classical Oriental Dances by Nesma:

• • Enta Omri Part 1
  • Enta Omri Part 2
  • Enta Omri Part 3
  • Enta Omri Part 4
  • Gadet Hobbak Leh
  • Fakarouni
  • Hayart Albi
  • Lessa Faker
  • Daret El Ayam Part 1
  • Daret El Ayam Part 2
  • Al-Altal

• Folkloric-inspired Dances and Others:

• • Sabah Alkhir
  • Hablo Bukra
  • Mawal Beeredak
  • El Reda wel Nour
  • Ganily Shuaya Shuaya
  • El Fawazyr

Choreographies to be Performed in the Show by Participants and Groups

Groups and Learning

Participants will be divided into various groups based on days and times, each group consisting of approximately 6-10 dancers. During the course, each group will learn:

• 2 Classical Song Choreographies: These will vary in length and difficulty.
• 1 Folklore-inspired Choreography: This will also vary in length and difficulty.
• 1 Taqsim in Homage to Umm Kulthum: This will combine guided and improvised parts.
• 1 Short Final Choreography: Involving all participants.
• 1 Extra Classical Song Choreography: To be performed only by dancers from each group who have demonstrated adequate learning, execution, and memorization of the choreographies.

Participation Flexibility

• Performance in the Show: The learned choreographies and guided improvisations are intended to be performed in the final show. However, if participants face difficulties in learning all the choreographies, do not execute them correctly, fail to submit videos on time, or decide not to perform all that were planned, they will have the flexibility to present fewer choreographies than initially set for their group.

• Extra Choreography: As the project progresses, dancers with technical qualities, fast learning, and memorization, and who submit correctly executed videos, may perform an extra choreography scheduled for each group. The extra choreography will be taught during scheduled classes, but if only a minority of dancers perform it, it will be taught through recorded classes. All dancers participating in the project, whether they perform the extra choreography or not, will have the opportunity to learn it, either during the class or through access to recorded classes.

• Development Opportunities: If a dancer shows exceptional learning and performance, the project management may offer additional opportunities, if available. These could include performing more complex choreographies, changing groups, or doing solos, all subject to availability and final decision by the management. Any change or addition will be proposed by the management and only implemented with the consent of the involved dancer, ensuring all parties agree with the adjustments.

Choreography Assignment

Upon enrolling in the project, participants should note that the selection of choreographies is not open to personal choice. Choreographies will be assigned at the start of the course and adjustments may be made as the course progresses, based on group dynamics, individual skills, and learning progress. The project management reserves the right to make adjustments to choreography assignments throughout the course to maximize each group’s potential and ensure that the final presentation reflects the quality and spirit of the show optimally.

Theoretical Content of the Program

This phase of the program, designed by Nesma, complements practical training with essential theoretical teachings about Umm Kalthoum, culture, music analysis, and the creative process of the work, delving into aspects that other programs rarely explore.

Participation in Theoretical Content

Participation in the theoretical segment is crucial to fully leverage the educational objectives of the project. However, attendance at theoretical classes is optional and there will be no tracking of the learning of theoretical concepts; lack of attendance or viewing of recorded videos will not affect participation in the rest of the program.

Description, Dates and Times of Theoretical Classes

Class 1: Umm Kulthum, the Star of the East

Gain in-depth knowledge of Umm Kulthum, covering her biography and the cultural impact of her music, as well as her influence on the evolution of oriental dance.

• Date: Sunday, September 15, 2024
• Time: 18:00-20:00 CET

Class 2: Enta Omri, the Show: Creative Process and Musical Production

Analyze the comprehensive process behind the “Enta Omri” show, from conceptualization to staging. Emphasis will be placed on aspects of artistic evolution, the search for creative ideas, selection and adaptation of musical themes, arrangement analysis, and synchronization of all creative elements.

• Date: Sunday, September 22, 2024
• Time: 18:00-20:00 CET

Class 3: The Sung Forms Taqtuqa and Ughnya Tawila

Study of these musical forms, general structure, nomenclature of each part, general characteristics, origin, rhythms used, the lyrics, interpretation in oriental dance.

• Date: Sunday, October 6, 2024
• Time: 18:00-20:00 CET

Classes 4-9: Musical and Contextual Analysis for Dancers

These classes include a detailed study of specific songs selected for the “Enta Omri” show, analyzing the context in which they were created, the composition, lyrics, musical structure, rhythms, instrumentation, emotional interpretation, and their application in dance.

Class 4: Enta Omri, the Song

• • • Date: Sunday, October 20, 2024
    • Time: 18:00-20:00 CET

Class 5: Sabah Alkhir & Hablo Bukra

• • • Date: Sunday, November 17, 2024
    • Time: 18:00-20:00 CET

Class 6: Ganily Shuaya Shuaya, El Fawazyr, Mawl Beeredak & El Reda Wel Nour

• • • Date: Sunday, December 15, 2024
    • Time: 18:00-20:00 CET

Class 7: Fakarouni and Gadet Hobbak Leh

• • • Date: Sunday, December 29, 2024
    • Time: 18:00-20:00 CET

Class 8: Lessa Faker & Hayart Albi

• • • Date: Sunday, February 9, 2025
    • Time: 18:00-20:00 CET

Class 9: Al Atlal and Daret el Ayam

• • • Date: Sunday, March 16, 2025
    • Time: 18:00-20:00 CET

Class 10: The Costume of Enta Omri

The process of creating the costume, from idea searching, design, accessories, fabrication, fabrics and materials. Adaptation of designs to dance costumes. The search for fabrication. Hairdressing.

• Date: Sunday April 13, 2025
• Time: 18:00-20:00 CET

Admission Process

Phase 1: Initial Application

• Interested dancers can contact us to inquire about participation conditions. We will then send them a pre-registration form to begin the admission process.

Phase 2: Level Evaluation

• Selected candidates from Phase 1 will be sent videos with choreographic sequences that they need to learn and perform.
• Candidates must upload their performance videos to YouTube in private mode and send the video link by email to entaomri@nesma.es.
• In some cases, if a candidate is already known to the directors, proceeding to Phase 2 might not be necessary.

Phase 3: Completion of Admission Process and Reservation of Place

• Once admission is communicated, formal registration and place reservation will only be completed after:
  1. The candidate must fill out the registration form, choosing the group they wish to participate in, subject to availability in that group.
  2. The candidate must submit the initial payment for admission into the project.

Important Dates

• Admission will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis until all spots are filled.

Organization of Groups, Schedules, and Dates

Group Distribution

Participants will be divided into various groups based on their availability to attend classes.

Common Theoretical Classes (Online)

• Frequency: One or two Sundays per month. Consult the calendar.
• Time: 18:00-20:00 CET.
• Recordings: All classes will be recorded and will be available for later viewing.

Workshop on Taqsim with Live Music

• Date: Wednesday, April 30
• Duration: 3 hours

Practical Classes (In-person, Online, or Mixed) – Choreography Learning

Group Distribution: Participants will be divided into various groups based on their availability to attend classes.

All classes will be recorded and available for later viewing.

• • • GROUP 1: Six weekends, online and in-person format from November 2024 to March 2025 (view calendar).
      • • Saturdays from 16:00-20:00
        • Sundays from 11:00-15:00

• • • GROUP 2: Tuesdays from 10:00 to 12:00, online and in-person format, course starts on October 8, 2024.

• • • GROUP 3: Wednesdays from 12:00 to 14:00, online and in-person format, course starts on October 9, 2024.

• • • GROUP 4: Wednesdays from 19:00 to 21:00, online and in-person format, course starts on October 9, 2024.

• • • GROUP 5: Learning with pre-recorded choreographic classes and private classes, schedules to be arranged.

Week of Show Preparation (common to all groups)

• Dates: April 26 to May 1, 2025.
• Activities: Include taqsim workshop, technique, staging, costume fittings, rehearsals with live music, and general rehearsals.
• Daily Schedules: Two shifts, 11:00 to 17:00 and 15:00 to 21:00.
• Requirement: All participants must be in Madrid with full availability during these dates. Schedules may be modified or extended as needed for rehearsals or costume fittings.

Show Performance

Dates and Venue:

• • • Performance Dates: May 2 and 3, 2025.
    • Time: 20:00 hours.
    • Venue: Teatro Paco Rabal, Madrid.

The Wardrobe

The wardrobe for the show Enta Omri will be provided by the project. This wardrobe has been exclusively designed by Nesma for the show, noted for its quality and adaptation to the needs of oriental dance.

Included and Excluded Elements:

• Included: All wardrobe and accessories, except footwear, are supplied by the project, ensuring uniformity and professionalism in the appearance of the dancers.

• Excluded: Participants must provide their own specific shoes for the show, in addition to flesh-colored tank leotard, flesh-colored underwear, fishnet dance tights, and the hairdressing items necessary for styling.
• Wardrobe Communication: Detailed information about the wardrobe, including specifications on the necessary shoes and tights, will be communicated to the participants once the project begins.

Rehearsal Week in Madrid Prior to the Show

• Accommodation

  • Participant’s Responsibility: The project organization will not provide accommodation. Each participant is responsible for finding and booking their own accommodation.
  • Recommendation: Participants are advised to stay close to Nesma Academy to facilitate access to rehearsals and minimize commuting.

• Rehearsal Location:

  • Location: During the week prior to the “Enta Omri” show, intensive rehearsals will take place at Nesma Academy

• • • Address: Calle Regalada 5, Madrid 28007
    • Metro Pacífico

• Tips for the Stay:

  • It is recommended to book accommodation in advance to ensure the best possible option near the rehearsal venue.
  • Participants should consider the proximity of accommodation to the rehearsal venue to optimize travel time and rest.
  • Renting shared seasonal flats which can be searched on platforms such as Booking or Airbnb is recommended. Participants can connect through a general participants group that will be created on Facebook.

Certification Diploma

All participants who successfully complete the Al-Andalus Project program and participate in the Enta Omri show will receive a Certification Diploma. This certificate validates their participation and recognizes their training in oriental dance and their contribution to the show. This recognition serves as a valuable addition to their professional resume, highlighting both their practical and theoretical experience in the field of oriental dance.

Photos

All participants performing in the shows will receive individual and group photos as a souvenir of their participation in the Enta Omri project. The organization will hire a professional photographer to carry out this task. However, given the conditions of performing this service, the organization cannot guarantee the results of this service.

To perform in the shows, all participants must agree, in accordance with data protection and privacy laws, to grant the organization the rights to use their image in photos and videos within the framework of this project.

There are three participation options for the Enta Omri project:

1. The complete program, with participation in two theater performances.
2. The training program, without participating in the performance.
3. The theoretical classes program, following the lecture classes only.

Complete Program – Enta Omri Show

Complete Program for Participants in the Show: This program is designed for dancers who want a full experience, participating in all phases of the show, from training to the final performance.

What does it include?

• 48 hours of practical classes, online, in-person, or equivalent content in recorded classes.
• 20 hours of theoretical classes, from the creative process to musical and cultural analysis.
• In the option of learning with recorded classes, 1 private class per choreography.
• 3 hours of taqsim workshop with live music, scheduled for April 30.
• Intensive week of classes and rehearsals, 6 hours daily. Rehearsals with and without live musicians, from April 26 to May 1.
• Two performances in Madrid, on May 2 and 3.
• Trials, adjustments and use of professional wardrobe from the Enta Omri show by Nesma Al-Andalus Company.
• Diploma certifying training and participation.
• Photo report of the performances in the theater

Training Program Without Performance

Complete Learning Program without participating in theater performances: this program is designed for dancers who want to train, learn the choreographies and the creative process of the show, but prefer not to participate in the final performance, due to lack of stage experience or any other personal reason.

What does it include?

• 48 hours of practical classes, online, in-person or equivalent content in recorded classes,
• 20 hours of theoretical classes, from the creative process to musical and cultural analysis.
• Two tickets to watch the performances in Madrid, on May 2 and 3.
• Diploma certifying training.

Theoretical Classes Program

For those mainly interested in the theoretical part of the project, this program offers full access to all planned theoretical classes, providing a deep understanding of the relevant cultural and musical contexts.

What does it include?

• 20 hours of theoretical classes, from the creative process to musical and cultural analysis.
• Two tickets to watch the performances in Madrid, on May 2 and 3.
• Diploma certifying training.

To learn more about the rates and conditions of participation, contact us: