Madraset Al Wadi

Madraset Al Wadi is our student dance company.

Madraset Al Wadi will perform group choreographies grounded in traditional Egyptian raqs sharqi. Members of this company will sharpen their technique and grow their musicality and cultural competency through weekly rehearsals during Al Wadi’s 26-27 season.

Students participating in Madraset Al Wadi must be enrolled in one other weekly class besides rehearsals. Class discounts will be available in the winter and spring term.

Membership in this student company is based on audition. See below for important dates and FAQs.

2026-27 Important Dates

August 22
Audition choreography workshop during Al Wadi Open House 11 AM - 12:30 PM

Workshop is free for all participants—students who cannot attend in person may access a recording of the completed choreography.

August 30
Auditions at Studio Datura 11 AM - 2 PM

*Students who have immovable conflicts with the audition date may send in an audition video by August 30 at 11 AM. We encourage all who are able to attend the audition in person to take advantage of group coaching and choreography review before individual auditions.

Tuesdays | September through June
Company rehearsals 7:30 - 8:30 PM @ Datura

Performance Dates
Wild Rose Belly Dance - April 3-4, 2027

Al Wadi Spring Showcase - April 18, 2027

Al Wadi Spring Stage Show - Date TBD (May or June)

Belly Dancer USA - June 11-13, 2027

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Company fees are $100 per month over ten months (September through June). They may also be paid as a one-time $1,000 fee. Students should budget an additional $300 for costumes.

    Company members must also be enrolled in one weekly class outside of rehearsals. Discounted class and workshop fees will be available in the winter and spring terms.

  • 28 weeks of company rehearsals, choreography creation, registration for two competitions, and a Madraset Al Wadi T-Shirt.

  • Members of Madraset Al Wadi will be expected to attend most rehearsals in order to achieve technical training and group cohesion. We know that life happens, and you may need to miss a rehearsal or two, but we expect members to make rehearsals a priority.

  • Rehearsals will take place on Tuesdays from 7:30 to 8:30 at Studio Datura (116 NE Russell St, Portland OR 97212).

  • Student Company members will learn a ~6 minute classic raqs sharqi choreography that will be performed at two competitions. Through learning this choreography, students will build their technical expertise and musicality.

  • Company members can expect to compete in the Troupe Categories at Wild Rose Belly Dance Competition (April 3-4, 2027), the Al Wadi Spring Showcase (April 18) and Belly Dancer USA (June 11-13). Additional performance opportunities may become available.