Persian Dance
Persian dance is a poetic and expressive form where subtlety and grace tell a story. In this workshop, we will explore the rich tradition of Persian dance with a focus on upper-body expression, using the hands, arms, and gaze to convey emotion and meaning. Through detailed techniques, guided improvisation, and cultural context, dancers will learn how to bring storytelling to life with fluidity and intention. Whether you're new to Persian dance or looking to deepen your expressive range, this class offers tools to refine your movement, embody Central Asian aesthetics, and connect more deeply to the art of storytelling through dance. All levels and movement backgrounds are welcome!
About Natalie Nayun
Natalie is an international teacher specializing in contemporary and folkloric styles from Central Asia and the Middle East. She was lucky enough to study dance in her travels to Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkey, and Oman, and has been dancing for more than 17 years and teaching for more than 11. Natalie is the director of UC Berkeley’s Central Asian and Middle Eastern Dance Company, Sorayya, and former director of Adara Dance Company. You can see her dancing with Nava Dance Collective, with Ballet Afsaneh, and as a soloist.
Natalie has performed and taught in Argentina, Chile, Peru, Israel/Palestine, and New Mexico, and locally in California as a guest lecturer at Stanford University. She hopes to share the beauty of the cultures she has come to know, as expressed through regional dance.